Last Name Zelada

The last name "Zelada" is of Spanish origin. It is a surname that comes from the region of Castile in Spain. The name is derived from the Spanish word "zelada," which means "a piece of armor that protects the breast." In medieval times, surnames often had associations with occupations, physical traits, or objects of significance. It is possible that the surname "Zelada" may have been given to someone who was involved in the production or wearing of armor, or it could have been a nickname for someone who was known for being strong or protective. It is common for Spanish surnames to have multiple possible origins and meanings, so it is worth noting that the above explanation is just one possible interpretation of the surname "Zelada."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zelada

The meaning and origin of the last name Zelada

The surname Zelada is of Spanish origin and is derived from the medieval Spanish word "zelada," which means to envy or be zealous. This surname likely originated as a nickname for someone who was known for their ambitious or passionate nature. Alternatively, it could have been given to someone who was seen as envious or desirous of something. The use of surnames in Spain became more prevalent around the 12th century, with the purpose of distinguishing individuals in a growing population. Over time, the surname Zelada may have been passed down through generations, with variations in spelling and pronunciation depending on the region or dialect. Today, individuals with the surname Zelada can be found in various Spanish-speaking countries around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zelada

The last name Zelada is primarily found in South America, particularly in countries like Peru, Chile, and Bolivia. In Peru, the surname is most common in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. In Chile, Zelada is widespread in Santiago and Valparaiso, while in Bolivia, it is prevalent in La Paz and Cochabamba. The distribution of the Zelada surname can also be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Spain, and Italy, although to a lesser extent. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Zelada indicates a strong presence in South America, with Peru being the country with the highest concentration of individuals bearing this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zelada

Zelada is a last name that can have several variations and spellings, including Zeladas, Zelade, Zellada, Zelladas, and Zellade. These variations may be due to different pronunciations or regional differences in spelling. In some cases, the "Z" at the beginning of the name may be replaced with an "S" or a "C," resulting in Selada or Celada. Additionally, the ending "a" may sometimes be dropped, resulting in Zelad or Zelad. Despite these variations, the name Zelada generally remains consistent in its pronunciation and recognition. People with the last name Zelada can be found in various countries around the world, with each spelling variation reflecting the unique history and heritage of the individual or family.

Famous people with the last name Zelada

One famous person with the last name Zelada is Julio César Zelada, a former professional footballer from Bolivia who played as a goalkeeper. Zelada had a successful career, playing for various clubs in Bolivia as well as internationally for the Bolivian national team. He is considered one of Bolivia's greatest goalkeepers and was known for his agility and shot-stopping abilities on the field. Another notable individual with the last name Zelada is Jorge Zelada, a renowned Peruvian musician and composer known for his contributions to traditional Andean music. Zelada has released several albums and has performed in concerts all over the world, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Andean region. Both Julio César Zelada and Jorge Zelada have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on their audiences.

Genealogical research on the last name Zelada

The surname Zelada is of Spanish origin and is a variant of the name Celaya, which is derived from the Basque word "zelai" meaning field. The Zelada family has historical roots in the Basque region of Spain and has expanded to other parts of the country over the centuries. Genealogical research shows that the Zelada family has a rich and diverse history, with members involved in various professions such as agriculture, trade, and military service. The family name has been passed down through generations, with branches of the family establishing themselves in different regions of Spain and even in other parts of the world, such as Latin America and the United States. Today, individuals with the surname Zelada can be found in various countries, continuing to contribute to the rich tapestry of their family history.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Zelada"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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