Have you ever stopped to think about the origin of your surname? That little word that you have carried around with you since you were born and that, often, you don't even know where it came from.
Yes, surnames carry fascinating stories, full of curiosities and traditions.
Let's embark on this journey and discover a little more about the origins of surnames and how you can discover the history of yours with the help of a specialized app!
How did surnames come about?
In the past, people were known only by their first names. However, as populations grew, it became difficult to tell who was who. That's when surnames came into being, a practical way of identifying people and conveying a bit of the family's history and occupation.
Types of Surnames
There are several ways that surnames have come about, and here we will explore some of the main categories:
Surnames Patronymics
They are derived from the father's name. For example, “Fernandes” (son of Fernando) and “Rodrigues” (son of Rodrigo).
Geographical Surnames
Linked to a specific place, such as “da Silva”, which indicates someone who came from a forest (silva, in Latin, means forest).
Occupational Surnames
Related to the person's profession, such as “Ferreira” (blacksmith) and “Carpinteiro” (woodworker).
Descriptive Surnames
They describe a person’s physical characteristic or personality. For example, “White” could describe someone with light skin.
Surnames in Brazil
In Brazil, surnames have an interesting mix due to our history of immigration and colonization. Here, we have surnames of various origins: Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, German, Japanese, among others.
How to Find Out Origin of Your Surname?
Now that you know a little more about the origin of surnames, how about discovering the history of yours? There are several ways to do this:
- Search the Internet: There are several websites and databases that offer information about the origin of surnames.
- Talk to Your Family: Often, the history of a surname can be discovered by talking to older relatives.
- Use a Specialized Application: There are apps that make this research easier, allowing you to access vast databases of historical records, build your family tree, and even take DNA tests to gain deeper insight into your family heritage.
Discovering the origin of your surname can be a fascinating and revealing journey. With the help of a specialized app, this journey becomes easier and more accessible. From researching historical records to building your family tree and DNA testing, these apps offer all the tools you need to explore your family heritage in depth.
If you are curious about the history of your surname and want to discover more about your roots, don't wait any longer. Download this specialized application and start your genealogical journey today!