Cardozo

Cardozo is a surname of Sephardic Jewish origin, with roots in the Iberian Peninsula. The name likely derives from the Spanish word cardo, meaning thistle, or carda, meaning teasel - both of which are plants with prickly leaves.

Origins

The Cardozo family is believed to have originated in Spain during the Middle Ages, before the Edict of Expulsion in 1492 ordered the expulsion of the Jewish population from the country. Many Sephardic Jews fleeing persecution sought refuge in Portugal, before later migrating to other countries.

Migration and Settlement

Members of the Cardozo family eventually settled in England, in particular in the 19th and 20th centuries. Many Cardozos contributed significantly to British society, establishing themselves in various professions such as law, academia, medicine, and commerce.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir Jacob E. H. Cardozo - A prominent British lawyer and legal scholar.
  • Dr. Rebecca Cardozo - Renowned medical researcher known for her work in genetics.
  • Professor David Cardozo - Esteemed academic in the field of philosophy.

Legacy

The surname Cardozo continues to be borne by descendants of the original Sephardic Jewish settlers who made their home in the United Kingdom. Today, the name serves as a reminder of the rich historical tapestry of British society and the endurance and resilience of immigrant communities.

There are approximately 270 people named Cardozo in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Cardozo.

Origin: Iberian

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: Spain

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Spanish

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andre
  • Anthony
  • Antonio
  • Damian
  • Frederick
  • Geoffrey
  • Giles
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Nigel
  • Paul
  • Philip
  • Simon
  • Stuart

Female

  • Alison
  • Caroline
  • Chloe
  • Daisy
  • Elizabeth
  • Grace
  • Hazel
  • Jacqueline
  • Lisa
  • Lorraine
  • Maria
  • Marina
  • Mary
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.