DE SILVA

Recorded variant spellings include De Silva, De'Silva, De'silva, De-Silva, Desilva

This is a prefixed surname which is sometimes recorded without the prefix. See also Silva

Desilva

Desilva is a British surname of Portuguese origin, derived from the words "de" meaning 'of' and "Silva" meaning 'forest' or 'woodland' in Portuguese. The name indicates a connection to the Silva family or lineage. The surname Desilva is found predominantly among individuals with Portuguese heritage who have roots in Britain.

Origins

The Desilva surname can be traced back to the immigration of Portuguese individuals to Britain. The name likely originated from Portuguese settlers or immigrants who arrived in Britain for various reasons, such as trade, exploration, or seeking better economic opportunities.

Distribution

The surname Desilva is relatively rare in Britain compared to other more common surnames. It is more prevalent in regions with historically higher levels of Portuguese immigration or settlement. This includes areas like London, Liverpool, and various port cities where Portuguese communities have been established.

Notable Individuals

  • Antonio Desilva - (b. 1950) - British-Portuguese author and poet known for his works exploring themes of identity and cultural heritage.
  • Sophie Desilva - (b. 1975) - British fashion designer of Portuguese descent, renowned for her innovative and sustainable clothing designs.

Cultural Significance

The Desilva surname represents the cultural heritage and connections that many British individuals of Portuguese descent maintain. It serves as a reminder of the historical ties between Portugal and Britain, often reflected in family histories, traditions, and community identities.

Overall, the Desilva surname is a testament to the diverse and complex tapestry of British society, influenced by the contributions of various immigrant communities over the centuries.

How to communicate the surname de Silva in...

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There are approximately 3,062 people named de Silva in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,942nd most common surname in Britain. Around 47 in a million people in Britain are named de Silva.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: India

Religion of origin: Hindu

Language of origin: Hindi

The Genealogist - UK census, BMDs and more online

Famous people named de Silva

  • Desmond de Silva - Judge (1939 to 2018)
  • Kyle De Silva - Football player

Names and descriptions courtesy of Wikipedia, and may contain errors. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of every famous person with this name.

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