MOYA
Moya
Moya is a British surname with origins rooted in Spanish and Gaelic heritage. The surname Moya is believed to have originated from the Spanish word "moya," meaning "mud" or "clay," which likely referred to someone living near or working with these materials. The name may have been brought to the British Isles through migration or intermarriage with individuals of Spanish descent.
Another possible origin of the surname Moya is from the Gaelic personal name "Maolmhuaidh," denoting a devotee of St. Maolmhuaidh. This Gaelic influence reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped British surnames over the centuries.
The surname Moya has become relatively rare in Britain, but individuals bearing this surname can be found throughout the country. Like many surnames, Moya may have undergone various spelling variations over time, such as Mooya or Moyaigh, further highlighting the fluid nature of language and culture.
Researching the history of the Moya surname can provide valuable insights into the ancestral origins and migration patterns of individuals bearing this name. Surnames like Moya serve as a link to the past, connecting modern-day individuals to the rich tapestry of British history and heritage.
There are approximately 309 people named Moya in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Moya.
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
- Agustin
- Antonio
- Bernard
- Danny
- Francisco
- Graeme
- Jose
- Miguel
- Salvador
- Shaun
Female
- Esther
- Jean
- Julia
- Laura
- Manuela
- Maria
- Mercedes
- Nathalie
- Sheila
- Susan
- Susana