PEREIRA
Pereira
Introduction: Pereira is a surname of Portuguese origin that is prevalent among British individuals of Goan and Sri Lankan descent. The name is derived from the Portuguese word for "pear tree," and it is common among both Catholics and Jews. The Pereira surname has a rich history and has been passed down through generations, symbolising heritage, lineage, and cultural roots.
Origin: The Pereira surname originates from Portugal, where it is a common surname among Portuguese Jews, known as Sephardim. Sephardic Jews fled the Iberian Peninsula during the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions of the late 15th and 16th centuries, seeking refuge in other European countries, including the United Kingdom. Many Sephardic Jews settled in England, bringing with them their surnames, including Pereira, as a reminder of their heritage.
Legacy: In Britain, the Pereira surname has become intertwined with the cultural tapestry of the country, reflecting the diverse and multicultural society that the UK has become. Many individuals bearing the surname Pereira have made significant contributions to various fields, including academia, literature, art, and commerce. The surname serves as a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and enduring legacy of the Sephardic Jewish community in the UK.
Variants and Derivatives: Over time, the Pereira surname may have undergone variations and adaptations, depending on individual migration patterns and linguistic influences. Variants of the surname may include "Perry," "Pereyra," or "Perera." These variations illustrate the fluidity of surnames and their ability to evolve in different cultural contexts while still retaining their fundamental meaning and origin.
Contemporary Significance: Today, the Pereira surname continues to be passed down through generations of British families of Portuguese or Goan descent. It serves as a link to the past, connecting individuals to their roots and ancestry. The surname Pereira is a part of the cultural mosaic of the United Kingdom, representing the enduring influence of Portuguese and Sephardic Jewish heritage on British society.
In conclusion, the Pereira surname holds a special place in British history, symbolising resilience, heritage, and multiculturalism. Its legacy underscores the diverse origins of British surnames and highlights the contributions of different communities to the tapestry of British society.
There are approximately 6,584 people named Pereira in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,440th most common surname in Britain. Around 101 in a million people in Britain are named Pereira.
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
- Antonio
- Carlos
- David
- Joao
- John
- Jose
- Luis
- Paulo
- Pedro
- Rui
- Stephen
Female
- Ana
- Carla
- Fatima
- Isabel
- Julie
- Maria
- Marisa
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Paula
- Rui
- Sandra
- Sonia
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.