RIVERA
Rivera
Rivera is a surname of British origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name Rivera is believed to have derived from the Old French word "riviere," meaning "river," and was likely originally used to describe someone who lived near a river or worked as a boatman.
History
The Rivera surname first appeared in England around the 11th century as a Norman name, brought over by the Normans after the conquest of England. Over the centuries, the surname spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, with variations such as Rivery, River, and de la Riviere emerging in different regions.
Notable Individuals
- Daniel Rivera (1801–1879): A prominent British engineer known for his innovative designs of bridges and canals.
- Olivia Rivera: A British actress known for her work in theatre and television productions.
- Thomas de la Riviere (1330–1395): A British nobleman who served under King Edward III during the Hundred Years' War.
Distribution
Today, the surname Rivera is found in various regions of the United Kingdom, particularly in areas with strong historical ties to France and Normandy. It is also a common surname in countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, reflecting the global dispersion of British names through trade and colonial connections.
Heraldic Symbolism
The coat of arms associated with the Rivera surname typically features symbols such as waves, fish, and boats, reflecting the maritime origins of the name. These symbols often signify qualities such as strength, endurance, and a connection to nature.
Legacy
The Rivera surname continues to be proudly borne by families across the United Kingdom and beyond, serving as a reminder of the rich history and cultural diversity of British society. Through the generations, individuals with the surname Rivera have made significant contributions to various fields, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate.
There are approximately 510 people named Rivera in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Rivera.
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
- Argemiro
- Christopher
- Daniel
- Edwin
- Gerard
- Javier
- Jose
- Kevin
- Mark
- Michael
- Miguel
- Oscar
Female
- Alicia
- Amanda
- Diana
- Donna
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Maria
- Sandra
- Susan
- Veronica