Rocha

Origin and Meaning: The British surname "Rocha" is of Portuguese and Galician origin. It is derived from the Old Portuguese word "rocha," meaning "rock" or "cliff," and is likely to have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a prominent rock formation.

Distribution and Heritage: The surname Rocha is found primarily in Portugal, where it is one of the most common surnames. The spread of the surname can also be attributed to the Portuguese colonial history, with individuals bearing this surname found in regions once under Portuguese influence, such as Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.

Notable Bearers: The surname Rocha has been borne by several notable individuals, including artists, politicians, and athletes. One of the most famous bearers of the surname is Fernando Rocha, a popular Portuguese comedian renowned for his stand-up performances.

Coat of Arms: The Rocha family crest typically features symbols associated with strength and stability, such as rocks or fortresses, reflecting the meaning of the surname. The colours and design of the coat of arms may vary according to the specific branches of the family.

Variants: Variants of the surname Rocha may include de la Rocha, Roche, and Delarocha, each reflecting regional or historical variations of the original surname.

In conclusion, the British surname Rocha has a rich heritage rooted in Portugal, with connections to topography and endurance. Its widespread distribution and notable bearers contribute to its significance in the realm of surnames.

There are approximately 948 people named Rocha in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,675th most common surname in Britain. Around 15 in a million people in Britain are named Rocha.

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

  • Alberto
  • Antonio
  • Carlos
  • Joao
  • Jose
  • Luis
  • Manuel
  • Paul
  • Paulo
  • Pedro
  • Ricardo
  • Rui

Female

  • Ana
  • Carla
  • Claudia
  • Elizabeth
  • Joana
  • Juliana
  • Liliana
  • Maria
  • Monica
  • Nora
  • Paula
  • Sandra
  • Sonia

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