What is the origin of the last name Bonilla?
Countries of origin for the last name Bonilla
The last name Bonilla has its origins in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in the countries of Spain and Portugal. It is a relatively common surname among people of Spanish and Portuguese descent.
The etymology of the name Bonilla is derived from the word “bonilla” in Spanish, which means “white” or “blonde”. This suggests that the name originated as a nickname given to individuals with light-colored hair or fair complexion.
Research indicates that the surname Bonilla is most commonly found in the regions of Castile and León in Spain, as well as in the autonomous community of Extremadura. However, it is also present in other Spanish-speaking countries and communities around the world as a result of migration and colonization.
According to historical records, the surname Bonilla dates back several centuries. It is believed to have emerged during the Middle Ages, when surnames became more commonly used to distinguish between individuals with the same given name.
One notable individual with the surname Bonilla is María Cristina Gómez Bonilla, a Spanish journalist and author. She has contributed greatly to the field of journalism, particularly in the area of international relations and political analysis.
It is important to note that while these facts provide a solid understanding of the origins and historical significance of the last name Bonilla, there may still be undiscovered information and connections that could further enhance our knowledge of this surname.
Interesting facts about the last name Bonilla
- The surname Bonilla originated in Spain and is of Spanish origin.
- It is derived from the word “bueno,” meaning “good” in Spanish.
- The Bonilla surname is most commonly found in the regions of Castile and León, Extremadura, and Asturias in Spain.
- There is also a town called Bonilla in the province of Ávila, Spain.
- The surname Bonilla has spread beyond Spain and can be found in various countries, including Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and the United States.
- The Bonilla surname is relatively common, with numerous individuals and families carrying this name.
- The coat of arms associated with the Bonilla surname depicts an azure shield with three gold crosses.
- In some cases, the surname Bonilla may have Jewish origins, as it can be a Sephardic Jewish last name.
- Prominent individuals with the surname Bonilla include former Honduran President Rafael Leonardo Callejas Bonilla and Puerto Rican baseball player Bobby Bonilla.
- The surname Bonilla is often used as a first name in Spanish-speaking countries.
Name Rank
#664
There are around 51475 people with the last name Bonilla in the US