Surname Alba - Meaning and Origin
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Alba: What does the surname Alba mean?
The surname Alba is of Spanish origin and is derived from the Latin phrase for 'white', 'albus'. This could refer to a light complexion, or to the pre-Roman god Belenus, the god of the sun, who was also called Albus in some cults. Alba is a common surname throughout the Spanish-speaking world, and in several other countries including Italy, France, Croatia, and the Philippines. Due to its immense popularity, the surname has taken on many other meanings throughout the years, varying dependent on culture and language.
In Italy, Alba is a derived form of the Italian word 'alba', meaning 'dawn', indicating someone who rose with the sun, or is full of energy. In Spain, the meaning is closer to 'spirit', referring to someone with a great attitude and strong will. In Portugal, the surname Alba is an altered form of the word “alvo”, meaning “light, fair”.
The surname Alba can be found in many different spellings including Alba, Albá, Alva, Allba, Albay, and more, depending on the language. Despite the wide variety of spellings, the surname carries a common message of spirituality, courage, and a bright future. Those bearing the surname Alba could be seen as someone who is brave and optimistic, possessing strength and the potential to bring great success and light to the world.
Order DNA origin analysisAlba: Where does the name Alba come from?
The last name Alba is likely of Spanish origin and is most commonly found in Spanish-speaking countries. In Spain, the Alba name is particularly common in the Basque provinces of the country – especially in Navarre and Vizcaya – and around Madrid. It is also relatively common in the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and other parts of Latin America. Albas are also found in other countries throughout the world, such as the United States, France, Argentina, and Germany.
The origin of the Alba surname is believed to stem from the Latin word albus, or “white”, stating its beginnings as a nickname for a white-haired or pale-skinned person. Another likely source is a Basque word that means “rock” or “mountain”, which was later shortened to alba.
In the United States, the population of Albas increased significantly during the 19th and 20th centuries due to immigration from Latin American countries, particularly Mexico and Puerto Rico. Some Spanish-speaking U.S. states such as New Mexico, Texas, and California show higher numbers of Albas in their populations. In 2019, it was discovered that the Alba surname had increased in popularity since 2012, with most Albas living in California, New York, and Florida. As a result, the Alba name is likely to continue to increase in popularity in the United States.
Variations of the surname Alba
The surname Alba is of Spanish origin and refers to someone who was originally from the medieval Kingdom of Alba or Albarracín. It can be found throughout Spain as well as Latin America, Portugal and Italy. Common variants of Alba include Del Alba, Alvaro and Alvares.
Spelling variants include Albal, Albalá, Albalate, Albalat, Albala, Albales, Albals, Albárquez, Albás, Albay, Albes, Albus, Albuixec, Alburez, and Albuzec.
A few common surnames that are derived from or related to the Spanish name Alba are Albacete, Albarracin, Albarez, Albarrán, Albarés, Albarrán, Albarran, Albara, Albuerne, and Valba.
In some instances, the surname Alba may be of Italian origin, as it is believed to be derived from the commune of Alba in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont.
Additionally, Alba could have originated from the Celtic term Alba, meaning white or daylight.
Finally, Alba may have French origin, as it could be derived from the French phrase au val, meaning in the vale.
Famous people with the name Alba
- Jessica Alba: An American actress, model, and businesswoman, Jessica Alba is best known for her roles in Honey (2003), Fantastic Four (2005) and Valentine's Day (2010).
- Robert Alba: An American film producer, Robert Alba is best known for producing the popular show Lost.
- Steve Alba: A professional skateboarder, Steve Alba is known for his trademark skating style of "skateboarding in the streets".
- Dave Alba: An American animator and filmmaker, Dave Alba is best known for his contribution to Disney's Ratatouille, Princess and the Frog, and SpongeBob SquarePants.
- Antonio Alba: A Spanish actor, Antonio Alba is best known for his roles in Gran Hotel, El Lute, and Soul Mate.
- Raul Alba: A Cuban-American actor, Raul Alba is known for his roles in Rio Bravo, You Don't Mess with the Zohan, and War of the Worlds.
- Luis Alba: A Mexican actor, Luis Alba is best known for his performance in the television series Señor Muerte, Aurora, and El Chema.
- Jose Alba: A Spanish director, Jose Alba is best known for his film Milk of Sorrow, which was nominated for an Academy Award.
- Armando Alba: An Argentinean actor, Armando Alba is best known for his performance in the television series Al Final del Camino.
- David Alba: A Spanish wrestler, David Alba is currently wrestling for the WWE and has previously competed in the Mexican Lucha Libre circuit.