Surname Fernandes - Meaning and Origin

Delving Deep into the Fernandes Lineage: Unraveling Ancestry using iGENEA DNA Test

Having taken a DNA test at iGENEA, I've been privy to a depth of information concerning my genetic heritage behind my Fernandes family line. After a simple mouth swab process, high-standard lab procedures and stringent quality control helped ensure accuracy. The test, examining series of specific markers in my DNA, traced back to the origins of the Fernandes surname.

E. Fernandes

Fernandes: What does the surname Fernandes mean?

The last name Fernandes is of Portuguese and Spanish origin and means "son of Fernando" or "son of Fernand," indicating a patronymic surname. The name Fernando or Fernand itself is derived from a Germanic personal name composed of elements meaning ‘journey, travel’ and ‘daring, brave, courageous’. Hence the surname may mean "son of the brave traveler". Quite popular in countries with Portuguese or Spanish influence, it is widely seen in Portugal, Brazil, Spain, and India, particularly in Goa and other areas that were once Portuguese colonies. It was commonly given to the children of men named Fernando during the Middle Ages when surnames started coming into usage. Such patronymic names were often formed by adding "es" to the end of the father's name.

Fernandes: Where does the name Fernandes come from?

The surname Fernandes is of Portuguese origin and is the equivalent of the English name 'Fernandez' in Spanish. It has its roots in the Germanic name "Ferdinand," which means "daring" or "adventurous". The name became popular in Portugal and Spain during the Middle Ages, mainly due to the Germanic influence and also due to a number of saints and royalty carrying this name.

Today, Fernandes is common in regions that were historically influenced by the Portuguese. These include Portugal itself, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, and other countries where Portuguese is spoken. The name is also relatively common in the Indian region of Goa, formerly a Portuguese colony, as well as in other regions with significant Portuguese diaspora, such as the United States and Canada.

Variations of the surname Fernandes

The surname Fernandes is of Portuguese origin and is a patronymic meaning "Son of Fernando." Its Spanish equivalent is Fernandez. Variants and similar surnames of Fernandes include Ferrandez, Hernandez, and Fernando. Fernandes is also commonly found in India, especially in Goa, due to Portuguese colonization. However, the spelling may sometimes be altered to Fernandes or Fernando.

Further variations may include Fernandis, Fernandos, and Fernandus. Upon emigration, many people with this surname may have adapted it to fit the language of their new country. For instance, it might become "Fernandez" in Spanish-speaking countries or "Fernand" in French-speaking countries. It's also common for surnames to lose or gain letters over time for simplification, such as Fernandz or Fernans.

In some cases, Fernandes could be Anglicized to "Fernands" or "Ferns." There's also a diminutive form, Fernandinho, which is common in Brazil. It's pertinent to mention that Fernandes and all its variants belong to the larger group of "-ez" or "-es" surnames, which indicate patrilineal descent.

Famous people with the name Fernandes

• Emeril Lagasse: Renowned chef known for his show ‘Emeril Live’. His full name is Emeril John Lagasse III.
• Abel Xavier: Former Portuguese footballer and current coach with a full name of Abel Luís da Silva Costa Xavier.
• Elano: Brazilian footballer who, like many Brazilian footballers, is known primarily by a single name. His full name is Elano Blumer.
• Frankie J: Mexican-American singer, songwriter, and former member of the boy band Kumbia Kings. His full name is Francisco Javier Bautista, Jr.
• Deepika Padukone: Highly acclaimed Indian actress. Her full name is Deepika Padukone Ferreira Fernandes Silva.
• Gemma Fernandes: English model and actress.
• Bruno Fernandes: Portuguese professional footballer who currently plays for Manchester United.
• Stacy Fernandes: Indian fashion designer and fashion celebrity.
• Albert Fernandes: Indian politician. He's also known as Ahmed Patel.
• Cicero Fernandes: Brazilian professional footballer.
• Gino Fernandes: South African professional sprinter.
• Lisa Fernandes: Canadian chef and runner-up of the fourth season of Top Chef.
• Vicky Fernandes: Former Canadian soccer player.
• Shaun Verner Fernandes: Australian professional rugby league player.
• Fabian Fernandes: American house music DJ and producer. Note: Some names include variations and Portuguese/Spanish versions of the last name 'Fernandez'.

Other surnames

Fernandez