Surname Aguilar - Meaning and Origin

Discovering Self through Genetics: How iGENEA Shaped My Understanding of 'Aguilar' Heritage

The iGENEA DNA test unraveled a fascinating tapestry of my past, revealing the intriguing depth of the surname 'Aguilar.' My perception of personal identity and heritage was expanded and deepened in unanticipated ways, bringing me closer to the truth of who I am.

P. Aguilar

Aguilar: What does the surname Aguilar mean?

The surname Aguilar is of Spanish origin and derives from the Latin term "Aquilare" or the Spanish term "Águila", which translates to "eagle" in English. It typically refers to a person who lived in a region or place where eagles were prevalent. The name Aguilar was often given to individuals in the Middle Ages who lived near an eagle's nest, or a high place frequented by eagles, such as the peak of a mountain. The presence of the eagle usually suggested strength, courage, and power, which were deemed as admirable qualities during those times. In Spain, it is also associated with several geographic locations such as Aguilar de Campoo in Palencia, Aguilar de la Frontera in Cordoba and Aguilar de Segarra in Barcelona. Therefore, the last name Aguilar can be seen as an indicator of one's geographic heritage or ancestral profession.

Aguilar: Where does the name Aguilar come from?

The surname Aguilar has roots in Spain and is derived from the Latin word "Aquila", meaning “eagle”. The surname was typically given to people living in or near regions signified by the presence of eagles. This is why it is also associated with a place name, as there are towns in Spain named Aguilar.

The surname spread to the Americas and other parts of the world during the period of Spanish colonization and it is widely seen in regions with significant Hispanic communities. It is hence common in Spain, Mexico, and many countries in Central and South America. It is also found in the United States, particularly in states with large Hispanic populations such as California and Texas.

Variations of the surname Aguilar

The surname Aguilar has Spanish origins and it translates to "house of the eagle," referring to a place inhabited by eagles. This surname became popular in several regions of Spain and later spread to Latin-America following Spanish colonization. Therefore, it is commonly found among Hispanic communities today. Over time, the name Aguilar may have been subject to various spellings and variations due to linguistic differences and regional dialects.

Alternate spellings may include Aguiar, Aguillar, Aguyar, Aguila, Agilera, and Aquilar. Some variations may adopt the prefix 'de' or 'del,' which signifies 'of the,' making it 'de Aguilar' or 'del Aguilar.'

In terms of surnames of the same origin, these would include other geographical or topographical Spanish surnames like Castillo (castle), Rios (rivers), or Mendoza (cold mountain).

Some family branches have created their own variant of Aguilar such as Aguilera, meaning little Aguilar. The Portuguese version of the surname is 'Aguia,' though it is less common. In some cases, the surname may have been translated into other languages, leading to names like 'Eagle' in English.

Famous people with the name Aguilar

• Antonio Aguilar: A famous Mexican singer, songwriter, and actor known as "El Charro de Mexico."
• Pepe Aguilar: He is a Grammy award-winning Mexican-American singer-songwriter and actor, also son of Antonio Aguilar.
• Mardy Fish: His full name is Mardy Simpson Fish and is an American former professional tennis player.
• Antonio Aguilar, Jr.: He is a Mexican actor and singer, son of Antonio Aguilar and brother of Pepe Aguilar.
• Filipa Cesar: Full name being Filipa Cesar Soares da Camara Aguilar, she is a critically acclaimed Portuguese artist and filmmaker.
• Laisha Wilkins: full name Laisha Wilkins Aguilar, a Mexican actress.
• Jesús Aguilar: A professional Venezuelan-American baseball player.
• Perla de la Rosa Aguilar: A Mexican actress and director.
• Marcel Aguilar: A French rugby union footballer.
• Steve Aguilar: A notable Judge of the trial court in Washington state, USA.
• Yancey Arias: An American actor, his full name being Yancey Arias Aguilar.
• Gabriela Beatriz Sabatini: Full name, Gabriela Beatriz Sabatini Aguilar is an Argentine former professional tennis player.
• Pablo Aguilar: A Paraguayan footballer.
• Xavi Aguilar: A Spanish water polo player.
• Guillermo del Toro: A Mexican filmmaker, full name Guillermo del Toro Gómez Aguilar.

Other surnames

AguilaAguileraAguillard