Summary

The surname Silva has Portuguese and Spanish origins. It is derived from the Latin word for 'forest' or 'woodland'. This surname is commonly associated with people who lived near or worked in forests. Silva is one of the most common surnames in the world.
There are
161633
Silvas in the USA
Silva is the
163rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Silva

AlbertoSilva

Alberto Silva was a Brazilian politician who served as Governor of the state of Maranhão from 1987 to 1991. He was known for his efforts in improving education and infrastructure in the state.

RenatoSilva

Renato Silva is a Brazilian footballer who played as a central defender. He had a successful career, playing for clubs like Flamengo, Sporting Lisbon, and West Ham United.

RobertoSilva

Roberto Silva was a Brazilian singer and composer known for his contributions to samba and bossa nova music. He recorded numerous albums and won several awards during his career.

JenniferSilva

Jennifer Silva is a Portuguese-American sociologist and author. Her research focuses on issues of race, class, and gender, with a particular interest in the experiences of Afro-Latinx communities.

BillySilva

Billy Silva is a fictional character from the Brazilian telenovela 'Avenida Brasil.' He was portrayed by actor Thiago Martins and gained popularity for his charismatic personality.

AnaSilva

Ana Silva is a Portuguese painter known for her vibrant abstract artworks. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world.

Carlosda

Carlos da Silva was a Portuguese politician who served as a Member of the European Parliament from 2004 to 2009. He was known for his advocacy for social justice and environmental sustainability.

LuisSilva

Luis Silva is a Venezuelan footballer who plays as a midfielder. He has represented the Venezuelan national team and has had a successful career playing for clubs in Venezuela, Portugal, and the United States.

Mariada

Maria da Silva is a fictional character from the Brazilian telenovela 'Avenida Brasil.' She was portrayed by actress Adriana Esteves and gained popularity for her complex and captivating storyline.

PauloSilvino

Paulo Silvino was a Brazilian comedian and actor who was known for his roles in comedy television shows and films. He was considered one of the greatest comedians in Brazil.

Silva Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Silva' is of Portuguese and Spanish origin. It is derived from the Latin word 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The name likely originated as a topographic or locational name for someone who lived near a wooded area.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Silva' is widely distributed across Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries. It is particularly common in Brazil, Portugal, Spain, and countries in Latin America.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Silva' include 'Silveira' and 'Sylva.'
Migration and ImmigrationDue to colonization and transatlantic migration, the surname 'Silva' has been carried by people to various countries, especially to former Portuguese and Spanish colonies.