Surname Baca - Meaning and Origin
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Baca: What does the surname Baca mean?
Baca is a surname derived from Spanish origins. The name primarily refers to "cowherd" or "cattleman." It is derived from the Old Spanish words vaca, meaning "cow," and the suffix -ero, which denotes someone who works with or tends to something. Over time, the term bacero was shortened to Baca. The name is common in Spain and Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. In the United States, it is common amongst Hispanic communities. It's important to note that the meaning of the surname can differ depending on the geographical and cultural context. For example, in Slavic languages, Baca is a shepherd or herder. In either context, the name indicates an occupational lineage related to animal husbandry. Notable people with this surname include Jimmy Santiago Baca, an American poet and writer of Apache and Chicano descent.
Order DNA origin analysisBaca: Where does the name Baca come from?
The last name Baca has Spanish origins and it generally refers to individuals who herded cows. Baca is derived from the Spanish word 'vaca,' meaning cow. The surname potentially started as a nickname for someone who worked as a cowherd or was somehow associated with cows, later becoming a family name.
Today, the surname is quite common in several regions of the world, most notably in Spain, where it originated, and across various countries in Latin America due to Spanish colonization. The name is also seen quite commonly amongst Hispanic populations in the United States. New Mexico in particular has a high incidence of the Baca surname, as it was an early site of Spanish settlement and has a very high Hispanic population.
Variations of the surname Baca
The surname Baca originates from Spain and has several variations, spelling alternatives and cognates. The surname Baca, primarily derived from the Spanish "vaca" meaning "cow", is traced back to an occupational name for a cowherd.
Spelling alternatives and variants may include Bacca, Bacas and Bacah. These can also extend to Bacce, Bache, Bacche, and Baco in some regions. Sometimes the surname includes an appended 's' to denote "son of", while an added 'z' can indicate "from" a certain place.
An interesting variant is “Vacca”, primarily from Italy, which carries the same meaning. Over time and with migration, different regions have adapted the spelling and pronunciation to fit their language. Thus, the surname may have transformed into Vaca in Portugal and Latin America.
Other surnames with similar roots include Baccus or Baccas, originating from the Old French 'Bac' which in turn originates from the Spanish 'Baca'.
The surnames are not limited to these and they may have further variants depending on the language, region, and cultural context. Nonetheless, these are the most commonly spotted variants and spellings of the surname Baca.
Famous people with the name Baca
- Jimmy Santiago Baca: An American poet and writer, known for his works about the marginalized and disenfranchised.
- Cara Baca: An American swimmer and Olympic athlete.
- Emilio Baca: A well-known Mexican actor who appeared in various films and TV shows.
- Joe Baca: A U.S. Representative for California's 43rd congressional district, serving from 2003 to 2013.
- Joe Baca Jr.: An American politician and son of Joe Baca, who has held various political positions in California including Assembly member.
- Edward D. Baca: A retired Lieutenant General in the U.S. Army.
- Steve Baca: A professional football player in the NFL.
- Aurel Bacs: A Swiss auctioneer and watch specialist.
- Damaso Baca: A Mexican professional baseball player.
- Clara Lee Baca: An American actress known for her roles in several TV shows and movies.
- Rudy Baca: An American writer and director known for his work in the film industry.
- Gary Baca: An American DJ and radio host based in San Francisco.
- Michael Baca: An American contemporary artist and muralist.
- Yvonne Baca: A popular beauty queen and model. Please note that the level of fame of these individuals can vary greatly.