Surname Onofre - Meaning and Origin

Onofre: What does the surname Onofre mean?

The last name Onofre is of Spanish origin and it's derived from the Greek name Onouphrios, which itself originates from the Egyptian name Wnn-nfr. The name is composed of "on" meaning "he who", and "nfr" which stands for "is good" or “beautiful." Thus, the name Onofre is typically interpreted to mean "he who is good" or “he who is beautiful.” The name became popular due to Saint Onofre, an Egyptian hermit who lived in the 4th century and is revered in both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. In some cultures, the name Onofre is also used as a first name.

Onofre: Where does the name Onofre come from?

The last name Onofre originates from Spain. It is derived from the ancient Greek name Όνοφριος (Onofrios) which itself was taken from the Egyptian name Wnn-nfr, an invocation to the god Osiris meaning "he who is continually good". Over time, the name migrated to different languages including Spanish and Portuguese with slight variations in spelling and pronunciation.

Moreover, Onofre was used as a first name during the medieval times and it was from there that it emerged as a last name. Nowadays, it is quite uncommon as a first name but continues to be used as a surname.

Today, the surname Onofre is most common in the Philippines, likely due to historical Spanish colonial rule. However, it can also be found in certain regions of Spain and Portugal, as well as in the Americas, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, which also have strong historic ties to Spain and Portugal. This name has extended its reach globally due to immigration and family lineage, though it remains largely associated with Spanish and Portuguese-speaking communities.

Variations of the surname Onofre

Onofre is a surname of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Latin personal name 'Honorius,' which means "honor." The surname is not as common and doesn't have many documented variations like other surnames.

Possible spelling variations may include Onofrio, Onoff, Onorato, Honour, Honore, Onore, and Onorio. The surname Honor might also have a connection to Onofre.

It's important to note that Onofre is also used as a given name in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, similar to the Italian equivalent Onofrio.

Typically, surname variants are often created due to a misspelling or misinterpretation of handwritten documents or due to cultural and linguistic differences when a family moves to a different country, but there seems to be few if any documented instances of this happening with the surname Onofre.

Some surnames which might be related or share an origin with Onofre due to the similar etymology (derived from Honorius) could include Honora, Honorat, Honoré, Onoria, and possibly Onorato, although these should be verified through individual genealogical research.

Famous people with the name Onofre

• Sergio Onofre Jarpa: He was a Chilean politician and diplomat who served as Minister of Interior and senator.
• Frederico Onofre: A well-known Brazilian pianist and conductor.
• Onofre Marimón: An iconic Argentine racing driver active in the 1950s.
• Natalia Onofre: An international Brazilian model.
• Liza Diño-Seguerra : Born as Liza May Onofre, this Filipino actress is known for her work in the Filipino cinema.
• Onofre Corpuz: He was a famous Filipino academic, economist, and historian who served as the Secretary of Education in the Philippines.
• Jerry Onofre: Known as a strong Christian broadcaster in the Philippines.
• Onofre Pagsanghan : A legendary Filipino teacher and theater director.
• Onofre Lovero: An Argentine actor and playwright known for his contributions to the theater.
• Nick Onofre: A renowned former American Football player. Please note that while the people listed have made significant contributions in their respective fields, the level of their 'fame' can vary depending on different perspectives.

Other surnames

Onofrio