Surname Coqui - Meaning and Origin

Coqui: What does the surname Coqui mean?

The last name Coqui is of Spanish origin and is derived from the word coquí, which is a type of tree frog present in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico.

Coquí is believed to be derived from the local Indian language, an Arawak name for the frog which translates to “little echo.” The name was attributed to the frog due to its so-called ‘singing’, the noise being produced by both males and females in order to attract potential mates.

The family name Coqui is incredibly popular, particularly in Puerto Rico. Its nocturnal cry is culturally very important, as it is seen to embody the spirit of the Caribbean. Many Puerto Ricans consider this a symbol of the beauty of the island, with the name being closely associated with Puerto Rican identity.

The name has been used to emblazon several flags, such as the official state flag of Puerto Rico. The name is also heavily featured in Puerto Rican literature, art and musical compositions over the years.

The name Coqui is also being used in several countries outside of the Caribbean, and is typically used to allegorically represent strong bonds between family and friends.

Coqui: Where does the name Coqui come from?

The surname Coqui is most commonly found among people of Puerto Rican descent and in other areas of Latin America and the Caribbean. Puerto Rico is home to the largest concentration of people with the surname. Historically, it is believed to have its origins in Spain, where it was a habitational name derived from places with the Catalan name Cogull, which is composed of the elements "co" (completion) and "gull" (shrill sound). The Coqui surname is a reminder of Spain's once strong influence in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Islands.

Today, the Coqui surname can be found throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, as many people with Puerto Rican heritage have relocated for education and employment opportunities. It can also be found in the United States, where many Puerto Ricans have moved in search of better economic and educational opportunities. In the U.S, states such as Florida, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, have large Puerto Rican populations.

The Coqui surname is a meaningful reminder of the impact of Spanish colonialism in Puerto Rico. It is a testament to the resilient nature of the Puerto Rican people and their ability to continuously adapt to new environments. The Coqui name proudly stands among the many examples of the rich history and culture that Puerto Ricans bring with them wherever they go.

Variations of the surname Coqui

Variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for the surname Coqui typically include:

1. Kokee: This variant of the surname Coqui is an Americanized spelling of the name, and is believed to be most commonly found in Hawaii and other American states where there is a large population of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

2. Koke: Though this variant is also Americanized, its form is more Latin American in nature, such as: Colombia, Peru, etc.

3. Quico: This variant of the surname Coqui is mostly Spanish in origin, and is found in places such as Spain, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

4. Cuquet: This variant of Coqui is commonly found in the French Caribbean, specifically Haiti and Martinique.

5. Cocchi: This variant of Coqui is mostly Italian and is found in parts of Italy as well as other parts of Europe.

6. Koci: This variant of Coqui is of Polish origin and is found in pockets of Eastern Europe, as well as some areas of North America, Australia and the United Kingdom.

7. Coquelet: This variant of Coqui is mostly French in origin and is commonly found in pockets of France, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

8. Coquet: This variant of Coqui is a spelling used currently in France, and was also historically present in Belgium and Germany.

The previous variants of the surname Coqui all connote the same origin; however, depending on time periods and resulting factors such as migrations, colonizations, and migrations, these surnames may have varying geographical distributions. In any case, the surname Coqui is of Spanish origin, and even though its form and spelling may have changed and evolved, its origin remains the same.

Famous people with the name Coqui

• Freddie Prinze Jr.: American actor, producer, and voice actor, born as Frederick Karl Pruetzel; his mother is of Puerto Rican descent, and his father was an American of German descent, but changed his last name to Prinze to honor the comedic great, Freddie Prinze, after whom Freddie Jr. was named.
• Alex Coqui Curbelo: NBA point guard, who played for the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat.
• Freddy Coqui: Spanish singer and songwriter of styles urban music and salsa.
• Isaiah Coqui Castillo: Born and raised in New York City, he is a multi-instrument musician who plays the guitar, bass, percussion, trumpet, and saxophone.
• Divina Coqui: Puerto Rican actress, singer and dancer, best known for her role as lead vocalist in the renowned indie-Flamenco band, Chiquita Coqui.
• Chiquita Coqui: US-based Indie-flamenco band, fronted by Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, and dancer Divina Coqui.
• Carlos Coqui: Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, and music producer, recording mostly Hip Hop and Latin music.
• Marlyn Coqui: American pop singer and actress who has had a string of international hits in the Latin market.
• Trino Coqui: Latin Grammy Award-winning Venezuelan-Cuban singer and songwriter, specializing in Cuban and Carribean influenced pop music.
• Christian Coqui: Puerto Rican singer-songwriter and actor, most recently known for his work on the stage production of La Vida Sonambula.

Other surnames

Coquigne