Surname Rua - Meaning and Origin

Rua: What does the surname Rua mean?

The surname Rua has origins in various cultures, each with its own distinct meaning. Primarily, it is of Spanish and Portuguese origin where it translates to "street". In this context, it might have been adopted as a surname by people residing or working near a prominent street, thus becoming a locative surname, referring to a person's residence or place of origin.

In Irish culture, Rua is derived from the Gaelic name "Rua," which means ‘red’ likely referring to physical attributes such as ruddy complexion or red hair. A famous bearer of this surname was Saint John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco, whose birth name was Giovanni Melchior Bosco and he used the alias 'Rua' while in Rome.

Also, in the Maori language, "Rua" means "two". So, its interpretation can change based on geographical or cultural points of view. As with many surnames, the meaning of Rua may also vary based on its historical or ancestral significance to a particular family.

Rua: Where does the name Rua come from?

The surname Rua originates from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically from Portugal and Spain. In Portuguese and Spanish, 'Rua' means 'street'. It could have originated as a topographical surname for someone living near a prominent road or street. It could also have started as a occupational surname for a street vendor or a street performer.

It's quite popular in Portugal and Spain, and in countries that have historical connections with them, especially in Latin American countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and others. Additionally, due to migration patterns, this surname is also found among individuals in the United States, particularly those of Hispanic descent.

Furthermore, the surname Rua has a significant presence in certain regions of Italy, especially in the northern part, possibly due to the influence of Spain over the centuries. The surname in Italy could be a variant of 'Russo' meaning 'red', describing someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion, or 'rua' meaning 'roe deer' indicating someone who is swift or timid. Irrespective of its varied origins, today it is a global surname with representations in many countries around the world.

Variations of the surname Rua

The surname Rua is of Spanish origin and is derived from the word 'rúa,' meaning street. It was often used as a locational surname for those who lived or worked on a main street. Variation of this surname could be de la Rua. Variations of Rua can also depend on the region of the world where it is found; for example, in Portuguese-speaking countries, it might be spelled Ruaa, Ruas, or Ruela.

Apart from these, there can be phonetic variations depending on the regional accents and dialects. Some possible variations could potentially include Ruah, Roua, Rhua, Ruaa, Ruay, Ruau.

When considering surnames of similar origins, like other Spanish or Portuguese surnames related to place of residence or occupation, they could include Calle, which also means ‘street’ in Spanish, or Silva, a Portuguese surname indicating someone who lived near a wood or a forest. However, remember that while these names have similar origins in terms of semantics, they don’t necessarily imply familial relation or shared genealogical history.

Famous people with the name Rua

• Mauricio "Shogun" Rua: A retired mixed martial artist from Brazil who is a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. He is widely considered one of the greatest fighters in the history of MMA.
• Murilo "Ninja" Rua: A former Brazilian mixed martial artist. He is the older brother of Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. He competed in the PRIDE Fighting Championships, EliteXC, and Cage Rage Championships.
• Manoel de Oliveira e Rua: An influential Portuguese film director and screenwriter. He began making films in the silent era and continued to work well into the 21st century.
• Nelson Rua: A photographer famed for his incredible portraits, commercial, and editorial work.
• Antonio Rua: A Portuguese economist, he served as Governor of the Bank of Portugal from April 2010 to June 2020.
• João Rua: A Portuguese actor known for roles in various television series and films like "Amalia," "Sedução," and "Deixa Que Te Leve."
• Elisa Rua: A Spanish actress renowned for her role in the TV series "El Sindrome de Ulises."
• William Rua: A New Zealand actor recognized for his roles in the Power Rangers franchise and the film "The Dead Lands."
• Sergio Rua: A notable Spanish artist specializing in abstract art.
• Daniela Rua: An Italian actress recognized for her roles in the TV series "Non smettere di sognare" and "L'Isola di Pietro."

Other surnames

Ruane