What does the surname Silva mean?

The surname Silva means "A forest or wooded area, from the Latin 'silva' meaning woodland.". It is of Portuguese, Spanish, Italian origin.

How common is the Silva surname?

There are approximately 2,500,000 people with the surname Silva in the United States.

Are there Silva soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 81 soldiers with the Silva surname appear in Civil War records.

Silva

Topographic

Meaning

A forest or wooded area, from the Latin 'silva' meaning woodland.

Etymology

Silva derives directly from the Latin 'silva' (forest, woodland) and was used as a topographic surname for those living near forests or wooded regions. The name is widespread across Iberian and Italian-speaking regions.

About the Silva Surname

Silva is one of the most common surnames in the Portuguese and Spanish-speaking world, indicating residence near forests or wooded areas. The name has become particularly prevalent in Brazil and other former Portuguese colonies.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 2,500,000 bearers in the United States #22 most common surname

Rare Common

Extremely common in Portugal, Spain, Brazil, and throughout the Portuguese and Spanish-speaking world.

Silva Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Silva Surname

Eugenio Silva

Colonel

Quick Facts

Origin: Portuguese, Spanish, Italian
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: Medieval Iberia
Estimated Bearers: 2,500,000

War Records

81 soldiers with the Silva surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →