Hernandez History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Hernandez

What does the name Hernandez mean?

The distinguished Spanish surname Hernandez is a proud sign of a rich and ancient heritage. The earliest forms of hereditary surnames in Spain were the patronymic surnames, which are derived from the father’s given name, and metronymic surnames, which are derived from the mother’s given name. Spanish patronymic names emerged as early as the mid-9th century; the most common patronymic suffix being “ez.” The Hernandez name is derived from the Spanish elements “faro,” meaning “journey” and “nano, ” meaning “brave.”

Early Origins of the Hernandez family

The surname Hernandez was first found in Castile, where the name originated in Visigothic times. Much of the popularity of this name and its cognates is due to King Ferdinand III of Castile and Leon (1198-1252,) who, after leading much of the reconquest of Christian Spain from the Moors, was then canonized.