The Rocha Family History

What Does the Rocha Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Rocha is of Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian origin, derived from the Celtic word 'rocca,' which translates to cliff, boulder, or rock. Variations of the surname include de Rocha, Roache, Rocchini, Roci, Ruocco, Roccato, Rocco, and Roccon. During the 17th and 18th centuries, numerous individuals bearing the Rocha surname emigrated from Portugal to countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Peru. In England, the surname is found in various locations, notably in London, Northumberland, Lancashire, and Glamorgan, Wales. In the United States, the earliest Rocha families established themselves in Louisiana, later migrating to states including Texas, California, New Mexico, Michigan, Rhode Island, Minnesota, and Arizona. Notable individuals with this surname encompass Michael Rocha, a professional baseball player; Juan Ramon Rocha, a celebrated footballer from Argentina; Paulo Roberto Rocha, a footballer and subsequent manager from Brazil; Zach de la Rocha, a renowned singer; Mikhaila “Coco” Rocha, a prominent fashion model; Enrique Rocha, a Mexican singer; John Steve Rocha, a voice-over actor; and Sharon Rocha, an accomplished author.