The Velez Family History

What Does the Velez Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Velez, of Spanish and Portuguese origin, is derived from the name Velasco and the term ‘bela,’ which translates to crow or raven. Additionally, it is linked to the Latin word ‘vigilia,’ signifying a watchman. Variations in the spelling of Velez include Vazquez, Velez, Blasquez, Blas, Velazquez, and Velasco. In England, the predominant location of individuals bearing the Velez surname is London. In Spain, the ancestral Velez families primarily resided in the regions of Cantabria and Andalusia. During the 17th and 18th centuries, a significant number of these families migrated to the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Colombia. In the United States, the majority of those with the Velez surname can be found in New Mexico, California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Oklahoma. Notable individuals with this surname include David Velez, a composer from Colombia; Eddie Velez, an actor; Alvaro Uribe Velez, a former president of Colombia; Ada Velez, a champion female boxer from Puerto Rico; Jose A., a racehorse jockey; Desiree Marie Velez, an actress; and Fermin Velez, a professional race car driver from Spain.