Diaz

Diaz is a surname of Iberian origin, commonly found in Spanish-speaking countries and among people of Hispanic heritage. It is also encountered as a given name in some cases but is primarily used as a surname. The form Díaz (with an acute accent) is the common spelling in most of the Spanish-speaking world; in Portuguese the equivalent patronymic is Dias, not Diaz.

The name is patronymic, derived from the given name Diego, which itself comes from the Latin Didacus. Díaz therefore means "son of Diego." The surname spread widely during the Spanish colonization of the Americas and is particularly prevalent in Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Cuba, Argentina, and the Filipino communities in the Philippines.

Notable people with the surname include Gustavo Díaz Ordaz (1909–1979), who served as President of Mexico from 1964 to 1970, as well as various politicians, athletes, and artists across Latin America and North America. In addition to individuals, the name has appeared in literature, film, and media, reflecting its widespread use.

There are also places and organizations named Diaz in different regions, reflecting its status as a common toponymic and personal name element in the Spanish-speaking world.