Menzes

Menzes is a surname of Iberian origin and, less commonly, a toponym. In surname studies it is generally treated as a less common variant of Mendes, a Portuguese surname that is often described as a patronymic form derived from a medieval given name such as Mendo or Mendi.

Geography and distribution of Menzes are sparse in available sources. The name appears in genealogical records and historical documents within Portuguese-speaking communities, with occurrences noted in Portugal and Brazil, though precise frequencies and concentrations are not well documented. The spelling variant reflects common regional orthography and transcription practices that produce differing renderings of similar roots.

History and usage: As a surname, Menzes has likely appeared in records since the early modern period, alongside other variants of the same patronymic root. Variations in spelling arise from local dialects, clerical record-keeping, and migration, which can lead to multiple related forms in different regions.

Notable people: There are no widely recognized individuals with the surname Menzes in major biographical references. People with related surnames, such as Mendes or Menezes, are much more common in Iberian-influenced contexts.

See also: Mendes; Menezes; Meneses; Mendez.