Peru: what does the surname “Huamán” mean and what is its origin

Although hundreds of years have passed, this surname is still valid in Peru and is also one of the most common. Next, find out what its origin is and where one of the most used surnames in our country comes from.

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What does the surname “Huamán” mean in Peru and what is its origin?

The surname “Huamán” has its origins in Inca times. Its original writing was “Waman”, while its meaning is “falcon, bird of the Andes”. This was indicated by the Colectivo Quechua Central, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Quechua.

According to the specialized portal Forebears, at least 281,764 people have the last name “Huamán” and the majority are in Peru. Although 277,204 Peruvians carry it, it is also present in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador and the United States.

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“Huamán” is one of the most common and important surnames in Peru.

What was the Inca Empire and why were surnames important?

In the time of Tahuantisuyo, before an inhabitant was given a surname, astrologers, priests and other authorities who were in charge of reviewing the family history were first consulted. Regarding the name, this was another process and was based on what the boy or girl was going to do. However, until it was defined, a provisional one was always set for them as soon as the baby was born.

A particular characteristic when placing the name was that the chosen one had to be used to defend the baby from negative energies, also known today as “the evil eye.”

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Finally, the final name was assigned at the first haircut, known in Andean culture as “rotochikuy”, an event that usually took place when the child was 2 years old. The godfather was in charge of carrying out this task and at the same time announced his official name.

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“Huamán” is one of the most common and important surnames in Peru.