# Nunes

/ˈnunz/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nunes
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who belongs to a specific group or family name, often found in Portuguese-speaking cultures. It is a common surname that identifies someone's family history.

For teachers: a common Portuguese surname, originally a patronymic meaning 'son of Nuno'. Used as a proper name to identify a lineage or family group.

## Examples

- Mr. Nunes is the new manager of the local bank.
- The historical archives contain several records of the Nunes family settling in the coastal region during the nineteenth century.
- While the name is most prevalent in Portugal and Brazil, the Nunes diaspora has established significant cultural footprints across North America and Europe over several generations.

## Usage notes

- As a proper noun, it is typically capitalized and functions as a family name.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.