All surnames

Filipino surname

Santos

Saints

Religious surname

Santos is a Filipino surname of Spanish origin meaning 'saints'. Like Cruz, it was introduced during the colonial period and often chosen for its religious meaning. The name is extremely common in the Philippines.

It ranks among the top Filipino surnames. Related forms include De los Santos. The name reflects the pervasive influence of Spanish Christian culture.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the surname Santos mean?+

Saints. Spanish for "saints", another Catholic-era surname widely adopted in the Philippines.

Is Santos a common surname?+

Santos is a Filipino-origin surname. Popularity varies widely by country and region, and the same surname can be common in one place and rare in another.

Can two families with the same surname be unrelated?+

Yes. Surnames, especially occupational and descriptive ones like this, were often adopted independently by many unrelated families who happened to share a trade, appearance, or location.

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