Jiménez (surname)

Jiménez is a common Spanish surname of patronymic origin, meaning "son of Jimeno" or "son of Ximeno." The name Jimeno (Ximeno) is a medieval given name whose etymology is debated but is believed to possibly derive from the Basque word "seme," meaning "son," or from a pre-Roman Iberian name.

The surname is prevalent throughout Spain and Latin America, reflecting Spanish colonization and migration. Spelling variations exist, including Ximénez, although Jiménez is the more common form.

Notable individuals with the surname Jiménez include:

• Francisco Jiménez de Cisneros (Cardinal Cisneros): A Spanish cardinal, statesman, and religious reformer.
• Juan Ramón Jiménez: A Spanish poet, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature.
• Jiménez (footballer): A common nickname for footballers with the surname Jiménez. (Specific players should be listed with their full names for clarity).

The surname is associated with various coats of arms, though specific heraldic devices differ between families and regions. A general description of common elements found in Jiménez coats of arms could be included if sources are cited.

Distribution maps indicating the geographical prevalence of the surname Jiménez can be found on various genealogy websites and census records.