Elizondo is a toponymic surname of Basque origin, originally referring to a person who lived close to a church. The name derives from the Basque elements eleiza ("church") and ondo ("near"). In the Basque language, it literally means "near the church."EtymologyThe surname Elizondo is a compound of two Basque words: eliza (alternate form eleiza), meaning "church," and ondo, meaning "near, alongside." Basque toponymic surnames often describe geographical features or proximity to landmarks. Over time, the name became associated with the town of Elizondo in Navarre, Spain, which is the capital of the Baztan Valley.DistributionAccording to the 2010 United States Census, Elizondo is the 2365th most common surname in the United States, with 15,419 bearers. The surname is predominantly found among Hispanic/Latino individuals (92.8%). It is also relatively common in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries, particularly those with historical ties to the Basque region.Notable BearersJuan Elizondo – Spanish footballer.Ramiro Elizondo – Mexican actor.Salvador Elizondo – Mexican writer and critic.Meaning: "near the church" (Basque)Origin: Basque (Spain)Type: Toponymic surnameUsage Regions: Spain (especially Navarre), Hispanic America, United StatesRelated Names: Eliza (short form)