The surname Tabasco originated in Mexico, with its earliest recorded use dating back to the 16th century. It is believed to have derived from the Nahuatl word "tavaco," which translates to "place where the soil is humid or insipid." This suggests that the name may have initially been associated with a specific geographical location or region within Mexico.

One of the earliest known references to the Tabasco surname can be found in the "Relaciones Geográficas" (Geographic Relations), a series of reports commissioned by the Spanish Crown in the late 16th century to gather information about the territories and indigenous populations of New Spain (Mexico). These reports often included lists of local place names and surnames, which could provide valuable insights into the origins and distribution of the Tabasco name during that period.

In the 17th century, the Tabasco surname began to appear more frequently in various historical records, such as parish registers, census records, and land grant documents. One notable individual from this era was Juan Tabasco, a landowner and rancher who lived in the region of Puebla in the late 1600s.

As the years progressed, the Tabasco surname continued to spread throughout Mexico and eventually made its way to other parts of the Americas through migration and exploration. In the 18th century, José Tabasco (1705-1782) was a prominent merchant and landowner in the city of Veracruz, known for his involvement in the regional trade of various goods, including the eponymous Tabasco pepper sauce.

Another notable figure bearing the Tabasco surname was María Tabasco (1810-1892), a renowned educator and advocate for women's rights in Mexico during the 19th century. She established several schools and played a pivotal role in promoting educational opportunities for women in her time.

In the early 20th century, Martín Tabasco (1890-1968) was a celebrated writer and journalist from the state of Tabasco, known for his works that explored the rich cultural heritage and traditions of his home region.

While the Tabasco surname has its roots in Mexico, it has since spread to other parts of the world through immigration and diaspora communities. However, its earliest recorded origins and historical significance remain closely tied to the Mexican territories and the indigenous Nahuatl language from which it is derived.