Last Name Accardo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Accardo

The meaning and origin of the last name Accardo

Accardo is an Italian surname that is derived from the given name Riccardo, which is the Italian form of the name Richard. The surname Accardo is primarily found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria and Sicily. The name likely originated as a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally used to indicate the son of someone named Riccardo. The Accardo surname may have been passed down through generations to denote a family's lineage or heritage. Today, individuals with the surname Accardo can be found throughout the world, especially in countries with significant Italian immigrant populations. The name Accardo may also have variations in spelling, such as Accardi or Accardo.

Geographical distribution of the last name Accardo

The last name Accardo is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the regions of Sicily and Calabria. These regions have historically been home to many individuals with the surname Accardo, with a significant concentration of Accardos still residing in these areas today. Outside of Italy, there are smaller pockets of individuals with the last name Accardo in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina, where Italian immigrants have settled over the years. The distribution of the surname Accardo in these countries can be attributed to migration patterns and the dispersal of Italian communities around the world. Overall, while the last name Accardo is most prevalent in Italy, it has also made its mark in various other countries due to the movement of people across borders.

Variants and spellings of the last name Accardo

Accardo is a last name that can be spelled in several different variations. Some of the common spellings include Acardo, Accard, Acardi, Accaddo, Acord, and Achard. These variations may have originated from regional differences, dialects, or even errors in spelling over time. In some cases, the spelling of Accardo may also be anglicized to make it easier to pronounce or spell for non-Italian speakers. Despite the various spellings, all of these variations still represent the same surname and are likely connected to the same ancestral family line. Accardo is a surname with Italian roots, and variations of the name can be found in different parts of the world where Italian immigrants have settled.

Famous people with the last name Accardo

One famous individual with the last name Accardo is Tony Accardo, also known as "Big Tuna." He was a notorious Italian-American mobster who was the boss of the Chicago Outfit for over three decades. Accardo was considered a ruthless and intelligent criminal mastermind, overseeing various criminal operations such as gambling, loan sharking, and drug trafficking. He was known for his ability to evade law enforcement and maintain control over his criminal empire through violence and intimidation. Accardo was a key figure in organized crime during the mid-20th century and was often referred to as the "Real Godfather" due to his influence and power within the criminal underworld. Despite his criminal activities, Accardo was never convicted of any major crimes and remained a prominent figure in the Chicago Outfit until his death in 1992.

Genealogical research on the last name Accardo

The last name Accardo is of Italian origin, specifically from the southern region of Sicily. It is derived from the personal name "Ricardo," which means "powerful ruler" or "brave power." The Accardo family may have been prominent in their community, possibly holding positions of authority or leadership. Genealogical research on the Accardo surname could reveal a long and storied history, connecting individuals to notable figures or events in Sicilian history. With its roots in Italy, the Accardo name may have spread to other parts of the world through migration and immigration, leading to diverse branches of the family tree. Tracing the lineage of the Accardo family could uncover connections to other surnames and regions, shedding light on the rich tapestry of the family's heritage and legacy.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Accardo"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025