Last Name Aquilina

The origin of the last name "Aquilina" can be traced back to Italy. It is derived from the Latin word "aquila," which means "eagle." The name likely originated as a nickname or a descriptive name for someone with eagle-like characteristics, such as sharp vision or a noble demeanor. Over time, this name became a hereditary surname and has been passed down through generations. Today, the surname "Aquilina" is predominantly found in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities around the world.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Aquilina

The meaning and origin of the last name Aquilina

The surname Aquilina is of Latin origin and is derived from the word "aquila," meaning "eagle" in Latin. As a surname, Aquilina is believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where it was used as a personal name by individuals who may have had an association with eagles or considered themselves to possess eagle-like qualities such as strength, loyalty, and prominence. The eagle held great significance in Roman culture, representing power, courage, and protection, and thus, individuals bearing the surname Aquilina may have been associated with these qualities. Over time, the surname Aquilina spread to various regions influenced by Roman culture, including Italy and Malta, where it remains relatively common. Today, individuals with the surname Aquilina may continue to embrace and identify with the symbolism and values associated with the noble bird, the eagle.

Geographical distribution of the last name Aquilina

The last name Aquilina is primarily found in the Mediterranean region, with a notable concentration in the countries of Italy and Malta. In Italy, the name is particularly prevalent in the southern regions, including Sicily, Calabria, Campania, and Puglia. The island of Malta, situated south of Sicily, is also a significant hub for individuals with the surname Aquilina.

Outside of the Mediterranean, Aquilina can be found in smaller numbers across the globe due to migration patterns. Countries with notable populations include Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, particularly in regions with historical ties to Italy and Malta. Immigration from these countries has contributed to spreading the Aquilina name further afield.

Overall, while the Aquilina surname is most commonly associated with the Mediterranean, its distribution extends globally, albeit in smaller numbers, due to migration and diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Aquilina

The last name Aquilina, originating from Italy, has several variations and spellings, reflecting regional dialects and changes over time. Some common variations include Aquilino, Aquilena, Aquilini, Aquilin, Aquiline, and Aquilaino. These variations may result from different pronunciation patterns in different Italian regions or adaptations made when individuals migrated to other countries. Furthermore, due to the influence of other languages and cultures, the name may have been altered during the process. For instance, variations like Aguillen, Aquelina, Aquelini, and Aquiliano may have emerged in regions where Spanish, Portuguese, or other romance languages are commonly spoken. The Aquilina name has traversed generations and undergone modifications that highlight the diverse linguistic influences and historical events experienced by its bearers. These variations collectively demonstrate the rich tapestry of the Aquilina surname and reflect the dynamic nature of language and naming conventions.

Famous people with the last name Aquilina

Unfortunately, I could not find any well-known individuals with the last name Aquilina. It is possible that they may exist, but their level of fame might be limited to specific fields or regions, which makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive paragraph about them. Additionally, the given surname Aquilina is not widely recognized or associated with famous personalities in popular culture or history. It is important to keep in mind that there could be individuals with this surname who have achieved notable accomplishments within their respective communities or professions, but they might not have received significant public attention to be considered widely famous.

Genealogical research on the last name Aquilina

The Aquilina surname is of Italian origin and can be traced back to the medieval period. The name derives from the Latin word "aquila," which means "eagle," and was likely bestowed upon an individual who displayed qualities associated with this majestic bird - such as strength, courage, and sharp vision. The Aquilina family was prominent in Malta, a Mediterranean island famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Many members of the Aquilina clan were involved in various professions, including agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship. Over time, branches of the Aquilina family extended across different regions of Europe and worldwide due to migration and globalization. Today, individuals with the Aquilina last name can be found not only in Malta but also in countries such as Italy, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Genealogical research on the Aquilina name may uncover fascinating stories and connections to a diverse range of individuals and cultures.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Aquilina"
• 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 : 14 June 2025

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