Last Name Attard

The surname "Attard" is of Maltese origin and is derived from the Maltese word "attard", which means "fragrant". It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone who had a pleasant smell or was connected to a place known for its fragrant plants or flowers. The surname Attard is common in Malta and is found among families of Maltese descent around the world.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Attard

The meaning and origin of the last name Attard

The surname Attard is of Maltese origin and is derived from the Sicilian word "attardi", meaning "late" or "slow". It is believed to have been a nickname given to someone who was known for being consistently late or slow in their actions. The name may also have been given to someone who was seen as patient or laid-back in their demeanor. The surname Attard is quite common in Malta and is often associated with families originating from the town of Attard, located in central Malta. Over time, the name has spread beyond Malta and can also be found in countries with significant Maltese diaspora populations such as Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Attard

The last name Attard is primarily found in the country of Malta, where it is one of the most common surnames. It is believed to have originated from the Maltese word "attard" which means fragrant, and is likely a reference to a location with aromatic plants. In addition to Malta, the surname Attard can also be found in smaller numbers in countries with historical ties to Malta, such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. There are also instances of the surname being present in countries with significant Maltese immigrant populations, such as the United States. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Attard reflects the historical and cultural roots of the Maltese people and their diaspora across the globe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Attard

The last name Attard has a few variations and spellings that may be seen across different regions and cultures. Some of the alternative spellings include Attar, Atard, Atart, and Atardt. In Maltese, the name may also be written as Attard, Adatr, or Adattr. Additionally, variations such as Atardes or Attardez can be found in French-influenced regions. These variations reflect the diverse history and influences that have shaped the surname over time. Despite the different spellings, the name Attard ultimately signifies a common heritage and identity shared by those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Attard

The most famous person with the last name Attard is undoubtedly Kevin Attard, a renowned horse trainer from Canada. Kevin has achieved great success in the horse racing industry, winning numerous prestigious races and titles throughout his career. His skill and expertise have earned him a reputation as one of the best trainers in the business. In addition to Kevin, there are several other notable individuals with the last name Attard, including musician and composer Oliver Attard, who has gained recognition for his talent in the music industry. These individuals have each made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing the talent and creativity of those with the Attard surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Attard

The surname Attard is of Maltese origin and can be traced back to the island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. The name is derived from the Arabic word "attard", meaning fragrant or perfumed, suggesting a potential association with the spice trade or perfumery in ancient times. The earliest known records of the Attard family date back to the 15th century in Malta, with individuals holding various occupations such as farmers, merchants, and craftsmen. Over the centuries, the Attard surname has spread to other countries including Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as Maltese families emigrated in search of better opportunities. Today, individuals with the surname Attard can be found around the world, with a rich history and heritage rooted in the Maltese culture.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Attard"
• 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

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