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Last Name Borrelli

What is the origin of the last name Borrelli?

The surname Borrelli is of Italian origin. It derives from a place name, specifically the town of Borrello in the province of Teramo, Abruzzo region of Italy. Originally, this name would have been given as a topographical name to someone who lived near or came from Borrello. The name Borrello is believed to come from the Latin "Borrelus," which may refer to a place frequented by wild boars.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Borrelli

The meaning and origin of the last name Borrelli

The surname Borrelli is an Italian name of Latin origin, derived from the word "Borellus," which means 'little bear.' This name was often given to children born during the bear hunting season. Over time, it evolved into various forms such as Borelli, Borrilli, and Borrelli in different regions of Italy. The surname is most commonly found in the southern Italian regions like Calabria and Sicily. It became more widespread when Italians migrated to other parts of Europe and the Americas during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Borrelli

The surname Borrelli has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Calabria and Campania, where it is most commonly found. Over time, however, emigration from these areas resulted in a significant spread of the name worldwide. In the United States, the highest concentrations can be found in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, due to large-scale Italian immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Borrelli is also prevalent in Australia, Canada, and South America, particularly Brazil, as a result of subsequent waves of emigration. Additionally, there are notable populations in Europe, such as France, Spain, and Portugal, due to historical links between Italy and these countries. The distribution of the Borrelli surname reflects global migration patterns from Southern Italy over the past two centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Borrelli

The surname Borrelli has several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variants include Borelli, Borgheri, Borghili, Borjelli, Borjole, Boreghiel, Borrilli, Borrelly, Borrile, Boregli, and Borrilla. These variations stem from regional dialects, spelling reforms, and errors in record keeping. The root of the name likely originates from a place-name or an occupational surname in Italy, specifically in regions such as Campania, Abruzzo, or Molise.

Famous people with the last name Borrelli

The Borrelli surname has produced notable figures across various fields. One of the most recognized is Salvatore Borrelli, an Italian film director and screenwriter who gained fame for his films such as "The Stick" and "Il papato di Avignone." In music, there is Frankie Avalon, born Francis Thomas Avallone but professionally known as Frankie Borrelli, a popular American singer and actor during the late 1950s and early 1960s. In sports, Gaetano Borrelli was an Italian football player who played as a goalkeeper for clubs like S.S.C. Napoli and U.C. Sampdoria. Lastly, Maria Bello, born in Pittsburgh but of Italian-American descent, is an American actress known for her roles in films such as "A History of Violence" and "Mystic River." Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields, earning them a place among the famous people with the last name Borrelli.

Genealogical research on the last name Borrelli

The surname Borrelli originates from Italy and is derived from the medieval occupational name "Borghese," meaning "dweller near a fortified manor" or "castle." Over time, it has undergone variations such as Borghi, Borghis, Borghieri, Borelli, and Borrelli. The family is believed to have originated from the region of Abruzzo, specifically the town of Ortona, where the Borrelli castle still stands. The family expanded throughout Italy during the Middle Ages and later migrated to other countries, particularly to Spain, France, Argentina, and the United States. In America, the name is most prevalent in New York, where it became common among Italian immigrants who arrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Borrelli family has also made significant contributions in various fields such as politics, arts, and academia in Italy and other countries.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 27 July 2025

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