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Last Name Bufalino

What is the origin of the last name Bufalino?

The surname Bufalino is of Italian origin. It is derived from the word "bufalo," which means "buffalo" or "water buffalo" in Italian. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who resembled a buffalo in some way, such as being strong, fierce, or stubborn. Over time, this nickname may have become a hereditary surname passed down through generations. The name Bufalino is most commonly found in southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Sicily and Calabria.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bufalino

The meaning and origin of the last name Bufalino

Bufalino is an Italian surname believed to have originated from the word "bufalo," meaning buffalo in Italian. The surname may have been given to someone who worked with or owned buffaloes or lived near a place where buffaloes were raised. Buffaloes were once an important part of Italian agriculture, providing meat, milk, and leather to the local population. The surname Bufalino may also have derived from the Italian word "bufalo," which translates to "puffed-up" or "swollen," possibly indicating a characteristic of an ancestor, such as being proud or strong-willed. Like many Italian surnames, Bufalino likely originated in a specific region of Italy and has since spread to various parts of the world through migration and emigration. Today, individuals with the surname Bufalino can be found in Italy and in countries with large Italian diaspora communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bufalino

The last name Bufalino is most commonly found in Italy, specifically in the southern regions of Sicily and Calabria. These areas have historically been the ancestral homeland of the Bufalino family, with a significant presence of individuals bearing this surname. The name is also found in smaller numbers in other parts of Italy, as well as in some Italian diaspora communities around the world, particularly in the United States and Canada. In these countries, individuals with the last name Bufalino can be found in various regions, with concentrations in urban areas with large Italian immigrant populations. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Bufalino surname reflects its Italian origins and the migration patterns of Italian families throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bufalino

Bufalino is a surname of Italian origin that may be spelled and pronounced in several variations. Some common variations and spellings of Bufalino include Buffalino, Bufalini, Buffalini, and Buffalina. These variations may be the result of different regional dialects in Italy or changes made to the name when immigrants arrived in other countries. Additionally, the surname may also have variations in different languages, such as Bufalino in Italian, Buffalino in English, and Buffalini in Spanish. Despite these variations, the surname typically maintains its Italian roots and may be traced back to a common ancestor. The name Bufalino is believed to derive from the word "bufala," meaning buffalo in Italian, and may have originally been a nickname for someone who worked with or raised buffaloes.

Famous people with the last name Bufalino

One famous person with the last name Bufalino is Russell Bufalino, a notorious American mobster and crime boss who was associated with the Bufalino crime family. He was born in Sicily in 1903 and immigrated to the United States as a child. Bufalino was known for his involvement in organized crime and was a close associate of the infamous mobster, Jimmy Hoffa. He wielded significant power and influence within the criminal underworld, using his connections to further his criminal enterprises. Bufalino rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the most feared and respected figures in the American Mafia. His life and criminal activities have been the subject of numerous books, articles, and films, including the 2019 movie "The Irishman," in which he was portrayed by actor Joe Pesci.

Genealogical research on the last name Bufalino

The Bufalino surname has roots in Italy, particularly in the southern region of Calabria. The name is believed to be of occupational origin, derived from the Italian word "bufalo," meaning buffalo. It is possible that the surname was originally given to someone who worked with or owned buffaloes. The Bufalino family likely has a long history in rural agricultural communities where buffaloes were commonly raised for their milk or meat. Over time, members of the Bufalino family may have migrated to other parts of Italy or even to other countries, spreading the surname and establishing new branches of the family. Today, individuals with the surname Bufalino can be found in various regions around the world, maintaining their Italian heritage and connection to the land.

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 : 11 April 2025

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