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Last Name Bugna

What is the origin of the last name Bugna?

The surname "Bugna" has Italian origins and is most common in regions such as Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It is derived from a topographical name for someone who lived near a marsh or swamp, from the word "bagnare", meaning to moisten or make wet. This name may also be a nickname for someone who was clumsy or always getting things wet.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bugna

The meaning and origin of the last name Bugna

The surname Bugna is an Italian and Polish patronymic name that derives from the male given name "Bugno" or "Bugo", which means "hook-nosed" or "crooked-nosed". This name was often given to individuals who had distinct facial features, such as a hooked or crooked nose. The surname Bugna is most common in Italy, especially in the regions of Lombardy and Veneto, and in Poland, particularly in the southern region of Silesia. The earliest recorded instances of the surname Bugna can be found in Italy during the Middle Ages, with one notable bearer being Giovanni Bugna, who was documented in the Florence area in the 13th century. In Poland, the name first appeared in records from the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, the surname Bugna is relatively rare but can still be found in both Italy and Poland as well as in various other countries with Italian or Polish immigrant communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bugna

The surname Bugna has its origins primarily in Italy, where it is most frequently found in regions such as Piedmont and Liguria, with significant clusters also in Lombardy and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol. While the majority of individuals bearing this name reside in Italy, there are also notable populations in other Italian-speaking countries like Switzerland (Ticino) and San Marino. Additionally, a small number of Bugna family members can be found in Argentina and Uruguay, reflecting the historical Italian migration to South America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bugna

The surname Bugna has several variations and spellings, reflecting its origins and adaptations over time. These include Bugna, Buagna, Bogna, Bougna, and Bouhna. In some cases, the name may also be found as Boogna or Bugno, which could be phonetic or regional interpretations of the original form. The name is believed to have Italian origins, specifically from the region of Lombardy, where it was derived from a place name or occupation related to the word "buca," meaning hole or cave in Italian. Additionally, some branches of the Bugna family may trace their roots to other regions such as Tuscany and Umbria. It is always interesting to explore the history and evolution of surnames like Bugna, which can offer insights into the cultural, geographical, and linguistic contexts of our ancestors.

Famous people with the last name Bugna

Notable individuals with the surname Bugna include:

1. Jocelyn Bugna - A Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender who was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the seventh round (206th overall) of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. He currently plays for the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL.

2. John Bugna - An American character actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows since the 1970s, including "The Godfather: Part II," "The Untouchables," and "Django Unchained."

3. James Bugna - A former American professional soccer player who played as a defender. He was a member of the United States men's national soccer team from 1984 to 1987, earning nine caps in that timeframe.

4. Mary Bugna - An American actress and singer known for her work on Broadway and in regional theater productions. She has been nominated for several Drama Desk Awards and a Tony Award.

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, be it sports, acting, or music.

Genealogical research on the last name Bugna

The surname Bugna originates from Italy and is predominantly found in regions such as Lombardy, Veneto, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The name can be traced back to the late Middle Ages when it was associated with various feudal families. Notable branches of the Bugna family include those from the towns of Bergamo, Cremona, and Padua. One of the earliest recorded instances of the surname is Giovanni Bugna, who lived in Bergamo in the 15th century. Throughout history, members of the Bugna family have made significant contributions to various fields including art, literature, and politics. For instance, the renowned Italian poet Giuseppe Ugo Carlo Maria Giuseppe Saverio Vincenzo Dionisio Gaetano Bugna was a member of this family. Genealogical research on the Bugna family is active both in Italy and among Italian communities worldwide, providing ample opportunities for further exploration and connection among descendants.

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 : 10 June 2025

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