Last Name Cap

The last name "Cap" is of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "capo," meaning "head" or "chief." It is often used as a nickname or an occupational surname for someone in a leadership or authority role.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cap

The meaning and origin of the last name Cap

The surname Cap is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "cappe," which refers to a variety of headwear such as a cap or hood. The name Cap was likely originally bestowed as a nickname to an individual who habitually wore a cap or was known for a distinctive cap-like feature. It could also be a metonymic occupational name for someone involved in the production or sales of caps. The surname Cap might have also originated as an Anglicized variant of the Jewish surname Caplan, which was derived from the Yiddish word for "chaplain." Over time, as surnames became hereditary, the name Cap would have been passed down through generations, eventually spreading to different regions and countries. Today, individuals with the surname Cap can be found across the globe, with different branches and variations depending on the migration patterns and cultural assimilation of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cap

The last name Cap has a diverse geographical distribution around the world. It is commonly found in various countries and regions, indicating different origins and migrations over time. In Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Sicily and Campania, Cap is a fairly prevalent surname due to its Italian roots. Similarly, in Spain and Portugal, Cap can be found as a result of historical connections between these countries and Italy. The last name is also present in several Eastern European countries, including Poland, Romania, and Croatia, suggesting different ancestries or historical movements of individuals. Furthermore, Cap is not exclusive to Europe, as it can also be found in countries like Brazil and the United States, highlighting the global diaspora of people with this surname. The geographical distribution of the last name Cap is a testament to the diverse and interconnected nature of human migration and cultural exchange throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cap

The last name Cap can be spelled and appear in various forms and variations. These include Cappe, Caps, Cappeau, Capova, Capel, Capelle, Capper, Cappa, Capelli, Capello, Kapoor, Kapp, Kappel, and Kapur. These spellings may be influenced by different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. For instance, Cappe and Cappeau could have French origins, Capova might reflect a Slavic or Eastern European heritage, and Capelli and Capello might be Italian in nature. Capper and Kapp, on the other hand, may have English or Germanic roots. Kapoor and Kapur are common variations in India, indicating an Indian ethnic background. These diverse spellings and variations of the last name Cap demonstrate the intricate tapestry of human history, migration, culture, and language, further highlighting the fascinating interconnectedness of individuals around the world.

Famous people with the last name Cap

Some famous individuals with the last name Cap include: 1. Al Capone: An infamous American gangster during the Prohibition era, Capone became one of the most notorious crime bosses in Chicago's history. Known as "Scarface," he was heavily involved in illegal activities, including bootlegging and organized crime. 2. Kate Capshaw: An American actress, Capshaw gained prominence for her role as Willie Scott in the popular film "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom." She is also recognized for her work in films like "Black Rain" and "Love Affair." 3. Ben Caplan: A Canadian folk singer-songwriter, Caplan is known for his powerful and unique voice. His soulful performances and captivating stage presence have earned him a dedicated following in the Canadian music scene. 4. Capucine: A French actress and model, Capucine rose to fame in the 1960s. She appeared in several successful films, including "The Pink Panther" and "North to Alaska," and gained international recognition for her elegance and beauty. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Cap

Research on the last name Cap suggests that it has various origins and multiple possible meanings. One possible origin is from the Italian surname Capo, which means "head" or "chief," indicating a potential connection to leadership or authority in ancestral professions. Another possible origin is from the French surname Capet, derived from Capetian dynasty, one of the most prominent royal families in Europe during the Middle Ages. Additionally, the name Cap could also have a Germanic origin, derived from the word "kappe" meaning "cap" or "hood," potentially indicating a family occupation related to the textile industry. Further research reveals that the name Cap is found in various regions across the world, including Italy, France, Germany, and other European countries, making it a relatively common and widespread surname. Overall, the genealogical research on the last name Cap reveals diverse geographical origins and multiple potential meanings, reflecting the complex history of its bearers.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cap"
• 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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