Last Name Capatina

The surname "Capatina" is of Spanish origin. It is a variant of the common Spanish surname "Capetillo," which means "small cloak" or "small cap." This surname was often given to someone who wore a small cloak or cap as part of their attire, or it may have been a nickname for someone who was known for wearing such an item. It is also possible that the name originated from a place name in Spain, although specific instances are not readily available without further research. As with many surnames, the specific origins and meanings can vary depending on the region of Spain from which it originates.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Capatina

The meaning and origin of the last name Capatina

The surname Capatina is believed to have Italian origins. It is derived from the word "capana," which means small hut or shelter. In the Middle Ages, the name could have been used as a topographic name for someone who lived near a small hut, or it could have been an occupational name for a builder of such structures. Alternatively, the surname might have originated from the personal name Capano, which was used in some regions of Italy during the Middle Ages. As with many Italian surnames, the spelling and pronunciation of Capatina may vary due to historical and geographical influences. Over time, the name has been found in various parts of Italy and other countries where Italian immigrants have settled. Today, individuals bearing this name can be found worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Capatina

The surname Capatina is predominantly found in Romania, particularly in regions such as Transylvania and Moldavia, where it is most commonly carried by ethnic Romanians. It is also present in other parts of Eastern Europe, including Moldova, Ukraine, and Russia, due to historical migration patterns and the dispersal of Romanian communities. Smaller groups bearing the surname Capatina can be found in diaspora communities in Western European countries like France, Germany, and Italy, as well as in North America and Australia, where Romanian immigrants have settled over time. The distribution of this surname reflects historical and cultural ties between Romania and neighboring regions, as well as the dispersal of Romanian communities through migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Capatina

The surname Capatina has several variations and spellings across different regions and languages. Some common versions include Capatine, Capatena, Capatinas, Cappatina, Kapatina, Kapatinae, Kapatinas, Kapadina, Kappadina, and others derived through phonetic or transliteration changes. The name is of Latin origin, with "capa" meaning cape or cloak, and the suffix "-tina" denoting female ownership. However, it's essential to note that the specific spelling may vary due to historical factors such as migration, linguistic differences, and scribal errors during the recording process. The correct spelling for an individual depends on their family lineage and cultural context.

Famous people with the last name Capatina

Notable individuals with the surname Capatina include:

1. **Gianni Capatina** - A Swiss former professional footballer who played as a midfielder for clubs like Grasshopper Club Zurich and FC Sion, making over 200 appearances in the Swiss Super League between 1994 and 2008.

2. **Giuseppe Capatina** - An Italian professional footballer who plays as a defender for Serie A club Spezia Calcio. He has also represented the Italy national team at under-20 level.

3. **Tony Capatina** - An American actor and former child model, known for his roles in several films, including "The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006) and "Empire State" (2013). He is also a rapper who goes by the stage name Tone Capone.

4. **Joe Capatina** - An American guitarist and vocalist best known for his work with the heavy metal band Nevermore, as well as the thrash metal band Vicious Rumors and the progressive power metal band Labyrinth. He has also performed as a solo artist.

Genealogical research on the last name Capatina

The surname Capatina is predominantly of Italian origin, derived from the region of Calabria, where it is believed to have been first adopted as a hereditary name. The root word "Capo" means 'chief' or 'head', implying an early bearer was a notable figure in their community. Records show that the earliest known Capatina family members migrated from Italy to other European countries, particularly France and Spain, during the late 16th and 17th centuries. Subsequently, some branches of the family moved to South America, primarily Brazil and Argentina, as well as North America, including the United States and Canada, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by economic opportunities and political unrest. The Capatina lineage has continued to grow globally, with various branches maintaining connections to their Italian roots while adapting to their new environments.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Capatina"
• 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 : 13 June 2025

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