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Last Name Caputo

What is the origin of the last name Caputo?

The surname "Caputo" is of Italian origin. It derives from the Latin word 'caput', which means head. Originally, it was an occupational name for a baker, as the loaf of bread was traditionally shaped like a head. Over time, the surname has also been used by barbers or other individuals who worked with the head. It is common among Italian and Sicilian families.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Caputo

The meaning and origin of the last name Caputo

The surname Caputo originates from Italy, specifically the regions of Sicily and Calabria. It is derived from the Italian word "capo," which means 'head' or 'chief', and the diminutive suffix "-uto" which often indicates a small or round-shaped object, in this case suggesting that an early bearer of the name was rounded in appearance. Over time, Caputo became a common surname among Italians due to its association with leadership and status. The migration of Italian people worldwide during the 19th and 20th centuries led to the global dispersal of the surname Caputo. Today, it is a widely recognized Italian surname found in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and many European nations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Caputo

The last name Caputo is predominantly Italian in origin and is widely distributed throughout Italy, particularly in regions such as Campania, Apulia, Calabria, and Sicily, reflecting historical migration patterns within the country. Outside of Italy, significant populations with the surname Caputo can be found in countries with large Italian diaspora communities, including Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Uruguay, Canada, Australia, and France. In the United States, for example, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania have large concentrations of individuals with the last name Caputo due to immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, there are smaller numbers of individuals with the surname Caputo in other European countries such as Spain and Portugal, as well as North Africa, where Italian traders once settled. Overall, Caputo is a geographically diverse name that reflects both historical migration patterns and ongoing global connections between Italy and its diaspora communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Caputo

The surname Caputo has several variations and spellings across different regions and cultures. In Italian, it originates from the word "capo," which means head or chief, and "uto," which is an old Germanic personal name. Some common spelling variations include: Caputo, Capputo, Capitto, Capita, Kaputo, Kapputo, Kapita, among others. These variations can occur due to phonetic differences, regional dialects, or transcribing errors over time. Additionally, some individuals may have different spellings due to assimilation or naturalization in other countries. The name is most common among people of Italian descent but can also be found among other ethnicities where it has been adopted.

Famous people with the last name Caputo

Notable individuals sharing the surname Caputo include:

1. Edward James Caputo, an American television and film producer, best known for his work on "The Sopranos" and "Oz." He has received numerous Emmy Awards for his contributions to television.
2. Tony Caputo, a Canadian politician who served as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta from 1986 to 1993. He is also a retired teacher and a member of the Edmonton Public School Board.
3. Salvatore J. Caputo, an American lawyer and politician who served as the Mayor of Union City, New Jersey, from 2005 to 2018. He previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly.
4. Steve Caputo, an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame as a member of the band The Ides of March. Their hit single "Vehicle" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970.
5. Alessandro Caputo, an Italian footballer who currently plays for Serie A club Sassuolo Calcio. He has represented Italy at various youth levels and made his professional debut with AC Milan.

Genealogical research on the last name Caputo

The surname Caputo has its origins in Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Sicily and Campania. It is derived from the Italian word "capo," meaning head or chief, suggesting that an ancestor may have held a position of authority or prominence. The earliest known records of the Caputo family date back to the 14th century in Sicily. Throughout history, many Caputos migrated from Italy to other parts of Europe and later to North and South America, predominantly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In the United States, for example, the name can be traced to numerous cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. Genealogical research often uncovers various professions among the Caputo family tree, ranging from fishermen and farmers in Sicily to businessmen, politicians, and artists in modern times.

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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