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Last Name Caviezel

What is the origin of the last name Caviezel?

The last name Caviezel is of Swiss origin. It is a surname of Italian-speaking Swiss origin that comes from the personal name Cavizel, which is a pet form of the personal name Cavi. The name Cavi is derived from the Latin word "cavus," meaning "hollow" or "concave." Over time, the last name Caviezel became a common surname in Switzerland.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Caviezel

The meaning and origin of the last name Caviezel

Caviezel is a Swiss surname of French origin. The name is derived from the Latin personal name Gavius or Cavus combined with the suffix -el, meaning "son of Gavius" or "son of Cavus". The surname is believed to have originated in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, particularly in the canton of Valais. The Caviezel family likely held a prominent position in the local community, as surnames were often derived from a person's occupation, social status, or ancestral lineage. Today, the surname Caviezel is most commonly associated with the Swiss-American actor Jim Caviezel, known for his roles in films such as The Passion of the Christ and TV series like Person of Interest.

Geographical distribution of the last name Caviezel

The surname Caviezel is of Swiss origin and is predominantly found in the eastern regions of Switzerland, particularly in the cantons of Graubünden and Zurich. The name is most commonly associated with the Romansh-speaking population in the Engadine Valley, where the Caviezel family has deep roots. In addition to Switzerland, the surname Caviezel can also be found in smaller numbers in neighboring countries such as Italy, Germany, and Austria, due to historical migrations and genealogical ties. However, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Caviezel can still be found in Switzerland, where the name has retained its prominence and significance within the local community. Today, individuals with the surname Caviezel continue to carry on their traditions and heritage in the regions where their ancestors first settled centuries ago.

Variants and spellings of the last name Caviezel

Caviezel is a surname of European origin with various spelling variations including Caviezel, Caviczel, Caviezal, Cavisesl, and Cavizel. This last name is of Swiss descent and is most commonly found in the French-speaking regions of Switzerland. The name Caviezel may also be spelled differently depending on the country of origin or migration patterns of the family. Some other variations of this surname could include Caviecel, Cavieceli, Caviezol, or even Kabiezel. Despite the different spellings, Caviezel remains a unique and distinctive surname with a rich cultural history. The Caviezel family name is likely to be derived from a personal or locational origin, making it a fascinating surname to explore and research for those interested in genealogy and family history.

Famous people with the last name Caviezel

James Caviezel is a well-known American actor who gained fame for his portrayal of Jesus Christ in the 2004 film "The Passion of the Christ." Born in Mount Vernon, Washington in 1968, Caviezel has appeared in numerous other films and television shows, including "The Thin Red Line," "Frequency," and "Person of Interest." He has been praised for his intense performances and dedication to his craft. Aside from his acting career, Caviezel is also known for his strong Christian faith and his involvement in various philanthropic activities. James Caviezel continues to be a respected figure in Hollywood and is admired for his talent, versatility, and commitment to his beliefs.

Genealogical research on the last name Caviezel

The surname Caviezel has its origins in Switzerland, specifically in the canton of Graubünden. The name is believed to have originated from the Latin personal name Cavius, which means "bald" or "hairless". The Caviezel family has a long history in the region, with records showing members of the family involved in the local government and church. Over the centuries, branches of the family have migrated to various parts of Europe and beyond, including Italy, Austria, and the United States. Notably, actor Jim Caviezel is a member of the Caviezel family, bringing attention to the surname through his successful career in Hollywood. Genealogical research on the Caviezel name can uncover a rich history of accomplishments and traditions passed down through generations.

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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