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Last Name Cifonelli

What is the origin of the last name Cifonelli?

The last name Cifonelli is of Italian origin. It is believed to be derived from the Italian word "cifone," which is a type of bird. The name may have originally been a nickname or occupational surname for someone who worked with or had a connection to these birds. Over time, the name evolved into Cifonelli as we know it today.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Cifonelli

The meaning and origin of the last name Cifonelli

Cifonelli is an Italian surname of probable southern Italian origin. It is believed to have derived from the medieval personal name Cifonello, which may have been a diminutive form of the name Cifone, itself likely a variant of the name Cipriano. The surname Cifonelli was historically found primarily in the Calabria region of Italy, where it is believed to have originated. Like many Italian surnames, Cifonelli may have been originally used to identify a particular family or individual within a community. Today, individuals with the surname Cifonelli can be found in various parts of the world, due to Italian emigration patterns throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cifonelli

The last name Cifonelli has a relatively limited geographical distribution, primarily found in Italy. The highest concentration of individuals with the surname Cifonelli can be found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria and Sicily. These regions have historically been the ancestral homes of many Cifonelli families, and as a result, the name has remained most prevalent in these areas. Outside of Italy, the name is less common, with smaller pockets of individuals with the surname residing in other parts of Europe, such as France and Germany. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Cifonelli reflects its Italian origins and the strong ties that many individuals with this surname have to their ancestral homeland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cifonelli

The last name Cifonelli may have a few variations and spellings, including Ciffonelli, Sifonelli, Sifonelly, Cifonela, Sifonela, Cifonelli, Cifonelly, Sifonello, and Cifonellie. These variations could be the result of different spellings or anglicized versions of the Italian surname, which is relatively common in Southern Italy. The name Cifonelli may have been altered over time due to factors such as migration, marriage, or errors in documentation. Despite the different spellings, the name Cifonelli likely retains its original meaning and cultural significance for those who bear it. Ultimately, the variations in spelling and pronunciation only add to the rich history and diversity of the surname Cifonelli and its related families.

Famous people with the last name Cifonelli

One famous person with the last name Cifonelli is Mariano Cifonelli, a renowned Italian-born French tailor known for his impeccable craftsmanship and innovative designs. He is the fourth generation of the Cifonelli family to run the eponymous luxury menswear brand, which was founded in Rome in 1880. Mariano is celebrated for his modern interpretation of classic tailoring techniques, creating sleek and sophisticated suits that have garnered a loyal following among high-profile clients and stylish men around the world. His attention to detail and commitment to quality have earned him a reputation as one of the most talented tailors in the fashion industry. Mariano Cifonelli's work continues to influence and inspire designers and aficionados of men's fashion, solidifying his legacy as a true master of the craft.

Genealogical research on the last name Cifonelli

Cifonelli is an Italian surname with origins in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The name is believed to be of medieval origin, derived from the personal name Cipriano, which is related to the Latin name Cyprianus, meaning "from Cyprus." The Cifonelli family is known for their expertise in tailoring, with a renowned fashion house in Rome founded by the Cifonelli brothers in the early 20th century. The family has spread throughout Italy and beyond, with branches in France, the United States, and other countries. Genealogical research on the Cifonelli name may uncover a rich history of artisans, entrepreneurs, and fashion designers who have contributed to the legacy of the family name.

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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