Last Name Cirella

The surname Cirella is believed to have Italian origins and derives from the Latin word "cereus," meaning 'wax' or 'candle.' It may be an occupational surname for a candle-maker or it could also be a topographic name for someone who lived near a place where candles were made. However, it is essential to note that the exact origin of this surname can vary depending on specific families and regions within Italy.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cirella

The meaning and origin of the last name Cirella

The surname Cirella is an Italian name derived from the medieval given name Ciriaco, which means 'lord' or 'master' in Latin. It is believed that the name originated as a nickname for someone who was considered wise or authoritative. Over time, the name became hereditary and was passed down through generations, eventually becoming a common surname in Italy. The variation Cirella is most commonly found in regions such as Abruzzo, Molise, and Campania. It is also a variant of Ciriello, another Italian surname originating from the given name Ciriaco. The spelling variations of this name include Cirelli, Cirello, and Ciriella.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cirella

The surname Cirella has its origins from Italy and is primarily concentrated in regions such as Campania, Puglia, Lazio, and Abruzzo, reflecting its historical roots in southern Italy. Among the most prominent cities where the Cirella name is prevalent are Naples, Bari, Rome, and Teramo. The name has also migrated with Italian diaspora to various parts of the world, including Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Canada, and Australia. In the United States, the highest concentration of individuals with the surname Cirella can be found in states such as New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, mirroring the immigration patterns from Italy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cirella

The surname Cirella has various spelling variations, some of which include: Ciarella, Ciriella, Ciriola, Cirillo, Cirilla, Ciriollo, Cirla, Cirello, and Ciraola. These variations may have originated due to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, or individual preference over time. The name is of Italian origin and is derived from the word "cirio," which means candle, likely a reference to a profession related to candles or wax production in medieval Italy.

Famous people with the last name Cirella

The Cirella surname has been associated with several notable figures across various fields. One of the most renowned is Joseph F. Cirella, an American psychologist who specialized in child development and behavior. He was a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and made significant contributions to the understanding of children's temperament and self-regulation.

In the world of sports, there's Tony Cirella, a former professional baseball player who played for teams like the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, and Milwaukee Brewers between 1978 and 1986. He was a versatile infielder known for his strong defense and clutch hitting.

In the entertainment industry, Joe Cirella is a well-known figure. An American actor, he has appeared in numerous television shows and films since the early 1980s, including Taxi, The Sopranos, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. His roles often portray tough characters, earning him a reputation as a reliable character actor.

These individuals represent a diverse range of accomplishments and talents associated with the Cirella surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Cirella

The surname Cirella originates from Southern Italy, specifically Naples and the surrounding region, where it is most common. It is derived from the Italian word "cera" meaning wax, which might indicate that an early bearer of this name was involved in the craft of candle-making or other related occupations. The Cirellas are believed to have migrated to other parts of Italy and Europe during the 19th century, including to countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Switzerland, and the United States, primarily due to economic hardship and political instability in Naples. In the U.S., the largest populations of Cirellas can be found in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, where they have made significant contributions to various industries and communities.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cirella"
• 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 : 27 July 2025

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