What is the origin of the last name Coiro?

The surname Coiro is believed to have Italian origins, derived from the word "cioro," which means "hair" or "curl." It is a topographic name, meaning it was originally given as a description for someone who lived near a place with particular physical features. In this case, it could refer to someone living near a hill or area with curly vegetation. However, it's important to note that surnames often have multiple origins and variations, so this is just one possible explanation. For a definitive origin, further research would be required, such as studying historical records from the region of Italy where the name is most common.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Coiro

The meaning and origin of the last name Coiro

The surname Coiro, also spelled as Ciore, is an Italian patronymic name derived from the given name Chiara or Clara. In medieval Italy, it was common to give children names that reflected the light or brightness brought into the family, with Clara being one of these names. The name Chiara or Clara would have been a pet form of names containing the element "clarus," meaning clear, bright, or famous in Latin. As time passed, the surname Coiro developed as a way to differentiate individuals within a family and eventually became a hereditary last name. Today, it is most commonly found among the Italian-American population.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coiro

The surname Coiro has its origins primarily in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania and Puglia. According to various genealogical databases, it is one of the most common surnames in these regions, suggesting a long-standing history there. Migration patterns show that many people with the last name Coiro moved from Italy to other parts of Europe, especially France and Switzerland, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In more recent times, due to global migration trends, individuals with the surname Coiro can also be found in North America, Australia, and South America, reflecting the dispersal of Italian immigrants across the globe. However, it remains predominantly an Italian surname, with the majority of bearers residing in Italy today.

Variants and spellings of the last name Coiro

The surname Coiro has several variations and spelling alternatives. These include:

* Cairo (phonetically similar but with different origins)
* Chiero
* Ciore
* Keyro
* Keiro
* Koerio
* Quieros

These variants may result from differences in regional pronunciation, transcription errors during immigration, or intentional changes to conform to cultural norms. It is important to note that these variations might have distinct origins and historical meanings in different regions. The most common origin of the surname Coiro is believed to be Italian, where it may derive from a place name or occupational title. However, each variation could potentially have its own unique history and etymology.

Famous people with the last name Coiro

The Coiro family is not as prominent as some other surnames in terms of global recognition, but it has produced notable individuals in various fields. One of the most distinguished figures with the last name Coiro is Joseph Coiro, an American character actor who was active in Hollywood from the 1950s to the 1970s. Known for his memorable roles in films such as "Some Like It Hot" and "The Godfather," he worked alongside some of the industry's greatest legends. In the world of academia, Michael Coiro is a renowned music psychologist, currently serving as a professor at New York University (NYU). His research focuses on the perception, cognition, and production of music, particularly in relation to emotion and creativity. Lastly, Angela Coiro is an American journalist and news anchor, best known for her work with MSNBC and CNN Headline News. Throughout her career, she has covered significant political events, such as the Iraq War and the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election. These individuals, each in their respective fields, have contributed to the recognition of the Coiro name among distinguished personalities.

Genealogical research on the last name Coiro

The surname Coiro originates from Italy and is primarily found in the regions of Campania and Abruzzo. Its earliest known origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with records indicating the existence of the family as early as the 13th century. The name is derived from the Italian word "cioro," meaning "hawk." Over the centuries, various branches and spellings have emerged, including Ciero, Chierio, and Chiara. Notable figures bearing the surname Coiro include Giuseppe Coiro, an Italian painter known for his works in the Neapolitan School, and Rosario Coiro, a renowned professor of Italian literature at the University of Naples Federico II. The family's genealogical records are rich and varied, making it a fascinating subject for further historical and cultural exploration.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
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 :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names