Last Name Colella

The last name "Colella" has Italian origins. It is a variation of the Italian surname "Cola" which means "neck" in Italian. The name "Colella" is a patronymic surname, which implies it was derived from the first name of an ancestor. It originated as a nickname for someone who had a distinctive feature around their neck or throat. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Colella

The meaning and origin of the last name Colella

The surname Colella is of Italian origin and carries a fascinating meaning. It is derived from the word "cola," which translates to "neck" in Italian. The suffix "-ella" means "small" or "little," so the name can be understood to mean "little neck" or "small neck."

The origin and history of the Colella surname can be traced back to the southern regions of Italy, particularly Campania and Sicily. It is believed that the name was originally bestowed upon an ancestor who had a particularly slender or elegant neck, highlighting a distinguishable physical trait.

Over time, families with the surname Colella may have migrated from their ancestral homeland, spreading their name to different parts of the world. Today, individuals with the surname Colella can be found in various countries, carrying their Italian heritage with pride and continuing the legacy of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Colella

The last name Colella has a predominantly Italian origin and is relatively localized within the country. It is a surname that is most commonly found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the region of Campania. Within Campania, the province of Naples has a significant concentration of individuals with the surname Colella. Other areas in southern Italy, such as the regions of Calabria and Sicily, also have a notable presence of this last name. Beyond Italy, there has been dispersion of the Colella surname due to migration. The United States, specifically the states of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, has a sizable population with this name, resulting from Italian immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, smaller communities of individuals with the Colella surname can be found in other countries with historical ties to Italian migration, including Canada and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Colella

The last name Colella may have a few variations and spellings depending on geographical and historical factors. Alternate spellings might include Collela, Coletta, Collella, Colello, and Collelo. These variations could have emerged due to changes in pronunciation, transliteration, or even mistakes in official records throughout history. Migration and cultural influences might have also contributed to the diversification of the surname, leading to different spellings in different regions or countries, such as Colecchia in Italy. Some individuals with this last name may have chosen to anglicize or modify the spelling, resulting in alternative forms like Coella or Cola. It is essential to remember that variations in the spelling of a surname are common, and researchers and genealogists should consider all the possible alternatives when tracing family histories or conducting name-based research.

Famous people with the last name Colella

There are no widely known or famous individuals with the last name Colella. While there may be individuals with this surname who have achieved success in their respective fields, they have not reached the level of international fame or recognition. The surname Colella is of Italian origin and is found primarily in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities. It is likely that individuals with this last name have made significant contributions to their local communities or excelled in their chosen professions, but their achievements may not have garnered widespread attention beyond their specific circles. It is important to note that fame and recognition are subjective and can vary depending on different aspects of a person's life and career.

Genealogical research on the last name Colella

The Colella surname is of Italian origin, specifically originating from the Campania region in southern Italy. It is a patronymic name derived from the Latin personal name Nicolaus, meaning "victory of the people." The earliest records of the Colella surname can be traced back to the 16th century in the town of Naples, Italy. From there, the family expanded and settled in various areas of Campania, including Avellino, Caserta, and Salerno. Over time, some members of the Colella family emigrated to other parts of the world, particularly to the United States, Canada, and Australia. Today, individuals with the Colella surname can be found in different countries, continuing their family legacy through various branches. Genealogical research of the Colella surname often involves tracing family connections and historical records, including birth, marriage, and death records, to piece together the rich history of this surname.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Colella"
• 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 : 11 April 2025

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