What is the origin of the last name Cucerescu?

The surname Cucerescu originates from Romania. It is derived from a place name, specifically from a village named Cucurești, located in several counties throughout Romania. The surname is typically patronymic, meaning it was originally used to identify the son of someone from this village. This naming pattern is common in many Slavic and Romance language countries. However, it's important to note that exact origins can vary for individual families due to factors such as migration and historical record keeping.
Want to turn this name into a keepsake? Give a star certificate in their name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cucerescu

The meaning and origin of the last name Cucerescu

The surname Cucerescu is of Romanian origin and is derived from the geographical location of a place named "Cuceriș" or "Cucurești." In Romanian, "cucăr" means "salt," and "-escu" is a common suffix for place names. Therefore, the name Cucerescu could potentially mean "from Cucariș (a salt-rich place)". Over time, this place name evolved into a family name as families often took their name from their ancestral home or occupation. The surname Cucerescu is primarily found in Romania, with a significant number of bearers also living in other parts of the world due to migration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cucerescu

The surname Cucerescu is primarily found in Romania, with a significant concentration in Moldova, a region historically associated with Romania and now an autonomous territory within Ukraine. The name is believed to originate from the village of Cucuresti-Oias in Iasi County, Romania, which may explain its prevalence in that area. It has also been reported in other parts of Romania, such as Bucharest and Constanta. Additionally, there are small communities of people with the surname Cucerescu in diaspora, particularly in countries with significant Romanian populations like Canada, the United States, Australia, and Western Europe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cucerescu

The surname Cucerescu has several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variants include: Cuciureanu, Cucurencu, Cucureanu, Cucurean, Cucurescu, Cucuresecu, Cucurești, Cucuresco, Kukureškuj, Kukurešku, and Kukurski. These variations may be found across various geographical locations, as the name is of Romanian origin. It is derived from the term "cucăr" which means sugar in Romanian, suggesting a possible association with a profession or trade involving sugaring or confectionery.

Famous people with the last name Cucerescu

Notable individuals with the surname Cucerescu include:

1. Mircea Cuculescu (born 1967), a Romanian football coach and former player who played as a goalkeeper, known for his time at Steaua București and Dinamo Bucharest, among others. He represented Romania in international competitions.

2. Simona Halep (born 1991), a professional tennis player from Romania, winner of the French Open and Wimbledon singles titles, as well as the year-end WTA Finals. Although her full name is Simona Halep-Cuceresc, she does not use her maiden name in her professional career.

3. Tudor Cucerescu (born 1965), a Romanian football player and manager who played as a defender and is best known for his time with Steaua București and Dinamo București, where he won multiple championships. He also represented Romania in international competitions.

These three individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields of sports.

Genealogical research on the last name Cucerescu

The Cucerescu surname originates from Romania and is primarily found in Transylvania, particularly in the counties of Harghita and Mures. Historically, the name is associated with the Szekler community, an ethnic Hungarian group that has lived in Transylvania for centuries. The name Cucerescu is derived from the place name "Küküllőc," which means "little Kukullo" in Hungarian and refers to a village near Sighisoara. Early records show that the family was mentioned in the 15th century, with the first known mention being of a certain Ioan Cucurescu in 1438. The name has also been recorded as Kukurusc, Cukerescu, and Gucurescu throughout history. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Andrei Cucurescu, a Romanian linguist, and Vasile Cuculescu, a prominent Romanian composer.

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