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Last Name Cusso

What is the origin of the last name Cusso?

The surname Cusso is of Italian origin. It is a variant of the original family name "Giuseppe" or "Joseph." Over time, it has been phonetically altered and regionalized to form variations such as "Cuso," "Cussu," and "Cusso." In Italy, surnames were typically derived from the father's given name or an occupation. The Cusso family likely originated in the Italian regions of Liguria, Piedmont, or Tuscany.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cusso

The meaning and origin of the last name Cusso

The surname Cusso is of Italian origin, primarily found in the regions of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna. It derives from the Latin word "cuscus" which means pillow or cushion, suggesting that an early bearer of this name was either a provider of pillows or perhaps physically resembled a round, plump object. The surname may also be associated with the Italian verb "cuscire," meaning to hush or muffle, potentially indicating a quiet or peace-loving individual in medieval times. Over time, various spellings have emerged for this surname, including Cusso, Cosso, and Costo, reflecting the phonetic variations that can occur within Italian dialects. Today, individuals with the surname Cusso can be found throughout the Italian diaspora, particularly in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cusso

The surname Cusso is primarily found in West Africa, notably in countries such as Benin and Togo. It belongs to the Ewe ethnic group, which is predominantly located in these two nations, but also extends into neighboring Ghana. The name is also present, albeit less frequently, in other parts of Africa and among the African diaspora in regions like France, where it reflects historical migration patterns from West Africa. Additionally, some individuals with the surname Cusso can be found in North America, Europe, and other global locations, where they may have migrated due to various factors including education, work, or refugee status.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cusso

The surname Cusso can have various spellings and pronunciations due to regional differences and transcription errors over time. Some common variants include Couso, Couzo, Cozo, Cozzo, Cosso, and Kusso. These variations often stem from the original Italian name "Coscia," which means "leg" or "thigh." The spelling can also be influenced by the specific region in Italy where the family originated. For instance, the name may have a Z instead of an S in Spanish-speaking regions or vice versa in English-speaking areas. Additionally, names may be further altered due to linguistic differences and transcription errors in records over time, leading to additional spelling variations. It's always helpful to research the specific region and lineage when trying to trace the origins of a name like Cusso.

Famous people with the last name Cusso

One of the most renowned individuals with the surname Cusso is Antonietta Cusso, an Italian operatic soprano who gained popularity during the bel canto era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for her extraordinary voice, she performed in many important opera houses across Europe, including La Scala, the Vienna Court Opera, and the Royal Opera House Covent Garden. Another notable figure is Frank J. Cusco, an American astronomer who played a significant role in the development of radio astronomy. He was instrumental in detecting the first extragalactic radio sources and led several groundbreaking studies related to quasars and pulsars. In the world of art, there is Tony Cusack, an Australian visual artist whose works explore themes such as memory, identity, and landscape through various mediums including painting, printmaking, and sculpture. His art has been exhibited extensively in galleries and museums across Australia. These are some of the prominent individuals who bear the surname Cusso, each making significant contributions to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Cusso

The surname Cusso is believed to have originated from the Liguria region of Italy, specifically the province of Genoa. Historically, the name was borne by several notable families within the Republic of Genoa during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. One such family, the Cusso di Castellarolo, were noble landowners who played significant roles in local politics and commerce. The family coat of arms depicts a white eagle on a red field. The name spread to other regions of Italy as well as France and Spain due to migration and colonization. In France, it is recorded in the department of Haute-Corse, where it has been traced back to the 17th century. In Spanish records, the name appears in the 16th century in the region of Galicia. Today, variations of the name can be found throughout Europe and the Americas, with significant populations in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the United States.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 13 June 2025

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