Last Name Danna

Learn more about the origin of the last name Danna

The meaning and origin of the last name Danna

The surname Danna is of Italian origin and is derived from the personal name Danna, itself derived from the medieval given name "Dan(i)ello", which is a diminutive form of the name "Daniele" or "Daniel". The name Daniel is of Hebrew origin and means "God is my judge". The surname Danna is primarily found in southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Sicily and Calabria. It is believed that the surname may have originated as a patronymic surname, indicating descent from an ancestor named Danna. Over time, variations of the surname Danna have developed, such as De Danna or Deanna, reflecting the evolution of the name through different regions and dialects. Today, individuals with the surname Danna can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in countries with significant Italian immigrant populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Danna

The last name Danna is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the southern regions of Calabria and Sicily. It is believed to have originated from the Greek word "demos," meaning people or populace. The name has also spread to other countries with Italian diaspora communities, such as the United States, Canada, Argentina, and Australia. In the US, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Danna can be found in Louisiana and New York. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Danna reflects the historical migration patterns of Italian immigrants, as well as the cultural and familial ties that have been maintained across generations. Today, individuals with the surname Danna can be found in various regions around the world, but its strongest presence remains in its ancestral homeland of Italy.

Variants and spellings of the last name Danna

The last name "Danna" may have a few variations and spellings across different regions and cultures. Some possible variations could include Da'na, Danah, Danaher, Dannah, or D'Anna. The surname may also be spelled as Dannah, Daana, or Daanah depending on the family's preference or the transliteration of the name into different languages. These variations can be influenced by factors such as the phonetics of the original language, migration patterns, or simply individual preferences for spelling. Despite the variations in spelling, all these forms ultimately trace back to the same root surname "Danna" and represent different ways of phonetically expressing the name.

Famous people with the last name Danna

Unfortunately, there are not many famous people with the last name Danna. However, one notable figure is Mychael Danna, a renowned Canadian film composer who has won numerous awards for his work in the entertainment industry. Mychael Danna has composed music for a wide range of films, including "Life of Pi," "Capote," and "Moneyball." His ability to capture the emotion and essence of a film through his music has earned him critical acclaim and respect from his peers. Danna's unique style and innovative approach to composing have solidified his place as one of the most respected composers in the industry. Although there may not be many famous Danna's in the spotlight, Mychael Danna's contributions to the world of film and music have certainly left a lasting impact.

Genealogical research on the last name Danna

The last name Danna is of Italian origin and can be traced back to the region of Sicily. The name is believed to have derived from various sources, including from the Greek name "Dionysios" meaning "follower of Dionysos" or from the Hebrew name "Dan" meaning "judgement." The surname Danna has been documented in historical records dating back to the 12th century, indicating a long and rich lineage. The Danna family has been prominent in Italian history, with notable individuals carrying the surname making contributions to various fields such as politics, literature, and the arts. Through genealogical research, it is possible to trace the Danna family tree and uncover connections to other prominent families in Italy and beyond. Today, individuals with the surname Danna can be found in various parts of the world, carrying on the proud heritage of their ancestors.