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Last Name Ermelindo

What is the origin of the last name Ermelindo?

The surname Ermelindo is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Ermenindis, a variation of the Old High German name Hermann (meaning "army man" or "home-ruler"). It was primarily used in parts of Italy and Spain. This particular name evolved over time due to regional dialects and historical events, leading to variations like Ermelindo.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ermelindo

The meaning and origin of the last name Ermelindo

The surname Ermelindo is of Italian origin, derived from the given name Hermelindus, which is composed of two elements: 'Hermes' (the messenger god in Greek mythology) and 'wald' or 'lint' meaning 'power' or 'protection'. This name was brought to Italy by the Romans, where it underwent various transformations over time. The surname Ermelindo specifically developed from the diminutive form of Hermelindus, with 'indo' added as a common suffix in Italian names to denote affection or diminutiveness. Over the centuries, it has spread globally due to Italian immigration waves, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, people bearing this surname can be found across the world, preserving a piece of Italian heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ermelindo

The surname Ermelindo is primarily found within Portuguese-speaking countries due to its origins from Portugal. According to data analysis, a significant number of individuals bearing this surname reside in Brazil, reflecting the large Portuguese migration to the country during colonization and subsequent years. Outside Brazil, it can also be found in other Portuguese-speaking nations such as Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, due to historical ties and migrations. In Europe, Portugal and Spain show some occurrences of the name, albeit less frequent than in Latin American countries. Furthermore, there might be a small presence of Ermelindo families in other parts of the world, primarily as a result of Portuguese and Brazilian diasporas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ermelindo

The name Ermelindo has several variations and spelling alternatives across different regions and languages. Here are some of them:

1. Ermelinde (French feminine version)
2. Ermino (Italian, Spanish, Portuguese masculine version)
3. Hermelindo (Portuguese, Spanish, and Filipino variation)
4. Hermelin (German and Dutch variation)
5. Hermenthond (Dutch medieval form)
6. Ermenricus (Latinized medieval form)
7. Erminhard (Old High German)
8. Erminbold (Old English)
9. Erminberht (Old English)
10. Erminbert (Old French)

These variations and spellings stem from the Old High German name "Erminhart," which consists of the elements "ermino" meaning "all-powerful" or "universal" and "hard" meaning "brave" or "strong." The name gained popularity in medieval Europe due to its association with Charlemagne's advisor, Ermenrich.

Famous people with the last name Ermelindo

Ermelindo Giovanelli (1894-1970) was an Italian composer and conductor known for his operas, ballets, and symphonic works. He began his musical studies at the Conservatorio di Santa Cecilia in Rome and later studied in Berlin with Max Reger. Giovanelli's most famous opera is "Il Pagliaccio," which premiered in Milan in 1920. Other notable operas include "La Fata Morgana" and "La Vestale." In addition to his operatic work, Giovanelli composed several ballets, including "La Bella Dormente nel Bosco" and "La Cenerentola." He also conducted orchestras in Italy and abroad, and served as the director of the Teatro San Carlo in Naples from 1932 to 1950.

Ermelindo Barbero (born 1947) is a Brazilian politician who has served as a federal deputy since 2003. He is a member of the Workers' Party and has represented the state of São Paulo in the Chamber of Deputies. Barbero is known for his advocacy on issues related to education, healthcare, and social justice, and has been involved in several high-profile political controversies throughout his career. In 2017, he was suspended from office for two years due to allegations of corruption, but the suspension was later overturned by the Supreme Federal Court.

Genealogical research on the last name Ermelindo

The surname Ermelindo is relatively uncommon and has a distinct origin, primarily traced to Italy. In Italian, the name could potentially be derived from the given name "Ermelindo," which is a combination of "Hermann" (an old Germanic name meaning "army ruler") and "Gund" or "Land" (meaning "land" or "battle"). However, the exact origin may vary due to surname evolution over time.

The first documented use of Ermelindo as a surname can be traced back to the 16th century in Italy. The family is known to have migrated from Italy and settled in various parts of Europe, North America, South America, and Australia during subsequent centuries due to economic hardships, political unrest, and search for better opportunities.

Notable individuals with the surname Ermelindo include Italo Ermelindo, an Italian composer; Carlos Ermelindo de Moura e Silva, a Brazilian cardinal; and Antonio Ermelindo Nascimento, a former President of Cape Verde. As a result, the name has become common among individuals with Italian ancestry in these regions.

In genealogical research, it is important to note that variations in spelling and transcription may occur due to differences in language, region, and recording methods over time. Thus, researchers should be prepared to investigate alternative spellings such as Ermini, Ermineo, and Hermelindo.

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 : 30 July 2025

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