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Last Name Farrugia

What is the origin of the last name Farrugia?

The last name "Farrugia" is of Maltese origin. It is one of the most common surnames in Malta and is derived from the Arabic word "farrūġ," which means "chicken" or "fowl." The name likely originated as a nickname for someone associated with chickens, such as a poultry farmer or someone who kept chickens. Over time, the surname Farrugia became hereditary and passed down through generations.

Race and Ethnicity of people with the last name Farrugia

The Decennial U.S. Census data also provides insight into the ethnic identity associated with the Farrugia surname. A vast majority, 93.24% of the individuals with this name identified as White in 2010, slightly down from 93.42% in 2000. There was also a small percentage, 5.70%, who identified as Hispanic, an increase of 11.33% since 2000. Some individuals, equivalent to 1.32% in 2000, identified as having two or more races, but there was no data available for this category in 2010. There were no Farrugias who identified as Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, or American Indian and Alaskan Native in either census year.

20002010Change
White93.42%93.24%-0.19%
Hispanic5.12%5.7%11.33%
Asian/Pacific Islander0%0%0%
Two or More Races1.32%0%0%
Black0%0%0%
American Indian and Alaskan Native0%0%0%

Learn more about the origin of the last name Farrugia

The meaning and origin of the last name Farrugia

The surname Farrugia is derived from the Maltese word "far-rugħ" meaning "the prodigal one" or "the one who scatters." It is considered a patronymic surname, suggesting that it originated as a name passed down from father to child. The name possibly reflects an individual's extravagant or lavish tendencies, indicating a person who was known for freely scattering or spending their resources without restraint.

The surname Farrugia has a strong presence in Malta, reflecting its Maltese origins. Malta, an archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea, has a rich and diverse history influenced by various civilizations throughout the centuries. The name may have developed during the periods of Arab and Italian influences in Malta, as these cultures left a significant imprint on the Maltese language and surnames. It is also worth noting that surnames often evolved from nicknames or descriptive terms, which could explain the unique and intriguing meaning behind Farrugia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Farrugia

The last name Farrugia is primarily found in the Mediterranean region, specifically in the island nation of Malta. Malta is a small archipelago located in the central Mediterranean Sea, and Farrugia is one of the most common surnames in the country. Due to historical and cultural factors, the name Farrugia has a strong presence in Maltese society, indicating a long-standing lineage on the islands. However, it is worth noting that Farrugia can also be found in other countries with ties to Malta, such as Italy, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. This suggests that some individuals with the surname Farrugia may have migrated or emigrated from Malta to these various destinations over time. Overall, while the primary geographical distribution of the Farrugia name centers around Malta, it also has a global presence due to historical and migratory factors.

Variants and spellings of the last name Farrugia

The last name Farrugia has a few variations and spellings depending on regional differences and historical influences. One common variation is Farruja, which is a Maltese spelling of the surname. Another variation is Farruggia, which is an Italian spelling frequently found in Sicily and other regions with Italian heritage. Additionally, some individuals may spell the name as Farruge or Farrugi, particularly in English-speaking countries where surnames can undergo pronunciation adaptations. Moreover, Farrugia can also be spelled as Farrugea or Farrouga in certain instances. It is important to note that these are just a few examples of variations and spellings, and there might be further adaptations based on personal preference or transcription errors. Nevertheless, regardless of the way it is spelled, the last name Farrugia signifies a connection to the Maltese and Italian heritage, and its variations reflect the diverse historical backgrounds of individuals bearing this surname.

Famous people with the last name Farrugia

One famous person with the last name Farrugia is Joseph Farrugia, a Maltese politician and lawyer. He served as the Minister for Tourism and Economic Affairs and later as the Minister for Tourism and Culture in Malta between 2008 and 2013. Farrugia played a crucial role in developing and promoting Malta's tourism industry during his tenure, contributing significantly to the country's economic growth. Another well-known individual with the last name Farrugia is Kevin Farrugia, a professional football player from Malta. He is a goalkeeper and has represented the national team of Malta in various international matches. Farrugia has played for several professional clubs, both domestically and abroad, showcasing his skills and earning recognition in the world of professional football. These individuals, among others, have contributed to different realms, leaving a mark on Malta's political and sports arenas.

Genealogical research on the last name Farrugia

The Farrugia surname is of Maltese origin and has a rich genealogical history. The name is believed to have derived from the Arabic word "Farrug," meaning "blacksmith." As hailing from Malta, the Farrugia's lineage likely dates back centuries and can be traced through church records, birth certificates, and historic documents.

The Farrugia family has likely witnessed various eras and significant events throughout Maltese history. Their ancestors may have played important roles in the community, such as blacksmithing, farming, or other traditional occupations. Through meticulous genealogical research, one might uncover remarkable stories, notable achievements, or connections to prominent individuals or families.

The genealogical research on the Farrugia surname might also reveal valuable information on the migration patterns of the family. It is common for individuals with the Farrugia name to have emigrated from Malta to different parts of the world, such as Australia, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, seeking new opportunities.

Overall, delving into the genealogical research on the Farrugia surname unveils a fascinating journey through history, shedding light on the lineage, accomplishments, and diverse paths of various individuals who bear this esteemed last name.

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 : 11 April 2025

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