Last Name Geno

The last name "Geno" is of Italian origin. It is derived from the personal name "Gennaro," which in turn comes from the Greek name "Januaros," meaning "the month of January." "Gennaro" was often given to children born in January, as it was associated with the Roman god Janus, who represents transitions and beginnings. Over time, variations of the name "Gennaro" emerged, including "Geno."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Geno

The meaning and origin of the last name Geno

The surname Geno is of Italian origin and has multiple possible meanings. It could be derived from the Greek word "genos," which means race or family. This suggests that the name might have been used to denote someone's family or ethnic background. Another possibility is that Geno is a shortened form of the Italian name "Genovese," referring to someone from Genoa, a port city in northwest Italy. Geno could also be a variant of the personal name "Genius," which was common in Roman times and derived from the Latin "genius," meaning divine spirit or guardian deity. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive form of the Italian given name Eugenio, derived from the Greek "Eugenios," meaning well-born or noble. Ultimately, the exact meaning and origin of the surname Geno depend on the specific region and historical context it originated from.

Geographical distribution of the last name Geno

The last name Geno has a relatively widespread geographical distribution, with notable concentrations found in various regions across the world. In the United States, the surname Geno is most prevalent in the states of Louisiana, Texas, and California. These states have historically attracted individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds, including French, Spanish, and Italian immigrants, among others. This has contributed to the presence of the Geno name in these areas. In addition to the United States, the name Geno can also be found in other parts of the world, particularly in Italy and France, where it has its roots. Due to historical migrations and emigrations, the surname has dispersed to countries such as Canada and Australia, where Geno family descendants have established themselves. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Geno last name showcases its global presence, reflecting the mobility and diversity of the individuals who bear this name.

Variants and spellings of the last name Geno

The last name Geno has several variations and spellings across different countries and cultures. In Italy, it may be spelled as Gino or Geni, while in France it can be written as Génou or Génault. In Spain, variations may include Genó or Genè, while in Germany it may be spelled as Genow or Genau. In Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Ukraine, one might come across variations like Gena or Henko. Furthermore, in the English-speaking world, the name may be Anglicized to Genoway or Ginoe. Additionally, in some cases, individuals with the last name Geno might choose to modify the spelling to Genow or Genu, adding a personal touch to their family name. With its various forms and spellings, the last name Geno exemplifies the diverse and ever-evolving nature of surnames across different cultures and regions.

Famous people with the last name Geno

There are not many famous people with the last name Geno, but those who have achieved recognition are notable in their respective fields. One of the most well-known individuals is Rick Genest, also known as "Zombie Boy." Rick Genest, a Canadian artist and fashion model, gained widespread attention for his tattoos, resembling a decaying corpse, covering his entire body. He appeared in various fashion campaigns and music videos, including Lady Gaga's "Born This Way." Another prominent figure with the last name Geno is Jonathan Geno, an American football player who played offensive guard for the San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League. He also played collegiate football at the University of Kentucky and brings recognition to the Geno name through his athletic achievements. Though a small list, these famous individuals have made a significant impact within their respective industries and have cemented the Geno name in popular culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Geno

The last name Geno is of Italian origin and has an interesting genealogical history. It is believed to derive from the ancient Latin word "genus," which means "origin" or "lineage." The surname is typically found in the northern regions of Italy, particularly in the Lombardy and Piedmont areas. The Geno family can trace their roots back to the middle ages, with records dating back to the 13th century. Over the centuries, branches of the Geno family have spread to different parts of Italy and even migrated to other countries. Today, individuals with the last name Geno can be found in various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and South America. Genealogical research on the surname Geno may involve exploring historical records, parish registers, immigration documents, and connecting with distant relatives to piece together a comprehensive family tree.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Geno"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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 : 11 April 2025

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