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Last Name Gilli

What is the origin of the last name Gilli?

The last name "Gilli" originated as a surname in Italy. It is derived from the given name "Gilio", which was a medieval Italian form of the name "Aegidius", meaning "awe-inspiring" or "shield of goats" in Latin.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Gilli

The meaning and origin of the last name Gilli

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Geographical distribution of the last name Gilli

The last name Gilli is most commonly found in Italy, specifically in the northern region of Lombardy. It is also present in lower numbers in other regions such as Piedmont, Tuscany, and Veneto. Outside of Italy, the surname Gilli can be found in Switzerland due to historical migrations between the two countries. Additionally, there are small populations of individuals with the last name Gilli in countries such as Argentina and the United States, often as a result of Italian immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Gilli is concentrated in Italy, particularly in the northern regions, with smaller pockets of individuals bearing the surname in other countries with historical ties to Italy.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gilli

Variations and spellings of the last name "Gilli" include Gilly, Gilli, Gillye, Gillee, Gille, and Gillie. These variations may stem from different regions or languages where the name is commonly found. It is possible to encounter further variations depending on factors such as transliterations or phonetic differences in pronunciation. However, the core surname "Gilli" remains the same across these variations, suggesting a common origin for individuals bearing this name.

Famous people with the last name Gilli

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Genealogical research on the last name Gilli

The surname Gilli is of Italian origin, derived from the personal name "Gilio" or "Gilia," which in turn comes from the Germanic name "Gillion." The name has been found in various regions of Italy, particularly in the north around Lombardy and Tuscany. Genealogical research on the surname Gilli indicates that it dates back to the medieval period, with records showing individuals bearing the name as early as the 14th century. The Gilli family is believed to have been involved in various professions, including agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship. Over time, branches of the Gilli family migrated to other parts of Italy and even beyond, spreading the surname to different regions of the world. Today, descendants of the Gilli family can be found in Italy, as well as in countries with significant Italian diaspora populations.

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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