Last Name Gillo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Gillo

The meaning and origin of the last name Gillo

The surname Gillo is of Italian origin and is believed to have originated from the medieval given name "Gillo," derived from the Biblical name "Giloh" mentioned in the Old Testament. The name Giloh is associated with the tribe of Judah and refers to a hilly region in ancient Israel. Over time, the name Gillo developed into a family name predominantly used in regions of Southern Italy. Surnames were often derived from nicknames, occupations, or geographical locations, and Gillo may have been given to someone who lived near or originated from the region of Giloh. Alternatively, it could have been a patronymic surname, indicating descent from an ancestor named Gillo. As with many surnames, variations and alternate spellings may have emerged over time, leading to different branches of the Gillo family.

Geographical distribution of the last name Gillo

The last name Gillo is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the southern regions of Calabria, Basilicata, and Campania. These areas have historically been home to a significant number of Gillo families. Additionally, there are smaller concentrations of individuals with the last name Gillo in other parts of Italy, such as in the regions of Sicily, Puglia, and Abruzzo. Outside of Italy, the surname Gillo can also be found in other countries with Italian diaspora communities. These include the United States, particularly in states with large Italian-American populations like New York, New Jersey, and California. Furthermore, there might be some individuals with the last name Gillo in other parts of the world due to migration and emigration over the years. Overall, while the last name Gillo primarily has an Italian geographical distribution, it can also be found among Italian immigrant communities in various countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gillo

The last name "Gillo" primarily originates from Italy and has a few variations and potential spellings. One possible variation is "Gillio" where the single 'l' is doubled, creating a slight change in pronunciation. Another variant could be "Gillot," which is more commonly found in French-speaking regions. Similarly, the spelling "Gillot" also exists, featuring the 'i' replaced with an 'o'. Furthermore, "Gillot" might be spelled as "Gillotte" in some instances. Some individuals might also use the spelling "Gilyo," replacing the double 'l' with a 'y' to add a personal touch or create a distinction within their family. These variations in spelling and pronunciation demonstrate how the last name "Gillo" can differ among individuals, as well as across different regions and language influences.

Famous people with the last name Gillo

One famous person with the last name Gillo is Elio Gillo, an Italian-American painter renowned for his vivid and expressive contemporary art. Known for his captivating use of color and unique brushstroke techniques, Gillo's artwork has been exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions around the world, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. His ability to evoke deep emotions through his abstract paintings has made him a respected figure in the art world, influencing future generations of artists. Another famous individual with the last name Gillo is Peter Gillo, a celebrated American actor known for his exceptional skills in character portrayal. With a career spanning over four decades, Gillo has starred in a multitude of successful films and captivating stage productions, showcasing his versatility and versatility and extraordinary talent. Through his memorable performances, he has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Gillo

The surname Gillo derives from the Italian name "Gilli," which is a patronymic form of the given name Guglielmo, meaning "William." The Gillo family's genealogy can be traced back to medieval Italy. Historical records indicate that the family was primarily associated with the region of Tuscany. The surname appears in various documents and records, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, dating back several centuries. One significant figure in the Gillo family tree is Giovanni Gillo, born in the early 18th century, who was an accomplished artist and painter. Over time, members of the Gillo family expanded beyond Tuscany, migrating to different regions of Italy and even to other countries, adding to the family's diaspora. Today, individuals with the last name Gillo can be found in different parts of the world, maintaining a rich legacy rooted in their Italian ancestry.