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Last Name Lamacchia

What is the origin of the last name Lamacchia?

The surname Lamacchia originates from Italy, specifically from the region of Abruzzo. It is a toponymic surname, derived from a place named "Lama" or "La Macchia," meaning 'stream' or 'small plain' in Italian. People bearing this surname may have originally lived near such a location when they adopted the name as their own. Over time, variations of the spelling such as Lammacchia, Lamacchi, and others may have emerged due to changes in pronunciation and recording errors during migration or as families moved to other regions within Italy or abroad.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lamacchia

The meaning and origin of the last name Lamacchia

The surname Lamacchia is of Italian origin, derived from the geographical location "La Macchia," which means "the spot" or "the mark" in Italian. It is common among the Abruzzo and Molise regions, central Italy. The name was often given to individuals who were born or resided near a distinctive physical feature, such as a large tree, rock formation, or landmark, hence the term "La Macchia." The Lamacchias are part of a larger Italian diaspora that has spread across the globe due to migration and trade. As with many surnames from this region, Lamacchia is frequently found among Italian-American communities in North America.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lamacchia

The surname Lamacchia is predominantly Italian in origin and primarily found within Italy, particularly in the regions of Abruzzo, Molise, Lazio, and Campania. It is less common but still present in other parts of Italy. The largest concentration of individuals bearing this name can be found in the province of Chieti, Abruzzo. Outside of Italy, there are significant populations of Lamacchias in Canada (particularly in Ontario and Quebec) and the United States, primarily in the Northeast, particularly Massachusetts and New York, where many Italian immigrants settled during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller groups can also be found in Australia, Argentina, and Brazil. The Lamacchia surname is a testament to the historical migration patterns of Italians, with roots primarily in central Italy but spread across the globe by emigration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lamacchia

The surname Lamacchia has several variations and spellings. These include, but are not limited to: L'Amachia, LaMacchia, LaMaccia, Lamaqua, LaMaqua, Lammackia, Lammaquia, and Lammakia. The name is of Italian origin and can be traced back to the regions of Abruzzo and Molise in Italy. The surname is derived from the place name "Lamacchia," which may refer to a specific location or a small hamlet that no longer exists, as is common with many Italian surnames. The variations and spellings primarily stem from phonetic differences, regional dialects, transcription errors during immigration, and changes over time.

Famous people with the last name Lamacchia

The Lamacchia family has produced several notable figures across various fields. In the realm of sports, Anthony Lamacchia is recognized for his contributions as a professional ice hockey player, having played for teams such as the New Jersey Devils and the Minnesota Wild. Meanwhile, in the world of academia, Joseph V. Lamacchia is an esteemed researcher at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, focusing on environmental chemistry and sustainable energy technologies. In the entertainment industry, actresses Alexandra Daddario and Cathy Moriarty, who have Italian-American roots with a family connection to the Lamacchia name, have achieved significant success in film and television. Notably, Cathy Moriarty won an Academy Award for her role in Raging Bull. These individuals exemplify the diverse accomplishments and talents within the Lamacchia lineage.

Genealogical research on the last name Lamacchia

The surname Lamacchia is of Italian origin and is primarily found in Southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Apulia and Molise. It is derived from the Latin "La Maccia," meaning 'The Meadow,' reflecting its agricultural roots. Notable persons bearing this name include the Lamacchias of Naples, who were known for their involvement in trade and commerce during the Renaissance period. The family further expanded to other regions of Italy over time, contributing significantly to various fields such as politics, arts, and science. In more recent history, members of the Lamacchia family have emigrated globally, most notably to North America, where they continue to contribute to their adopted communities in various capacities. Genealogical records suggest that the Lamacchia name can be traced back several centuries, showcasing a rich and varied history.

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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 June 2025

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