Last Name Lino

The surname Lino is of Italian and Spanish origin. In both languages, "Lino" means "flax," a plant from which linen fabric is made. The surname is derived from various places that were named after this plant in Italy (such as Lino, a comune in the province of Rovigo) or Spain (such as Lino, a municipality in the province of Zaragoza). Over time, it has been adopted by individuals with similar-sounding names in other regions and countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lino

The meaning and origin of the last name Lino

The surname Lino is primarily of Italian and Spanish origin, with potential roots extending to other regions where Latin influence has been significant. In both Italy and Spain, it derives from the Latin word "linum," which means flax or linen, referring to the plant used for textile production. The name was often given to individuals involved in the fabric industry, such as weavers, dyers, or merchants of linens. Over time, the surname spread through migration and assimilation, appearing in various European countries and ultimately reaching other continents due to diasporic movements. Lino, being a common surname across Italy and Spain, is also found in South America where large numbers of Italians and Spaniards settled. It serves as an enduring testament to the cultural diffusion that has taken place throughout history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lino

The surname Lino has its origins in Portugal and Spain, where it is one of the most common last names in both countries. Historically, the name is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "linum," meaning flax or linen. The distribution of this surname reflects the historical migration patterns of Portuguese and Spanish people, with significant populations also found in Brazil, due to the colonization by Portugal, as well as in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. In addition, there are sizable communities of people with the last name Lino in the United States, Canada, and other countries that have received immigration from Portugal and Spain. It is worth noting that the frequency of the surname can vary significantly within these regions due to factors such as population density and local naming traditions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lino

The surname Lino has several variants and spellings across different regions and languages. In English, it is most commonly spelled as Lino. However, in some Spanish-speaking countries, it can be found as Linó or de Lino. The Italian equivalent is Lineo, while in Portuguese it is sometimes written as Lindo. Additionally, there may be regional or familial variations such as Leino (Finland) or Leyno (Russia). These variations arise from differences in pronunciation, transliteration, and cultural influences over time.

Famous people with the last name Lino

The Lino surname is associated with several renowned individuals across various fields. In the realm of art, Eduardo Lino (1932-2020) was an influential Brazilian modernist painter and sculptor, known for his abstract expressionism works. In music, Alessandro Lino, better known as Alex Gaudino, is a successful DJ, record producer, and songwriter from Italy, famous for his dance tracks like "I'm in Love" and "Watch Out (Whip It)." In the world of sports, Linhof Lino was an Italian footballer who played professionally during the 1930s, earning recognition as a skilled defender. Furthermore, Lino Rulli (1928-2014) was an American television and radio personality, known for his long-running Catholic talk show on EWTN, "Lino's Day." These individuals demonstrate the diverse achievements and impact of those with the Lino surname across multiple disciplines.

Genealogical research on the last name Lino

The surname Lino is of Latin origin, derived from the word "linum," meaning flax or linen. The earliest known records of the Lino family can be traced back to Ancient Rome, where it was a common name for a weaver due to their profession in producing cloth from flax. Over time, as Romans migrated and settled across Europe during the Middle Ages, the Lino family expanded geographically. In Italy, they were found primarily in regions such as Tuscany, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna. The family later spread to other parts of Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and France, due to trade and religious reasons. Notable individuals bearing the name Lino include a 17th-century Italian painter and several contemporary musicians in various countries. Today, the Lino family continues to thrive across numerous nations, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability over centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Lino"
• 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 June 2025

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