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Last Name Locastro

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What is the origin of the last name Locastro?

The surname Locastro has its roots in various regions of Italy, primarily in Calabria and Campania. It is a variant of the name Lombardo, which originally denoted someone from Lombardy, a region in northern Italy inhabited by the Lombards, a Germanic people who invaded Italy during the Early Middle Ages. Over time, the name has been subject to phonetic variations due to migration and regional dialects, leading to forms such as Locastro.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Locastro

The meaning and origin of the last name Locastro

The surname Locastro is of Italian origin, specifically from Southern Italy, primarily in the regions of Apulia (Puglia) and Basilicata. It is derived from the Latin word "locus" which means place or site, and the suffix "-astro," meaning star. In this context, Locastro can be interpreted as one who lives at a starry or illuminated place. The surname is quite rare, reflecting its regional concentration in Italy. The name may have also been a nickname for someone who lived near a well-known spot or landmark, or perhaps a person with a particular occupation associated with the concept of "star" or "illumination". Over time, variations such as Locastri, Locastroli, and Locatelli are found in different regions, indicating adaptations to local phonetics and dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Locastro

The surname Locastro is predominantly found in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Apulia and Basilicata, where it has been traced back to medieval times. It is also present in Calabria, another region situated in the "toe" of the Italian boot. The name likely originated from a place named Locastro, which is found only in the province of Matera in Basilicata. Today, many people with this surname reside not just in Italy but also in countries where Italians have migrated significantly, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Brazil. In these nations, concentrations of Locastros are often found in urban areas with large Italian populations, like New York City or Sydney.

Variants and spellings of the last name Locastro

The surname Locastro has several variations and spellings. Some of these include Locastro, Locastre, Locastra, Lokastro, Lockastro, and Lokastra. These variations may arise due to differences in spelling conventions, regional dialects, or transcription errors over time. Additionally, it is possible that some individuals have deliberately altered the spelling of their surname for personal reasons. Regardless of the specific spelling, the root of the name likely originates from Italy, where places with names similar to Locastro can be found. The name may also share a connection with the Italian word "loca" which means place or region.

Famous people with the last name Locastro

Among the prominent figures bearing the surname Locastro, three individuals stand out in various fields:

1. **Diane Locastro** - An accomplished actress, she is known for her roles in popular TV shows such as "Quantum Leap," "The West Wing," and "ER." Her film credits include "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock" and "Back to the Future Part II."

2. **Joseph Locastro** - A former Major League Baseball player, he played in the minor leagues from 1964 to 1973 for several teams, including the Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves, and Boston Red Sox. He was a key member of the 1968 World Series-winning Tigers team.

3. **Angelo Locastro** - An Australian professional triathlete, he has competed in numerous international events since 2007. His career highlights include winning the 2014 Yokohama ITU World Triathlon Series and the 2016 Mooloolaba World Cup.

These individuals exemplify diverse talents and achievements within their respective fields, showcasing the versatility associated with the surname Locastro.

Genealogical research on the last name Locastro

The surname Locastro originates from Italy, specifically the region of Apulia, where it is believed to have been first used by individuals residing in the town of Locorotondo during the Middle Ages. Over time, the name spread as families migrated within Italy and eventually emigrated to other parts of Europe and beyond. In Spain, for instance, the name has been recorded as Locastra since at least the 17th century. In America, the first known Locastro immigrants arrived in the early 20th century, primarily settling in cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. Today, the Locastro family can be found across North America, Europe, South America, and Australia, with notable concentrations in urban areas where Italian immigration was significant. The name has various spellings including Locastri, Locatristo, and Locastra, reflecting regional dialects and transcription errors over time. Genealogical research remains an ongoing endeavor for the Locastro family, as many records were lost or destroyed during migration and conflicts throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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