What is the origin of the last name Maisano?

The surname Maisano is of Italian origin. It is derived from the place names Maiasa or Maiseo, which are found in the regions of Abruzzo and Molise in Italy. These places were populated by families that traced their lineage to the Norman conquest of Sicily during the Middle Ages. Over time, some individuals who lived near these towns adopted the place name as their surname when they migrated to other parts of Italy or other countries.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Maisano

The surname Maisano is of Italian origin, specifically from regions such as Abruzzo and Molise. It's derived from the Latin word "mais," which means "corn" or "grain," and the suffix "-ano," indicating a place where corn was grown or sold. Over time, it has been anglicized to varying forms, including Maisan, Maisana, and Maisano, depending on regional dialects and migratory patterns. The family name Maisano would have originally identified someone who lived near such a location or was involved in the trade of corn. Like many surnames, it reflects the agrarian heritage and geographical origins of its bearers.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maisano

The surname Maisano is predominantly found in Southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Calabria and Basilicata, where it originates from towns like San Ferdinando di Piove di Siceto, Vibo Valentia, and Cosenza. Over time, emigration from these areas has led to the dispersal of this name globally, with significant populations in the United States, particularly in New York City and its surrounding states. The surname can also be found in Argentina, Australia, Canada, and other countries that have seen Italian immigration. It's interesting to note that while the distribution of Maisano is primarily centered in Southern Italy and its diaspora, it is not exclusive to these areas, reflecting the global interconnectedness brought about by migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maisano

The surname Maisano has several variations and spelling alternatives. Some of these include: Maisen, Maisani, Maison, Maisan, Maizano, Mayzeno, and Mayson. These variations may arise due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, or family tradition. For instance, the "i" in Maisani could be pronounced as an "e" in some regions, leading to the spelling of Maisen. Similarly, a slight change in pronunciation or transcription can result in Mayzeno or Mayson. It is essential to note that these variations do not necessarily denote separate family lineages but are instead outcomes of historical and linguistic differences.

Famous people with the last name Maisano

The Maisano family has produced several notable figures across various fields, notably in entertainment, sports, and politics. In the world of music, the late Angelo Vincent Maisano, known professionally as Vinnie Maasano, was a member of the rock band Anthrax. He played bass guitar and contributed to their albums such as "Among the Living" and "Persistence of Time". In sports, Ronnie Maisano is a professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the Adirondack Thunder in the ECHL. On the political stage, Nicholas J. Maisano served as the 35th Mayor of West New York, New Jersey, from 1986 to 1997 and again from 2004 to 2008. These individuals highlight the diverse accomplishments of those with the surname Maisano.

Genealogical research on the last name Maisano

The Maisano surname is of Italian origin and is believed to have originated from the region of Abruzzo, specifically the town of Maiella. The name is derived from "Maiello," a local variant of the given name Maiolo or Maginardo, both derived from the Germanic name "Maginhard." Early records show that the first known bearer of this surname was Giacomo Maisano, born in 1480, in Maiella. Throughout history, several notable individuals bearing the Maisano surname have emerged. Giuseppe Maisano (1762-1835), an Italian architect and engineer, is recognized for his work on the Aqueduct of Rome. The Maisanos also played significant roles in the Sicilian Vespers, a rebellion against French rule in 1282. Today, the Maisano family can be found primarily in Italy, the United States, and other countries with large Italian immigrant populations.

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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