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Last Name Mascia

What is the origin of the last name Mascia?

The last name "Mascia" is of Italian origin. It is a surname that is common in Italy, particularly in the regions of Sicily and Lazio. The name is believed to have originated from a personal name or nickname for someone with the characteristics of a mastiff (a type of large dog). The name may also have derived from the Latin word "mansuetus" meaning "tame" or "gentle". Over time, the name Mascia became a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mascia

The meaning and origin of the last name Mascia

The surname Mascia is of Italian origin and is derived from the personal name Matteo, which is the Italian form of Matthew. The name Matthew is of Hebrew origin, meaning "gift of God." The surname Mascia was likely used to denote a descendant of someone named Matteo or a variation of the name, indicating a connection to the biblical figure Matthew. It is a common surname in Italy, especially in the southern regions such as Sicily and Calabria. The name may have also been influenced by the Latin word "matius," meaning "benevolent" or "kind," suggesting that bearers of the surname Mascia were known for their kindness and generosity. Overall, the surname Mascia carries a sense of divine blessing and benevolence, reflecting its origins in both biblical and Latin influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mascia

The last name Mascia is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the central and southern regions such as Lazio, Campania, and Sicily. It is a relatively common surname in these areas, with a significant presence in cities like Rome and Naples. Outside of Italy, the surname can also be found in countries with historical ties to Italy, such as the United States and Argentina, where Italian immigrants have settled over the years. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Mascia reflects its Italian origins and the migration patterns of Italian populations throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mascia

Variations and spellings of the last name Mascia include Maścia, Mascie, Masca, Maschia, Mascea, Masia, and Massia. These variations may be seen due to different dialects, accents, and regional differences in pronunciation. The last name Mascia is of Italian origin and is believed to have derived from the Latin word "mascus" meaning "mallet" or "hammer." It is a surname that is mainly found in Southern Italy, particularly in regions like Calabria, Sicily, and Campania. The name has likely been passed down through generations, with different branches of the family adopting slightly altered spellings along the way. Regardless of the spelling variation, the surname Mascia remains a distinctive and culturally significant name in Italian heritage.

Famous people with the last name Mascia

One famous individual with the last name Mascia is Angela Mascia, an Italian physicist known for her work in nuclear and particle physics. She has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the development of experimental techniques for studying subatomic particles. Another notable figure is Frank Mascia, a former professional baseball player who had a successful career in the minor leagues. Mascia played for several teams before ultimately retiring and going on to coach younger players. Both Angela and Frank Mascia have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, showcasing the diverse talents and accomplishments of individuals with this surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Mascia

The last name Mascia is of Italian origin and is believed to be of patronymic descent, deriving from the given name Masso, which was commonly used in the Middle Ages. The surname Mascia can be found predominantly in the regions of southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria, Sicily, and Campania. Through genealogical research, it has been discovered that many individuals with the last name Mascia can trace their ancestry back to these regions, with records indicating a long history of family roots in these areas. The surname Mascia is relatively uncommon and is thought to have originated from a specific familial line in Italy. Further research into vital records, church documents, and historical archives may reveal more about the origins and migration patterns of the Mascia family over the centuries.

Last name distribution maps

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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 April 2025

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