Last Name Orella

The surname Orella is of Spanish and Italian origin. In both languages, it is derived from the word "oreja," which means ear or shellfish. This surname could have been originally a nickname for someone with an ears resembling a certain shape, a large ear, or a person who had a characteristic reminiscent of an ear or a seashell. Alternatively, it might also be associated with a locality named Orella in Spain or Italy. As with many surnames, its exact origin can vary and may be specific to individual families.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Orella

The meaning and origin of the last name Orella

The surname Orella is of Spanish origin, derived from the Latin word "auris" which means ear. This surname was often given to individuals who were believed to have an exceptional sense of hearing or were associated with a profession related to ears, such as a barber-surgeon who performed ear surgeries. In Spain, the surname Orella can be found predominantly in the regions of Aragon and Valencia. Over time, variations of this name have emerged due to linguistic changes and migration patterns, including Orellana, Orelly, and Orrell.

Geographical distribution of the last name Orella

The surname Orella is predominantly found in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Spain and its Latin American territories. It originates from the Occitan word 'orelha', meaning 'ear', which was brought to Spain by the Moors during their occupation. In Spain, it's most common in regions such as Catalonia, Aragon, Valencia, and Castile-La Mancha. Outside of Spain, significant populations with the surname Orella can be found in countries like Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. Additionally, smaller communities bearing this name are also present in other Spanish-speaking nations and some parts of the United States due to migration. The distribution of the Orella surname reflects historical migrations, cultural exchanges, and linguistic influences between Spain and its colonies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Orella

The surname Orella has several variations and spellings in English and other languages. Here are some of them:

* Orellas (plural form)
* Orelle (French variant)
* Oerlle, Oerllas (German variants)
* Orelli (Italian variant)
* Orello, Orelo (Spanish and Portuguese variants)
* Oerla, Oerell (Dutch variants)
* Oerlah (Norwegian variant)
* Oerlöw (Swedish variant)
* Orelia (Latinized form)
* Orel (shortened form, often used as a given name in some languages and cultures)

It is important to note that surnames can also be spelled differently due to phonetic variations, regional accents, or historical changes over time. Additionally, names can sometimes be misspelled or transcribed incorrectly when recorded in documents. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult reliable sources or genealogical records for accurate information on a specific surname and its variations.

Famous people with the last name Orella

Notable individuals bearing the surname Orella include:

1. José Antonio Abreu Orella (born 1931), a Venezuelan musician and founder of El Sistema, a music education program aimed at underprivileged youth.
2. Carlos Orella (born 1940), a Spanish composer and conductor known for his operas and orchestral works.
3. Ana Orella (born 1969), an Italian singer and actress, who gained popularity in the late '80s and early '90s.
4. David Orella (born 1975), an American professional poker player who has won multiple World Series of Poker events.
5. José Orella (1932-2020), a Spanish politician who served as the President of the Basque Country from 1999 to 2001.
6. Carlos Orella (footballer) (born 1944), a former Spanish football player and manager, best known for his time at Real Madrid.

Genealogical research on the last name Orella

The surname Orella is believed to have origins in Spain, specifically in the region of Asturias. It's derived from the Old Occitan word "orelha," which means "ear" or "shell-shaped." This name may have been given as a topographical name for someone who lived near a physical feature with an ear-like shape or as a nickname for someone with an earshell pendant, common in medieval Spain.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the surname Orella is found in the 15th century. Notable bearers include Juan Orella y Acedo, a 16th-century Spanish military commander, and Mariano Orella y Zuniga, a 19th-century Spanish statesman.

In the New World, the surname Orella is prevalent in countries with significant Spanish influence such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the United States. Variations of the name, such as Orellana, Orell, and Orelly, can also be found. Genealogical research on this surname reveals diverse family histories, including those involved in politics, military service, arts, and religion across various generations.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Orella"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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