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Last Name Pelia

What is the origin of the last name Pelia?

The last name "Pelia" is of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "pelo," meaning hair or fur, and was likely originally an occupational surname for someone who worked with hair or fur, such as a barber or furrier. However, it is also possible that the surname may have originated as a nickname for someone with particularly hairy or furry features.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Pelia

The meaning and origin of the last name Pelia

The surname Pelia is of Italian origin and is believed to be derived from the Greek word "pelias," which means "clay" or "mud." The surname may have originally been a nickname for someone who worked with clay or had a profession related to pottery. Another possible origin is that it may have been a topographic name given to someone who lived in or near an area with clay-rich soil. Over time, the surname Pelia has been passed down through generations, and variations of the name may be found in different regions of Italy. Today, individuals with the surname Pelia can be found around the world, with many descendants of Italian immigrants carrying on the family name in their new countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pelia

The last name Pelia is relatively rare and is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the regions of Veneto, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna. In Veneto, the surname is most prevalent in the provinces of Padua and Venice, while in Lombardy, it is primarily found in Milan and Brescia. In Emilia-Romagna, the name can be found mostly in the provinces of Modena and Bologna. Outside of Italy, the surname Pelia has a limited distribution, but can also be found in small numbers in other countries such as Argentina and the United States. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Pelia is fairly localized in Italy, with the highest concentration of individuals bearing this surname residing in the northern regions of the country.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pelia

Variations and spellings of the last name Pelia include Pella, Pellia, Pelya, Peilia, Pelea, Pilea, and Peleia. These variations may be the result of different pronunciations or spellings of the name in various regions or by different branches of the family. The surname Pelia is of Italian origin and is believed to have originated from the word "pelio," meaning "hairy" or "hairy one." It is a relatively uncommon surname, with most individuals with this last name likely being of Italian descent. The variations in spelling can make tracking down genealogical records or tracing family history challenging, as individuals with the same surname may spell it differently. Researchers looking into the Pelia surname may need to consider these variations and be open to alternative spellings when conducting their research.

Famous people with the last name Pelia

One famous person with the last name Pelia is Don Diego Pelia, a Mexican actor who is known for his roles in various telenovelas and films. His charismatic presence on screen and strong acting skills have made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry. Another notable figure with the last name Pelia is Francesco Pelia, an Italian opera singer who has received international acclaim for his powerful vocals and emotive performances. His unique voice and passionate interpretation of classical music have contributed to his success and recognition as a talented artist. Both Don Diego Pelia and Francesco Pelia have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment and the arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Pelia

The last name Pelia is of Italian origin, derived from the personal name Pellegrino, meaning "pilgrim" or "foreigner." The surname is most commonly found in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, specifically in the provinces of Udine and Trieste. The Pelia family likely originated in this area and spread to other parts of Italy over time. Through genealogical research, it is possible to trace the Pelia surname back several generations, uncovering a rich history of migration, settlement, and family connections. The name may have evolved over the centuries, with variations such as Pellegrin, Pellerin, and Pelegrino appearing in historical records. By delving into archives, census records, church registers, and other sources, one can piece together the story of the Pelia family and their ancestral roots in Italy.

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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