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Last Name Petrillo

What is the origin of the last name Petrillo?

The last name "Petrillo" is of Italian origin. It is a surname derived from the given name "Pietro," which is the Italian form of the name Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone." In Italian, "Petrillo" can be loosely translated as "little Peter" or "son of Peter." This surname is commonly found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the Campania and Sicily regions.

origin of the last name Petrillo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Petrillo

The meaning and origin of the last name Petrillo

The surname Petrillo is of Italian origin and has a meaning rooted in the Latin word "petra," which translates to "rock" or "stone." It is derived from the given name Pietro, the Italian equivalent of Peter, which itself stems from the Greek word "petros," meaning "rock" or "stone." The name Petrillo is a patronymic surname, suggesting it was originally used to denote "son of Pietro" or "descendant of Pietro." As a surname, Petrillo is most commonly found in Southern Italy and is prevalent among Italian immigrants and their descendants across the globe. The name's association with the concept of a "stone" or "rock" may signify qualities such as strength, stability, or endurance. It is worth noting that surnames often underwent variations in spelling or pronunciation over time and across regions, leading to different versions of the name, such as Petriello or Petrone.

Geographical distribution of the last name Petrillo

The surname Petrillo is primarily of Italian origin and is found in several regions across Italy. The geographical distribution of the last name Petrillo in Italy is quite wide, with concentrations in the southern regions, particularly in Campania, Calabria, and Apulia. These regions are known to have historically attracted a large number of people with the surname Petrillo. In Campania, the surname is especially prevalent in the province of Naples and surrounding areas. Additionally, there are significant populations of Petrillo families in metropolitan areas like Rome and Milan, reflecting migration patterns within Italy. As Italian immigration expanded to other countries, particularly the United States and Canada, the surname Petrillo has also spread across these regions. Today, one can find individuals with the last name Petrillo in various parts of North America. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Petrillo showcases its strong ties to Italy, while also highlighting its presence in other countries due to migration and diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Petrillo

The last name Petrillo has several variations and spellings. One common variation is Petrillio, often seen with an additional "i" in the middle. Another variation is Petrolo, where the "r" and "i" swap places. Some individuals may also spell it as Petrilio or Petriello, using different combinations of letters for the same pronunciation. Additionally, there are regional variations that can be found, such as Petrelli in certain areas of Italy. It is important to note that the spelling of surnames can vary due to factors such as regional dialects, literacy rates, or even mistakes made during the recording or transcribing of names. Despite these variations, all spellings of Petrillo ultimately stem from the same origin, reflecting the complexities of language and individual family histories.

Famous people with the last name Petrillo

While the last name "Petrillo" may not be as commonly recognized as some other surnames, there are notable individuals who share this name. One such person is Antonio J. Petrillo, a prominent figure in American labor history. Antonio Petrillo served as the influential President of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) from 1940 to 1960. He is remembered for leading the AFM during a critical era when the music industry was experiencing significant shifts. Petrillo famously organized a series of musicians' strikes, aiming to protect the livelihoods of musicians in an increasingly technological age. His efforts succeeded in ensuring fair compensation and improved working conditions for musicians. Antonio Petrillo's legacy and contributions to the labor movement in the music industry endure to this day, making him a notable figure associated with the surname Petrillo.

Genealogical research on the last name Petrillo

The surname Petrillo is of Italian origin, deriving from the personal name Pietro, meaning "Peter" in English. The name spread throughout Italy and eventually migrated to different parts of the world through emigration. Genealogical research suggests that the Petrillo name has its roots in southern Italy, particularly in the Campania region. Historical records indicate that individuals bearing the Petrillo surname have appeared in various Italian census and civil registration documents dating back to the 16th century. The name has been found in numerous towns and cities, including Sorrento, Naples, and Salerno. Over time, some members of the Petrillo family ventured beyond Italy and settled in other countries such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina, contributing to the global dispersion of the surname. Today, individuals with the surname Petrillo can be found in various parts of the world, often traced back to their Italian ancestors.

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