Last Name Priore

Learn more about the origin of the last name Priore

The meaning and origin of the last name Priore

The surname Priore is of Italian origin and is derived from the Latin word "prior," meaning "superior" or "leader." The surname is likely to have originally been an occupational name for someone who held a position of authority in a religious or administrative context, such as a prior or a priori in a monastery or church. It could also have been a nickname for someone who acted in a superior or authoritative manner. The surname Priore may have been indicative of a respected or important individual within a community, or could have been passed down from an ancestor who held a significant role in society. Today, the surname Priore is not very common, but can still be found in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Priore

The last name Priore is found primarily in Italy, specifically in the southern regions of Campania and Sicily. It is a relatively rare surname with a concentrated distribution in these areas. In Campania, the surname is most commonly found in the provinces of Naples and Salerno, while in Sicily it is more prevalent in the provinces of Palermo and Agrigento. The surname may also be found in other parts of Italy, but to a much lesser extent compared to its presence in the southern regions. Outside of Italy, the surname Priore may also be found in countries with historical ties to Italian immigration, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Argentina, though in smaller numbers compared to its presence in Italy.

Variants and spellings of the last name Priore

The last name Priore may be spelled and appear in various ways, including Priori, Prior, Prier, Priory, Pyrior, and Pryor. These variations may stem from different regions or dialects, making it common for last names to have multiple spellings. The name may have been altered over time as families moved from one location to another or due to different pronunciations. Priore could also be seen with an accent on the "e" (Prière) or as a hyphenated name (Priore-Jones). Additionally, the surname may have different prefixes or suffixes in different cultures, such as "Di Priore" or "McPriore." Regardless of the spelling or variation, the name Priore likely has a rich history and meaning that ties back to a common ancestor.

Famous people with the last name Priore

Famous people with the last name Priore include Domenico Priore, a music historian and author known for his work on surf music and the 1960s music scene in Los Angeles. Another notable figure is Larry Priore, a former American football player who had a successful career as a defensive tackle in the NFL during the 1970s and 1980s. Additionally, Danielle Priore is a well-known sports journalist and on-air personality who has covered a wide range of sports events and athletes. These individuals with the last name Priore have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Priore

The surname Priore is of Italian origin and is believed to have originated from the word "prior," which means "superior" or "preceding" in Latin. The Priore family name is often associated with members of the clergy who held positions of authority within the church, such as prior or priori. It is likely that the surname originated in Italy during the Middle Ages and spread to other countries over time. Genealogical research on the Priore surname may reveal a lineage of individuals who were influential figures in their communities, with ties to religious institutions and leadership roles. Today, individuals with the surname Priore can be found around the world, with variations in spelling and pronunciation reflecting the diverse paths their ancestors may have taken over the centuries.