What is the origin of the last name Ricardone?

The surname Ricardone is believed to have Italian origins. It is derived from a variety of given names such as Richard or Ricardo, which were introduced into Italy by the Normans in the 11th century. The "-one" suffix in this case likely indicates a diminutive form of the name, meaning "little Richard." However, it's important to note that surnames often have complex histories and multiple possible origins. For a more accurate understanding, further research or consultation with a genealogist may be helpful.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ricardone

The meaning and origin of the last name Ricardone

The surname Ricardone is an Italian name derived from the personal name Richard, which originated from the Old High German name "Richardin" or "Ricardus". This name was brought to Italy by the Normans in the Middle Ages and was later Italianized into various forms, including Riccardo, Ricardo, and Ricardone. The termination "-one" is a common suffix in Italian surnames, often denoting a diminutive or a nickname originating from a specific characteristic, occupation, or location. Hence, the surname Ricardone could be a diminutive of Riccardo or a nickname derived from a person associated with Richard.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ricardone

The last name Ricardone is predominantly distributed across Italy and the United States, with significant concentrations in both countries. In Italy, it is most common in the regions of Piedmont, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna, reflecting its historical origins in Northern Italy. In the U.S., large populations of people bearing the surname Ricardone can be found primarily on the East Coast, particularly in states such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts, where Italian immigration was prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller communities with the last name Ricardone can also be found in other parts of the world, including Argentina, Brazil, and Australia, as a result of Italian diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ricardone

The surname Ricardone can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variants include Richardson, Riccardone, Rizardone, Ricarton, Rycadron, Rycarton, Richardon, Richadon, and possibly others. These variations may arise from different regional pronunciations, errors during data entry or transcription, or attempts to adapt the name to conform with local phonetic or orthographic conventions. The original Italian form of the surname is likely Riccardo or Ricardo, which means 'brave ruler'.

Famous people with the last name Ricardone

The Ricardone family is relatively less prominent compared to other surnames in the public eye, but there are notable figures who share this last name. One such individual is Salvatore Ricciardi, an Italian conductor and musicologist who has held positions at major European orchestras including the RAI National Symphony Orchestra and the Orchestra of La Scala in Milan. Another noteworthy figure is Maria Livia Ricardone, an Italian politician who served as a Member of the European Parliament from 1987 to 2004, representing the Christian Democracy for Europe (CDU) party. Additionally, Richard Riccobono is an American actor known for his roles in television series like "The Sopranos" and movies such as "Frozen River." While their prominence may vary, these individuals have made significant contributions to various fields including music, politics, and acting.

Genealogical research on the last name Ricardone

The Ricardone surname originates from Italy and is primarily found in the Abruzzo region, particularly around the city of Pescara. Historically, it is believed to be derived from the personal name Richard or Ricardo, which was popular among the Normans who invaded Southern Italy during the Middle Ages. The Norman conquest introduced numerous French names and titles into Italian culture, with Ricardone being one such example. Over time, various branches of the Ricardone family emerged, some of which migrated to other regions of Italy and later spread to countries like Argentina, Brazil, and the United States due to immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. The Ricardone name continues to be common among Italians and their descendants worldwide.

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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