Last Name Sammut

The last name Sammut has its origin in Malta. It is a Maltese surname, derived from the Arabic given name "Samawi," which means "sky" or "heavenly." The name is thought to have been introduced to Malta during the Arab rule of the island from the 9th to the 12th centuries. Over time, the name Samawi evolved into Sammut and became a common surname in Malta.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sammut

The meaning and origin of the last name Sammut

The surname Sammut originated from the Maltese islands and is derived from the Arabic word "sammad," which means "to sustain" or "to support." It is a patronymic name, meaning it was derived from the given name of an ancestor. The name was traditionally used to describe someone who was seen as a provider or a supporter within their community. Malta, an island country located in the central Mediterranean, has a rich history influenced by various cultures. Over the centuries, it has been subject to rulership by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the Knights of St. John, among others. Consequently, the Sammut surname showcases the strong influence of the Arabic language and culture on Maltese society. Throughout history, individuals with the surname Sammut have played significant roles in various fields, such as politics, business, and academia. Today, the name is still widely found in Malta, and many individuals of Maltese descent can be traced back to a Sammut ancestor.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sammut

The last name Sammut is primarily found in the Mediterranean region, particularly in Malta. It is one of the most common surnames on the island, where it originated. The name has Maltese and Arabic origins, and it is believed to have been derived from the Arabic word "summāt", meaning "one who has a mole". Due to its historical and linguistic connections to Malta, the Sammut family name is predominantly found in Maltese communities worldwide. However, it has also spread to other countries with significant Maltese descent population, such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This diaspora is a result of migration patterns throughout history, including movements for economic opportunities, political reasons, and family reunifications. Overall, while the Sammut surname has a concentrated presence in Malta, it has also dispersed across various regions due to migration and Maltese diaspora communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sammut

The last name Sammut can have several variations and spellings. One common variation is Samut, where the final "m" is replaced with a "t." Another variation is Sammuti, which adds an "i" at the end. Additionally, there can be alternative spellings like Samutt or Sammout, where the final "m" is replaced with a double "t" or "out" respectively. Other variations may include Sammutt, Sammult, Samote, or Sammet, each with slight differences in spelling. Names tend to evolve and adapt over time due to factors such as migration, geographical location, or cultural assimilation, leading to these variations. It is not uncommon to find different spellings of the same surname across different regions or even within the same family. Therefore, the last name Sammut can manifest in various spellings and forms, highlighting the rich diversity of surnames across different communities.

Famous people with the last name Sammut

One famous individual with the last name Sammut is Charles Sammut, a renowned Maltese linguist and lexicographer. He dedicated his life to the study and preservation of the Maltese language, publishing several influential works on the subject. Sammut's most notable accomplishment was his comprehensive Maltese-English dictionary, which served as a vital resource for both local and foreign linguists. His dedication and contributions significantly contributed to the understanding, documentation, and appreciation of the Maltese language. Another prominent figure is Paul Sammut, a popular and well-respected conductor and composer from Malta. He is recognized for his numerous orchestral compositions, which have been performed by various ensembles across the globe. Sammut's musical prowess and artistic vision have earned him widespread acclaim and have made him a significant figure in the world of orchestral music.

Genealogical research on the last name Sammut

The last name Sammut is a Maltese surname with ancient roots. It is believed to have originated from the Arabic name "Samawi," meaning "heavenly" or "from the sky." The Sammut family has a rich genealogical history with traces back to the Middle Ages in Malta. The name has been passed down through generations, and many Sammut families can still be found residing in Malta today. Over time, some branches of the Sammut family have migrated to other countries, particularly Australia, Canada, and the United States, contributing to the diaspora of this surname. Genealogical research on the Sammut family reveals a diverse array of occupations and professions, including farmers, merchants, craftsmen, and professionals, showcasing the family's adaptability and resilience throughout the centuries. The Sammut name is cherished by its bearers, as it represents a strong sense of cultural identity and heritage rooted in Malta.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Sammut"
• 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 : 11 April 2025

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