Last Name Sanna

The last name "Sanna" is of Italian origin. It is a relatively common surname in Italy, particularly in the regions of Sardinia and Lombardy. It is derived from the first name "Sanna," which is a variant of "Giovanna" or "Gianna," both of which are Italian forms of the name "Joanna" or "Jane." The origin of the name "Sanna" can be traced back to medieval times in Italy.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sanna

The meaning and origin of the last name Sanna

The surname Sanna can have several origins and meanings depending on the cultural and linguistic background. In Italian, the name Sanna is believed to have originated from the feminine given name Susanna, which itself is derived from the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning "lily." It is also possible that the name Sanna emerged as a diminutive form of names ending in -sano or -sanu, meaning "healthy" or "sound" in Sardinian. Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean, is home to a significant number of individuals with the surname Sanna, pointing to a possible regional origin. However, it is important to note that surnames can have multiple origins and variations, as they may have spread through migration, cultural assimilation, or other historical events. The exact meaning and origin of the surname Sanna may vary across different individuals and regions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sanna

The last name Sanna has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. Primarily the name is found in Italy, particularly in the regions of Sardinia and Liguria. In Sardinia, Sanna is a common surname among the native population. It is believed to have originated from the ancient Nuragic civilization, which existed on the island thousands of years ago. In Liguria, the name is also fairly prevalent, with many individuals tracing their ancestry to this region. Outside of Italy, the surname Sanna can be found in various parts of Europe, particularly in countries with close connections to Italy such as Switzerland, France, and Spain. Additionally, due to migration and globalization, individuals with the surname Sanna can also be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Argentina. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Sanna reflects the historical connections and migration patterns of the Italian population.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sanna

The last name Sanna may have a few variations and spellings, reflecting its diverse origins and regional influences. One common variation is spelled as Sana, dropping one of the 'n's. Another possible variation is Sannah, adding an 'h' at the end. Different regions and cultures may have different ways of spelling the name, such as Sána in certain parts of Scandinavia. Additionally, the name may be written as Sa'ana or Sanaa, incorporating an apostrophe or duplicating the final 'a'. These variations might also be influenced by transliteration from languages using different alphabets, like Arabic or Hebrew. It is not uncommon for last names to have multiple spellings and variations, as families move and settle in different places, leading to adaptations and changes over time. Nonetheless, regardless of the specific spelling or variation, the name Sanna would still retain its unique identity and historical legacy.

Famous people with the last name Sanna

One famous individual with the last name Sanna is Paolo Sanna, an Italian artist known for his incredible talent in painting and fine arts. His work has been showcased in numerous renowned galleries and exhibitions, captivating audiences with his unique style and attention to detail. Another notable figure is Francesco Sanna, an accomplished musician and composer. He has composed music for numerous films and has been recognized for his exceptional ability to evoke emotions through his compositions. Additionally, Roberto Sanna is a well-known athlete, widely regarded for his exceptional skills and achievements in the field of sports. He has represented his country on multiple occasions, bringing pride and success to his nation. These individuals with the last name Sanna have left an indelible mark in their respective fields, contributing to the world of art, music, and sports with their outstanding talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Sanna

The research on the last name Sanna reveals its origins in the Italian region of Sardinia. The name is believed to have derived from the personal name "Sanna," which may have been a variant of the biblical name "Susannah." Initially, individuals with the surname Sanna were likely to be found predominantly in Sardinia, particularly in the provinces of Cagliari and Sassari. Genealogical records indicate that the Sanna family has a rich history, with several notable individuals scattered throughout generations. The surname can be traced back to the medieval period, and records indicate the presence of Sanna families in various towns and villages across Sardinia. Over time, some members of the Sanna family have migrated to other parts of Italy and regions beyond, expanding the reach of the surname. Today, descendants of the Sanna family can still be found across Sardinia and beyond, contributing to various professions and sectors. Engaging in further research, such as exploring specific family lineages and connecting with living relatives, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Sanna family's genealogy.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Sanna"
• 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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