Last Name Sarnataro

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sarnataro

The meaning and origin of the last name Sarnataro

The surname Sarnataro is an Italian patronymic name derived from a given name or occupation related to tar, pitch, or bitumen. The name "Sarnataro" can be traced back to the Middle Ages, during which naming patterns in Italy frequently involved occupational names, nicknames, or place names being passed down as surnames.

In this specific case, "Sarnataro" may have been originally a nickname for someone who worked with tar or bitumen, perhaps a roofer or someone who made roads using these materials. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of the given name "Giovanni Sarnatarius," which is not commonly used today but was known in medieval Italy. Over time, as families migrated and populations grew, variations of the surname Sarnataro emerged, such as Saranata, Sarantaro, and others. The name remains relatively uncommon outside of Italy and communities with significant Italian diaspora.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sarnataro

The surname Sarnataro is primarily concentrated in Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania and Basilicata. A significant portion of people with this surname can be found in the Naples province, reflecting its roots in Campania. In Basilicata, it is less prevalent but still notable, particularly in the provinces of Potenza and Matera. Additionally, there are smaller populations of Sarnataro family members scattered across other Italian regions such as Lazio, Sicily, and Tuscany. Beyond Italy, there are also communities with the surname Sarnataro in countries with large Italian diasporas, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Spain, and the United States, where they have established their own strongholds, primarily along coastal cities and urban centers reflecting the historical patterns of Italian immigration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sarnataro

The surname Sarnataro has various spellings and variations. Some of these include Saranata, Saranater, Sarranato, and Saranatieri. Additionally, there are different ways to transliterate or phonetically transcribe the name from Italian into English. For example, it can be spelled as Serenataro, Serenatiaro, or Serinataro. These variations may arise due to differences in spelling conventions over time or regional dialects within Italy. It's also common for immigrants to adapt their surnames when settling in other countries, which can lead to further changes in spelling and pronunciation.

Famous people with the last name Sarnataro

The Sarnataro family has produced several notable figures across various fields. One of the most recognized is Anthony Sarnataro, an American television writer and producer. Known for his work on popular series such as "That '70s Show," "Malcolm in the Middle," and "Family Guy," Sarnataro has contributed significantly to the world of television entertainment.

In academia, Steven R. Sarnataro, a professor of political science at West Virginia University, is renowned for his research on civil rights and social movements. His work provides valuable insights into the dynamics of social change and contributes to ongoing discussions in this field.

Lastly, Rachel Sarnataro, an accomplished actress, has made appearances in numerous films and television shows. Notable roles include playing young Janet Weiss in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and a guest role on "Hawaii Five-0." She continues to work in the film industry, showcasing her versatile acting skills.

Genealogical research on the last name Sarnataro

The surname Sarnataro originates from Southern Italy, specifically the Apulia region. It is believed to be of Lombardic origin, with roots tracing back to the medieval period. The name can be translated as "son of Sarne", where "Sarne" is a personal name derived from the Old German "sar" meaning "spear" or "warrior".

Migration records show that many individuals bearing the Sarnataro surname emigrated from Italy to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily settling in urban areas such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston. These immigrants were often laborers or craftsmen, contributing to the growth and development of these cities during the Industrial Revolution.

In the U.S., variations of the name include Sarantaro, Sarnatar, and Saranata, all of which are believed to be phonetic adaptations of the original Italian spelling. Today, the Sarnataro family can be found in various parts of North America, with a significant concentration on the East Coast. Ongoing research is being conducted to trace the lineages and connections between different branches of the Sarnataro family across continents.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "sarnataro"
• 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 : 15 June 2025