Last Name Scarpulla

The last name Scarpulla is of Italian origin. It is derived from the word "scarpone," which means "big shoe" or "clumsy shoe" in Italian. It is possible that the name was originally a nickname given to someone who wore large or clumsy shoes. The name is found mainly in southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria and Sicily.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Scarpulla

The meaning and origin of the last name Scarpulla

The surname Scarpulla is of Italian origin and has evolved from the combination of two words, "scarpa" and "palla." "Scarpa" means shoe in Italian while "palla" refers to a ball. Therefore, the meaning of Scarpulla can be interpreted as "shoe ball" or "ball shoe." It is believed that the surname may have originated as a nickname for someone associated with shoemaking or a profession related to shoes. Alternatively, it could have been a playful allusion to someone with a notable gait or swift foot movements. Italian surnames often reflect a person's occupation, geographical location, or physical appearance, and Scarpulla falls into the realm of descriptive surnames. Over time, this surname has likely been passed down through generations, holding on to its original meaning and Italian heritage. Today, individuals with the surname Scarpulla can be found scattered worldwide, often carrying with them a connection to their Italian roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Scarpulla

The last name Scarpulla is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Sicily and Calabria. This surname is of Italian origin and is derived from the word "scarpola," meaning "shoe." As a result, it is likely that the name originally referred to someone who made or sold shoes. Over time, individuals with the surname Scarpulla may have migrated to other countries, such as the United States, where they may have settled in areas with large Italian immigrant populations, such as New York and New Jersey. Today, individuals with the last name Scarpulla can be found throughout the United States and in various other countries around the world, but the largest concentration remains in Italy.

Variants and spellings of the last name Scarpulla

Scarpulla is an Italian surname that can be spelled in various ways due to differences in pronunciation and transliteration. Some common variations include Scarpulla, Scarpula, Scarppula, Scarpulla, and Scarfulla. These variations may be the result of regional accents or dialects within Italy, as well as errors in transcription or translation over time. Despite the slight differences in spelling, all of these variations ultimately stem from the same Italian root word "scarpa," meaning "shoe." The Scarpulla surname is most commonly found in southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Sicily and Calabria. Regardless of the specific spelling, individuals with this surname share a common heritage and likely have ancestors who were involved in the shoemaking or leatherworking trades.

Famous people with the last name Scarpulla

Although the last name Scarpulla may not be the most well-known, it is worth acknowledging a few notable individuals who bear this surname. Robert Scarpulla is a respected American photographer whose works have been featured in various exhibitions and galleries. As a passionate visual artist, his photographs often depict mesmerizing landscapes, captivating portraits, and thought-provoking compositions. In the world of law, Judge Joseph L. Scarpulla gained recognition as a prominent New York State Supreme Court Justice. Known for his impartiality, wisdom, and extensive legal expertise, Judge Scarpulla has made a significant impact in ensuring justice in the state's legal system. Lastly, Mary Scarpulla, an accomplished scientist, deserves recognition for her contributions to the field of molecular biology. Her research, which focuses on understanding the mechanisms of genetic diseases, has laid the foundation for potential breakthroughs in medical treatments. These individuals, each excelling in their respective fields of art, law, and science, exemplify the Scarpulla name's dedication and excellence.

Genealogical research on the last name Scarpulla

The last name Scarpulla is believed to have originated in Italy, specifically in the southern region of Calabria. The name is thought to be of toponymic origin, deriving from the Italian word "scarp" meaning slope or hill. The earliest recorded instances of the surname date back to the Middle Ages, and it is likely that the name was originally used to denote someone who lived near a steep slope or hill. Over time, individuals with the surname Scarpulla spread across Italy and beyond, with some immigrating to other countries such as the United States. Today, there are still individuals with the last name Scarpulla residing in various parts of the world, carrying on the family lineage and heritage of their ancestors.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "scarpulla"
• 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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