What is the origin of the last name Scordino?

The surname Scordino is of Italian origin. It is derived from a nickname for someone who was clumsy or unskilled, specifically in music. The word "scordato" in Italian means "out of tune," and it was used as a mocking term for musicians who had difficulty playing their instruments. Over time, the name was passed down through generations, becoming a surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Scordino

The meaning and origin of the last name Scordino

The surname Scordino is an Italian patronymic name derived from the personal name Sordino, which means "mute" or "deaf" in Italian. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was physically impaired in their hearing. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname in Italy, particularly in regions such as Sicily and Calabria. Notable figures with the Scordino surname include Giuseppe Scordino, an Italian opera singer, and Salvatore Scordino, a mathematician known for his work on algebraic geometry. Like many Italian surnames, Scordino is a reflection of Italy's rich cultural history and its unique naming traditions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Scordino

The Scordino surname, of Italian origin, is primarily concentrated within Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Calabria and Sicily. These two regions account for the highest percentage of individuals bearing this name. Migration patterns show that many Scordinos emigrated from Italy to other countries, with significant populations found in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, due to Italian immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller communities can also be found in the United States, Canada, and Australia, as a result of later waves of migration. In recent years, there has been a growing Scordino diaspora in various parts of Europe, particularly Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, due to work opportunities and increased mobility.

Variants and spellings of the last name Scordino

The surname Scordino has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and historical changes. Some of these variations include Scordin, Scordini, Scordinoz, Scordina, Scordinis, and Scordonio. These variations may stem from different geographical origins, migration waves, or simple spelling errors over time. It is important to note that surnames can change over generations due to a variety of factors, including linguistic changes, cultural assimilation, and personal preference. In genealogical research, it is crucial to consider all possible variations when tracing family history.

Famous people with the last name Scordino

The Scordinos are a notable family with various distinguished members across different fields. In the realm of cinema, Paolo Scordino is known for his work as an Italian screenwriter and film director, best recognized for his contributions to the films "The Best of Youth" and "My Brother Is an Only Child." In the world of music, Giuseppe Scordino was a renowned operatic tenor in Italy during the late 19th century. More recently, Maria Scordino is a celebrated Italian actress, recognized for her roles in television series such as "Rocco Schiavone" and "The Young Montalbano." Lastly, Antonella Scordino is an Italian politician who served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies from 2013 to 2018, representing the center-left Democratic Party. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements and talents within the Scordino family.

Genealogical research on the last name Scordino

The Scordino surname is believed to have originated from Southern Italy, specifically Calabria and Sicily regions. Historical records indicate that the name Scordino, derived from the Italian word "scordato," meaning untied or disheveled, was a nickname given to someone with wild or unkempt hair. The family is thought to have migrated from Italy to other European countries during the Middle Ages, with notable settlements in France and Spain.

In France, records show that Scordinos began appearing in Normandy and Languedoc regions in the 12th century. In Spain, the name is found primarily in Aragon and Valencia from the 16th century onwards. The family later dispersed to other parts of Europe due to various factors such as religious persecution, trade, and exploration.

Scordinos also migrated to the Americas, with significant populations in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and the United States, particularly New York and Pennsylvania, starting from the 19th century during European immigration waves. The family has maintained its presence across these regions and continues to grow today.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
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 :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names