The surname Sgro is of Italian origin. It is derived from a place name or occupation related to a marketplace or exchange, specifically "il mercato" in Italian, which translates to "the market" in English. This surname was originally used as a nickname for someone who lived near or worked at such a place. Over time, it became a hereditary name passed down through generations in various regions of Italy.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Sgro
The surname Sgro is of Italian origin, specifically from the southern regions of Italy such as Sicily and Campania. It is derived from various places named "Sgro" or "Sgrò" in these areas, which are thought to be related to the Latin term "scrofula," meaning a tubercular swelling under the jaw. Over time, this place name became a surname for individuals living near these locations or bearing some resemblance to their physical features. The Sgro family is also believed to have origins in Normandy, France, where they were Norman settlers in Sicily during the medieval period. Throughout history, people with the surname Sgro have been noted for their contributions to various fields such as art, law, and politics in Italy and other parts of Europe.
Geographical distribution of the last name Sgro
The surname Sgro is predominantly Italian in origin, with the highest concentration found in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria, Campania, Sicily, and Apulia. Smaller numbers of people with the last name Sgro can also be found in other Italian regions, such as Lazio, Tuscany, and Emilia-Romagna. In addition to Italy, there are significant communities of individuals bearing the surname Sgro in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, due to a large wave of Italian immigration during the 20th century. Smaller numbers can also be found in the United States, Australia, Argentina, and other countries that have seen significant Italian immigration. It is important to note that the distribution of this surname reflects historical patterns of migration from Italy rather than any specific genetic or ethnic homogeneity.
Variants and spellings of the last name Sgro
The surname Sgro has several variations and spellings, which may include: Sgroi, Sgrò, Sgroe, Sgroiello, Sgrue, Sgriu, and Sgherri. These variants are derived from the same Italian root, "Sgro," but may differ due to regional dialects, transcription errors over time, or personal preference. Additionally, some families have anglicized the name to Sgroi or Sgro for easier pronunciation in English-speaking countries. Each variant carries a similar cultural and historical background, often originating from Italian-speaking regions such as Sicily, Calabria, or Campania.
Famous people with the last name Sgro
The Sgro surname has produced several notable figures across various fields. In politics, Michael Sgro served as a Democratic member of the Nevada Assembly representing District 4 from 2013 to 2017. He also ran for Clark County Commission Chair in 2018. Another significant figure is Maria Sgro, an Italian-Canadian actress and television host, who gained fame for her roles in Canadian television series such as "Street Legal" and "Due South." In the world of academia, Joseph Sgro was a distinguished professor of psychology at the University of Rhode Island, known for his research on memory. Lastly, Mark Sgro, an American businessman, founded the company, Sgroi & Company, a leading provider of staffing solutions in the technology sector. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing the versatility and influence of the Sgro surname.
Genealogical research on the last name Sgro
The surname Sgro originates from Italy, specifically the region of Sicily and Calabria. It is an Italian-Sicilian patronymic name derived from the personal name Sergio or its diminutive form "Sergiotto," which were common names among ancient Romans. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation have slightly varied, leading to alternative forms such as Sgroi, Schergo, or Cergio in various Italian dialects.
The first recorded instances of the name date back to the Middle Ages in Sicily, with notable bearers of the surname appearing in religious and governmental records throughout the subsequent centuries. Many members of the Sgro family migrated from Italy to other parts of Europe, particularly France and Spain, during the 15th and 16th centuries as a result of political upheavals and economic instability.
In more recent history, some branches of the Sgro family emigrated to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, settling primarily in New York City and other major eastern urban centers. Today, the Sgro surname remains prominent among Italo-Americans, with notable descendants including entertainers, athletes, and politicians. The Sgro family tree has expanded globally, with branches extending across Europe, North America, South America, Australia, and even Africa.
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