What is the origin of the last name Sorabilla?

The surname Sorabella is of Italian origin. It is derived from a variety of given names such as Sora, Sorabo, or Sorabotto, which are all of Lombard or Sicilian origin. The suffix "-ella" in Italian is often used to create diminutive forms of names. This surname may have been originally used as a nickname for someone who was small or youthful, as the name's original meaning is "little Sora," for example. However, it's important to note that surnames can have multiple possible origins and meanings, and their history can vary greatly depending on different factors such as regional dialects and migration patterns.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sorabilla

The meaning and origin of the last name Sorabilla

The surname Sorabilla is an Italian and Portuguese name derived from the given name Sabila, which is a variant of Sarah, a Hebrew name meaning "lady" or "princess." The name may have originated as a nickname for someone who was considered wise or noble. In Italy, the surname Sorabella is more common, with Sorabilla being a less frequent variation. The spelling variations such as Sorabella, Sorabelli, and Sorabo are also found among Italian families. Over time, it has been passed down through generations, becoming a distinguishing identifier for various families within these countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sorabilla

The surname Sorabella is predominantly found in Italy and Portugal. In Italy, it is most concentrated in the regions of Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Tuscany, and Umbria, reflecting its origin from the city of Soragna in the province of Parma, Emilia-Romagna. The name spread to other parts of Italy due to migrations over the centuries. In Portugal, it is found primarily in the northern regions such as Minho and Douro, where Italian immigrants brought the name during the 19th century. Additionally, there are also smaller populations bearing this surname in Brazil, Argentina, and the United States, resulting from Portuguese emigration to these countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sorabilla

The surname Sorabella or Sorabella can have various spelling variations, some of which include Sorabell, Sorabellae, Sorabel, Sorabelli, Sorabellis, and Sorabella-Lopez. These variations may arise due to differences in transcription over time, regional dialects, or personal preference. It is important to note that the correct spelling can depend on factors such as geographical location and family history. When conducting research or making official records, it is advisable to consider multiple spellings to ensure accuracy.

Famous people with the last name Sorabilla

Notable individuals with the surname Sorabella include:

1. Giulio Cesare Sorabella (1628-1704), an Italian composer and musician, best known for his operas and vocal music.
2. Giovanni Sorabella (born 1953), an American businessman and the former chairman and CEO of Delta Air Lines.
3. Giuseppe Sorabella (1624-1708), a Roman Catholic prelate who served as Bishop of Vagharshapat in Armenia from 1683 until his death.
4. Raffaele Sorabella (born 1961), an Italian politician and member of the Democratic Party, who served as a Deputy in the Chamber of Deputies from 2006 to 2018.
5. Vincenzo Sorabella (1748-1823), an Italian composer and music teacher active during the Neapolitan School period.

Genealogical research on the last name Sorabilla

The Sorabilla surname is of Italian origin and is believed to have originated from the region of Tuscany. Historically, it is thought to be a variant of the surname Sorbelli, which is derived from a geographical location or topographic feature, specifically a hill covered in wild cherry trees. The Sorabilla family is known to have resided in various parts of Italy over centuries, with notable appearances in Florence and other Tuscan cities.

Throughout history, the Sorabillas have contributed significantly to their respective communities. Notable figures include Luigi Sorabella, an Italian painter and engraver active during the 17th century, and Antonio Sorabella, a renowned composer and musician from the Baroque period. The surname has since spread across Europe and the Americas due to migration waves in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Sorabillas can be found in various countries, with a significant presence in Italy, the United States, and Brazil.

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