Last Name Terranova

The last name Terranova has Italian origins. It is derived from the Italian words "terra" meaning "earth" and "nova" meaning "new". Therefore, Terranova can be translated to "new land" or "new earth". This surname likely originated from a place name or a description of someone who came from a newly settled or recently discovered piece of land. The name is most commonly found in regions of Southern Italy, particularly Sicily and Calabria.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Terranova

The meaning and origin of the last name Terranova

The name Terranova is of Italian origin and derives its roots from the Latin "Terra Nova", literally meaning "new land". This name may refer to a person from a newly discovered or colonized land, or someone whose ancestors have migrated to a new area. It is also possible that the name refers to a physical or geographical characteristic of the person, indicating an origin related to a specific land. Persons with the Terranova family name are therefore likely to have Italian ancestors and come from certain regions of Italy, thus forming part of the rich history and culture of this Mediterranean country.

Geographical distribution of the last name Terranova

The name Terranova is mainly present in Italy, where it is native. More specifically, it is widespread in Sicily, a region in the south of Italy. There are also people with this name in other parts of Italy, such as Calabria and Campania. However, individuals with the Terranova family name can also be found in other countries, such as the United States, Canada and Argentina, mainly due to Italian emigration in recent centuries. Thus, although the Terranova family name is mainly concentrated in Italy, its dispersion abroad makes it a relatively common family name in several countries of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Terranova

Terranova is an Italian family name that can also be spelled in different variants such as Terra Nova, Terranove, Terranava, Terranico, Terra Nuova, Terranuova, Terranova dei Passerini, Terranovaldese, Terranovele and others. These different forms bear witness to the diversity of the Italian regions from which this family name comes, from the southern regions such as Calabria or Sicily, to the northern part of Italy. In addition to the spelling variations, there are also composed forms of Terranova, such as De Terranova or Del Terranova, which could indicate a particular geographical origin or pattern variation. Despite these various spellings and variations, the family name Terranova still retains its Italian origin and ancestral history.

Famous people with the last name Terranova

The family name Terranova is associated with several famous personalities, of which the best known is probably Salvatore Terranova. Born in Sicily in 1941, Salvatore Terranova is a former head of the Italian-American mafia, known for his involvement in drug trafficking and illegal gambling. He was repeatedly convicted for his criminal activities and was finally murdered in 1978. Besides Salvatore Terranova, there are also other personalities with this surname, such as Joe Terranova, a well-known financial analyst and regular contributor on CNBC. He is renowned for his expertise in investment and has published several books on the subject. Finally, the family name Terranova continues to attract public interest because of its association with organized crime and the world of finance.

Genealogical research on the last name Terranova

The surname Terranova is of Italian origin, specifically from the Sicilian region. It is derived from the Italian words "terra," meaning land, and "nova," meaning new. This suggests that the original bearers of the name may have been pioneers or settlers of new land. The Terranova family likely originated in Sicily and spread throughout Italy and other countries as they migrated or emigrated. Genealogical research on the Terranova name may reveal connections to other Italian families with similar surnames, as well as information on their occupations, religious affiliations, and social status. By tracing the lineage of the Terranova name, descendants can gain a better understanding of their family history and heritage, connecting them to their Sicilian roots and the ancestors who were among the first to settle new lands.

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