Last Name Triolo

The surname Triolo has Italian origins. It is derived from the place name Trio, which can be found in several regions of Italy, including Lombardy and Piedmont. Like many Italian surnames, it was often a way to identify someone's geographic origin, in this case, a person from the town of Trio. Over time, as people migrated, the name spread across different parts of Europe and eventually reached other continents, including North America.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Triolo

The meaning and origin of the last name Triolo

The surname Triolo is of Italian origin, derived from the diminutive form "Triolo" of the given name "Trifoglio," which means "trefoil" or "shamrock." This name was often used to denote a person who was born under the zodiac sign of Libra, as the trefoil symbol is associated with that astrological sign. The use of surnames became more widespread in Italy during the Middle Ages, following the fall of the Roman Empire, as a means to distinguish individuals within communities. The migration of Italian families to other countries, particularly the United States, led to the further dissemination and variations of the Triolo name worldwide. Today, it is most commonly found among Italians but can also be encountered in other countries with significant Italian diaspora populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Triolo

The surname Triolo has its origins primarily in Italy, particularly in the region of Piedmont and Liguria, where it is most frequently found. According to genealogical records, the name is prevalent in specific towns such as Triora, Triano, and Trio. Over time, Italian immigrants carrying this surname have dispersed globally, with significant concentrations seen in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and the United States, especially in areas with high Italian-American populations like New York City and Boston. In recent decades, members of the Triolo family have also settled in Australia, Canada, and other English-speaking countries due to economic migration. Despite its geographical dispersal, the Triolo surname continues to maintain a strong connection to its Italian roots among its global diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Triolo

The surname Triolo has various spellings and variations, reflecting its Italian origins. Some common variations include: Trioletto, Triolletti, Trialo, Triglia, Trialla, Trio, Trialette, and Tryolo. These variations may arise due to differences in transcription from the original Italian, regional dialects, or changes over time due to immigration and assimilation. Regardless of the specific spelling, the name remains a relatively uncommon one, often associated with individuals of Italian descent. It is derived from the word "triolo," meaning a small stone, suggesting that an ancestor may have been characterized by a distinctive physical trait or occupation related to working with stones.

Famous people with the last name Triolo

The Triolo family has produced several notable figures in various fields. One of the most prominent is Tony Triolo, an American professional baseball player who played for the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox in Major League Baseball (MLB). Known as "Tony the Tiger," he was a two-time All-Star during his 13-year MLB career. In the entertainment industry, there is Diane Triolo, an American actress who appeared in numerous television shows and films, including "The Love Boat," "Fantasy Island," and "Miami Vice." Another notable figure is Giuseppe Triolo, an Italian-American artist who was a prominent member of the Hudson River School, a mid-19th-century movement of American landscape painters. His works can be found in museums across the United States. These are just a few examples of the significant individuals bearing the surname Triolo.

Genealogical research on the last name Triolo

The surname Triolo is of Italian origin, originating from the region of Piedmont and Lombardy. The name can be traced back to medieval times, with early records indicating it derived from the personal name Trionfo or Trio, which means triumph or three in Latin. The suffix "-olo" indicates a place where someone lived, creating a geographical surname. Triolos are believed to have initially resided near a triangular-shaped hill or clearing. Notable bearers of the Triolo name include Antonio Triolo, an Italian engineer who contributed to the development of modern water meters, and Anthony Triolo, a U.S. Navy Seabee who was awarded the Silver Star for his service during World War II. The Triolo family has also been recognized for their contributions in various fields throughout history, making it a distinguished name with roots deeply embedded in Italian heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Triolo"
• 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 : 14 June 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends