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Last Name Zena

What is the origin of the last name Zena?

The last name Zena is of Italian origin. It is derived from the personal name Zeno, which is of Greek origin meaning "gift of Zeus." It was a popular given name in Italy during the Middle Ages and eventually evolved into a surname.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Zena

The meaning and origin of the last name Zena

The surname Zena is of Italian origin and derived from the given name Zeno, which in turn is a variation of the Greek name Zenon, meaning "gift of Zeus" or "hospitable." The name Zeno has historical significance as it was the name of several saints and rulers, including the Greek philosopher Zeno of Citium and the Byzantine emperor Zeno. Over time, the surname Zena spread throughout Italy and beyond, carried by individuals and families with roots in Italian regions such as Sicily, Veneto, and Lombardy. Today, individuals with the surname Zena can be found in various parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zena

The surname Zena is most commonly found in Italy, particularly in the northern regions of Lombardy, Piedmont, and Veneto. It is also present in smaller numbers in other parts of Europe, such as Spain, Portugal, and Romania. In the United States, the surname Zena is relatively rare but can be found across the country, with higher concentrations in states like California and New York. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Zena indicates its roots in Italy, with smaller populations in various other European countries and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zena

The last name Zena may have various spellings and variations, including Xena, Zeina, Zenna, and Zina. These variations may be influenced by factors such as regional differences, individual family preferences, or historical changes in pronunciation and spelling conventions. Additionally, the last name Zena may be spelled with a different first letter, such as Sena or Vena, due to errors in transcription or phonetic similarity. Despite these variations in spelling, the last name Zena remains a distinctive surname with a unique history and cultural significance.

Famous people with the last name Zena

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Zena include Noelle Zena Impey, a British television presenter and actress known for her work in children's television, as well as Andrea Zena, an Italian actress known for her roles in various Italian films and television shows. Additionally, Maalik Zena is a professional basketball player who has played for several teams in the NBA, while Natali Zena is a well-known American actress who has appeared in numerous movies and television series. Overall, the Zena family name has been associated with success and talent in various fields, making these individuals noteworthy figures in their respective industries.

Genealogical research on the last name Zena

The surname Zena is of Italian origin, derived from the given name Zenone, which is the Italian form of the Greek name Zenon. The name Zenon itself is derived from the Greek word "zenos," meaning "stranger" or "foreigner." The Zena surname is commonly found in Italy, particularly in regions such as Lombardy and Veneto. Research on the genealogy of the Zena surname reveals a long history in Italy, with many individuals bearing this name tracing their ancestry back several generations in the country. The name may also have Jewish origins, as it is found in Jewish communities in Italy and other parts of the world, indicating a diverse and multi-cultural heritage for individuals with the Zena surname.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 April 2025

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