Last Name Zerafa

The last name Zerafa is of Mediterranean origins, particularly common among Maltese and Sicilian families. It is derived from the Arabic word "Zarafah" meaning "proud falcon." This name was likely brought to these regions by the Arab conquerors during their occupation in medieval times. The name may have been adapted or transliterated into local languages, leading to various spellings and pronunciations over time.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zerafa

The meaning and origin of the last name Zerafa

The surname Zerafa is primarily of Mediterranean origin, particularly prevalent among Maltese and Sicilian families. It is derived from the Arabic word "Zarifa" or "Zera'ifah," which means 'noble' or 'princess.' This suggests that individuals bearing this name may have originated from nobility or royal families in the Islamic world, possibly during the Arab rule over Malta and Sicily between the 9th and 16th centuries. The name could have been assimilated into local cultures, adopted as a surname to distinguish lineage or social status. Over time, variations of the name such as Zarafa, Zerafi, Zerafia, etc., emerged due to phonetic changes, regional dialects, and migration patterns.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zerafa

The surname Zerafa is primarily concentrated within the Mediterranean region, with a significant portion found among Maltese individuals, reflecting its historical origins in Malta. Smaller populations of Zerafas can also be found in Italy and other European countries due to migration patterns over centuries. Additionally, there are pockets of Zerafas in various diaspora communities across the world, particularly in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as a result of post-World War II and modern migration trends. It is also worth noting that the name has been adopted by individuals outside its traditional regions, albeit less frequently. The geographical dispersion of Zerafa thus offers a glimpse into both historical migration patterns and contemporary transnational mobility.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zerafa

The surname Zerafa possesses various spelling and pronunciation variants due to regional differences and individual preferences. Some common versions include:

* Zarifah (Arabic)
* Zarifa (Russian, Persian)
* Zerifas (Greek)
* Zerifa (English, using the standard English spelling rule for names of foreign origin)
* Zerafa (Maltese, which is the most common version in Malta)
* Zeraffa (Italian, with an additional 'f' at the end)
* Zarif (Albanian)

It is essential to note that these variations can be found not only among people of different nationalities but also within a single ethnic group due to factors such as regional dialects, historical influences, or personal preference. This diversity reflects the rich cultural tapestry that defines many families worldwide.

Famous people with the last name Zerafa

The Zerafa surname is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. One of the most renowned figures is Joseph Zerafa, a Maltese professional footballer who plays as a defender for Cypriot club APOEL and the Malta national team. Another prominent figure is Dr. John Zerafa, a distinguished Australian neurosurgeon and academic, known for his groundbreaking work in the field of brain tumor surgery. Lastly, there's Zerafa Towers, an architectural landmark in Valletta, Malta, designed by Giuseppe Profiri Zerafa, an Italian-Maltese architect who was instrumental in shaping the capital city during British rule. While these individuals may not be universally known, they have each made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Zerafa

The surname Zerafa originates from the Mediterranean region, specifically Malta and Sicily, with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages. In Maltese, the name is believed to have derived from "Zirafa," an Arabic term for giraffe, suggesting a possible originator may have been a tall or distinctive individual. In Sicily, Zerafa could potentially be a variant of the Italian surname "Cirafa," which comes from "cira," meaning circular or wheel, and "fa," a diminutive suffix. The Zerafa family was historically prominent in Malta, with several members serving as knights in the Order of St. John (Knight Hospitallers) and contributing to the island's history and culture. Today, the surname Zerafa is predominantly found among Maltese and Sicilian diaspora communities worldwide.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "zerafa"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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