Origin of the surname Paterno

This Italian surname is believed to be a short form of the better known 'Paternoster'. This is an occupational surname for a maker of rosaries, chaplets and beads. However it may equally have had some religious or even civil roll in its own right, with 'pater' being used not in the normal sense of a 'father', but perhaps as a status name to imply leadership, or even some religious activity. On the other hand it may also have been a simple nickname for a person who looked like a father figure. The medieval times everywhere in Europe was one of those periods in history when 'robust humour' was all the rage with little regard for personal squeamishness.

There are few straight lines with surnames, and even fewer with those of Italian origins, where different meanings were ascribed to the same word or in this case surname, in different parts of the country. We are fortunate with this surname in that we have been able to find good recording examples in different regions, as again the Italian records are notorious for their erratic or non existent content. These recordings include: Benedetto Paterno, a witness at Erice, Trapano, on October 28th 1584, and Pietro Paterno who married Maria Calalano at Adelfia, Bari, on November 18th 1612.

The surname Paterno. Genealogy, origin, history, meaning, and significance

The history of the surname paterno is, like that of most surnames, a complex and fascinating journey to ancient times with the aim of unraveling the origin of paterno. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of paterno.

The surname Paterno around the world

It is common for surnames like paterno to become known in places far removed from their country or region of origin. Discover which ones.

History of Paterno

The historical journey of the surname paterno can be traced back to those who were the first bearers of paterno. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname paterno.

You can visit us regularly to get more information about the origin of the surname paterno, as we frequently accept significant contributions from other individuals interested in heraldry and the history of surnames.

Notable Figures Named Paterno

Unfortunately, it's highly probable that not all paternos who performed notable deeds have been included in historical chronicles and records. If you or someone you know bears the surname paterno, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues. It is our desire to highlight in this section those individuals with the surname paterno who, for various reasons, have left their mark on the course of history.

The surname Paterno and its bibliographic sources

It goes without saying that consulting bibliographic and documentary sources is essential when accessing information about the origins of the surname paterno. Accessing the archives of the town or towns where your ancestors were born and lived is, of course, a good way to trace the origins of paterno.

SOURCES

These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of paterno, and at the same time, of surnames in general.

Origin of Paterno