History and Significance of the Surname De finis

The Origin of the Surname "De Finis"

The surname "De Finis" is of Italian origin and is derived from the Latin word "finis," which means "end" or "boundary." In ancient Italy, this surname was given to families who lived near the borders of a town or region. Over time, the surname became more common in Italy and eventually spread to other countries around the world.

Italian Incidence

In Italy, the surname "De Finis" is relatively common, with an incidence of 1124 according to the latest data. This suggests that there are a significant number of families with this surname living in various regions of Italy. The surname is most prevalent in central and southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Campania, Sicily, and Calabria.

International Spread

Outside of Italy, the surname "De Finis" is less common but still present in countries such as Brazil, the United States, Argentina, and Switzerland. In Brazil, the surname has an incidence of 25, indicating a small but noticeable presence of families with this surname in the country. Similarly, in the United States, there are approximately 21 families with the surname "De Finis."

In Argentina and Switzerland, the surname has incidences of 17 and 13, respectively. This suggests that there are several families with the surname "De Finis" residing in these countries. Other countries with smaller incidences of the surname include England, Venezuela, Paraguay, Australia, Belgium, Germany, Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Serbia.

Variations of the Surname

Like many surnames, "De Finis" has various spelling variations that have evolved over time. Some common variations of the surname include "Definis," "Deffinis," and "DeFinis." These variations may be the result of regional dialects or simply the evolution of language over the centuries.

Despite these variations, the core meaning of the surname remains the same – a reference to boundaries or borders. This ties back to the original Latin meaning of "finis" and the historical context in which the surname was first used.

Family Crest and Coat of Arms

As with many ancient surnames, the family crest and coat of arms associated with the surname "De Finis" have a rich history and symbolism. The crest typically features imagery related to borders or boundaries, such as a shield or a castle wall. These symbols may represent the family's origins near a town or region's borders.

Additionally, the colors and patterns on the family crest may have specific meanings or associations. For example, the use of gold or silver in the crest may symbolize wealth or nobility, while the inclusion of red may signify courage or strength.

Notable Individuals with the Surname

Over the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the surname "De Finis" or its variations. These individuals may have made significant contributions to various fields, such as politics, the arts, or academia.

One such individual is Giovanni De Finis, an Italian painter from the Renaissance period known for his exquisite portrait work. Another notable figure is Maria De Finis, a prominent politician in Brazil who championed social welfare programs for disadvantaged communities.

These individuals and others like them have helped shape the legacy of the surname "De Finis" and have added to its historical significance.

Overall, the surname "De Finis" is a fascinating name with a rich history and global reach. From its origins in Italy to its spread to other countries, the surname has endured over the centuries and continues to be a part of many families' identities. Whether as a nod to boundaries or a symbol of heritage, the surname "De Finis" carries with it a legacy that is both unique and enduring.