Merlino (surname)

Merlino is an Italian surname. It is believed to derive from the given name "Merlino," the Italian form of Merlin, the legendary wizard from Arthurian legend. The surname likely originated as a patronymic or nickname, used to identify someone associated with a person named Merlino, or someone who possessed qualities reminiscent of the mythical Merlin (e.g., wise, enigmatic).

The surname is primarily found in Italy, particularly in the southern regions. Emigration from Italy throughout the 19th and 20th centuries has resulted in the presence of the surname Merlino in other countries, including the United States, Argentina, and Australia.

Variations of the name include Merlini, Merlone, and other related forms, reflecting regional dialectal differences and variations in spelling over time. The surname, like many surnames with roots in folklore or mythology, carries a historical and cultural significance, connecting individuals to a broader narrative and past.