RIVA
Riva
Origin and Meaning: Riva is a British surname of Italian origin. The name is derived from the Italian word "riva," which means "bank" or "shore." It is thought to have originally been a topographic name for someone who lived near a riverbank or shore.
Distribution: The surname Riva is not as common as some other British surnames but can be found in various regions across the country.
Notable Individuals:
- Marcello Riva: A fictional character in the novel "A Farewell to Arms" by Ernest Hemingway.
- Giorgio Riva: A renowned Italian-English architect known for his innovative design work in London.
Variants: Variants of the surname Riva include Rivas, Rivall, and Riviera.
Coat of Arms: The Riva coat of arms features a shield with symbols of strength and loyalty, often depicting a riverbank or shore to reflect the name's meaning.
Genealogy: Researching Riva genealogy can lead to discoveries of Italian roots and connections to historical figures in both Italy and England.
Modern Significance: In modern times, the surname Riva serves as a reminder of the diverse cultural influences that have shaped British society, reflecting the blending of Italian and British heritage in individuals carrying this name.
There are approximately 265 people named Riva in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Riva.
Origin: Iberian
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: Spain
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Spanish
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Adrian
- Angelo
- Bruno
- Carlo
- Franco
- John
- Lawrence
- Mark
- Michael
- Robert
- Roy
- Stefan
- Victor
Female
- Alessandra
- Carol
- Corinna
- Danielle
- Elena
- Jane
- Mandy
- Mari
- Melanie
- Sally
- Sandra
- Sharon
- Susan
- Valentina