Family Name History

The Italian surname Ceraso has several origins. Firstly, it is of local origin, deriving from a natural or man-made geographic feature near which the original bearer resided or held land. In this instance, the surname derives from the northern Italian word "ceresa," which means "cherry." It is possible to imagine the initial bearer of the name as someone who lived in an area where cherry trees grew in abundance. He adopted his surname the geographic feature which was located near his place of residence and served as a convenient landmark. We may thus interpret the surname Ceraso as meaning "one who dwelt near the cherry trees."

Alternatively, the surname may be of occupational origin. This type of surname derives from the occupation or trade of the progenitor. In this case, the surname Ceraso may have been applied to one who cultivated cherry trees, or someone who sold the fruit in the marketplace. The surname Ceraso therefore also means "son or descendant of the one who cultivated or sold cherries."

The surname Ceraso is a variant of the surname Ceresa. Other variants include Ceresi, Cerasa, Ceresia, Cerasi, and Ciraso. These surnames are found throughout Italy and vary according to region. For instance, Ceresa appears in northern Italy, while Cirasa appears in the regions of Calabria and Sicily.

Coat of Arms

In the archives we find a coat of arms, listed below, that was awarded to the Ceresia family from Aosta.

Blazon of Arms

Argent, on a grassy plane, a cherry tree leaved and fucted, all proper, to the dexter, a bear sable regardant and a rampant against the trunk.

Crest

A naked boy with the dexter foot raised, holding in the dexter hand a banner with the motto, "Dirtus Sola Lucescit."

Motto

Virtue Alone Shines Faith.

Origin

Italy