The surnames Figliuzzi, Figlioli, Figliuolo, Figliulo, Figliola, among others, derive from the medieval Italian name Figlio, which means "son". They are hypocoristic or diminutive/affective forms, often used as surnames derived from the family appellative.

In many cases, especially in the south of Italy, these surnames were assigned by institutions in charge of receiving and caring for abandoned or foundling children, in particular during the 17th to 19th centuries.

Geographical distribution in Italy

• Figliuzzi is a typically Calabrian surname, with high concentration in: Serra San Bruno (province of Vibo Valentia); San Giovanni in Fiore (province of Cosenza); Crotone and the city of Rome.
• Figlioli presents nuclei in: Anagni and Sora (Frosinone area, Lazio); Pozzuoli (Neapolitan area).
• Figliuolo has its origin in the zone between Avellino and Potenza. It may derive from the place name Figlioli in the Avellino area or directly from the medieval name.
• Figliulo, very rare, appears in Valva, in the Salerno area, and is a Campanian dialectal form of the same origin (Figliuolo).

Documented variants

• Figliuzzi
• Figlioli
• Figliuolo
• Figliuola / Figliola
• Figliulo
• Figliuoli
• Figliotto (less frequent alternative form)

Additional notes

• These surnames reflect a cultural and social tradition related to the family structure and the institutions of reception of children in the south of Italy.
• The use of diminutive forms was common to refer with affection or to indicate the condition of son or minor.