The Meaning and Origin of Xuereb

The surname Xuereb is a well-known Maltese family name with ancient roots and a curious meaning. Found throughout Malta and among Maltese communities abroad, the name has a long-standing presence in national records and history.

What Does “Xuereb” Mean?

The surname Xuereb is believed to come from the Arabic word šawārib, which means “moustaches”. In medieval times, names were often based on personal traits or appearance, so someone known for having a strong or prominent moustache may have received this nickname, which eventually became a family name.

Another variation of the origin is from the phrase Abū šawārib, meaning “father of moustaches”, again reflecting a descriptive style of naming.

Where Did the Name Come From?

The name Xuereb is of Maltese origin but has clear Siculo-Arabic roots, tracing back to the Arab and Sicilian influences in Malta’s history. The earliest documented mention of the name in Malta dates to 1517, where a “Tommeo Xuereb” was referred to as Nobile, meaning he was of noble status.

Today, Xuereb is a common surname in Malta, and its distinctive origin makes it a memorable part of the country’s linguistic and cultural heritage.

Notable People with the Surname Xuereb

Martin Xuereb: Former Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta and a respected figure in national defence.

Paul Xuereb: Served as Acting President of Malta in the late 1980s.

Raymond Xuereb: A former professional footballer who played for the Maltese national team.

Dexter Xuereb: A more recent football player contributing to Maltese sports.

Aaron Xuereb: A prominent name in Maltese club football.

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Badge source: il-lokal