Numele de familie Lupu și Ursu: de la apelative zoomorfe la antroponime moștenite [Articol]

Abstract

The study traces the evolution of Romanian anthroponymy through the prism of names inspired by native fauna. Names such as Lupu, Ursu, initially circulated as first names and later became family names. In popular beliefs, the attribution of “wild” or “ugly” names to children, especially in cases of illness, had an apotropaic purpose – protection against evil spirits. Lupu and Ursu have a special status in the Geto-Dacian tradition, being considered symbols of strength and vitality. The practice of the double name – one Christian and one with a protective function – reflects a syncretism between archaic traditions and the Christian religion. Medieval documents attest to numerous variants of these names, such as Lupul, Lupaşcu, Ursan or Ursachi, demonstrating their continuity and adaptability over time.