reggi

Reggi is a proper noun that may refer to several unrelated uses in Italian-speaking contexts. It is primarily encountered as a surname in Italy and in place names where the element “Reggi” appears. The etymology is uncertain; it is likely derived from a toponymic source linked to places named Reggio or from the Latin regius meaning royal, but sources vary by family tradition.

As a surname, Reggi is relatively rare; spelling variants include Reggi and, less commonly, Righi or Regio in some families, though these are distinct surnames with separate lineages. The name may be found in genealogical records and in older civil registries, reflecting regional naming practices and migrations within Italy and to émigré communities abroad.

As a toponym, the form appears in historical or administrative records as part of longer place names; in modern usage, “Reggi” is not widely used as a standalone village name in current national registries. In many cases, it may occur as part of compound local toponyms or in archival documents referencing geographic features associated with a larger town or region.

Due to its rarity, there are no widely recognized individuals or works whose primary identification is “Reggi.” The name is primarily of interest to genealogists, historians of Italian onomastics, or individuals researching family histories connected to Italian-speaking regions.

See also Reggio, Regio, Regis.