What is the origin of the last name Bocci?

The surname Bocci has Italian origins. It is derived from the occupational name for a bowler or a seller of balls, derived from the Italian word "boccio" which means ball. This surname was often used by people involved in the leatherworking trade, as they frequently crafted items such as balls and other sporting equipment. The name may also have been a nickname for someone with a round face or physique.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bocci

The meaning and origin of the last name Bocci

The surname Bocci is an Italian name that derives from the occupation of a "bocciaio," which translates to "ball maker" or "potter." The term "boccia" refers to a type of heavy ball used in medieval times for various purposes, such as weighing goods or playing games. Over time, this occupation-based surname became common among Italian families who were skilled in the art of pottery and ball making. The Bocci family name can be found throughout Italy, particularly in regions like Tuscany and Umbria, where pottery has a long historical tradition.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bocci

The surname Bocci is predominantly found in Italy and its diaspora communities. In Italy, it is most common in regions such as Emilia-Romagna, Lazio, Tuscany, and Marche, reflecting the historical origins of the name from these areas. The Bocci family is one of the most prominent clans in the city of Sassuolo, Modena, Emilia-Romagna. Outside Italy, significant numbers of people with the surname Bocci can be found in countries with a strong Italian immigrant presence, such as Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and the United States. In the US, high concentrations of the Bocci family reside in areas like New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, California, and Massachusetts.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bocci

The surname Bocci can be found with various spellings due to regional dialects and transcription errors over time. Here are some common variants:

1. Bocce (pronounced as 'bochi' in Italian)
2. Bocchi
3. Bozzi
4. Buzzi
5. Bucchi
6. Buozzi
7. Bosci
8. Busci
9. Buosi

These variations originate from the Italian word "boccia," which means "ball" in English, and is likely derived from a profession related to balls or games. The surname Bocci/Bocce is common among Italian speakers, particularly those of Tuscan origin.

Famous people with the last name Bocci

Two notable individuals bearing the surname Bocci are Giuseppe Bocci (1876-1940), an Italian painter who was prominent during the early 20th century, and Alessandro Bocci (born 1983), a professional footballer from Italy. Giuseppe Bocci is known for his works that often depicted scenes of daily life in southern Italy. On the other hand, Alessandro Bocci played as a midfielder for various Italian football clubs and represented the Italian national team. Notably, he was part of the squad that won the UEFA European Championship in 2021. Both individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, with Giuseppe Bocci leaving a lasting impact on Italian art and Alessandro Bocci excelling in the world of football.

Genealogical research on the last name Bocci

The surname Bocci is an Italian patronymic originating from the medieval given name "Boccaccio," which means "mouthy" or "talkative." It emerged as a surname during the late Middle Ages, often used for people who were known for their eloquence or lively personalities. The Bocci family has been traced back to several regions in Italy, with significant concentrations in Tuscany, Lazio, and Emilia-Romagna. Notable figures with the last name Bocci include the Italian film director Pupi Avati, the footballer Enrico Bocchi, and the opera singer Maria Bocci. The family's history and migration patterns suggest a strong connection to Tuscany, where many members have resided for generations. Genealogical research on the Bocci surname continues to uncover its extensive branches and migrations throughout Italy and beyond.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

Last updated :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names