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Last Name Coccaro

What is the origin of the last name Coccaro?

The surname "Coccaro" is of Italian origin. It comes from various places in Italy, primarily the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy. The name is thought to be derived from the word "cucaro", which means "sweetmeat" or "confectionery" in some northern Italian dialects. As with many Italian surnames, it was originally an occupational name for a confectioner or pastry maker.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Coccaro

The meaning and origin of the last name Coccaro

The surname Coccaro is an Italian patronymic name derived from a given name "Cocco," which was originally a diminutive form of the male personal name "Costanzo" or "Costante." The name Costanzo/Costante is of Latin origin, coming from the Roman names Constans (steadfast) and Constantius (constant). Over time, the name "Cocco" became a nickname for someone who had red hair or a reddish complexion due to its association with the Italian word "coccina," meaning "red hot furnace." The surname Coccaro emerged as families carrying this nickname settled in various regions of Italy, particularly in Piedmont and Lombardy. It is important to note that surnames did not become mandatory or standardized across Europe until the Middle Ages, so regional variations in spelling and pronunciation of the name Coccaro are common.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coccaro

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Variants and spellings of the last name Coccaro

The surname Coccaro has several spelling variations, largely due to differences in transliteration and regional pronunciation over time. Some of these variants include: Coccaro, Cozcaro, Coccara, Costaro, Coccare, Cozzaro, Cosaro, Coccari, Coccarino, and Cozzarelli. Each region where the name is prevalent may have its own unique spelling or pronunciation. For example, in Italian-speaking regions, the surname is most commonly written as Coccaro or Coccara. In other regions or among diaspora communities, variations such as Costaro or Cozzarelli might be more common. Regardless of the specific spelling, all these names likely descend from a common ancestor or occupational origin associated with the crafting and selling of cocci, which are small stones used in construction or pottery.

Famous people with the last name Coccaro

The Cocaros are a notable family with Italian origins, boasting several distinguished members across various fields. One of the most renowned is Dr. Frank Coccaro, a prominent neuroscientist who served as the president of the Society for Neuroscience from 2014 to 2015. In addition to his academic achievements, he has made significant contributions to understanding Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. On the entertainment front, there is Joe Coccaro, an Emmy Award-winning producer who has worked on numerous popular television shows such as "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" and "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver." In the world of sports, David Coccaro, a former professional footballer, represented Italy's youth teams before embarking on a successful career in Germany. Lastly, Maria Coccaro, an accomplished lawyer, is recognized for her work advocating for immigrant rights and women's issues in New York City. These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and achievements of those bearing the surname Coccaro.

Genealogical research on the last name Coccaro

The surname Coccaro is Italian in origin, stemming from regions such as Lombardy and Piedmont. Historically, the name Coccaro was associated with the artisanal profession of goldsmiths and jewellers, with early records dating back to the 13th century in towns like Bergamo and Vercelli. The name is derived from the Latin "cucullus," meaning hood or cowl, possibly referring to a family known for making or selling hooded garments.

As Italian migration increased in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Coccaro families emigrated to countries like the United States, Argentina, Brazil, and Canada, dispersing the lineage further. In North America, Coccaros have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, business, academia, and the arts.

Today, the Coccaro family tree is vast and varied, with branches spread across continents, maintaining their rich Italian heritage while adapting to new cultural environments. Genealogical research is an ongoing process, with many resources available for those seeking to trace their Coccaro roots or connect with other members of the extended family.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 15 June 2025

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