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Last Name Cocco

What is the origin of the last name Cocco?

The surname Cocco is of Italian origin and derives from the occupational name for a maker or seller of cakes, pastries, or other baked goods. In medieval Italy, many surnames were derived from various crafts, trades, or professions. The term "Cocco" comes from the Latin word "coccus," which means "lump of dough." Over time, it evolved into the Italian surname "Cocco."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cocco

The meaning and origin of the last name Cocco

The surname Cocco is of Italian origin, derived from the occupational name for a maker or seller of cakes, pastries, or confections. In Old Italian, "cocco" means cake or pastry. It's believed that the name was first used to identify someone who had this occupation or craft, possibly indicating a specialized skill in the preparation of sweets and baked goods. The surname Cocco is predominantly found in Italy but has also been transmitted to other countries through Italian immigration waves, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is worth noting that the surname's spelling can vary, with some families adopting minor variations such as Coco or Cozzo over time, reflecting regional dialects and historical changes in naming conventions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cocco

The surname Cocco is predominantly Italian in origin, with a significant concentration within Italy itself. According to data from various sources, the highest occurrences of the surname can be found in the regions of Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany, which are known for their dense population and rich history. A noticeable number of individuals bearing this name can also be found in Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean. The presence of Coccos outside Italy is relatively small but still significant. In Switzerland, a neighboring country with strong cultural ties to Italy, there is a substantial number of individuals with the surname. Additionally, smaller populations of people named Cocco reside in other European countries such as France, Spain, and Germany. A notable presence can also be found in Argentina, due to the large Italian immigration to that country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cocco

The surname Cocco has various spelling and pronunciation variations due to phonetic and regional differences. Some of these variants include Coco, Cozzo, Cozzo, Cozza, Coce, Coche, Cochi, Cochia, Coccia, and Coccetta. These alterations are primarily the result of the evolution of the Italian language over time and regional dialects. It is essential to note that these variations may affect how an individual's name is perceived or pronounced in different parts of the world. However, regardless of spelling or pronunciation, the surname Cocco is often associated with individuals of Italian origin who have made significant contributions in various fields such as music, art, literature, and cuisine.

Famous people with the last name Cocco

Among individuals bearing the surname Cocco, two have achieved significant fame in different realms. In music, La Crus, born as Fabrizio Coco, is an Italian singer-songwriter and guitarist who gained recognition for his unique blend of pop, rock, and electronic genres. His career spans over three decades, with several albums to his name and numerous collaborations. In television, Giuliana Rigonieri Cocco, known professionally as Giuliana DePandi or simply Giuliana, is a well-known American journalist and television personality of Italian descent. She has worked for networks such as Fox News, E! Entertainment Television, and NBC Universal. Additionally, she co-hosted the syndicated talk show "The Tyra Banks Show" and appeared in her own reality series "Giuliana & Bill," chronicling her life with her husband, former Chicago Bears player Bill Rancic. Both figures have made substantial contributions to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Cocco

The surname Cocco is of Italian origin and is believed to have derived from the Occitan word "còc", meaning "cook". In Italy, the name was originally occupational, indicating someone who was a cook or baker. Early records show that the Cocco family can be traced back to Tuscany during the Middle Ages. Some notable members of the Cocco family include the Italian composer Giuseppe Cocchi (1750-1824), who worked in Naples and Vienna, and the Italian patriot Angelo Cocchi (1762-1827), who was a key figure during the Neapolitan Revolution. The name has also been found in other regions of Italy, such as Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont, indicating that the family may have migrated from one region to another over time. In modern times, variations of the Cocco surname can be found throughout Europe and North America, particularly among Italian immigrants.

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 : 12 June 2025

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