Last Name Crocetti

Learn more about the origin of the last name Crocetti

The meaning and origin of the last name Crocetti

The surname Crocetti is an Italian patronymic name derived from the given name Croce, which means 'cross' in Italian. It is a common Italian surname that has origins rooted in the Middle Ages, where it was often given as a nickname to someone who was shaped like a cross or had some characteristic resembling a cross. The name Crocetti, specifically, may have originated from various regions of Italy, with potential roots in Tuscany, Liguria, and Emilia-Romagna. Over the centuries, this surname has been spelled in different ways due to variations in regional pronunciation and script, including Crocceti, Cocetti, and Crosetti, among others. Today, the name remains popular within Italy and has also spread globally through Italian immigration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Crocetti

The surname Crocetti has its origins in Italy, particularly in regions such as Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. It is primarily concentrated in cities like Florence, Bologna, and Genoa. Over the years, individuals bearing this surname have emigrated from Italy to other parts of the world, including Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. In Argentina, Crocetti is most prevalent in the provinces of Buenos Aires and Cordoba, reflecting the Italian immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the United States, states with significant numbers of individuals with the surname Crocetti include New York, California, and Pennsylvania. Overall, the distribution of the surname Crocetti is predominantly in countries with historical ties to Italy, demonstrating the global impact of Italian migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Crocetti

The surname Crocetti has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration and local dialects over time. Some common variants include Crochetti, Crochietti, Cocheti, Cochetti, Cucchietti, and Cucchetti. These variations are primarily due to the Italian language's phonetic flexibility and regional dialects. In some cases, these variations may have arisen from errors during transcription or translation. However, all these variants share a common origin, stemming from the occupational name "cucchiaio," which means "spoon" in Italian, likely referring to someone who was a maker or seller of spoons.

Famous people with the last name Crocetti

Frank Sinatra, born Francis Albert Sinatra, and Dean Martin, whose real name was Dino Paul Crocetti, are two of the most notable individuals with the surname Crocetti/Sinatra. Both were American entertainers who rose to prominence in the mid-20th century as part of the "Rat Pack," a group of prominent performers and friends associated with Las Vegas lounges and the Hollywood film industry during the 1950s and 1960s. Sinatra, known as the Chairman of the Board, was an influential singer and actor, winning several Grammy Awards and Academy Awards throughout his career. Martin, on the other hand, was a successful singer, comedian, and actor, popular for his smooth vocal delivery and wit. Despite their differences, both Sinatra and Martin were instrumental in defining the era of American cool and remain iconic figures in popular culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Crocetti

The surname Crocetti is believed to have Italian origins and is associated with several notable figures across various fields. Originating from the region of Lombardy, the name Crocetti is derived from the word "croce" meaning cross, suggesting it may have been a nickname or occupational name for someone who made crosses or was a heraldic painter. Notable bearers of the surname include Enzo Crocetti (1908-1974), an Italian comedian and actor, and Dino Crocetti (1915-1995), better known by his stage name Dean Martin, an American singer, actor, and comedian who was a key member of the Rat Pack. In the realm of sports, Paolo Rossi, born as Paolo Giovanni Emilio Trapassi but often referred to as Crocetti, is another famous bearer of the name, having won the World Cup in 1982 with Italy's national football team. The Crocettis have also made significant contributions in the field of music, with figures like composer Giacomo Crocetti and violinist Niccolò Crocetti contributing to Italy's rich musical history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Crocetti"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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 : 23 July 2025