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Last Name Innocenti

What is the origin of the last name Innocenti?

The surname Innocenti is an Italian patronymic surname. It originates from the personal name "Innocenzo," which is derived from the Latin name "Innocentius." This name was originally given to a person who was considered innocent or pure, typically in a religious context. Over time, it became a hereditary surname among families in Italy.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Innocenti

The meaning and origin of the last name Innocenti

The surname Innocenti is of Italian origin and derives from the Latin word "innocens," which means innocent or guiltless. It first appeared in Italy during the Middle Ages, as a name given to babies born out of wedlock who were believed to be pure and innocent. Over time, it evolved into a surname, often being adopted by individuals seeking to emphasize their moral character or purity. The name Innocenti is relatively uncommon compared to other Italian surnames but has been borne by notable figures such as Giuseppe Innocenti, an Italian footballer who played for Inter Milan in the 1930s and 1940s, and Ivo Innocenti, an Italian composer and conductor. Today, the name is found primarily among people of Italian descent, although it has also been adopted by individuals from other ethnic backgrounds.

Geographical distribution of the last name Innocenti

The surname Innocenti is primarily found in Italy, with a significant concentration in the Tuscany region, particularly in Florence and its surrounding areas. This is indicative of the family's historical roots in this part of the country. Beyond Italy, smaller populations of people bearing the surname Innocenti can be found in countries such as Switzerland, France, Brazil, Argentina, and the United States, largely due to Italian immigration waves throughout history. The global dispersion of the name reflects the migration patterns of Italians, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking economic opportunities abroad.

Variants and spellings of the last name Innocenti

The surname Innocenti has several variants and spellings, reflecting its Italian origin. Some common variations include Innocent, Innocente, Inocenzi, Inocenti, Innocentino, Inocenzo, and Innogenza. These differences arise from regional dialects, changes over time, or individual preferences in spelling. The name is derived from the Latin word "innocens," meaning innocent, and it is common among Italians. Notable persons with this surname include Giorgio Innocenti, an Italian footballer, and Diane Lane, who has Italian roots but was born in the United States under the surname Colleen Farrington.

Famous people with the last name Innocenti

Among notable individuals sharing the surname Innocenti are: 1. Lorenzo Innocenti (1874-1962), an Italian politician who served as the President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies and was instrumental in the passage of the Rocco-De Ferri law, which established the basis for modern Italian criminal procedure. 2. Dante Innocenti (1913-1985) was a prominent Italian automobile engineer and industrialist, best known as the founder of Innocenti S.p.A., the company that produced the iconic Mini in Italy from 1964 to 1982 under license from British Motor Corporation (BMC). 3. Giuseppe Innocenzo Innocenti (1756-1831) was an Italian painter and art collector, known for his portraits and historical paintings, as well as his significant contributions to the Florentine Academy of Fine Arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Innocenti

The Innocenti surname originates from Italy and is predominantly found in Tuscany, particularly in Florence. It is an occupational name derived from the Latin "innocentia," meaning innocence or purity. In medieval times, this surname was likely bestowed upon someone associated with the church or a monastery. Over time, variations such as Innocenzi and Innocenti-Leoni emerged due to regional dialects and intermarriages. Notable figures bearing the name include Gianni Innocenti, a football player who played for Juventus Football Club, and Giovanni di Bicci de' Medici, an Italian banker, merchant and politician who founded the powerful Medici family in Florence during the Late Middle Ages.

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 : 11 June 2025

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