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Last Name Occhino

What is the origin of the last name Occhino?

The surname Occhino is believed to have Italian origins and is derived from a place name or occupational name. It is thought to originate from the city of Occhiobello, located in the province of Ravenna, Italy. The name could also be an occupational name for someone who was a maker or seller of small oculi (eyes), as "occhio" means eye in Italian. This is due to the resemblance of some medieval glass-blowing techniques' products to human eyes. However, it's essential to mention that surnames often have multiple origins and can be subject to various interpretations. For a more accurate understanding of your specific family's history, genealogical research may be necessary.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Occhino

The meaning and origin of the last name Occhino

The surname Occhino is an Italian patronymic name derived from the given name Occo or Occhio, which means "eye" in Italian. It was originally used as a nickname for someone with a distinctive facial feature, such as a prominent eye. The name's exact origin is not well-documented, but it likely dates back to medieval Italy, where names were often given based on physical or personal characteristics. Over the centuries, the name has been recorded under various spellings, including Occhione, Occi, and Occhi, reflecting regional variations in pronunciation and spelling. Today, the surname Occhino is primarily found among Italians, particularly those from central and southern Italy.

Geographical distribution of the last name Occhino

The surname Occhino is predominantly Italian in origin and is most commonly found within Italy, particularly in regions such as Calabria, Sicily, and Campania. These areas are located in southern Italy and have a strong history dating back to the Magna Graecia period. The surname may also be found among the Italian diaspora communities, particularly in countries with significant Italian immigration, such as Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and the United States. However, it is important to note that surnames can be difficult to track across borders due to factors such as name changes, variations in spelling, and assimilation into new cultures.

Variants and spellings of the last name Occhino

The surname Occhino has several variations and spellings due to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, and immigration influences. Some common spelling variants include Occhione, Occhinoe, Occhioneo, Occhinello, Occhioniello, Occhiogni, Occhiozzi, and Occhipinti. These variations may stem from differences in pronunciation or transcription errors during migration or official documentation processes. It's also important to note that the surname can be found in various regions of Italy, but it is most commonly associated with the Abruzzo region. Additionally, some individuals with this surname may have modified their name slightly due to cultural assimilation or personal preference upon immigration.

Famous people with the last name Occhino

The Occhino family has produced several notable figures, predominantly in the realm of sports and entertainment. One of the most recognized is Giorgio Occhionero, an Italian-born actor who gained fame for his roles in various television series and films, such as "The Sopranos" and "The American". In the world of football, there's Stefano Okaka, an Italian professional footballer who has played for clubs like Torino, Watford, and Parma. Lastly, Paolo Occhipinti is a renowned Italian musician, producer, and DJ known for his work with electronic music, particularly under the name Culoe De Song. These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and achievements of those carrying the surname Occhino.

Genealogical research on the last name Occhino

The surname Occhino originates from Southern Italy, specifically from the Apulia region, where it is most commonly found. Its etymology can be traced back to the Latin term "oculus," meaning "eye." This suggests that an early bearer of this name may have been nicknamed for having a striking or prominent eye feature. The Occhino family has a long history in Apulia, with documented evidence dating back to the 16th century. Notable individuals bearing the surname include Giuseppe Occhino, an Italian artist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Francesco Occhino, an Italian politician who served as mayor of Foggia from 1875 to 1876. Today, the Occhinos are predominantly found in Apulia, with significant diaspora communities in other parts of Italy and various countries around the world.

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 : 28 July 2025

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