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Last Name Occhuizzo

What is the origin of the last name Occhuizzo?

The surname Occhuizzo is likely of Italian origin, specifically from the region of Calabria. It is derived from the medieval Latin word "ochium" meaning a small hill or mound, and the suffix "-izzus" which was commonly added to geographical names in Italy during the Middle Ages. Therefore, Occhuizzo may have originally referred to someone who lived near such a small hill or mound. However, it's important to note that surnames can often have multiple origins and variations, so further research may be needed for a more accurate etymology.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Occhuizzo

The meaning and origin of the last name Occhuizzo

The surname Occhuizzo is an Italian name with origins likely rooted in southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Sicily or Calabria. It is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "occulus," meaning "eye" or "window." The suffix "-izio" may indicate a place where a certain activity related to eyes was performed, such as making eyeglasses or selling them. Over time, this name has evolved into various spellings, including Occhiuzzo, Occhiusso, and Occhuizzo, reflecting regional variations in pronunciation and spelling. Today, individuals with the surname Occhuizzo can be found primarily in Italy and other Italian diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Occhuizzo

The surname Occhuizzo is predominantly found in Italy, with the majority of its occurrences located in the region of Calabria, particularly in the provinces of Cosenza and Catanzaro. This name is closely associated with the town of Occhiuzzo in Calabria, from where it originated. The Occhuizzo family can also be found in other parts of Italy, but their numbers are significantly lower compared to their concentration in Calabria. A small number of individuals carrying this surname may also reside in countries with large Italian diaspora communities such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Occhuizzo

The surname Occhuizzo has several variations and spellings in different contexts. Some of the most common variants include Occhiuzzo, Occhiusso, and Occhiuzzi. These variations may arise due to differences in regional dialects, transcription errors, or personal preference. It's also worth noting that Italian surnames often have a patronymic origin, where they are derived from the father's given name. In this case, the name Occhuizzo could potentially be derived from a name like Oddo (Ottavio), meaning "wealthy" or "prosperous." However, it's important to note that the exact origin and variations of Italian surnames can often be complex due to historical factors such as migration, assimilation, and changes in naming conventions over time.

Famous people with the last name Occhuizzo

The Occhuizzo family has been notable for producing several prominent figures across different fields. One of the most recognized is Enrico Occhuizzo, an Italian physicist known for his contributions to particle physics and high-energy astrophysics. He was a professor at the University of Rome La Sapienza and a fellow of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton. In the realm of sports, Giuseppe Occhuizzo, also known as Pippo Occhuizzo, is well-known as a former professional footballer who played for several top Italian clubs such as Torino FC and Juventus FC. Lastly, in the world of arts, Maria Occhuizzo, an Italian poetess, gained recognition for her works that often reflect on feminist and environmental issues. These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and achievements within the Occhuizzo family.

Genealogical research on the last name Occhuizzo

The surname Occhuizzo originates from Southern Italy, specifically the region of Calabria. It is believed to have derived from the Norman-French "ochse" meaning ox, and the Italian suffix "-izio", which typically denotes a place where an activity or product is made, such as a mill. The surname may have been originally associated with someone who lived near or worked with oxen in a specific location. Over time, the Occhuizzo family migrated to Sicily and other parts of Italy, and later immigrated to various countries, notably Argentina, Brazil, and the United States, during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In these new lands, the surname has maintained its original spelling but may have been pronounced differently due to local dialects and language assimilation.

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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