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Last Name Paolucci

What is the origin of the last name Paolucci?

The surname "Paolucci" is an Italian patronymic surname derived from the given name Paolo, which means 'Paul' in Latin. It is a common name in Italy and has been used since medieval times. The suffix "-ucci" is a diminutive form, indicating that it may have originated from a pet form of Paolo. The name spread throughout Italy, particularly in the regions of Umbria, Tuscany, and Marche, where the surname is most common today. As with many Italian surnames, the exact origin can often be traced back to a specific place or family, but this information may not always be available due to the passage of time and lack of documentation in earlier periods.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Paolucci

The meaning and origin of the last name Paolucci

The surname Paolucci is of Italian origin, derived from the given name Paolo (Paul) and the diminutive suffix "-ucci", common in Southern Italian dialects. The name signifies a "little Paul," indicating that either the original bearer was named after St. Paul or was known for possessing characteristics reminiscent of the saint. The use of diminutives in surnames was popular in Italy during the Middle Ages as a way to distinguish family members and reduce confusion, especially when multiple generations lived within the same community. The spread of this name can be traced back to the regions of Umbria, Tuscany, Abruzzo, Molise, and Marche, where it is still common today. The surname has evolved in various forms over time, including Paoluzzi, Paolicelli, Paoletti, and Polucci, reflecting the regional variations in pronunciation and spelling.

Geographical distribution of the last name Paolucci

The surname Paolucci is predominantly found in Italy, particularly in the regions of Marche and Umbria, where it originated from the medieval city-state of Rimini and surrounding areas. The name also has significant presence in Lazio, Tuscany, and Abruzzo. However, due to migration patterns over centuries, Paoluccis can now be found worldwide, with substantial communities in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, United States, and Australia. This distribution reflects the historical Italian diaspora, as well as modern-day global mobility trends.

Variants and spellings of the last name Paolucci

The surname Paolucci has various spellings and pronunciations due to regional differences and transcription errors over time. Some common spelling variations include Paolucci, Paulocci, Paolicchi, Paoluzzi, and Pauletti. The name originates from Italy and is primarily found in the central regions like Umbria, Lazio, and Marche. It is derived from the given name Paolo, which means "rebellious" or "small" in Latin. As with many Italian surnames, it was traditionally a patronymic, denoting that the original bearer was a son of Paolo. The pronunciation generally follows the Italian phonetic rules, where the stress is on the first syllable: pah-oh-LOO-chee or pah-oh-LOOT-chi.

Famous people with the last name Paolucci

Notable individuals with the surname Paolucci include: 1. Antonio Paolucci (born 1942), an Italian architect and art historian who served as the director of the Vatican Museums from 1994 to 2016. 2. Frank Paolucci (1937-2009), an American television director, producer, and writer best known for his work on "The Electric Company" and "Sesame Street." 3. Giovanni Paolucci (1935-1996), an Italian politician who served as the mayor of Ravenna from 1975 to 1980 and as a member of the Chamber of Deputies from 1987 to 1992. 4. Joseph Paolucci (born 1936), an American businessman who served as the CEO and Chairman of The Pampered Chef, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., from 1980 until his retirement in 2009. 5. Mary Paolucci (1924-2016), an American actress who appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason." These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields of art, politics, television, and acting.

Genealogical research on the last name Paolucci

The surname Paolucci originates from Italy and is primarily found in central regions such as Umbria and Lazio. It is a patronymic name derived from the given name Paolo, which means 'reborn' or 'renovated.' The earliest documented appearance of the surname can be traced back to the 13th century in the city of Perugia. Over time, the family branches expanded, with notable Paolucci families settling in other regions like Rome and Florence. Some notable individuals bearing this surname include the Renaissance artist Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, who was referred to as Raphael Paolucci by some historians due to his birthplace in Urbino, a city of Paolucci descent. The genealogical research suggests that the Paolucci family tree boasts a rich history steeped in art, politics, and religion, making significant contributions to Italian culture throughout the centuries.

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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