Last Name Pizzella

The surname Pizzella is an Italian surname derived from a diminutive form of the word "pizza," which means "little pie." It was likely originally used as an occupational surname for someone who made or sold small pies. The surname has been found in various regions of Italy, particularly in Southern Italy and the Abruzzo region. However, like many Italian surnames, it's difficult to pinpoint its exact origin as records are often incomplete or scattered.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Pizzella

The meaning and origin of the last name Pizzella

The surname Pizzella is an Italian name derived from the word "pizzello" which means 'little pie' or 'small loaf of bread'. It was often given to bakers or those associated with the baking industry, reflecting their trade or occupation. The surname Pizzella can also be a regional variant of other Italian surnames such as Pizzi, Pizzuto, or Pizzutelli, which share similar origins and meanings related to bread-making or small size. The name is most prevalent in southern Italy, particularly in regions like Campania and Calabria, where it has been traced back to the medieval period. Like many Italian surnames, Pizzella evolved from the need for identification within communities during that time, often based on professions, geographical locations, or physical characteristics.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pizzella

The surname Pizzella is predominantly Italian in origin and is found primarily within Italy, particularly in regions such as Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Lazio, and Sicily. In Italy, it's one of the most common surnames in these regions, suggesting a long historical presence. Emigration from Italy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries led to the dispersal of the Pizzella name globally, with significant populations found in countries like the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, and some European countries such as Germany, France, and Switzerland. In the United States, concentrations of the surname can be found along the east coast, particularly in states like New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, due to heavy immigration from Italy during that period.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pizzella

The surname Pizzella, originating from Italy, has several variations and spelling alternatives due to differences in transcription and transliteration over time. Some of these variants include Pisella, Piccella, Piccelli, Pizzel, Pizella, and Pizzella. These variations may arise due to regional dialects, errors during immigration records, or personal preference for one spelling over another. The root word "pizza" is present in all these spellings, reflecting the Italian origin of the name.

Famous people with the last name Pizzella

The Pizzella surname is notable for its association with individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. One prominent figure is Frank Joseph Pizzella, an American politician and businessman. He served as the Acting Director of the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) under President Donald Trump. Another notable individual is Michael Pizzella, a professional baseball player who played for several Major League Baseball teams throughout his career. In the world of fine arts, Giuseppe Pizzella is recognized as an Italian painter and sculptor, best known for his expressionist style. Lastly, Lisa Pizzella, an American singer and actress, gained fame for her role in the Broadway musical Rent. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements associated with the surname Pizzella.

Genealogical research on the last name Pizzella

The surname Pizzella, originating from Italy, is primarily associated with the regions of Abruzzo and Molise. It derives from the Italian word "pizze," meaning "flatbread" or "pie," possibly indicating a profession related to baking. Early records suggest that some of the earliest known bearers of this name lived in the 14th century, such as Pietro Pizzella in Abruzzo and Nicola Pizzella in Molise. The family expanded throughout Italy, and later immigrated to the United States in significant numbers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, settling primarily in urban centers like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. Notable individuals with the surname Pizzella include musicians John Pizzarelli and Bucky Pizzarelli, both renowned jazz guitarists. The Pizzella family tree exhibits a rich history, spanning across time and continents.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Pizzella"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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