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Last Name Pocai

What is the origin of the last name Pocai?

The last name "Pocai" is of Italian origin. It is believed to be derived from the Latin word "pocus," meaning "one who is small in stature." This surname likely originated as a nickname for a person who was short or of small build.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Pocai

The meaning and origin of the last name Pocai

The surname Pocai is of Italian origin, specifically from the Veneto region. It is derived from the Venetian word "poa" meaning "potato," and was likely used as an occupational surname for someone involved in cultivating or selling potatoes. Alternatively, it could also be a nickname for someone with a particular association or characteristic related to potatoes. The surname Pocai is relatively uncommon and is mainly found in Northern Italy, particularly in areas where potato farming was prevalent. Over time, variations of the surname may have arisen due to factors such as migration or regional dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pocai

The last name Pocai is believed to have originated in Italy, specifically in the Veneto region. It is most commonly found in the provinces of Vicenza and Padua, where the name has historical roots. Over time, the Pocai family may have migrated to other parts of Italy, as there are also occurrences of this surname in different regions such as Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna. Additionally, due to emigration patterns, individuals with the last name Pocai can also be found in other countries, particularly in North and South America. In these regions, descendants of Italian immigrants have carried on the Pocai name, contributing to the dispersion of this surname across various continents.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pocai

The last name Pocai may also be spelled as Pocaí or Pocaì. Other possible variations include Pocay, Pocaj, Pocae, and Pocaei. These alternative spellings may result from differences in pronunciation, transliteration, or regional accents. It is important to note that the spelling of surnames can vary widely and be subject to individual preference or historical conventions.

Famous people with the last name Pocai

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Pocai include Eraldo Pocai, an Italian football player who played for teams such as Juventus and Napoli in the 1970s. Another notable figure is Giovanni Pocai, an Italian entrepreneur and politician who served as the Mayor of Prato. Additionally, Ennio Pocai is a well-known Italian director and screenwriter, known for his work on various acclaimed films and television shows. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Pocai

Research on the last name Pocai shows that it likely originated in Italy. The name Pocai is believed to have derived from the personal name "Poco," which was a nickname of endearment or was given to someone who was small or little in stature. The name Pocai has been found to be primarily concentrated in the Veneto region of Italy, particularly in the provinces of Padua and Venice. The earliest recorded instances of the Pocai surname date back to the 16th century in Italy. Over time, individuals with the surname Pocai may have migrated to other countries, such as Brazil and Argentina, where they established their family roots. Further genealogical research may reveal more details about the origin and migration patterns of individuals bearing the Pocai surname.

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 April 2025

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