Pesce

Pesce is an Italian surname meaning "fish". As an occupational name, it typically referred to a fisherman, while as a nickname it may have described someone who physically resembled a fish in some way, such as having a fish-like facial feature or a quiet, cold demeanor. The surname traces its roots to the Italian word pesce, derived from Latin piscis, reflecting the importance of fishing in coastal and riverine communities of Italy.

Distribution and Demographics

Although primarily concentrated in Italy, the surname Pesce has spread due to emigration. According to the 2010 United States Census, Pesce ranked 11,174th in frequency, with 2,830 bearers, overwhelmingly White (94.1%). Italian diaspora communities in North America, South America, and Australia account for many Pesce families outside Italy.

Notable Bearers

Notable individuals with the surname Pesce include:

• Frank Pesce (1945–2021), American actor known for roles in Beverly Hills Cop and The Godfather Part III.
• Frank Pesce (baseball) (born 1956), American former Major League Baseball pitcher.
• Jenna Pesce, American journalist and radio host.