Save Type Surname (from occupation & from nickname) Usage Italian Pronounced Pron. /pa.ˈnɛl.la/ [key·simplify] Other Forms FormsPanelli Meaning & History From the name of a kind of fritter or pancake made with chickpea powder. Could be an occupational name for a baker, or perhaps a nickname for someone with a yellowish complexion. Alternatively, can be a diminutive form of Pane.