Home / Baby Names / Ethnic Names / 100 Unique and Common Italian Boy Names and Meanings

100 Unique and Common Italian Boy Names and Meanings

Italian boy names are given to male children of Italian origin. They are often characterized by their rich history, cultural significance, and popularity. Italian names are known for their musical sound and unique pronunciation, often derived from their Latin roots.

Most of them are also influenced by regional dialects, with some names being more common in certain areas of Italy than others. For instance, Corrado is popular in Sicily, while Emanuele is more commonly used in Tuscany.

100 Classic and Modern Italian Baby Boy Names

From timeless classics to distinctively unusual options, Italian names for boys offer a broad spectrum of choices, and we have handpicked our favorites to share with you.

Agapito

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Beloved
  • Pronunciation: ah-gah-PEE-toh
  • Variations: Agapetus, Agape
  • Namesakes: Agapito Colona (Italian painter), Agapito Flores (Filipino inventor), Agapito França (Brazilian poet)

Agapito is an Italian name with a Greek origin, meaning beloved. It was primarily used among early Christians in honor of Saint Agapito, a martyr who was beheaded for his faith in Rome. Notably, Agapito Flores, an inventor from the Philippines, was known for creating the first fluorescent lamp.

Alessandro

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Defender of the people
  • Pronunciation: ah-leh-SAHN-droh
  • Variations: Aleksander, Alexander, Alessio, Sandro
  • Namesakes: Alessandro Volta (Italian physicist), Alessandro Nesta (Italian footballer), Alessandro Scarlatti (Italian composer)

Alessandro is a popular Italian name derived from the Greek name Alexandros, meaning defender of the people. It was commonly used among ancient Greek and Macedonian rulers and was introduced to Italy during the Middle Ages. Alessandro Volta, an Italian physicist, was known for his work on the electric battery and is considered one of the founders of modern electrical science.

Alessio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Defender
  • Pronunciation: ah-LEH-syo
  • Variations: Alessandro, Alex, Alexander, Alexei
  • Namesakes: Alessio Boni (Italian actor), Alessio Cerci (Italian footballer), Alessio Sakara (Italian mixed martial artist)

Alessio is a name with Italian and Greek origins, meaning defender. It is a variation of the name Alessandro, which was popularized in Italy during the Renaissance.

Andrea

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Manly
  • Pronunciation: ahn-DRAY-ah
  • Variations: Andre, Andreas, Andrew, Andrija
  • Namesakes: Andrea Bocelli (Italian tenor), Andrea Pirlo (Italian footballer), Andrea Mantegna (Italian painter)

Andrea is a unisex Italian name with Greek origins meaning manly. It has been used as a male name in Italy since the Middle Ages and is also a common female name. Andrea Bocelli is an Italian tenor who has sold over 90 million records worldwide and is known for his classical and pop ballads.

Angelo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Angel
  • Pronunciation: ahn-JEH-loh
  • Variations: Angel, Angelino, Angelus, Angelo
  • Namesakes: Angelo Roncalli (Pope John XXIII), Angelo Buono (American serial killer), Angelo Branduardi (Italian singer-songwriter)

Angelo is a popular Italian name with a Greek origin, meaning angel. Angelo Roncalli, better known as Pope John XXIII, was a beloved pope who is remembered for his efforts to modernize the Catholic Church.

Antonio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Priceless one
  • Pronunciation: ahn-TOH-nee-oh
  • Variations: Anthony, Anton, Antoine, Antonio
  • Namesakes: Antonio Vivaldi (Italian composer), Antonio Banderas (Spanish actor), Antonio Meucci (Italian inventor)

Antonio is a popular Italian name with a Latin origin, meaning priceless one. It has been used as a male name in Italy since the Roman Empire and has been popularized throughout Europe and the Americas.

Arcangelo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Archangel
  • Pronunciation: ahr-kahn-JE-loh
  • Variations: Archangel, Angelo, Angel
  • Namesakes: Arcangelo Corelli (Italian composer), Arcangelo Ghisleri (Pope Clement XII)

Arcangelo is a boy's name with Italian and Greek origins, meaning archangel. It has been used in Italy since the Renaissance period and is often associated with angels and religious figures. Arcangelo Corelli was a Baroque music composer known for his works on the violin, and he is considered one of the pioneers of modern violin techniques.

Aurelio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Golden
  • Pronunciation: ow-REH-lyoh
  • Variations: Aurelius, Aurelian, Aurelio
  • Namesakes: Aurelio Peccei (Italian industrialist), Aurelio De Laurentiis (Italian film producer), Aurelio Zen (fictional detective character)

Aurelio is a popular Italian boy's name with a Latin origin, meaning golden. Aurelio Peccei was an Italian industrialist who was known for his work on global sustainability and was one of the founders of the Club of Rome.

Carlo

  • Origin: Germanic
  • Meaning: Free man
  • Pronunciation: KAHR-loh
  • Variations: Charles, Charlie, Carl, Carlo
  • Namesakes: Carlo Collodi (Italian author), Carlo Ancelotti (Italian footballer), Carlo Rubbia (Italian physicist)

Carlo is a popular Italian name with a Germanic origin, meaning free man. Notably, Carlo Collodi was an Italian author known for his work on Pinocchio, one of the most beloved children's books of all time.

Cesare

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Long-haired
  • Pronunciation: CHEH-zah-reh
  • Variations: Caesar, Cesario, Cezary
  • Namesakes: Cesare Borgia (Italian nobleman), Cesare Pavese (Italian writer), Cesare Beccaria (Italian criminologist)

Cesare is a name with Italian and Latin origins, meaning long-haired. Cesare Borgia was an Italian nobleman who was known for his ruthless tactics in consolidating power in Renaissance Italy.

Christian

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Follower of Christ
  • Pronunciation: KRISS-tee-an
  • Variations: Cristiano, Cristian, Cristoforo, Kristian
  • Namesakes: Christian Bale (Actor), Christian Doppler (Austrian physicist), Christian Slater (Actor)

Christian is a classic Italian name derived from the Greek name Christianos, meaning "follower of Christ". It was a name used to refer to those who believed in Jesus Christ as their savior.

Claudio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Lame, disabled
  • Pronunciation: KLAW-dyo
  • Variations: Claudius, Clauco, Claudio
  • Namesakes: Claudio Monteverdi (Italian composer), Claudio Bravo (Chilean footballer), Claudio Ranieri (Italian football manager)

Claudio is an Italian name with Latin roots that means "lame" or "disabled". It was a common name in ancient Rome.

Corrado

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Bold advisor
  • Pronunciation: ko-RA-do
  • Variations: Conrad, Corradino, Corrado, Cord, Kord
  • Namesakes: Corrado Giaquinto (Italian artist), Corrado Alvaro (Italian journalist and writer), Corrado Augias (Italian writer and journalist)

Corrado is an Italian name that means "bold advisor". It was a popular name among the nobility in medieval Italy.

Cosimo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Order, decorum
  • Pronunciation: ko-SEE-mo
  • Variations: Cosma, Cosme, Cosimo, Cosimo de Medici, Cosimo Piovasco di Rondò
  • Namesakes: Cosimo de' Medici (Italian banker and politician), Cosimo I de' Medici (Grand Duke of Tuscany), Cosimo Rosselli (Italian painter)

Cosimo is an Italian name that means "order" or "decorum". It was a name popularized by the famous Cosimo de' Medici, who was a powerful banker and politician during the Renaissance.

Cristiano

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Follower of Christ
  • Pronunciation: kris-tee-AH-no
  • Variations: Christian, Cristian, Cristoforo, Kristian
  • Namesakes: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portuguese footballer), Cristiano Lucarelli (Italian footballer), Cristiano Caffieri (Italian artist)

Cristiano is an Italian name that means "follower of Christ". It is a variant of the more common name Christian, which is also derived from the Greek name Christianos.

Damiano

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: To Tame
  • Pronunciation: dah-MYAH-noh
  • Variations: Damian, Damianus, Damion
  • Namesakes: Damiano Cunego (Cyclist), Damiano Tommasi (Footballer), Damiano Zenoni (Footballer)

Damiano is derived from the Latin name Damianus, which means "to tame." The name is associated with Saint Damian, who was a physician and martyr.

Davide

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Beloved
  • Pronunciation: dah-VEE-deh
  • Variations: David, Davis, Davit
  • Namesakes: Davide Astori (Footballer), Davide Ballardini (Football Manager), Davide Tosetti (Ski Jumper)

Davide is the Italian form of the Hebrew name David, which means "beloved." The name is famous for King David, the second king of Israel who defeated Goliath.

Diego

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Supplanter
  • Pronunciation: DYEH-goh
  • Variations: Diogo, Thiago, Santiago
  • Namesakes: Diego Armando Maradona (Footballer), Diego Forlán (Footballer), Diego Simeone (Football Manager)

Diego is an Italian name with Spanish origins that means "supplanter." The name is derived from the Hebrew name Jacob, who was also known as Israel.

Dino

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Little Sword
  • Pronunciation: DEE-noh
  • Variations: Dean, Dina, Dinis
  • Namesakes: Dino Buzzati (Author), Dino Risi (Film Director), Dino Zoff (Footballer)

Dino is a diminutive form of the Italian name Aldo, which means "old or wise." The name is also associated with dinosaurs, and the Italian writer Dino Buzzati helped popularize the name.

Domenico

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Of The Lord
  • Pronunciation: doh-MEH-nee-koh
  • Variations: Dominic, Domenic, Dominick
  • Namesakes: Domenico Scarlatti (Composer), Domenico Dolce (Fashion Designer), Domenico Modugno (Singer)

Domenico is an Italian name that means "of the Lord." The name is associated with Saint Dominic, who was the founder of the Dominican Order of friars.

Donato

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Given, Gift
  • Pronunciation: doh-NAH-toh
  • Variations: Donatello, Donatus, Donatianus, Donatien
  • Namesakes: Donato Bramante (architect), Donato Creti (painter), Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi (sculptor, also known as Donatello)

The name Donato is derived from the Latin word "donatus," which means "given" or "gift." It was a popular name during the Renaissance era and is associated with many artists and architects from that time. One of the most famous namesakes is Donatello, the sculptor who was one of the key figures in the early Renaissance.

Edoardo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Wealthy Guardian
  • Pronunciation: eh-doh-AHR-doh
  • Variations: Edward, Eduardo, Édouard, Eduard
  • Namesakes: Edoardo Amaldi (physicist), Edoardo Bennato (singer-songwriter), Edoardo Mangiarotti (fencer)

Edoardo is the Italian variation of the name Edward, which means "wealthy guardian." Edoardo Amaldi was a physicist who made important contributions to the field of nuclear physics.

Elpidio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Hope
  • Pronunciation: el-PEE-dee-oh
  • Namesakes: Elpidio Quirino (former President of the Philippines)

Elpidio is an Italian name that means "hope." Elpidio Quirino served as the sixth President of the Philippines from 1948 to 1953. He was known for his policies that aimed to promote social and economic progress in the country.

Emanuele

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God is with us
  • Pronunciation: eh-mah-NOO-eh-leh
  • Variations: Manuel, Emmanuel, Emmanuele
  • Namesakes: Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Aosta (member of the Italian royal family), Emanuele Luzzati (artist and illustrator), Emanuele Pirro (racing driver)

Emanuele is an Italian variation of the name Emmanuel, which means "God is with us." Emanuele Filiberto was a member of the Italian royal family.

Enrico

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Ruler of the household
  • Pronunciation: ehn-REE-koh
  • Variations: Henry, Henrik, Heinrich, Enrique
  • Namesakes: Enrico Caruso (opera singer), Enrico Fermi (physicist), Enrico Marconi (founder of Marconi Corporation)

Enrico is an Italian variation of the name Henry, which means "ruler of the household." Enrico Caruso was an opera singer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of all time.

Enzo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Ruler of the house
  • Pronunciation: EN-zoh
  • Variations: Vincenzo, Lorenzo, Alfonzo, Konzo
  • Namesakes: Enzo Ferrari (founder of Ferrari), Enzo Bearzot (soccer coach), Enzo Scifo (soccer player)

Enzo is an Italian name that means "ruler of the house." One of the most well-known namesakes is Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the Ferrari automobile company.

Ettore

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Loyal, steadfast
  • Pronunciation: EH-toh-reh
  • Variations: Hector, Ector
  • Namesakes: Ettore Majorana (physicist), Ettore Scola (film director), Ettore Tolomei (linguist and nationalist)

Ettore is an Italian name that means "loyal" or "steadfast." Ettore Majorana is a physicist who made significant contributions to the study of subatomic particles.

Fabio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Bean farmer
  • Pronunciation: FAH-bee-oh
  • Variations: Fabius
  • Namesakes: Fabio Cannavaro (soccer player), Fabio Capello (soccer coach), Fabio Lanzoni (model and actor)

Fabio is an Italian name that means "bean farmer." It is a relatively common name in Italy.

Fausto

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Lucky, fortunate
  • Pronunciation: FAW-stoh
  • Variations: Faust, Faustus
  • Namesakes: Fausto Coppi (cyclist), Fausto Leali (singer), Fausto Pirandello (painter)

Fausto is an Italian boy's name that means "lucky" or "fortunate." Fausto Coppi was a cyclist who won the Tour de France twice in his career.

Federico

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Peaceful ruler
  • Pronunciation: feh-deh-REE-koh
  • Variations: Frederick, Friedrich
  • Namesakes: Federico Fellini (film director), Federico García Lorca (poet and playwright), Federico da Montefeltro (Renaissance duke)

Federico is an Italian variation of the name Frederick, which means "peaceful ruler." It is a common name in Italy.

Flavio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Golden-haired
  • Pronunciation: FLAH-vee-oh
  • Variations: Flavia (feminine form)
  • Namesakes: Flavio Briatore (Businessman), Flavio Cotti (Swiss politician), Flavio Insinna (Actor)

Flavio is an Italian name with Latin roots meaning "golden-haired." One notable namesake is Flavio Briatore, an Italian businessman and former Formula One team manager. He was instrumental in the success of Michael Schumacher's career as a Formula One driver.

Francesco

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Free man
  • Pronunciation: fran-CHES-koh
  • Variations: Franco, Francis (English form), François (French form)
  • Namesakes: Pope Francis (Religious leader), Francesco Totti (Footballer), Francesco Borromini (Architect)

Francesco is an Italian boy's name meaning "free man." One of the most famous namesakes is Pope Francis, the current head of the Catholic Church. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he took the name Francis after Saint Francis of Assisi.

Franco

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Free man
  • Pronunciation: FRAN-koh
  • Variations: Francesco, Francis (English form), François (French form)
  • Namesakes: Franco Zeffirelli (Film director), Franco Columbu (Bodybuilder), Franco Baresi (Footballer)

Franco is an Italian boy's name meaning "free man." Franco Zeffirelli is an Italian film and stage director known for his adaptations of Shakespeare's plays. He was nominated for two Academy Awards for Best Director.

Gabriele

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God is my strength
  • Pronunciation: ga-bree-E-leh
  • Variations: Gabriel (English form)
  • Namesakes: Gabriele D'Annunzio (Poet), Gabriele Muccino (Film director), Gabriele Ferzetti (Actor)

Gabriele is an Italian name for boys meaning "God is my strength." Gabriele D'Annunzio is an Italian poet, novelist, and playwright who played a significant role in Italian literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Gennaro

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Janus (god of beginnings and transitions)
  • Pronunciation: jen-NAH-roh
  • Variations: Januarius (Latin form)
  • Namesakes: Gennaro Gattuso (Footballer), Gennaro Contaldo (Chef), Gennaro Sollecito (Mafia boss)

Gennaro is an Italian name derived from the name of the Roman god Janus, who presided over beginnings and transitions.

Giancarlo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God is gracious
  • Pronunciation: jahn-KAR-loh
  • Variations: Gian, Carlo
  • Namesakes: Giancarlo Giannini (Actor), Giancarlo Stanton (Baseball player), Giancarlo Fisichella (Formula One driver)

Giancarlo is a combination of two Italian names, Gian (short for Giovanni, meaning "God is gracious") and Carlo (meaning "man" or "free man").

Giorgio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Farmer
  • Pronunciation: jor-JOH
  • Variations: Giorgios, Georgio, George
  • Namesakes: Giorgio Armani (Fashion designer), Giorgio Moroder (Musician), Giorgio Napolitano (Former President of Italy)

Giorgio is a traditional Italian boy's name that means "farmer." It is the Italian version of the name George, which is of Greek origin. Giorgio Armani is a world-famous fashion designer who founded the Armani fashion empire.

Giovanni

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God is gracious
  • Pronunciation: joh-VAHN-nee
  • Variations: Giovan, Gianni, Giovanni Battista, John
  • Namesakes: Giovanni Boccaccio (Writer), Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (Composer), Giovanni Caboto (Explorer)

Giovanni is a traditional Italian name that means "God is gracious." Giovanni Caboto, also known as John Cabot, was an Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland and Labrador in North America.

Giuseppe

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God will add
  • Pronunciation: joo-SEP-peh
  • Variations: Beppe, Peppino, Giuseppina
  • Namesakes: Giuseppe Garibaldi (Revolutionary), Giuseppe Verdi (Composer), Giuseppe Zanotti (Fashion designer)

Giuseppe is a popular Italian boy's name that means "God will add." Giuseppe Garibaldi was an Italian revolutionary who played a key role in the unification of Italy.

Graziano

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Gracious, kind
  • Pronunciation: grah-ZYA-no
  • Variations: Graciano, Grazian, Graziano
  • Namesakes: Graziano Rossi (Italian motorcycle racer), Graziano Pellè (Italian footballer), Graziano Battistini (Italian racing driver)

Graziano is an Italian boy name that means "gracious" or "kind." It is derived from the Latin name Gratianus. One of the most notable namesakes is Graziano Rossi, a retired Italian motorcycle racer and father of multiple MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi.

Gregorio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Watchful
  • Pronunciation: greh-GOH-ree-oh
  • Variations: Grigorio, Gregor
  • Namesakes: Gregorio Allegri (Composer), Gregorio Marañón (Physician), Gregorio Ricci-Curbastro (Mathematician)

Gregorio is an Italian name with Latin roots meaning "watchful" and is the Italian and Spanish form of Gregory. Gregorio Allegri was an Italian composer who is known for his Miserere mei, Deus which is considered one of the greatest pieces of choral music ever written.

Guido

  • Origin: Germanic
  • Meaning: Wood
  • Pronunciation: GWEED-oh
  • Variations: Guy, Guida, Guidano
  • Namesakes: Guido of Arezzo (Musician), Guido de Bres (Theologian), Guido van Rossum (Computer Scientist)

Guido is an Italian name with Germanic roots meaning "wood" and is commonly used in Italy. Guido of Arezzo was an Italian music theorist who is credited with inventing modern musical notation.

Ignazio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Fiery one
  • Pronunciation: een-YA-tsyo
  • Variations: Ignatius, Inazio
  • Namesakes: Ignazio Silone (Writer), Ignazio Visco (Economist), Ignazio Giunti (Racing Driver)

Ignazio is an italian name with Latin roots meaning "fiery one" and is the Italian form of Ignatius. Ignazio Visco is an Italian economist who has served as the Governor of the Bank of Italy since 2011.

Isaia

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Salvation of God
  • Pronunciation: ee-ZAH-ee-ah
  • Variations: Isaiah, Isaias
  • Namesakes: Isaia Iannaccone (Painter), Isaia Tinori (Rugby Player), Isaia Toeava (Rugby Player)

Isaia is an Italian name with Hebrew roots meaning "salvation of God" and is the Italian form of Isaiah. Isaia Iannaccone was an Italian painter who is known for his Surrealist works.

Ivan

  • Origin: Slavic
  • Meaning: God is gracious
  • Pronunciation: ee-VAHN
  • Variations: Ivo, Ivano, Ivica
  • Namesakes: Ivan the Terrible (Tsar of Russia), Ivan Pavlov (Russian physiologist), Ivan Lendl (Czech-American tennis player)

Ivan is an Italian name with Slavic roots meaning "God is gracious". It is a popular name in many Slavic countries, and is also commonly used in other parts of Europe and beyond. Ivan Lendl, a Czech-American tennis player, is considered one of the greatest players of all time, with 8 Grand Slam singles titles and a record 270 weeks as the world No. 1 player.

Jacopo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Supplanter
  • Pronunciation: yah-KOH-poh
  • Variations: Giacomo, Giacobbe, Giacopo
  • Namesakes: Jacopo da Pontormo (painter), Jacopo Tintoretto (painter)

Jacopo is the Italian version of the name Jacob. Jacopo da Pontormo was known for his Mannerist paintings.

Lamberto

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Bright land
  • Pronunciation: lam-BEHR-toh
  • Variations: Lambert, Lambirt, Lambirth
  • Namesakes: Lamberto Dini (politician), Lamberto Maggiorani (actor)

Lamberto is derived from the Old Germanic name Lambert, meaning "bright land." It was popularized in Italy through the influence of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne.

Leonardo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Brave lion
  • Pronunciation: leh-oh-NAHR-doh
  • Variations: Leonard, Leon, Leonardo da Vinci
  • Namesakes: Leonardo da Vinci (artist, scientist, inventor), Leonardo DiCaprio (actor)

Leonardo is an Italian name of Germanic origin that means "brave lion." The most famous bearer of this name is undoubtedly the Italian Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci, who excelled as an artist, scientist, and inventor.

Lorenzo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: From Laurentum
  • Pronunciation: loh-REHN-tsoh
  • Variations: Lorne, Laurence, Laurentius
  • Namesakes: Lorenzo de' Medici (politician, patron of the arts), Lorenzo Lotto (painter)

Lorenzo is an italian name of Latin origin that means "from Laurentum." It was the name of several saints, including Saint Lawrence, who was martyred in Rome in the 3rd century. Lorenzo de' Medici was a 15th-century Italian statesman and patron of the arts who supported many of the most famous artists of the Italian Renaissance.

Luca

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: From Lucania
  • Pronunciation: LOO-kah
  • Variations: Luka, Luc, Lucio
  • Namesakes: Luca Pacioli (mathematician), Luca Toni (footballer)

Luca is a name of Italian origin that means "from Lucania," a region in southern Italy. It is also the name of a prominent character in the New Testament, who is traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Luke.

Luciano

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Light, illumination
  • Pronunciation: loo-CHAH-no
  • Variations: Lucian, Lucien, Lucio, Lucius
  • Namesakes: Luciano Pavarotti (Operatic Tenor), Luciano Berio (Composer), Luciano De Crescenzo (Writer)

Luciano is a masculine given name of Italian origin which means "light" or "illumination". The name has been borne by several notable individuals, including the famous operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti. Pavarotti is widely considered to be one of the greatest tenors of all time, and his contributions to the world of classical music are significant.

Luigi

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Famous warrior
  • Pronunciation: loo-EE-jee
  • Variations: Louis, Luis, Ludovic, Ludovico
  • Namesakes: Luigi Boccherini (Composer), Luigi Pirandello (Writer), Luigi Galvani (Physician)

Luigi is an Italian given name meaning "famous warrior".

Marco

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Warlike
  • Pronunciation: MAHR-koh
  • Variations: Marcus, Marko, Marek
  • Namesakes: Marco Polo (Explorer), Marco Belinelli (Basketball player), Marco Materazzi (Footballer)

Marco is an Italian boy's name meaning "warlike". It has been borne by several notable individuals, including the famous explorer Marco Polo. Polo is known for his travels to China and his book, "The Travels of Marco Polo", which introduced Europeans to the wonders of the East.

Mario

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Manly, virile
  • Pronunciation: MAH-ree-oh
  • Variations: Marius, Mariusz
  • Namesakes: Mario Puzo (Author), Mario Andretti (Racing driver), Mario Balotelli (Footballer)

Mario is a masculine given name of Italian origin meaning "manly" or "virile". Notable namesakes include the author Mario Puzo, best known for his novel "The Godfather", and the racing driver Mario Andretti, who is considered one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.

Massimo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Greatest, largest
  • Pronunciation: MAHS-see-moh
  • Variations: Maximus, Maximo, Massimiliano
  • Namesakes: Massimo Bottura (Chef), Massimo Troisi (Actor), Massimo Ambrosini (Footballer)

Massimo is an Italian boy's name meaning "greatest" or "largest". Notable namesakes include the chef Massimo Bottura, who is known for his three-Michelin-starred restaurant Osteria Francescana, and the actor and filmmaker Massimo Troisi, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in the film "Il Postino".

Mauro

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Dark-skinned, Moorish
  • Pronunciation: MAW-roh
  • Variations: Maurizio, Maury, Morris, Maurus
  • Namesakes: Mauro Giuliani (composer), Mauro Ranallo (sportscaster), Mauro Icardi (soccer player)

Mauro is a name with Latin origins meaning "dark-skinned" or "Moorish". A notable bearer of the name is Mauro Giuliani, a 19th-century Italian guitarist and composer who is known for his contributions to classical guitar music.

Michele

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Who is like God?
  • Pronunciation: mee-KE-leh
  • Variations: Michael, Miguel, Mitchell
  • Namesakes: Michele Alboreto (race car driver), Michele Bachmann (politician), Michele Lee (actress)

Michele is an Italian variant of Michael, which has Hebrew origins meaning "who is like God?". The name is popular throughout the world and has been borne by numerous notable figures, including Michele Alboreto, an Italian race car driver who won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1997.

Mirko

  • Origin: Slavic
  • Meaning: Peaceful, calm
  • Pronunciation: MEER-koh
  • Namesakes: Mirko Vucinic (soccer player), Mirko Cro Cop (mixed martial artist), Mirko Pajčin (singer)

Mirko is a Slavic name meaning "peaceful" or "calm". Mirko Vucinic is a Montenegrin-Italian former soccer player who played for several prominent clubs such as Juventus and Roma.

Narciso

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Narcissus, daffodil
  • Pronunciation: nar-CHEE-zoh
  • Variations: Narcissus
  • Namesakes: Narciso Yepes (classical guitarist), Narciso Rodriguez (fashion designer), Narciso Busquets (actor)

Narciso is an Italian name with Greek origins meaning "narcissus" or "daffodil". A notable bearer of the name is Narciso Yepes, a Spanish classical guitarist who was known for his recordings of Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez and other classical works.

Nicola

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Victory of the people
  • Pronunciation: nee-KOH-lah
  • Variations: Nicholas, Nico, Nikolai
  • Namesakes: Nicola Amati (violin maker), Nicola Sturgeon (politician), Nicola Piovani (composer)

Nicola is an Italian variant of Nicholas, a name with Greek origins meaning "victory of the people". The name is popular in Italy and has been borne by several notable figures, including Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister of Scotland.

Nino

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God is gracious
  • Pronunciation: NEE-no
  • Variations: Ninochka, Ninon, Ninuccio, Ninni
  • Namesakes: Nino Rota (composer), Nino Manfredi (actor), Nino Vaccarella (racing driver)

Nino is a diminutive of the Italian name Giovanni, which means "God is gracious". One famous namesake is Nino Rota, an Italian composer who wrote scores for many films, including "The Godfather". He won an Academy Award for his work on "The Godfather: Part II".

Noè

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Peaceful, restful
  • Pronunciation: NO-eh
  • Variations: Noah, Noe, Noemi
  • Namesakes: Noè Ponti (film director), Noè di Napoli (painter), Noè Bordignon (musician)

Noè is the Italian form of the name Noah, which means "peaceful, restful". Noè Ponti is an Italian-Swiss film director who won the Golden Leopard award at the Locarno Film Festival for his film "What Happens When You Leave Heaven".

Orazio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Has good eyesight
  • Pronunciation: oh-RAH-tsyo
  • Variations: Horatio, Orestes, Orsino, Orozio
  • Namesakes: Orazio Gentileschi (painter), Orazio Lomellini (poet), Orazio Vecchi (composer)

Orazio is an Italian boy's name that means "has good eyesight". One famous namesake is Orazio Gentileschi, an Italian Baroque painter who is known for his depictions of strong and suffering women.

Orlando

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Famous land
  • Pronunciation: or-LAHN-do
  • Variations: Rolando, Lando, Orla, Orlandino
  • Namesakes: Orlando Bloom (actor), Orlando Gibbons (composer), Orlando di Lasso (composer)

Orlando is an Italian name for boysthat means "famous land". Orlando Bloom is an English actor who is known for his roles in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

Osvaldo

  • Origin: Germanic
  • Meaning: Divine power
  • Pronunciation: ohs-VAHL-doh
  • Variations: Oswaldo, Oswald, Ozzie
  • Namesakes: Osvaldo Pugliese (tango composer and pianist), Osvaldo Golijov (composer), Osvaldo Ardiles (soccer player and coach)

Osvaldo is an Italian name of Germanic roots meaning "divine power." It is derived from the Old High German words "ans" meaning "god," and "waltan" meaning "to rule." An important figure with this name is Osvaldo Pugliese, an Argentine tango composer and pianist, who was instrumental in developing a new style of tango music known as the "golden age" of tango. He composed more than 1500 pieces during his career.

Ottavio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Eighth
  • Pronunciation: oh-TAH-vee-oh
  • Variations: Octavius, Ottaviano, Ottavieno, Octavio
  • Namesakes: Ottavio Rinuccini (Composer and librettist), Ottavio Missoni (Fashion designer), Ottavio Quattrocchi (Businessman)

Ottavio is derived from the Latin name Octavius, meaning "eighth." It was a popular name among Roman emperors, and it still carries a regal air. One of its most notable bearers was Ottavio Rinuccini, an Italian composer and librettist who collaborated with Claudio Monteverdi on several operas.

Palmiro

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Pilgrim
  • Pronunciation: pahl-MEE-roh
  • Variations: Palmiero, Palmare, Palmarino, Palmirino
  • Namesakes: Palmiro Togliatti (Politician), Palmiro Campagna (Artist), Palmiro Madera (Baseball player)

Palmiro is an Italian name of Latin origin derived from the Greek "palmēn," meaning "pilgrim." One of its most famous bearers was Palmiro Togliatti, an Italian politician who was one of the founders of the Italian Communist Party.

Paolo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Small
  • Pronunciation: pah-OH-loh
  • Variations: Paul, Paulo, Paolo, Paolino
  • Namesakes: Paolo Veronese (Painter), Paolo Rossi (Footballer), Paolo Nutini (Singer)

Paolo is an Italian form of the name Paul, which comes from the Latin name Paulus, meaning "small." Paolo Veronese is an Italian Renaissance painter known for his large-scale religious works.

Pasquale

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Easter
  • Pronunciation: pah-SKWAH-leh
  • Variations: Pascal, Paschal, Paschalis, Pasqualino
  • Namesakes: Pasquale Paoli (Revolutionary leader), Pasquale Festa Campanile (Film director and screenwriter), Pasquale Squitieri (Film director and screenwriter)

Pasquale is derived from the Latin word "paschalis," meaning "Easter." It was a popular name among early Christians, and it is still commonly used in Italy today. One of its most famous bearers was Pasquale Paoli, a Corsican revolutionary leader who fought against Genoese and French rule in the 18th century.

Patrizio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Nobleman
  • Pronunciation: pah-TREET-zee-oh
  • Variations: Patrick, Patricio, Patrik, Patryk
  • Namesakes: Patrizio Buanne (Singer), Patrizio Di Marco (Businessman), Patrizio Oliva (Boxer)

Patrizio is the Italian form of the name Patrick, which comes from the Latin name Patricius, meaning "nobleman." Patrizio Buanne is an Italian singer known for his romantic ballads and covers of classic Italian songs.

Pietro

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Rock, stone
  • Pronunciation: pee-ET-roh
  • Variations: Piero, Pedro, Petros, Pierre
  • Namesakes: Pietro Mascagni (composer), Pietro Perugino (painter), Pietro da Cortona (architect)

Pietro is a classic Italian boy's name derived from the Latin word for "rock" or "stone."

Raffaele

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: God has healed
  • Pronunciation: rah-fah-EL-leh
  • Variations: Raphael, Rafael, Raffaello, Rafal
  • Namesakes: Raffaele Sollecito (author), Raffaele Cutolo (organized crime figure), Raffaele Esposito (pizzaiolo)

Raffaele is an Italian variant of the Hebrew name Raphael, which means "God has healed." The name is associated with the archangel Raphael, who is believed to have healing powers in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.

Raimondo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Wise protector
  • Pronunciation: rye-MON-doh
  • Variations: Raymond, Ramon, Raimund, Raimundo
  • Namesakes: Raimondo Montecuccoli (military commander), Raimondo di Sangro (scientist and inventor), Raimondo Vianello (actor)

Raimondo is an Italian name derived from the Germanic name Raginmund, which means "wise protector." One famous namesake is Raimondo Montecuccoli, an Italian general who served in the Thirty Years' War and made significant contributions to the art of warfare.

Renato

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Reborn
  • Pronunciation: reh-NAH-toh
  • Variations: Renatus, Renat, René, Renee
  • Namesakes: Renato Zero (singer-songwriter), Renato Dulbecco (Nobel laureate in medicine), Renato Guttuso (painter)

Renato is an Italian boy's name derived from the Latin word renatus, which means "reborn." Renato Dulbecco is an Italian virologist who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1975 for his work on the replication of viruses.

Riccardo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Brave ruler
  • Pronunciation: ree-KAR-doh
  • Variations: Richard, Ricardo, Richart, Rickard
  • Namesakes: Riccardo Muti (conductor), Riccardo Chailly (conductor), Riccardo Tisci (fashion designer)

Riccardo is an Italian name derived from the Germanic name Ricohard, which means "brave ruler." Riccardo Muti is an Italian conductor who has been the music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Roberto

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Bright fame
  • Pronunciation: roh-BEHR-toh
  • Variations: Bob, Bobby, Rob, Robin
  • Namesakes: Roberto Baggio (Italian footballer), Roberto Benigni (Italian actor and director), Roberto Rossellini (Italian film director)

Roberto is a popular Italian name that means "bright fame". It is the Italian form of the name Robert.

Rocco

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Rest
  • Pronunciation: ROK-ko
  • Variations: Rocky
  • Namesakes: Rocco Siffredi (Italian pornographic actor), Rocco Granata (Italian-Belgian singer and songwriter), Saint Rocco

Rocco is an Italian name that means "rest". It is derived from the Germanic name Hrok, which means "rest" or "repose". Rocco is a popular name in Italy and is associated with Saint Rocco, the patron saint of dogs and falsely accused people.

Rodolfo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Famous wolf
  • Pronunciation: roh-DOHL-foh
  • Variations: Rudolf, Rolf
  • Namesakes: Rodolfo Valentino (Italian actor), Rodolfo Graziani (Italian general), Rodolfo Dordoni (Italian architect and designer)

Rodolfo is a masculine Italian name that means "famous wolf". It is derived from the Germanic name Hrodwulf, which means "fame" and "wolf".

Romeo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Pilgrim to Rome
  • Pronunciation: ROH-meh-oh
  • Variations: Roméo, Romeu
  • Namesakes: Romeo Montague (fictional character in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet), Romeo Gigli (Italian fashion designer), Romeo Castellucci (Italian theater director)

Romeo is an Italian name that means "pilgrim to Rome". It is derived from the Latin name Romaeus, which means "of Rome". Romeo is a popular name in Italy and is best known as the name of the male protagonist in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Salvatore

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Savior, rescuer
  • Pronunciation: sahl-vuh-tawr-eh
  • Variations: Sal, Salvator, Salvatorico, Salvatorre
  • Namesakes: Salvatore Ferragamo (Fashion designer), Salvatore Quasimodo (Poet), Salvatore Sirigu (Footballer)

Salvatore is a popular Italian name that means "savior" or "rescuer". It has been a common name among Christians due to its reference to Jesus as the savior. Salvatore Ferragamo was an Italian shoe designer who founded the luxury brand that bears his name.

Samuele

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: God has heard
  • Pronunciation: sah-MWEH-leh
  • Variations: Samuel, Sam, Sammy
  • Namesakes: Samuele Bacchiocchi (Seventh-day Adventist theologian), Samuele Papi (Italian volleyball player), Samuele Bersani (Italian singer-songwriter)

Samuele is a biblical name, derived from the Hebrew name Shemuel, meaning "God has heard".

Sandro

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Defender of men
  • Pronunciation: SAHN-droh
  • Variations: Alessandro, Alejandro, Alex
  • Namesakes: Sandro Botticelli (Italian painter), Sandro Pertini (Italian politician and 7th President of the Italian Republic), Sandro Mazzola (Italian footballer)

Sandro is a variant of the name Alessandro, which is the Italian form of Alexander. The name is of Greek origin and means "defender of men".

Sergio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Attendant, servant
  • Pronunciation: SEHR-joh
  • Variations: Serge, Sergius, Sergiy
  • Namesakes: Sergio Leone (Film director), Sergio Aguero (Footballer), Sergio Mattarella (President of Italy)

Sergio is an Italian name with Latin roots derived from the word "servus" which means servant or attendant. Sergio Aguero is an Argentine professional footballer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation.

Silvano

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Of the woods
  • Pronunciation: sil-VAH-noh
  • Variations: Silvan, Sylvain, Sylvester
  • Namesakes: Silvano Arieti (Psychiatrist), Silvano Sassetti (Shoe designer), Silvano Contini (Cyclist)

Silvano is an Italian boy's name that means "of the woods" or "from the forest." Silvano Arieti was an Italian-American psychiatrist who made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of schizophrenia.

Simone

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Heard, listened to
  • Pronunciation: see-MOH-neh
  • Variations: Simon, Simeon, Simo
  • Namesakes: Simone de Beauvoir (Writer), Simone Biles (Gymnast), Simone Moro (Mountaineer)

Simone is a unisex name of Hebrew origin that means "heard" or "listened to." Simone Moro is an Italian mountaineer who has climbed several of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest and K2.

Stefano

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Crown
  • Pronunciation: steh-FAH-noh
  • Variations: Stefan, Stephen, Esteban, Étienne
  • Namesakes: Stefano DiMera (fictional character), Stefano Gabbana (fashion designer), Stefano Pioli (football coach)

Stefano is a popular Italian name that means "crown". It is a name borne by several saints, including Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. Stefano Gabbana is a fashion designer and co-founder of the luxury brand Dolce & Gabbana.

Tiziano

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: From Titus
  • Pronunciation: tih-ZYAH-noh
  • Variations: Titus, Tito, Tizian
  • Namesakes: Tiziano Vecellio (painter), Tiziano Terzani (journalist), Tiziano Crudeli (football commentator)

Tiziano is an Italian name meaning "from Titus", derived from the Roman family name Titus. Tiziano Vecellio, known simply as Tiziano, was a prominent Renaissance painter known for his use of color and light.

Tommaso

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Twin
  • Pronunciation: tohm-MAH-soh
  • Variations: Thomas, Tomas, Tomaso
  • Namesakes: Tommaso Campanella (philosopher), Tommaso Buscetta (mafia informant), Tommaso Allan (rugby player)

Tommaso is the Italian form of the name Thomas, meaning "twin". Tommaso Buscetta was a Sicilian mafia informant who provided crucial testimony in the Maxi Trial, the largest anti-mafia trial in Italian history.

Umberto

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Famous warrior
  • Pronunciation: oom-BEHR-toh
  • Variations: Humbert, Umbert, Umber
  • Namesakes: Umberto Eco (writer), Umberto Nobile (explorer), Umberto Agnelli (industrialist)

Umberto is an Italian name for boys meaning "famous warrior". Umberto Agnelli was an Italian industrialist and chairman of Fiat, one of the largest car manufacturers in the world.

Valerio

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Strong, healthy
  • Pronunciation: va-LE-ree-oh
  • Variations: Val, Valerius, Valeriano, Valerian
  • Namesakes: Valerio Massimo Manfredi (Writer), Valerio Adami (Artist), Valerio Magrelli (Poet)

Valerio is an Italian name meaning "strong" or "healthy." It was a popular name among early Christians and was also the name of several Roman emperors. A notable namesake is Valerio Massimo Manfredi, an Italian historian and author who has written numerous bestselling books on ancient history and mythology.

Vincenzo

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Conquering
  • Pronunciation: vin-CHEHN-tsoh
  • Variations: Enzo, Vicenzo, Vincent
  • Namesakes: Vincenzo Bellini (Composer), Vincenzo Scamozzi (Architect), Vincenzo Nibali (Cyclist)

Vincenzo is a popular Italian name with a strong meaning of conquering.

Virgilio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Staff bearer
  • Pronunciation: veer-JEE-lee-oh
  • Variations: Virgil, Vergil
  • Namesakes: Virgil (Poet), Virgilio Barco (Politician), Virgilio Piñera (Writer)

Virgilio is an Italian name of Latin origin that means "staff bearer." It is most famously associated with the Roman poet Virgil, author of the epic poem "The Aeneid."

Vito

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Life
  • Pronunciation: VEE-toh
  • Variations: Vitale, Vitaliano
  • Namesakes: Vito Genovese (Gangster), Vito Acconci (Artist), Vito Mannone (Footballer)

Vito is an Italian name that means "life." It is a short form of the Latin name Vitus. It is well-known as the name of the iconic character Vito Corleone from The Godfather movies.

Vittorio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Victorious
  • Pronunciation: veet-TOR-ee-oh
  • Variations: Victor, Victorio, Vitorio
  • Namesakes: Vittorio Gassman (Actor), Vittorio Emanuele II (King of Italy), Vittorio Storaro (Cinematographer)

Vittorio is a name that means victorious and is a popular choice for Italian boys. Vittorio Storaro is a famous cinematographer who has worked on many iconic films such as Apocalypse Now and The Last Emperor.

Walter

  • Origin: Germanic
  • Meaning: Ruler of the army
  • Pronunciation: WAWL-ter
  • Variations: Valter, Gualtiero, Wouter
  • Namesakes: Walter Cronkite (Journalist), Walter Gropius (Architect), Walter Scott (Author)

Walter is an Italian name with germantic roots that means ruler of the army. Walter Cronkite was a legendary American journalist who anchored the CBS Evening News for many years.

Xander

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Defender of the people
  • Pronunciation: ZAN-der
  • Variations: Alexander, Zander, Sandro, Sander
  • Namesakes: Xander Schauffele (Professional golfer), Xander Berkeley (Actor), Xander Corvus (Adult film actor)

Xander is a variant of Alexander, a name derived from the Greek Alexandros, meaning "defender of the people." Alexander the Great, King of Macedon, is one of the most famous historical figures to bear this name.

Yago

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Supplanter
  • Pronunciation: YA-go
  • Variations: Iago, Jacob, James
  • Namesakes: Yago Fernández (Spanish footballer), Yago Pikachu (Brazilian footballer)

Yago is an Italian name and Spanish variant of the name Jacob, which means "supplanter." It is most commonly found in the Galicia region of Spain and is a popular name among soccer players in Brazil.

Zeno

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Gift of Zeus
  • Pronunciation: ZEE-no
  • Variations: Zenon
  • Namesakes: Zeno of Elea (Ancient Greek philosopher), Zeno of Citium (Ancient Greek philosopher), Zeno Cosini (Fictional character from the book "Confessions of Zeno" by Italo Svevo)

Zeno is an Italian name that means "gift of Zeus." It is derived from the Greek name Zenon.

Zorro

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Fox
  • Pronunciation: ZOR-o
  • Namesakes: Zorro (Fictional character in books and movies)

Zorro is an Italian name with Spanish roots that means "fox." It is most famously associated with the masked vigilante character of the same name, who fights against injustice and oppression in Spanish California during the 19th century. The character of Zorro has been adapted into numerous books, movies, and television shows.

Zosimo

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Survivor
  • Pronunciation: zo-SEE-mo
  • Variations: Zosimus
  • Namesakes: Zosimus (Ancient Greek historian), Zosimus (Roman emperor)

Zosimo is an Italian name with Greek roots that means "survivor." It was borne by several notable figures in ancient Greece, including the historian Zosimus and the Roman emperor Zosimus. The name has also been used in modern times, particularly in Italy and other Mediterranean countries.

Related Name Ideas