Italian Names that Start With P

  1. Pippa
    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Philippa
    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"
    • Description:

      Pippa, a peppy condensation of Philippa that turns it from serious to sprightly, has come into the public eye in a big way via the former Kate Middleton's sister.
  2. Paolo
    • Origin:

      Italian, variation of Paul
    • Meaning:

      "small"
    • Description:

      Paolo is an irresistibly lush Italian name for boys, worlds more romantic than its spare English equivalent.
  3. Prospero
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of Prosper
    • Meaning:

      "succeed, prosper"
    • Description:

      Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
  4. Piero
    • Origin:

      Italian, variation of Peter
    • Meaning:

      "rock"
    • Description:

      Piero is elegant, melodic, appealing. Just picture the muted frescoes of Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
  5. Pasquale
    • Description:

      Pasquale is a traditional Italian masculine name with rich historical and religious significance. Derived from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter,' it was historically given to boys born during the Easter season. The name has deep roots in Italian culture, particularly in southern Italy and Sicily, where it remains moderately common. In Italian-American communities, Pasquale has been a familiar presence since the waves of Italian immigration in the early 20th century, often affectionately shortened to 'Pat' or 'Patsy.' The name carries connotations of faith, tradition, and cultural heritage. While less common among newer generations, Pasquale offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Mediterranean charm and historical depth. Its characteristic Italian ending gives it a melodic, warm quality when pronounced correctly.
  6. Paola
    • Origin:

      Italian and Spanish variation of Paula
    • Meaning:

      "small"
    • Description:

      Paola is the Latinate version of Paula. Its intriguing sound could make it more appealing than the English standard.
  7. Pepe
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of JosÉ
    • Description:

      Le Pew. We don't think so, although it's a megacommon nickname name in Latino countries.
  8. Pellegrino
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Peregrine
    • Description:

      The water, period.
  9. Po
    • Origin:

      Italian river name
    • Description:

      A river (in Italy), a writer (Bronson), a Teletubby: the Bo of the new millennium.
  10. Piera
    • Description:

      Piera is a feminine name with Italian origins, functioning as the female form of Piero or Pietro, which ultimately derive from the Greek name Petros, meaning "rock" or "stone." This elegant name carries connotations of strength and stability through its etymological connection to stone. Primarily found in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, Piera remains relatively uncommon in the broader international context, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a melodic, flowing sound with its two syllables and open-vowel ending, characteristic of Italian feminine names. While never achieving widespread popularity, Piera has maintained consistent usage throughout generations in Italy, particularly in northern regions. Its classic nature combined with its relative rarity makes it appealing for those seeking a name with historical depth but not overused.

  11. Pietro
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Peter, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "rock, stone"
    • Description:

      Yet another winning international form of Peter.
  12. Po
    • Origin:

      Italian river name
    • Description:

      The good news: the Po is Italy's longest river, flowing across the north. The bad news: Po is a manic, scooter-riding red Teletubby.
  13. Placido
    • Origin:

      Italian and Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "serene"
    • Description:

      Placido was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.
  14. Primavera
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "spring"
    • Description:

      A bit syllable-heavy, but a pretty name for a springtime baby.
  15. Pierluigi
    • Origin:

      Italian, combination of Piero and Luigi
    • Description:

      If one Italian name won't do.
  16. Pasquelina
    • Description:

      Pasquelina is a feminine Italian name derived from Pasqua, meaning 'Easter' or 'Passover.' It's essentially the female diminutive form of Pascal or Pasquale, names traditionally given to children born during the Easter season. This elegant name carries strong cultural and religious significance in Italian Catholic communities, connecting its bearer to the celebration of resurrection and renewal. While common in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, Pasquelina remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic charm. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive sound. For families with Italian heritage, Pasquelina offers a way to honor cultural roots while bestowing a name with deep spiritual meaning.
  17. Phebe
    • Origin:

      Akan, Ghanaian
    • Meaning:

      "born on Friday"
    • Description:

      Though often Anglicized as Phoebe, Phebe has separate roots. It originated as a variation of Afua, an Akan day name, and commonly used among enslaved people in America.
  18. Primo
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "first"
    • Description:

      Primo is number one among the Latin birth-order names--Octavius et al--and the one most likely to be used in these days of smaller families. It has that jaunty 'o' ending and Italian flavor that many modern parents like so much. And what little boy wouldn't appreciate being prime?
  19. Patrizio
    • Description:

      Patrizio is the Italian form of Patrick, derived from the Latin name Patricius, meaning 'nobleman' or 'of patrician rank.' This masculine name has deep historical roots in ancient Rome, where patricians represented the elite ruling class. It gained widespread usage after Saint Patrick, the 5th-century missionary who became the patron saint of Ireland. In Italy, Patrizio remains moderately popular, embodying a sense of dignified heritage and cultural pride. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while maintaining its connection to the more widely recognized Patrick. Men named Patrizio often appreciate their name's distinguished quality and historical significance.

  20. Pino
    • Origin:

      Italian, diminutive of names such as Giuseppino
    • Description:

      There are many more substantial Italian choices.