615+ Italian Names for Girls and Boys
- Gerome
Description:
Gerome is a variant spelling of Jerome, a name with ancient Greek origins derived from 'Hieronymos,' meaning 'sacred name.' This masculine name carries historical significance through Saint Jerome, the 4th-century scholar who translated the Bible into Latin. While less common than Jerome, Gerome maintains the same sophisticated and classical feel. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but has become increasingly rare in recent decades. Gerome carries an intellectual, scholarly reputation while its distinctive spelling gives it a touch of uniqueness for parents seeking a traditional name with a slight twist.
- Guntero
Description:
Guntero is a masculine name that represents the Spanish or Italian form of Gunther, which derives from the Germanic elements 'gund' (war) and 'hari' (army). This name carries medieval chivalric associations, notably through the character of King Gunther in the Nibelungenlied epic poem and Wagner's opera cycle. While the German Gunther and French Gonthier have maintained some usage over centuries, Guntero remains quite rare. The name has a strong, dignified quality with its connection to Germanic warrior tradition, while the Romance language ending softens its sound somewhat. Guntero might appeal to parents seeking a name with medieval European heritage and a distinctive character. Despite its rarity in modern usage, the name carries historical weight and cross-cultural European connections.
- Cidro
Description:
Cidro is a masculine name with Latin and Mediterranean influences, likely derived from 'citrus' or related to the Spanish word 'cidro' referring to the citron fruit tree. It may also be a variant of Isidro or Isidore, which comes from Greek meaning 'gift of Isis.' Cidro has a fresh, crisp sound that evokes sunshine and Mediterranean landscapes. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name may have more presence in Spanish, Portuguese, or Italian communities. The name's association with citrus fruits gives it connotations of brightness, freshness, and vitality. Cidro offers a distinctive alternative to more common names while maintaining an approachable sound and spelling. Its botanical connections also align with the trend toward nature-inspired names.
- Giotto
Origin:
Italian variation of Godfrey or GeoffreyMeaning:
"pledge of peace"Description:
This appealing Italian name is associated with the great Florentine painter and architect Giotto di Bondone, a major force in the Italian Renaissance.
- Cirillo
Description:
Cirillo is a masculine Italian name derived from the Greek name Kyrillos (Cyril in English), meaning 'lordly' or 'masterful.' This melodious Italian form carries the same dignified heritage as its Greek ancestor while incorporating characteristic Italian phonology and the distinctive double 'l' sound. The name has strong historical connections to Saint Cyril, who along with his brother Methodius, created the Cyrillic alphabet and spread Christianity among Slavic peoples. In Italy, Cirillo maintains modest usage, particularly in southern regions, though it has never ranked among the most common names. Outside Italy, the name remains relatively rare, offering a distinctive choice that still feels accessible through its connection to the more familiar Cyril. Cirillo combines historical depth with a rhythmic, appealing sound.
- Edmondo
Description:
Edmondo is a masculine name of Germanic origin, representing the Italian variation of Edmund, which combines the elements 'ed' meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'mund' meaning 'protection.' This sophisticated name carries an aristocratic European flair while maintaining strong historical roots. Though more common in Italy and Spanish-speaking countries, Edmondo remains relatively rare in English-speaking regions, offering distinction while still being recognizable. The name was popularized in part by the renowned Italian writer Edmondo De Amicis, author of the classic novel 'Heart.' With its melodious sound and noble connotations, Edmondo provides a distinguished alternative to the more common Edward or Edmund, appealing to parents seeking a name with international sophistication.
- Gualtiero
Description:
Gualtiero is the Italian form of Walter, a masculine name of Germanic origin meaning 'ruler of the army' or 'powerful warrior.' Derived from the elements 'wald' (rule) and 'hari' (army), Gualtiero carries the same strong connotations as its Germanic counterpart. Popular throughout medieval Italy, particularly during the Norman influence, the name reflects Italy's complex cultural history. While less common today than in previous centuries, Gualtiero maintains an aristocratic, classical appeal in Italian culture. The name evokes images of Renaissance nobility and has a melodious quality characteristic of Italian names, though it's more frequently encountered among older generations in modern Italy.
- Alphonsus
Origin:
Latin form of AlfonsoMeaning:
"noble and ready"Description:
This Latinized form of a name that's well used in Italy and Spain is sometimes heard, oddly enough, in Ireland.
- Chiarina
Description:
Chiarina is a delicate feminine name with Italian origins, functioning as a diminutive form of 'Chiara,' the Italian variant of 'Clara.' Derived from the Latin 'clarus,' meaning 'bright, clear, or famous,' Chiarina carries connotations of luminosity and distinction. The suffix '-ina' adds an endearing, diminutive quality that enhances its melodic charm. While relatively uncommon outside of Italy, the name has historical connections to classical music through the 'Chiarina,' a small trumpet referenced in Robert Schumann's compositions. With its flowing four syllables and musical quality, Chiarina offers an elegant alternative to more common Clara derivatives. The name maintains a timeless feminine quality while being distinctive enough to stand out. Though rare in English-speaking countries, it provides a beautiful option for parents seeking an Italian name with musical overtones.
- Filberte
Description:
Filberte is a masculine name that represents an elaborate variant of Filbert or Gilbert. The name has Germanic origins, derived from "fil" (brilliant) and "berht" (bright or famous), literally meaning "brilliantly famous" or "very bright." The additional 'e' at the end gives it a French-influenced flair. Filberte carries a certain scholarly, distinguished quality that evokes medieval or renaissance Europe. This uncommon name might also connect to the filbert nut (hazelnut), which could suggest earthiness or natural associations. While quite rare in contemporary usage, it offers a distinctive alternative to more common Gilbert or Philip variations. The name combines historical depth with a touch of European sophistication, making it an unusual but culturally rich choice.
- Giordano
Description:
Giordano is an Italian masculine name derived from the Latin name Jordanus, meaning 'flowing down' or 'descending,' referring to the Jordan River. It gained prominence in Italy during the Renaissance period, with notable bearers including the philosopher Giordano Bruno. The name combines historical gravitas with melodic Italian charm. While consistently used in Italy throughout the centuries, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it an air of distinction and uniqueness. Giordano has maintained steady popularity in Italy, where it's appreciated for its strong sound and cultural heritage.
- Inocenzo
Description:
Inocenzo is a masculine name of Latin origin, derived from 'innocens' meaning 'innocent' or 'harmless.' It is the Italian variation of Innocent, a name with significant historical connections to religious figures, most notably the thirteen popes who bore the name Innocent. The name conveys qualities of purity, virtue, and moral integrity. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Inocenzo maintains modest popularity in Italy and Spanish-speaking regions (where it's often spelled Inocencio). The name carries a dignified, classical sound with its melodic Italian pronunciation. For parents seeking a name with strong ethical connotations and Latin roots, Inocenzo offers a distinctive option that combines historical depth with virtuous meaning.
- Bernadino
Description:
Bernadino is a masculine name of Italian and Spanish origin, representing a variation of Bernard with the diminutive suffix "-ino." Derived from Germanic elements meaning "brave as a bear" (bern for bear and hard for brave), it carries connotations of strength and courage. While less common than Bernard or the Italian Bernardo, Bernadino has maintained modest usage in Italian and Hispanic communities. The name is sometimes associated with Saint Bernardino of Siena, a 15th-century Franciscan missionary and influential preacher. With its melodic quality and strong etymology, Bernadino offers a distinctive alternative to more common Bernard derivatives while preserving the name's noble heritage and meaningful roots.
- Orazio
Description:
Orazio is an Italian masculine name derived from the Latin 'Horatius,' which was a Roman family name of uncertain origin. It's the Italian equivalent of Horace, possibly connected to the Latin word 'hora' meaning 'hour' or 'time.' Historically associated with the renowned Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and cultural significance. While common in Italy, particularly in earlier generations, Orazio remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name conveys a sense of classical elegance and intellectual tradition, reflecting its ancient Roman heritage and enduring presence in Italian culture.
- Romancia
Description:
Romancia is an exceptionally rare feminine name that evokes notions of romance and elegance. It appears to be derived from the Latin 'romanicus' or similar roots relating to Rome or the Romance languages. The name carries a distinctly romantic, literary quality with its flowing syllables and soft sounds. Romancia might be considered a more elaborate form of the name Roma or an inventive feminine variation of Roman. Despite its classic linguistic roots, the name has minimal documented usage historically, making it a truly unique choice. For parents seeking a name with a romantic, almost poetic quality, Romancia offers sophistication and distinctiveness while maintaining connections to classical Latin heritage.
- Herberto
Description:
Herberto is a masculine name representing the Spanish and Portuguese form of Herbert, which derives from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' This multicultural variant carries the strength of its Germanic origins while offering a melodic Mediterranean quality through its ending. Most popular in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Herberto has never achieved widespread use in English-speaking regions, maintaining its exotic appeal. The name experienced modest popularity in the early to mid-20th century in Latin American countries but has become less common in recent decades. Herberto conveys a distinguished, somewhat formal character while offering the friendly nickname options of Herbie or Berto. The name's international quality makes it an interesting choice for parents seeking a name with cross-cultural appeal and historical depth.
- Teodosio
Description:
Teodosio is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the elements 'theos' meaning 'god' and 'dosis' meaning 'giving,' creating the meaning 'gift of God' or 'given by God.' This name has deep historical roots, most notably carried by Roman Emperor Theodosius the Great who ruled in the 4th century. The spelling Teodosio represents the Italian and Spanish form of the name, while other variations include Theodosius (Greek), Teodósio (Portuguese), and Teodoz (Russian). The name remains moderately popular in Mediterranean countries, particularly Italy and Spain, as well as in Latin America. Teodosio projects dignity and classical heritage, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical significance and religious connotations. Its melodious quality and traditional character make it a timeless choice with international recognition.
- Fiorenza
Origin:
Italian variation of Florentia and Florence, LatinMeaning:
"flourishing, prospering"Description:
Bold and elegant, Fiorenza is an Italian form of Florence, which was used as the name of the Tuscan city in the Middle Ages. Appearing in the title of a 1907 play but Thomas Mann, it has been notably borne by marine ecologist, Fiorenza Micheli, mezzo-soprano singer Fiorenza Cossotto, actress Fiorenza Pieri, and TV personality and music artist Fiorenza Cocozza. A nickname possibility is the sparky Fio.
- Ercole
Description:
Ercole is the Italian form of Hercules, the legendary hero from Greco-Roman mythology known for his extraordinary strength and courage. The name derives from the Greek 'Herakles,' which means 'glory of Hera' – ironically referring to the goddess who persecuted him in mythology. Ercole has been used in Italy since the Renaissance period when classical names experienced a revival. While not extremely common, it has maintained steady usage in Italian-speaking regions. The name carries connotations of exceptional strength, endurance, and heroic qualities. Ercole has a distinctive, powerful sound with its strong 'er' beginning and flowing Italian ending, making it both classical and memorable.
- Arnoldo
Description:
Arnoldo is a masculine name of Germanic origin, representing the Italian and Spanish form of Arnold. The name derives from the elements 'arn' (eagle) and 'wald' (power, rule), meaning 'eagle power' or 'strong as an eagle.' This powerful name has maintained popularity in Hispanic and Italian communities throughout the centuries. Arnoldo carries an air of strength and dignity, with historical connections to medieval European nobility. While less common in English-speaking countries than Arnold, Arnoldo has established presence in Latin American countries and among Hispanic communities worldwide. The name's ending with the melodic 'o' sound gives it a warm, approachable quality while maintaining its masculine strength. Notable bearers include various artists, politicians, and athletes throughout Latin American history.
