Italian Names

Popular in Brazil during the 1960s, Zenaide is the Portuguese and Italian form of the Greek Zenaida. Associated with a genus of white-winged doves, a first-century saint and doctor, and the highest of the Greek gods, it is pronounced as dzeh-NIE-deh in Italian and as zeh-NYE-jee in Portuguese. 

Zenaide

Typically used as a feminine name, it likely appeared in the US stats in the 20th-century, possibly as the result of data input errors. It could be used as a short form of a double name, however, such as Luis Ángel.

Luisa

A melodic and golden name that is most familiar in Brazil and the Philippines, along within its native Italy, Flaviano ultimately comes from the Roman Flavius, meaning "golden-haired", or simply "golden, yellow".  Notable bearers have included the 19th century Italian painter Flaviano Bucci, operatic singer Flaviano Labò, and cyclist Flaviano Vicentini, along with one of the youngest generals of the Philippine Revolution, Flaviano Yengko.

Flaviano

This name of an architecturally glorious Italian city makes a romantic and evocative possibility. 

Vicenza

Venetia, the name of the region encompassing Venice, has a radiant, picturesque authenticity, as do the related Venezia and Venice. 
 Venetia is the title of a novel by Benjamin Disraeli centering on the character Venetia Herbert, and Venetia Anastasia Stanley was a famous seventeenth century beauty. 
 Verona is another pretty Italian place name possibility.

Venetia

Martedi is a feminine name derived from the Italian word for Tuesday, 'martedì.' As a day name, it has its etymological roots in 'dies Martis' or 'day of Mars' in Latin, connecting it to the Roman god of war. While day names like Sunday or Wednesday have some tradition in English, Martedi remains distinctly uncommon and exotic. The name carries a rhythmic, musical quality typical of Italian language, making it appealing despite its rarity. Those with Italian heritage might choose it to honor their cultural roots, while others might select it simply for its melodic sound and unique character. Martedi projects sophistication with its international flair and distinctive pronunciation.

Martedi

Abrahamo is a masculine name that represents a Latin or Italian variant of Abraham, which has Hebrew origins meaning "father of multitudes." The name carries significant religious importance across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as Abraham is considered a patriarch in all three traditions. While Abraham is common in many countries, Abrahamo is considerably rarer, primarily found in some Italian-speaking regions or Latin American communities. The additional 'o' ending follows Romance language naming patterns. Despite its relative obscurity compared to Abraham, Abrahamo carries the same rich historical and religious significance, making it an option for parents seeking a less common variation of the biblical classic.

Abrahamo

Abramo

Achilleo is a masculine name derived from Greek origins, specifically as a variation of Achilles, the legendary hero of Homer's Iliad. The name stems from Greek mythology where Achilles was known for his strength, bravery, and tragic vulnerability (his heel). Achilleo represents qualities of courage, strength, and martial prowess. This variant, with its melodious ending, is more common in Mediterranean countries, particularly in Greek and Italian communities. While not widely used globally, it carries a classical dignity and powerful historical connections that appeal to parents drawn to mythological names. The additional syllable gives Achilleo a more flowing, romantic quality compared to the sharper sound of Achilles, while still evoking the same heroic associations.

Achilleo

Tosca is one operatic heroine that has never taken off as a baby name -- there were no babies named Tosca in the US last year -- but it's the name of entrepreneur Elon Musk's sister so may benefit from some referred publicity.

Tosca

A creative choice, suggesting the Venetian Renaissance painter (born Tiziano), and the brownish orange red hue that was featured on his palette.  But try explaining to the boys in seventh grade that it's pronounced tee-shun. 

Titian

Tomassa is a feminine name of Spanish and Italian origin. It is the female form of Thomas, which comes from the Aramaic name Ta'oma', meaning 'twin.' The name carries a dignified Mediterranean charm and has been used primarily in Spanish-speaking communities. Tomassa has never been particularly common in English-speaking countries, maintaining a certain exotic appeal. The name offers numerous nickname possibilities, including Toma, Massa, or Tomi. While uncommon, it has a melodious quality and historical depth that may appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet traditional name with Latin roots. Its rarity gives it a special quality for those who bear it.

Tomassa

Tersa appears to be a feminine variation of names like Teresa or a variant spelling of the Italian Terza, which means 'third.' With its simple two-syllable structure, Tersa has a clean, straightforward pronunciation. The name carries a gentle, classic quality while being much less common than its possible root name Teresa. Though rare in usage, Tersa might appeal to parents seeking a simplified version of traditional names or those with Italian heritage looking for a subtle connection to their cultural roots. The name has a crisp, somewhat minimalist feel compared to the more commonly used Teresa or Theresa, making it an option for parents who appreciate understated elegance in naming.

Tersa

Pretty, zippy and almost unknown, this Italian name would suit a third child.

Terza

Alexius is a masculine name with ancient Greek and Latin origins, derived from the Greek word 'alexein' meaning 'to defend' or 'to help.' It represents the original Latin form that later evolved into Alexis and Alex. Historically, Alexius was borne by several Byzantine emperors and Christian saints, giving it royal and religious significance. The name carries a scholarly, classical dignity with its Latin ending. While uncommon in modern English-speaking countries, Alexius retains popularity in Eastern European and Orthodox Christian communities. The name offers the familiar nicknames Alex or Lex while providing a distinguished, full form with historical gravitas. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice for parents drawn to names with classical roots and historical depth.

Alexius

Terina is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Latin 'tener' meaning 'tender' or 'delicate,' or from Greek roots relating to 'terein' meaning 'to guard.' In some cultures, it developed as a diminutive form of Teresa. The name has appeared across various European cultures but has never been particularly common in English-speaking countries. Terina has a melodic, flowing quality with its three syllables and soft consonants. The name carries an elegant, somewhat exotic feel while remaining relatively easy to pronounce and spell. Though uncommon in contemporary usage, Terina offers a distinctive alternative to more popular names like Trina, Teresa, or Marina.

Terina

If you're looking for an honor name for grandpa Tom, this could be a good choice. It's also used as a male short form of the name in Eastern Europe.

Toma

An elaborate Italian name associated with fashion designer Simonetta Colonna, a key figure in the emergence of Italian haute couture. 

Simonetta

Alvino is a masculine name with Italian and Spanish roots, derived from the Latin 'albus' meaning 'white' or 'bright.' It's a variation of Alvin, with the Italian/Spanish suffix giving it a more melodic quality. Alvino carries connotations of clarity, purity, and brightness. While relatively uncommon in the United States, the name has maintained steady usage in Hispanic and Italian communities. Historically, the name gained some recognition through Alvino Rey, a pioneer of electric guitar and big band music in the 20th century. Alvino offers parents a distinctive yet accessible option with a pleasant sound and positive meaning, blending classic origins with a slightly exotic feel for English speakers.

Alvino

Silva is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from Latin meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' This nature-inspired name evokes images of trees, greenery, and natural beauty. Silva has cross-cultural appeal, appearing in various forms throughout Romance languages, particularly in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking regions where it's also a common surname. In Eastern European traditions, particularly Slavic countries, similar variations exist. The name carries an elegant simplicity while connecting to the natural world. While not among the most common given names in English-speaking countries, Silva maintains steady usage internationally. Its brevity, ease of pronunciation, and meaningful connection to nature make it appealing to contemporary parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and grounded in traditional roots.

Silva

Italian names are among the most romantic and melodious in the world. The top Italian baby names in the US today are Isabella for girls and Leonardo for boys.

 include Mia, Aria, Luna, Bella, and Gianna. Along with Leonardo,

 in the US Top 200 include Antonio, Emiliano, Giovanni, and Luca. 

 include Ginevra, Aurora, Francesco, and Alessandro. Contemporary Italian parents also like some non-Italian names for their babies. The German Alice and Emma along with the Hebrew Sara and Noemi are popular for girls. For boys, the Hebrew Nathan and the international favorite Liam are widely-used.

 include descriptions of the person’s character and destiny based on their name, claiming that a child named Donato will be sweet and impressionable, for instance, while Ilaria is optimistic and sociable.



Browse our full list of Italian baby names here.

Italian baby names for boys and girls including popular names and unique names of Italian origin, with meanings and popularity. (Page 36)

Italian Names for Girls and Boys