Italian Names for Boys

Biagio is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin 'Blasius,' which has roots in the Latin word 'blaesus' meaning 'lisping' or 'stammering.' Despite this etymology, the name has been honored for centuries due to its association with Saint Blaise (San Biagio in Italian), a 4th-century Armenian bishop and martyr who is venerated as the patron saint of throat ailments. Traditionally popular in Italy, particularly in southern regions like Sicily and Calabria, Biagio has a melodic quality characteristic of Italian names. Though uncommon outside of Italian communities, it retains strong cultural connections and family significance for those of Italian heritage. The name has a distinctive charm with its blend of strength and musicality.

Biagio

A rarely heard saint's name -- Saint Charles Borromeo is the patron of apple orchards and stomach diseases. 

Borromeo is of course a surname, but if more common Anglo surnames like Parker and Carter can be first names, why not Borromeo? In the US, the "bor" syllable may put a child in for some teasing. You could use Romeo instead.

Borromeo

One way to encourage some cheers for your little one, but not recommended. 

Bravo

Brio

Ceasario is a masculine name with Latin and Italian influences, likely derived from Caesar, which historically meant 'hairy' or possibly 'born by caesarean section.' It evokes images of ancient Rome and carries connotations of leadership and imperial power. The spelling variation with 'ea' differs from the more common Cesario or Cesare forms. The name has an elegant, flowing quality with its four syllables and melodic rhythm. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it maintains popularity in some Latin and Italian communities. Ceasario has a dramatic, somewhat theatrical quality that might appeal to parents looking for a name with historical depth and distinctive character. It offers several friendly nickname possibilities like Ceas or Rio.

Ceasario

Carlino is a masculine Italian name functioning as a diminutive of Carlo (the Italian form of Charles). The suffix "-ino" in Italian indicates smallness or endearment, essentially meaning "little Carlo" or "dear Carlo." The name ultimately derives from Germanic origins meaning "free man" or "man." Primarily used in Italian-speaking regions, Carlino carries a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining connection to the distinguished history of the name Charles. Though not widely used internationally, it remains a charming option for those with Italian heritage or appreciation for Italian naming traditions. Carlino strikes a balance between playfulness and traditional roots, offering a friendly alternative to the more formal Carlo.

Carlino

Carolo is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'Carolus', which is the Latin form of Charles. The name ultimately comes from Germanic roots, meaning 'free man' or 'man'. Carolo has been used predominantly in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking regions, often as a variant of Carlo or Carlos. While not among the most common names internationally, it carries a distinguished and classical feel. The name has historical connections to various European monarchs and nobility. Those named Carolo often appreciate its melodic sound and international recognition while maintaining a certain uniqueness and character in most communities.

Carolo

The meaning is endearing, but it also feels uncomfortably like a short form for Caroline. Its artistic reference is British sculptor Anthony Caro.

Caro

Gasparo is a masculine name with Italian origins, representing an older Italian variant of Casper or Gaspar. The name derives from the Persian 'ganzabara' meaning 'treasurer' and connects to the traditional story of the Three Wise Men, as Gaspar was reportedly one of the Magi who visited the infant Jesus. 

Particularly common in Renaissance Italy, Gasparo has a rich historical presence in Italian art and music, notably with the famous violin maker Gasparo da Salò. The name carries a classical, somewhat aristocratic feel with its melodious four syllables and distinctive ending. While less frequently used in modern times, it maintains appeal for parents seeking a name with historical depth and Italian cultural connections.

Gasparo

Cedro is a masculine name with Latin origins, deriving from 'cedrus', meaning 'cedar tree'. The cedar has long symbolized strength, dignity, and immortality across many cultures. As a name, Cedro conveys these noble qualities while maintaining a melodic, accessible sound. Popular primarily in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking regions, the name connects its bearer to the natural world and evokes the majestic presence of the cedar. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Cedro offers a distinctive alternative to more common tree-inspired names. Its relatively simple pronunciation and spelling, combined with its meaningful natural symbolism, make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with both substance and style.

Cedro

Benvenuto Cellini, the great Italian sculptor and writer -- a true Renaissance man -- could inspire this creative choice. 

Cellini

Surrealist artist, inspired creative choice. 

Chirico

Columbano is a masculine name of Latin and Italian origin, derived from 'columba' meaning 'dove.' It shares roots with the more familiar Columba or Columbus. The name carries peaceful symbolism through its dove connection, representing harmony and gentleness in many cultures. Columbano has historical significance in Italian and Portuguese heritage, most notably through Saint Columbanus, a 6th-century Irish missionary. The name remains quite rare outside of specific regions in Italy and Portuguese-speaking countries. Columbano has a melodic, rhythmic quality with its four syllables and musical Italian phonetics. It presents an uncommon alternative for parents seeking a name with classical roots, distinctive character, and meaningful symbolism while connecting to Mediterranean cultural heritage.

Columbano

Singer Perry is long gone, but the beautiful northern Italian lake conjures up a clear and tranquil image. 

Como

Constanzo is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin name Constantius, which means 'constant' or 'steadfast.' It shares roots with the more common Constantine, which was borne by several Byzantine emperors and an early Christian saint. Constanzo represents strength of character and unwavering dedication. While popular in Italy and among Italian-American families, it remains relatively uncommon in broader English-speaking countries. The name carries a dignified, traditional quality with its strong consonants and classic Italian ending. For families with Italian heritage, Constanzo offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a distinctive name that embodies admirable qualities of persistence and reliability.

Constanzo

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.

Cirillo

Damone is a masculine name with Italian origins, functioning as a variant of Damon or a diminutive form of Damian. The name Damon comes from Greek meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue,' while Damian derives from the Greek 'Damianos,' meaning 'to tame' or 'to conquer.' The addition of the final 'e' gives Damone a melodic Italian flair. The name gained some recognition in America through Italian-American communities and was further popularized by singer Vic Damone (born Vito Rocco Farinola) in the mid-20th century. Damone carries a smooth, musical quality while maintaining masculine strength, offering a distinctive variation on more common classical names.

Damone

Daniele is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, representing the Italian, French, and Portuguese version of Daniel, meaning 'God is my judge.' While primarily used for boys in these European cultures, it's important to note that in English-speaking countries, this spelling might be confused with the feminine 'Danielle.' The name carries biblical significance through the prophet Daniel, known for wisdom and dream interpretation. With its melodic three-syllable pronunciation (dah-nee-EH-leh), it offers a sophisticated European flair to the classic name. Daniele remains consistently popular in Italy and has moderate usage in other Mediterranean and Latin countries. Its international character makes it appealing for families with Italian or European heritage or those seeking a name that works well across different languages.

Daniele

Durante is a masculine name of Italian origin, derived from the Latin 'durans' meaning 'enduring' or 'persistent.' Historically used in medieval Italy, it conveys qualities of strength, resilience, and longevity. The name gained some recognition through the Italian poet Dante Alighieri, whose full name was Durante degli Alighieri, and later through American entertainer Jimmy Durante. Despite its distinguished history, Durante remains relatively uncommon in most Western countries, giving it an air of uniqueness and old-world sophistication. The name carries a musical quality with its flowing syllables while maintaining masculine strength. It appeals particularly to parents with Italian heritage or those seeking a name with classical roots and a distinctive Mediterranean flair.

Durante

Donati is a distinguished Italian surname that can easily work as a first. The last name Donati is a patronymic from an ancestral Donato or may be a plural of Donato.

Donati

Italian names for baby boys are becoming increasingly popular among parents of all ethnicities, in part because many of them feature the oh-so-stylish final letter "O." This has contributed to the rise of such Italian names for boys as Matteo and Leonardo.

Italian names for boys in the US Top 1000

 include Emiliano, Aldo, Dante, Enzo, Luca, Maximo, Rocco, Romeo, and Santino. 

 that are becoming more popular include Cassio, Piero, and Giorgio.

 in Italy include Leonardo — currently ranking Number 1 in its native land — Alessandro, Francesco, and Giuseppe. Some non-Italian names popular for boys in Italy include Christian, Nathan, and the international favorite Liam.

See if any of the charming names in our list of 

 might work for your son. The Italian boy names and meanings below are ranked according to their current popularity on Nameberry.

Italian boy names including meanings and popularity, with male names of Italian origin used in Italy, the US, and around the world. Includes top Italian boy names such as Enzo and Luca along with rare Italian names for baby boys. (Page 14)

Italian Boy Names