Italian Names for Boys

The name of a 5th century saint and hermit of Sicily, Calogero is perhaps more famously associated with the Italian-French singer Calogero Maurici, known mononymously by his distinctive first name. Meaning "beautiful elder", it is derived from Greek, via the Roman Calogerus and, it may appeal to those who want to honor an important older person in their lives.
 
The central protagonist of the 60s movie, A Bronx Tale, it featured in the French charts in the 50s and 60s peaking at #242, while in Italy, it last appeared in the Top 200 in 2009.

Calogero

Gavino is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin name Gabinus, which was associated with the ancient city of Gabii near Rome. The name can also be linked to the Latin word 'gavia' meaning 'seagull'. Gavino is particularly popular in Sardinia, Italy, where Saint Gavino, a Roman martyr, is venerated. The name has remained relatively uncommon outside of Italian communities, giving it a distinctive character. In Spanish-speaking regions, especially in parts of Latin America, Gavino appears occasionally as a traditional name. Its pronunciation (gah-VEE-noh) with the stress on the second syllable gives it a melodious quality that many parents appreciate.

Gavino

This name of the patron saint of Naples would make an apt choice for a New Year's baby, or one with Neapolitan roots. 

Gennaro

Silvanus was the Roman god of the forests and is also an alternate name in the New Testament for Silas.  Relatives include Silvio, Silvius, and Sylvia.

Silvano

Tommaso is the handsome Italian version of the classic Thomas, still leading directly to short forms Tommy or Tom.

Tommaso

Rosario comes from the Spanish title of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora del Rosario, or "Our Lady of the Rosary", Rosary referring to the vocal and mental prayers in Catholicism, that reflect on the life of Christ and his Mother. 
 
A popular masculine choice in Italy where it ranks in the Top 200, Rosario is a feminine name in Spanish speaking communities, and while the spelling remains the same, there is a slight difference in pronunciation. In the US, Rosario was given to around 30 boys in 2023, and to 70 girls.

Rosario

Andrea may be a gender neutral name in its native Italy and other European countries, but in the US it's 98 percent a girls' name, with only about 20 males to more than 1800 baby girl given that name in the most recent year counted.

Andrea

Screen legend Marlon's surname has loads more swagger than his first. A little Brando might have to endure references to his famous namesake, though his peers may just assume its linked to popular Brandon, with the stylish -o ending of Milo, Arlo, and Hugo.

Brando

Dramatic and worldly, Cosimo was chosen by singer Beck and his wife, Marissa Ribisi, for their son. Now that Cosima has emerged as a starbaby favorite, twin brother Cosimo could join her.
 Cosimo de Medici was the first of the Medici dynasty to wield power in Florence during much of the Italian Renaissance and was noted for his patronage of the arts. An inspirational name for creative parents.

Cosimo

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.

Pasquale

Riccardo is the Italian form of Richard, a masculine name with Germanic origins meaning 'powerful ruler' or 'strong king.' Derived from the elements 'ric' (ruler, power) and 'hard' (strong, brave), Riccardo carries the same noble meaning as its English counterpart. The name has been popular throughout Italian history and culture, with notable bearers including composers and artists. Riccardo has a romantic, melodic quality with its rolled 'r' and flowing syllables that embody Italian linguistic charm. While most common in Italy and Italian-speaking regions, the name has gained international recognition. The name projects strength combined with artistic flair, making it appealing to parents who appreciate Italian culture or seek a distinguished name with historical depth.

Riccardo

Enzio is a masculine name with Italian origins, possibly derived from the Germanic name Heinz or Heinrich, meaning 'home ruler.' Historically significant through Enzio (or Enzo) of Sardinia, the illegitimate son of Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century. The name carries an exotic flair with its distinctive 'z' sound and Italian resonance. Enzio projects strength and charisma, embodying a sophisticated European sensibility. While Enzo has gained popularity in recent years, Enzio remains a less common variant, offering uniqueness while maintaining the appealing sound. Parents drawn to Italian names with historical depth yet contemporary appeal might find Enzio particularly attractive for its balance of uniqueness and accessibility.

Enzio

This Italian form of Benedict sidesteps the Benedict Arnold association that still clouds the English version. 

Benedetto

A saint and surname often heard in Italy. 

Cipriano

Giulio is a Top 50 name in Italy, and we think Giulio is a good candidate to follow, especially now that Giovanni and Gianni are in up in the US charts. It's an interesting alternative to popular cousins Julian and Julius. And of course the most famous Giulio of all is the Emperor, Giulio Cesare.

Giulio

Savino is a masculine name with deep Italian roots, derived from the Latin name Sabinus, referring to the ancient Sabine people of central Italy. The name carries the meaning of 'man from Sabina' or simply 'Sabine man.' With its melodic three syllables and distinctive ending, Savino has been continuously used in Italy since medieval times, often connected to Saint Savino, several early Christian martyrs and bishops. Outside Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being straightforward to pronounce in many languages. Savino has a warm, sophisticated sound that combines traditional heritage with a contemporary feel. The name's connection to ancient Roman history gives it cultural depth, appealing to parents who appreciate names with historical significance and Mediterranean charm.

Savino

A spirited choice, conveying confidence and wisdom, Savio comes from the Latin savus and sapere meaning "to be wise, to know". As such, it does share the same root with the English "savvy".
 
Familiar in Brazil, but also used in Italy, Puerto Rico, and Uganda, the name is borne by wrestler Savio Vega and footballer Sávio Moreira de Oliveira. It is additionally the name of an Italian River.

Savio

An elaborate diminutive of Angelo or Ángel, this form may appeal to those who prefer long, intricate names. Pronounced as ang-jeh-LEE-no in Italian and as ang-kheh-LEE-no in Spanish, it is notably borne by Spanish footballer Angeliño (born José Ángel Esmorís Tasende). Sixteen boys were called Angelino in the US in a recent year. 

Angelino

As classic as it comes in Italy — Filippo was once common during the Renaissance, and today remains in the Top 25.  

Filippo

Playful but with plenty of substance, Bartolo is an Italian short form of the grand Bartholomew which could lead you to further nicknames Bo and Tolly. Also used in Spanish, a notable bearer is Bartolo Longo, a former Satanist priest who returned to Catholicism and dedicated his life to his faith and charity. He was canonized as a saint in 2025 by Pope Leo XIV, which could renew interest in the new. 

Bartolo

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 6)

Italian Boy Names