Italian Names for Boys

The handsome Italian variant of Caesar, a name synonymous with Julius, leadership, emperors, and salad, Cesare offers a form with plenty of flair. A rising choice in Italy where it recently made the Top 50, it is pronounced with three syllables: CHEH-za-reh (or CHEH-za-ray among English speakers). 
 
The exact etymology of the name is debated, but theories include that it means "hairy" (or more favorably, "long haired") or "to cut". 
 
Notable historic bearers include Cesare Lombroso (considered the founder of modern criminology, though also a eugenicist) and Cesare Borgia (a cardinal, nobleman, and illegitimate son to Pope Alexander VI, also considered the inspiration behind Machiavelli's The Prince). 
 
More recently, it has been worn by footballer Cesare Casadei.

Cesare

Derived from the Greek elpis Elpidio is a hopeful name, associated with a 4th century saint said to have lived in a cave in Cappadocia for more than 20 years and whose relics are said to have said the village from siege. 
 
Familiar in Brazil, the Philipines, and Spain in the early 20th century, the name may also be spelled as Elpídio in Portuguese. Notable bearers included Sweetwater drummer, Elpidio Cobian, footballer Elpídio Pereira da Silva Filho, and former president of The Philippines, Elpidio Quirino.
 
Pronounced as elh-PEE-dyo in Italian and ehl-PEE-dhyo (dh as in the sound at the beginning of then) in Spanish, the sounds may be less appealing in English, but the stylish El- beginning and hopeful meaning gives it charm.

Elpidio

Ottavio

With its stylish -o ending and similarity to the likes of Remy, Rio, and Leo, this Italian name could make an appealing and distinctive choice. A variation of Remus, it is associated with Roman mythology, Remus being one of the founders of the city of Rome, alongside his twin brother Romulus — who later killed him. While the exact meaning of the name is unknown, "twin" has been suggested.
 
Familiar in Switzerland, Remo might work for those who enjoy gentler names, and by those who love mythology but want something more subtle — and less Harry Potter connected too.

Remo

Girlado is an extremely rare masculine name with unclear etymological origins. It may have developed as a variant of Gerald (meaning 'rule of the spear') or Geraldo, its Spanish equivalent. Alternatively, it could be related to the Italian surname Giraldi or represent a unique modern creation. Girlado has never ranked among popular baby names in the United States or other English-speaking countries. The name's unusual construction gives it a distinctive quality that combines melodic sounds with a strong ending. Parents choosing this name likely appreciate its uniqueness and potential international flair. Its rarity means a child named Girlado would rarely encounter others sharing this distinctive name.

Girlado

Goffredo is a distinguished masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'god' (god) and 'fred' (peace), literally meaning 'God's peace.' This name represents the Italian variation of Godfrey or Geoffrey. Historically significant, Goffredo was borne by several notable medieval figures, including Goffredo di Buglione, a leader of the First Crusade. The name carries an air of nobility and classical refinement, remaining moderately popular in Italy while being relatively uncommon elsewhere. With its melodious four syllables and rich historical connections, Goffredo presents a sophisticated choice that bridges ancient Germanic traditions with Italian cultural heritage. The name evokes strength and dignity while maintaining a musical quality characteristic of Italian nomenclature.

Goffredo

Gaspare is an Italian masculine name derived from the Persian 'Jasper,' meaning 'treasurer' or 'bringer treasure.' It carries historical significance as one of the traditional names attributed to the Three Wise Men (or Magi) who visited the infant Jesus according to Christian tradition. 

While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Gaspare remains in use throughout Italy, particularly in Sicily. The name conveys a sense of classical dignity, wisdom, and ancient nobility. With its distinctive sound and cultural richness, Gaspare offers parents seeking an Italian name an option that is both traditional and relatively uncommon internationally, with connections to both religious history and Persian linguistic origins.

Gaspare

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

Arrigo

Quirky Italian baby name that works for any gender.

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

Caro

A masculine form of Florence, Fiorenzo has a bold, arty flair to it, while also giving the option of stylish nickname Enzo. It has been notably borne by  cyclist Fiorenzo Magni.

Fiorenzo

Fiorello is one of the few floral names that works well for a boy. The colorful three-term World War II New York Mayor La Guardia made this one famous -- in fact he was nicknamed "the Little Flower". His life was the basis for the 1959 musical called, appropriately, "Fiorello!"
 The Spanish version is Florencio.

Fiorello

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

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.

Filberte

Fiery sound and uplifting meaning, but it's also among the Top 100 dog names. Spelled Fiyero, it's the hero of the book and musical "Wicked." 

Fiero

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

Armino is a masculine name with Italian and Spanish roots, derived from 'Arminio,' which is related to the Germanic name Hermann, meaning 'warrior' or 'soldier man.' The name carries a strong, noble quality and has historical connections to Arminius, a Germanic chieftain who defeated Roman legions. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Armino has maintained modest popularity in Italian-speaking regions and parts of Latin America. It offers parents seeking a distinctive yet traditional-sounding name an option with historical depth and a melodic quality. The name typically conveys strength, protection, and leadership qualities.

Armino

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

Fedele is a masculine name of Italian origin derived from the Latin 'fidelis,' meaning 'faithful' or 'loyal.' This traditional name carries strong connotations of reliability, trustworthiness, and devotion. Throughout Italian history, Fedele has been appreciated for its virtuous meaning and connection to the valued trait of fidelity. While common in Italy, particularly in older generations, the name remains relatively rare outside Italian communities. Fedele has a melodic three-syllable pronunciation (feh-DEH-leh) that maintains its distinctly Italian character. The name might experience renewed interest as parents increasingly explore heritage names with meaningful qualities. For families with Italian roots or those drawn to Italian naming traditions, Fedele offers cultural richness combined with a virtue-centered meaning.

Fedele

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 8)

Italian Boy Names