Italian Names that Start With P
- Pippa
Origin:
English, diminutive of PhilippaMeaning:
"lover of horses"Description:
Pippa, a peppy condensation of Philippa that turns it from serious to sprightly, has come into the public eye in a big way via the former Kate Middleton's sister.
- Po
Origin:
Italian river nameDescription:
A river (in Italy), a writer (Bronson), a Teletubby: the Bo of the new millennium.
- Pietro
Origin:
Italian variation of Peter, GreekMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
Yet another winning international form of Peter.
- Paolo
Origin:
Italian, variation of PaulMeaning:
"small"Description:
Paolo is an irresistibly lush Italian name for boys, worlds more romantic than its spare English equivalent.
- Paola
Origin:
Italian and Spanish variation of PaulaMeaning:
"small"Description:
Paola is the Latinate version of Paula. Its intriguing sound could make it more appealing than the English standard.
- Pasquale
Description:
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.
- Primo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"first"Description:
Primo is number one among the Latin birth-order names--Octavius et al--and the one most likely to be used in these days of smaller families. It has that jaunty 'o' ending and Italian flavor that many modern parents like so much. And what little boy wouldn't appreciate being prime?
- Piero
Origin:
Italian, variation of PeterMeaning:
"rock"Description:
Piero is elegant, melodic, appealing. Just picture the muted frescoes of Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
- Phebe
Origin:
Akan, GhanaianMeaning:
"born on Friday"Description:
Though often Anglicized as Phoebe, Phebe has separate roots. It originated as a variation of Afua, an Akan day name, and commonly used among enslaved people in America.
- Pellegrino
Origin:
Italian variation of PeregrineDescription:
The water, period.
- Prospero
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of ProsperMeaning:
"succeed, prosper"Description:
Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
- Piera
Description:
Piera is a feminine name with Italian origins, functioning as the female form of Piero or Pietro, which ultimately derive from the Greek name Petros, meaning "rock" or "stone." This elegant name carries connotations of strength and stability through its etymological connection to stone. Primarily found in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, Piera remains relatively uncommon in the broader international context, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a melodic, flowing sound with its two syllables and open-vowel ending, characteristic of Italian feminine names. While never achieving widespread popularity, Piera has maintained consistent usage throughout generations in Italy, particularly in northern regions. Its classic nature combined with its relative rarity makes it appealing for those seeking a name with historical depth but not overused.
- Primavera
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"spring"Description:
A bit syllable-heavy, but a pretty name for a springtime baby.
- Paolina
Origin:
Italian and Portuguese, feminine variation of PaulMeaning:
"small"Description:
Turning Paul or Paol -- whether it's as Paolo, Paolina, or even Paola -- instantly makes it more romantic and appealing.
- Pamina
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"little honey"Description:
This operatic Italian name -- it appears in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" -- is a more unusual route to the nickname Pam/Pammy.
- Pierluigi
Origin:
Italian, combination of Piero and LuigiDescription:
If one Italian name won't do.
- Pino
Origin:
Italian, diminutive of names such as GiuseppinoDescription:
There are many more substantial Italian choices.
- Petronilla
Origin:
Roman and Italian feminine variation of PetroniusMeaning:
"yokel, woodpecker, stone"Description:
Petronilla is an ancient saint's name that relates to the Roman family name Petronius, thought to mean yokel or woodpecker, though some connect it with Petra or Peter, meaning stone. With the resurgence of so many ancient Roman names, the elaborate and pretty Petronilla or its French form Petronille seem more usable these days than they have in centuries.
- Pepe
Origin:
Spanish variation of JosÉDescription:
Le Pew. We don't think so, although it's a megacommon nickname name in Latino countries.
- Patrizio
Description:
Patrizio is the Italian form of Patrick, derived from the Latin name Patricius, meaning 'nobleman' or 'of patrician rank.' This masculine name has deep historical roots in ancient Rome, where patricians represented the elite ruling class. It gained widespread usage after Saint Patrick, the 5th-century missionary who became the patron saint of Ireland. In Italy, Patrizio remains moderately popular, embodying a sense of dignified heritage and cultural pride. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while maintaining its connection to the more widely recognized Patrick. Men named Patrizio often appreciate their name's distinguished quality and historical significance.
