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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Piero
Origin:
Italian, variation of PeterMeaning:
"rock"Description:
Piero is elegant, melodic, appealing. Just picture the muted frescoes of Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
- Po
Origin:
Italian river nameDescription:
The good news: the Po is Italy's longest river, flowing across the north. The bad news: Po is a manic, scooter-riding red Teletubby.
- Prospero
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of ProsperMeaning:
"succeed, prosper"Description:
Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
- Pepe
Origin:
Spanish variation of JosÉDescription:
Le Pew. We don't think so, although it's a megacommon nickname name in Latino countries.
- Pierina
Description:
Pierina is a feminine Italian name derived from Piera, the female form of Piero, which comes from the name Peter (meaning 'rock' or 'stone'). The suffix '-ina' adds a diminutive quality, essentially meaning 'little Piera.' With its melodic four syllables and flowing Italian pronunciation, Pierina carries an elegant, romantic quality characteristic of Italian naming traditions. Though uncommon outside Italian communities, the name has maintained consistent albeit rare usage throughout the 20th century. Pierina offers the accessible nicknames Piera, Rina, or even Peri. For families with Italian heritage or those drawn to Italian cultural aesthetics, Pierina provides a distinctive option with classical roots and a sophisticated sound.
- 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.
- Patrizia
Origin:
Italian variation of PatriciaDescription:
Elegant Italian translation.
- 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.
- Pietro
Origin:
Italian variation of PeterDescription:
Yet another winning international form of Peter.
- 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.
- Pellegrino
Origin:
Italian variation of PeregrineDescription:
The water, period.
- 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?
- 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.
- Placido
Origin:
Italian and SpanishMeaning:
"serene"Description:
Placido was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.
- Pasquelina
Description:
Pasquelina is a feminine Italian name derived from Pasqua, meaning 'Easter' or 'Passover.' It's essentially the female diminutive form of Pascal or Pasquale, names traditionally given to children born during the Easter season. This elegant name carries strong cultural and religious significance in Italian Catholic communities, connecting its bearer to the celebration of resurrection and renewal. While common in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, Pasquelina remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic charm. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive sound. For families with Italian heritage, Pasquelina offers a way to honor cultural roots while bestowing a name with deep spiritual meaning.