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Italian Names that Start With P

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Oct 01 2024
  1. Pippa

    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Philippa

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. Paolo

    • Origin:

      Italian, variation of Paul

    • Meaning:

      "small"

    • Description:

      Paolo is an irresistibly lush Italian name for boys, worlds more romantic than its spare English equivalent.
  3. Po

    • Origin:

      Italian river name

    • Description:

      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.
  4. Paola

    • Origin:

      Italian and Spanish variation of Paula

    • Meaning:

      "small"

    • Description:

      Paola is the Latinate version of Paula. Its intriguing sound could make it more appealing than the English standard.
  5. 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.
  6. Pamina

    • Origin:

      Italian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Po

    • Origin:

      Italian river name

    • Description:

      A river (in Italy), a writer (Bronson), a Teletubby: the Bo of the new millennium.
  8. Primavera

    • Origin:

      Italian

    • Meaning:

      "spring"

    • Description:

      A bit syllable-heavy, but a pretty name for a springtime baby.
  9. Primo

    • Origin:

      Italian

    • Meaning:

      "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?
  10. Pietro

    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Peter

    • Description:

      Yet another winning international form of Peter.
  11. Pietra

    • Description:

      Pietra is a feminine name of Italian origin, meaning "rock" or "stone." It's the female form of Pietro (the Italian version of Peter), which ultimately derives from the Greek "petros" meaning "stone." In Portuguese-speaking countries, the name is also used with the same stone-related meaning. Pietra combines strength and elegance with its flowing two-syllable structure and graceful ending. The name has gained moderate popularity in Italy and Brazil, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Pietra appeals to parents drawn to Italian names with clear meanings and cultural connections, offering a sophisticated European alternative to more common names like Petra or Piper.
  12. Pellegrino

    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Peregrine

    • Description:

      The water, period.
  13. 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.

  14. Paolina

    • Origin:

      Italian and Portuguese, feminine variation of Paul

    • Meaning:

      "small"

    • Description:

      Turning Paul or Paol -- whether it's as Paolo, Paolina, or even Paola -- instantly makes it more romantic and appealing.
  15. Piero

    • Origin:

      Italian, variation of Peter

    • Meaning:

      "rock"

    • Description:

      Piero is elegant, melodic, appealing. Just picture the muted frescoes of Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
  16. Pino

    • Origin:

      Italian, diminutive of names such as Giuseppino

    • Description:

      There are many more substantial Italian choices.
  17. Petronilla

    • Origin:

      Roman and Italian feminine variation of Petronius

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  18. Placido

    • Origin:

      Italian and Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "serene"

    • Description:

      Placido was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.
  19. Phebe

    • Origin:

      Akan, Ghanaian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  20. Prospero

    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of Prosper

    • Meaning:

      "succeed, prosper"

    • Description:

      Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.