Italian Names that Start With R

Madonna did much to polish up the image of this old-neighborhood Italian choice when she picked it for her son with British director Guy Ritchie, and several years later it was also used by Rose Byrne and Bobby Canavale for their son. It now feels much more mainstream than many celebrity baby names, sharing the quirky appeal of some other so-far-out-they're-in baby names as Bruno and Hugo.

How many decades will it take for Rocky to triumph over its association with Sylvester Stallone's battered but not beaten boxer? The moment may have come, now that Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. have named their son Rocky. It helps, too, that Madonna's son Rocco helped make the name child-appropriate again.

As sweet-smelling as Rose but with an international flavour, Rosa is one of the most classic Portuguese, Spanish and Italian names, which is also favored by upper-class Brits, having an ample measure of vintage charm. Rosa has been on the popularity charts for every year that's been counted, especially popular from the 1880s through the beginning of the twentieth century.

It wasn't so long ago that Romeo was considered as outre for an American baby as Casanova or Cupid. But that really changed when David and Victoria Beckham chose it for their second son in 2002, a path followed by Jon Bon Jovi.

Rakish nickname able to stand on its own.

A very popular girls' name in Japan whose sound is consistent with its meaning. Another possibility is Ren.

Ravenna is a lovely, untouristed Italian place-name just waiting to be discovered. Renowned for its fantastic Byzantine mosaics, it's a city that has a rich historic and artistic heritage.

Virtually unknown in the U.S., yet with its jaunty o ending and similarity to the stylish (yet unrelated) Remy, Remo may find some new followers.

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 pan-European short form often used as a name in its own right, Rina is sister to names like Mina and Lena, popular at the end of the 19th century and showing their pretty if slight faces again. In the Netherlands, Rina itself is sometimes shortened to Rineke, as Tina may become Tineke.

Associated with the ancient Rosetta stone, this is also the pretty Italian pet form of Rosa.

Rosina is a delicate feminine name with Italian and Latin roots, functioning as a diminutive of Rosa, meaning 'rose.' The name carries the beauty and fragrance associations of the flower it references, with the suffix '-ina' adding a touch of endearment and delicacy. Rosina appears in classical opera, most notably as the clever heroine in Rossini's 'The Barber of Seville.' While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, it has maintained consistent usage particularly in Italian communities. Rosina offers a slightly more elaborate and romantic alternative to the simpler Rose or Rosa, with a melodic quality that resonates particularly well in musical languages. The name suggests femininity, grace, and classical beauty.

More commonly spelled with two 'f's, Raffaele is every bit as attractive as the original, and could make a dashing choice.

Standard Latin classic that brings some flair to the basic boy name Robert. Nearly 4000 baby boys are still named Robert in the US each year, many of them undoubtedly named for a father or grandfather, while about 550 are named Roberto.

Raffaella is the Italian form of the lovely name Raphaela, the female version of the angel's name Raphael, gorgeous in any spelling or international variation. Raffaella is one of the most appealing Italian baby names for girls.

Elegant and worldly.

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.

Ricco is a masculine name with Italian and Germanic origins. It's a variant spelling of Rico, which derives from the Germanic 'ric' meaning 'powerful,' 'ruler,' or 'wealthy.' In Italian, 'ricco' directly translates to 'rich' or 'wealthy.' The doubled 'c' gives the name a distinctly Italian flair. While not among the most common names, Ricco has maintained steady usage across Italian-speaking regions and has seen periodic popularity in other European countries and the United States. The name conveys strength, abundance, and prosperity. Its short, punchy sound with the strong 'k' consonant gives it a bold quality. Ricco suggests someone with confidence, charisma, and perhaps good fortune in life.

Unique choice, with a pleasant antique feel.