A sweet and feminine Italian name almost unheard of here.

Spelling twist makes it more striking.

Otello is a masculine Italian name best known as the Italian form of Shakespeare's character Othello. The name gained prominence through Giuseppe Verdi's opera 'Otello,' based on Shakespeare's tragedy. While Shakespeare's character has Moorish origins, the name itself doesn't have clear etymological roots beyond its literary creation. In Italian-speaking regions, Otello has been used as a given name since the popularity of Verdi's opera in the late 19th century. The name carries dramatic and artistic associations, evoking themes of passion, jealousy, and tragic nobility from both Shakespeare's play and Verdi's operatic adaptation. Though never extremely common, Otello appeals to parents with literary or operatic interests and those seeking a distinctively Italian name with cultural depth and artistic resonance.

Romano is a masculine name with Italian and Latin origins, meaning 'Roman' or 'from Rome.' It refers to someone connected to Rome or the Roman Empire, carrying the gravitas of one of history's most influential civilizations. The name remains moderately popular in Italy and Italian diaspora communities worldwide. Romano projects strength, classical heritage, and a timeless quality. The name has variants across European languages, including Roman, Romanus, and Romão. With its strong vowel endings and rhythmic sound, Romano embodies Mediterranean charm while honoring ancient Roman traditions, making it appealing to parents who value historical connections and Italian heritage.

Federica is the Latin version of Frederica, one of those formerly stuffy female names -- think Josephine and Eleanor -- that feels fresh and elegant again. And Federica has more energy without that first r.

Like Galilea and Livia, one of the Italian names that fashionable American parents—with or without Italian roots—have started to choose for their daughters. It has endured ups and downs since entering the popularity charts in 1991.

More dramatic, worldly, and energetic spin on Gregory.

A fresh, Italianized take on the Hebrew classic Emmanuel. But beware of the similarities to the feminine name Emmanuelle.

Battiste is a masculine name of Italian and French origin, derived from the Latin name 'Baptista,' meaning 'baptist' or 'one who baptizes.' It's ultimately connected to Saint John the Baptist from Christian tradition. This distinctive name is more common in French-speaking regions and Italy, where it's sometimes used as a surname as well. Battiste has a strong, classic sound while remaining uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name carries religious undertones and historical significance without being overly common. Pronunciation may vary slightly between cultures, with French speakers often dropping the final 'e' sound.

In Italy, a common melding of two popular names, heard in the US as well.

Romantic Italian choice.

Agnesca is a feminine name that serves as an elaborate variant of Agnes. With Latin and Greek roots, it ultimately derives from 'hagnos,' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' This ornate version extends the traditional Agnes with a Slavic-influenced suffix, creating a more distinctive and melodious form. Popular primarily in Eastern European countries, particularly Poland and neighboring regions, Agnesca combines classical origins with a softer, more elaborate sound. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers an intriguing alternative for parents drawn to vintage names but seeking something less common than Agnes. The name carries associations with innocence, virtue, and religious devotion, reflecting its etymological connection to purity.

Not quite so popular as its alternative forms, Santo, Santi, and Santino, nor as frequently used as the longer Santiago, this saintly Italian name has nevertheless been borne by classic painters, Sante Cattaneo, Sante Monachesi, and Sante Vandi. Coinciding (visually, at least) with the French word for "health", Sante might have been neglected owing to its connection to Sante Kimes, an American (female) criminal.

Armani is catching on along with other brand names, and this one is among the most gender-neutral — sitting in the Top 500 for both boys and girls. Its similarity to the likes of rising stars Amari, Arlo, and Amias, along with the more classic Arthur and Giovanni helps it feel more "name-y" than "brand-y".

Battista is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin 'baptista,' meaning 'baptist.' The name has strong religious associations, primarily referring to John the Baptist from Christian tradition. Historically popular throughout Italy, particularly during the Renaissance period, Battista often appeared in noble and artistic families. Many notable Italian historical figures bore this name, including artists, composers, and scholars. While less commonly given today, it remains recognized in Italian communities and diaspora populations. The name carries a sense of classical dignity and cultural heritage, with the distinctive double 't' creating a rhythmic pronunciation. Battista offers parents seeking Italian heritage names an option with historical depth and religious significance that's less commonly used than names like Giovanni or Francesco.

Spirited Italian form of Octavius

This name of a renowned Apache leader and mystic would be a difficult choice, since it was used as a rallying cry in so many old westerns and by paratroopers jumping out of their planes in World War II.

Flora and operatic in style, Giacinta comes from the Greek Hyacinthus, itself derived from the name of the purple hyacinth flower. The Italian relative of Spanish Jacinta, Giacinta is also the name of a saint, noted for her devotion to taking care of the sick and the poor, along with the elderly and prisoners too.

Uberto is a masculine Italian name derived from the Germanic element 'hug' meaning 'heart, mind, spirit' combined with 'beraht' meaning 'bright, famous.' Essentially the Italian form of Hubert, it carries the meaning 'bright heart' or 'famous intellect.' The name has a long history in Italy dating back to medieval times, including notable bearers such as Renaissance artists and nobility. While common in historical Italy, Uberto has become less frequently used in modern times, though it retains cultural significance. Outside Italy, the name remains rare but recognizable to those familiar with Italian naming traditions. Uberto offers a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Umberto or Roberto, with a strong masculine sound and noble heritage that connects to both Italian and broader European cultural traditions.