Rare Italian Names for Boys

Marcello

Italian and Spanish

"young warrior"

Based on the ancient name Marcellus, drawn from Mars the god of war, Marcello -- it's pronounced mar-chell-o -- is one of the most lush and attractive Latin names.

Massimo

Italian variation of Maximus

"the greatest"

Massimo is a Latin charmer and while it might feel like a big name for a baby (or anyone, really), it has a touch of gentleness about it too, owing to the S sounds. A charismatic member of the…

Canto

Italian

"song or stanza"

A canto is a literary term denoting a long passage in a poem. Dante's Divine Comedy is broken into such cantos. As a name, Canto packs in literary credentials with pithy punch.

Aureliano

Italian

"gold"

Italian variation of Aurelius.

Brio

Italian

"vivacity, zest"

Musical term with a lot of energy.

Arrigo

Italian variation of Henry and Harry

"estate ruler"

Think Harry with a go-getter ending.

Brando

Italian variation of Brand

"firebrand, sword"

Screen legend Marlon's surname has loads more swagger than his first. A little Brando might have to endure references to his famous namesake, though his peers may just assume its linked to popular…

Cirillo

Cirillo is a masculine Italian name derived from the Greek name Kyrillos (Cyril in English), meaning 'lordly' or 'masterful.' This melodious Italian form carries the same dignified heritage as its…

Benedetto

Italian

"blessed"

This Italian form of Benedict sidesteps the Benedict Arnold association that still clouds the English version.

Amilcare

Italian, from Phoenician

"brother of Melqart"

The Italian form of the ancient Hamilcar has a romantic, elaborate sound, and it could be a handsome choice if you're looking for a rare Italian name that no other child will share on the playground.…