Rare Italian Names for Boys
- Vivaldo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"who dominates the will"Description:
Unusual Italian name for boys that relates both to the vividly stylish Viv names such as Vivienne and Viveca, and to the Italian musician Vivaldi.
- Agostino
Origin:
Italian variation of AugustineMeaning:
"great, magnificent"Description:
Agostino is the Italian form of this increasingly popular ancient name.
- Amilcare
Origin:
Italian, from PhoenicianMeaning:
"brother of Melqart"Description:
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. The most famous bearer of this name is the 19th-century opera composer Amilcare Ponchielli, best known for writing La Gioconda.
- Italo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"from Italy"Description:
You can't get more Italian than this name of the daddy of legendary twins Romulus and Remus, founders of Rome. A noted bearer is acclaimed Italian journalist and novel and short story writer Italo Calvino, author of Invisible Cities and . Trivia tidbit: Calvino was actually one of his middle names.
- Cirillo
Description:
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 Greek ancestor while incorporating characteristic Italian phonology and the distinctive double 'l' sound. The name has strong historical connections to Saint Cyril, who along with his brother Methodius, created the Cyrillic alphabet and spread Christianity among Slavic peoples. In Italy, Cirillo maintains modest usage, particularly in southern regions, though it has never ranked among the most common names. Outside Italy, the name remains relatively rare, offering a distinctive choice that still feels accessible through its connection to the more familiar Cyril. Cirillo combines historical depth with a rhythmic, appealing sound.
- Sansone
Origin:
Italian variation of SamsonMeaning:
"sun"Description:
Strong and rhythmic Italian form of Samson
- Gennaro
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"January"Description:
This name of the patron saint of Naples would make an apt choice for a New Year's baby, or one with Neapolitan roots.
- Jacopo
Origin:
Italian variation of Jacob, HebrewMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
One of Jacob’s perkier variations.
- Leonzo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"lion"Description:
Italian variation of Leon.
- Leonello
Description:
Leonello is a masculine Italian name that serves as a diminutive form of Leone, meaning "lion." It has origins in ancient Roman culture, where lions symbolized strength and courage. The name carries a distinguished quality with its romantic Italian flair and historical connections. Leonello was particularly popular among noble families during the Italian Renaissance, with notable bearers including Leonello d'Este, a 15th-century Italian nobleman and arts patron. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries today, Leonello maintains modest usage in Italy and among families with Italian heritage who appreciate its classical roots and strong meaning.
- Leonzio
Description:
Leonzio is an Italian masculine name that serves as a variant of Leon or Leonardo. Derived from Latin roots meaning "lion," it carries connotations of strength, courage, and nobility. While less common than its root forms, Leonzio maintains popularity primarily in Italian-speaking regions and communities with strong Italian heritage. The name has historical significance in Italy, appearing in medieval records and occasionally among nobility. Its distinctive ending gives it a classical, somewhat formal quality while preserving the powerful essence of its lion-inspired origins. In contemporary usage, Leonzio offers parents seeking Italian names an option with traditional roots but less widespread usage than more common alternatives.
- Orazio
Description:
Orazio is an Italian masculine name derived from the Latin 'Horatius,' which was a Roman family name of uncertain origin. It's the Italian equivalent of Horace, possibly connected to the Latin word 'hora' meaning 'hour' or 'time.' Historically associated with the renowned Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and cultural significance. While common in Italy, particularly in earlier generations, Orazio remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name conveys a sense of classical elegance and intellectual tradition, reflecting its ancient Roman heritage and enduring presence in Italian culture.
- Lazzaro
Description:
Lazzaro is a masculine Italian name derived from the Hebrew name Eleazar, meaning 'God has helped.' It is the Italian form of Lazarus, a biblical figure known from the New Testament. In Christian tradition, Lazarus of Bethany was raised from the dead by Jesus, making the name associated with miraculous renewal and second chances. Lazzaro has been used in Italy for centuries, particularly in Catholic families. The name appears in Italian literature and art, including in works by Italian masters. While more common in Italy than abroad, Lazzaro has a musical quality that fits well with the trend toward Italian names internationally. The name carries rich biblical associations while offering the distinctive flair of Italian nomenclature.
- Fabiano
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"bean"Description:
One of the many rhythmically appealing Italian names newly up for consideration, with more substance than the modelly FABIO. Variations: FABIO, FABIAN, FABRIZIO
- Serafino
Description:
Serafino is a masculine Italian name derived from the Hebrew word 'seraphim,' referring to a category of celestial beings described as fiery, six-winged angels in biblical tradition. The name carries strong religious connotations of purity, devotion, and heavenly protection. Serafino has been used in Italy for centuries, particularly in Catholic families. Outside of Italy and Italian diaspora communities, the name remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic and distinctive quality. The feminine equivalent is Serafina. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing vowels and rhythmic syllables. Notable bearers include various Italian saints and cultural figures, reinforcing its connection to Italian heritage and Catholic traditions.
- Aureliano
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"gold"Description:
Italian variation of Aurelius.
- Venezio
Origin:
Italian place-nameDescription:
Venetia and even Venice are more common, though this could work.
- Zacheo
Origin:
Italian variation of ZacharyDescription:
Zacheo is an Italian last name that is occasionally seen as a first name. Also used in Brazil (where it can be pronounced Za-shey-o), it could prove a little-known (to English speakers) alternative to Zachary.
- Tazio
Origin:
Italian form of Tatianus or Tatiano, Latin, meaning unknownDescription:
A zippy Italian choice, derived from a Sabine-Latin family name whose meaning is unknown, Tazio is a relation of Tatiano and Tatiana. Other sources suggest it might also be used as a short form of the names of Eustazio ("stable"), Lutazio ("a wrestling") and Anastasio ("resurrection") or possibly, though rarely, as a variant of Taddeo ("gift of god").
- Columbano
Description:
Columbano is a masculine name of Latin and Italian origin, derived from 'columba' meaning 'dove.' It shares roots with the more familiar Columba or Columbus. The name carries peaceful symbolism through its dove connection, representing harmony and gentleness in many cultures. Columbano has historical significance in Italian and Portuguese heritage, most notably through Saint Columbanus, a 6th-century Irish missionary. The name remains quite rare outside of specific regions in Italy and Portuguese-speaking countries. Columbano has a melodic, rhythmic quality with its four syllables and musical Italian phonetics. It presents an uncommon alternative for parents seeking a name with classical roots, distinctive character, and meaningful symbolism while connecting to Mediterranean cultural heritage.