Rare Italian Names for Boys

Romantic Italian choice.

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.

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

Ferrando is a masculine name of Spanish and Italian origin, representing a variant of Ferdinand, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'journey' and 'brave.' This name carries the weight of European royal history, as Ferdinand was the name of several Spanish and Holy Roman Empire monarchs. Ferrando offers a melodious, romantic alternative to the more formal Ferdinand, with its flowing rhythm and open ending. Uncommon in the United States, it maintains popularity in Spanish and Italian-speaking regions. The name conveys strength, nobility, and a cosmopolitan sensibility, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and international flair. Its distinctive sound makes it memorable without being difficult to pronounce.

A Latinate name with a lot of dash and bravado.

Venetia and even Venice are more common, though this could work.

Cecilio is derived from Caecilius, an Ancient Roman surname that was likely originally bestowed upon someone who was blind.

Giacinto is a romantic Italian name and an intriguing floral choice for a boy. It comes from the Greek Hyacinthus, a character from Greek myth who shares his name with the hyacinth flower.

Strong and rhythmic Italian form of Samson

Singer Perry is long gone, but the beautiful northern Italian lake conjures up a clear and tranquil image.

Oratio is a masculine name with ancient Roman roots, derived from the Latin word 'orare,' meaning 'to speak' or 'to pray.' It's closely related to the more common Horatio, famously borne by characters in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' and naval commander Horatio Nelson. The name evokes associations with eloquence, rhetoric, and the classical tradition of public speaking, as reflected in the English word 'oration.' Though rare in contemporary usage, Oratio carries a dignified, scholarly quality that connects to classical education and literature. Its melodic sound and historical depth might appeal to parents drawn to names with intellectual associations and classical heritage. The name provides a distinctive alternative to more common classical revivals like Julius or Marcus.

Think Harry with a go-getter ending.

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.

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.

A saint and surname often heard in Italy.

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.

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.

One of the many rhythmically appealing Italian names newly up for consideration, with more substance than the modelly FABIO. Variations: FABIO, FABIAN, FABRIZIO

Fiorello is one of the few floral names that works well for a boy. The colorful three-term World War II New York Mayor La Guardia made this one famous -- in fact he was nicknamed "the Little Flower". His life was the basis for the 1959 musical called, appropriately, "Fiorello!"