Italian Royal Baby Names
- Enrichetta
- Felice
Description:
Felice is traditionally a masculine name in Italian culture, though it may appear feminine to English speakers unfamiliar with Italian naming traditions. Derived from the Latin 'felix,' Felice literally means 'happy,' 'fortunate,' or 'lucky.' In Italy, the feminine counterpart is Felicia. The name has a long history dating back to early Christianity, with several saints bearing the name. While maintaining steady usage in Italy, Felice remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name's association with happiness and good fortune makes it a meaningful choice with a positive connotation. Its melodic quality and simple pronunciation offer a distinctive yet accessible option for parents seeking a name with Mediterranean charm.
- Felicita
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"happiness; good luck, good fortune"Description:
This pretty Italian name is derived from the Latin and Roman goddess name, Felicitas, but also coincides with the Italian word felicità meaning "happiness".
- Ferdinando
Description:
Ferdinando is a masculine name with Germanic origins, representing the Italian and Spanish form of Ferdinand. Derived from elements meaning 'brave journey' or 'bold protector,' this regal name has been borne by numerous European monarchs and nobles throughout history, particularly in Spain, Italy, and the Holy Roman Empire. The name carries an air of aristocratic heritage and classical dignity. While Ferdinand is more common in English-speaking countries, Ferdinando maintains popularity in Italian and Spanish-speaking regions. The longer form offers a melodious quality with its flowing syllables. Famous bearers include composers and artists, adding cultural richness to the name's legacy. For parents seeking a name with historical gravitas, international recognition, and a touch of Mediterranean flair, Ferdinando provides a distinguished yet accessible option.
- Filiberto
Description:
Filiberto is a masculine name with Spanish and Italian roots, derived from the Germanic name Philibert, combining "fili" (beloved) and "beraht" (bright or famous). This creates the beautiful meaning "very bright" or "distinguished beloved one." The name has a long history in European aristocracy, particularly in Italy where several nobles bore the name. Filiberto has moderate popularity in Spanish-speaking countries and regions with strong Italian heritage, though it remains uncommon in English-speaking areas. It offers the friendly nickname options of Fili or Berto. Parents might choose this name for its distinguished history, melodic sound with rolling consonants, and its balance of strength and refinement. The name carries an air of classical sophistication while remaining accessible.
- Francesca
Origin:
Italian variation of Frances, LatinMeaning:
"from France or free man"Description:
Francesca is a lighter and much more feminine choice than the classic Frances, and one that is increasingly popular with upscale parents.
- Francesco
Origin:
Italian variation of FrancisDescription:
Thanks to the inspiration of Pope Francis, Francesco has galloped to the front of the line to become the Number One boys' name in Italy. As Francesca has become a familiar and popular form of the name for girls in the wider world, so does the handsome Francesco have that potential for boys.
- Gabriella
Origin:
Italian feminine variation of GabrielMeaning:
"God is my strength"Description:
Gabriella is the feminine form of Gabriel, a name derived from the Hebrew Gavri’el. Gavri’el is composed of the elements gever, meaning "strong," and ’el, referring to God. Gabriella is used among a variety of cultures in the US, including Italian Americans, Latinos, and in the Jewish community. Gabriela is the Spanish spelling.
- Gaetano
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"from the city of Gaeta"Description:
The progenitor of the English name Guy, Gaetano has a lot more gusto.
- 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.
- Giovanna
Origin:
Italian, feminine variation of GiovanniDescription:
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.
- Giuseppe
Origin:
Italian variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
This form of Joseph is an enduring classic in Italy where it remains in the Top 20. In the States it's been hovering under the radar for decades, but its spirited, distinctive-yet-familiar sounds might help it catch on, as Giovanni has
- Giuseppina
Origin:
Italian feminine variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
One case where the English version -- Josephine -- is far preferable.
- Immacolata
Origin:
Italian variation of Immaculada, SpanishMeaning:
"immaculate"
- Iolanda
Origin:
Italian; Portuguese, Romanian, from GreekMeaning:
"violet flower"Description:
An alternate spelling of Yolanda, used in some of the Romance languages.
- Isabella
Origin:
Spanish and Italian variation of Elizabeth, HebrewMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Isabella has been a Top 10 name for girls in the US for two decades now. The Latinate form of Isabel, a variation of Elizabeth which originally derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba, Isabella reigned as Number 1 in 2009 and 2010.
- Leopoldo
Description:
Leopoldo is a masculine name with noble Germanic origins, being the Italian and Spanish form of Leopold. The name combines the elements 'leud' meaning 'people' and 'bald' meaning 'bold,' essentially translating to 'bold people' or 'brave people.' Leopoldo has been borne by numerous European royalty and nobles throughout history, giving it an aristocratic flair. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it remains a classic choice in Hispanic and Italian communities. The name carries a certain dignity and strength, with its flowing four syllables creating a melodious yet distinguished sound. Parents might choose Leopoldo for its international appeal, historical connections, or to honor Hispanic or Italian heritage while providing their child with a name that feels both traditional and distinctive.
- Luigi
Origin:
Italian vernacular form of LouisMeaning:
"renowned warrior"Description:
Italian classic Luigi, though it lacks the modern style of Nico, Enzo, and Rocco, does have some notable namesakes, such as Nobel Prize winning author Luigi Pirandello and composer Cherubini..
- Luisa
Origin:
Italian, SpanishMeaning:
"renowned warrior"Description:
This streamlined Italian and Spanish spelling of Louisa is currently very popular in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Portugal, where it's usually spelt Luísa.
- Mafalda
Origin:
Italian and Portuguese variation of MatildaDescription:
Mafalda is nearly unknown in the English-speaking world, despite an appearance in Harry Potter. Indeed, it does have a witchy feel. Matilda itself is preferable, or her French form Mathilde, Spanish Matilde, or abbreviation Maud.