Favorite Italian Names

As a wife of an Italian, I've gotten my head around a few Italian baby names that I would love for our children.
  1. Agnese
    • Origin:

      Italian; Latvian, from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "pure, virginal"
    • Description:

      A sweet form of Agnes used in Italian & Latvian, with a fresh and intriguing sound.
  2. Alessandro
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Alexander
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      For anyone seeking a more unusual version of Alexander, this is a real winner.
  3. Alessio
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Alexis
    • Meaning:

      "defender"
    • Description:

      Alessio, simpler than the related Alessandro, would be a welcome settler here.
  4. Ambra
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "amber"
    • Description:

      An Italian word name and an international form of Amber, this gemstone name is popular in its native Italy, where it ranked in the Top 30 in a recent year. Easily associated with the golden-orange fossilized stone, Ambra feels slightly fresher than Amber, a little more like Alba, Anna, and Amara than the '80s favorite, Amber.
  5. Aurora
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "dawn"
    • Description:

      The goddess name Aurora has consistently been on the US popularity list since the nineteenth century, but has really taken off in the past 30 years. Aurora also enjoys remarkable international popularity, ranking in the Top 100 throughout the English-speaking world as well as in Italy, Spain, Norway, Switzerland, and several other European and Latin American countries.
  6. Beatrice
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "she who brings happiness; blessed"
    • Description:

      Beatrice is back. Stored in the attic for almost a century, the lovely Beatrice with its long literary (Shakespeare, Dante) and royal history is being looked at with fresh eyes by parents seeking a classic name with character and lots of upbeat nicknames, like Bea and Bee.
  7. Carlotta
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Charlotte, French diminutive of Charles
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      Carlotta has a large measure of finger-snapping charm and substance — despite being a not too pleasant character in The Little Mermaid. Carlotta is also the diva/prima donna in The Phantom of the Opera, and there was an Empress Carlotta of Mexico.
  8. Carola
    • Description:

      Carola is a feminine name with Latin and Germanic origins. It is the feminine form of 'Carol' or 'Karl,' meaning 'free man' or 'strong woman.' Popular throughout Europe, particularly in Germany, Italy, and Sweden, Carola has a classic yet melodious quality. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century and has connections to musical history through renowned soprano Carola Standertskjöld. Though less common in English-speaking countries today, it maintains appeal for parents seeking a traditional name with international recognition and a touch of elegance. Its mellifluous sound and European charm make it a distinctive choice with historical depth.

  9. Carolina
    • Origin:

      Variation of Caroline; also place-name
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      Romantic, and classy, this variation heats up Caroline and modernizes Carol, adding a southern accent. A popular choice in Portugal, Spain, Mexico, and Italy, it recently entered the US Top 500.
  10. Caterina
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Katherine
    • Description:

      If your ancestry is Italian, you may want to consider this elegant twist on a classic.
  11. Cecilia
    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Cecil, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "blind"
    • Description:

      Cecilia is a lovely classic name deservedly enjoying a new turn in the sun. Always among the Top 500 girls' names in the US, Cecilia is now at its highest point ever.
  12. Cristiano
    • Origin:

      Italian and Portuguese variation of Christian
    • Description:

      Variation of the popular religious name, boosted by megastar Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.
  13. Clizia
    • Dalila
      • Origin:

        Arabic
      • Meaning:

        "guide"
      • Description:

        Names that sound and/or are spelled like Dalila exist in several languages, from the Swahili Dalili to the Arabic Dalil to the Hebrew Delilah. A beautiful cross-cultural choice.
    • Diandra
      • Origin:

        Greek
      • Meaning:

        "twice a man; divine woman"
      • Description:

        Diandra is one of many variations on Diana, but without the regal, classic feel. For some, that might be a drawback, while others may see it as a plus.
    • Domitilla
      • Origin:

        Italian feminine diminutive of Roman family name Domitius, Latin
      • Meaning:

        "tamed"
      • Description:

        Domitilla is the name of the wife of the Roman emperor Vespasianus and the mother of the emperors Titus and Domitianus. There is a Santa Domitilla with catacombs in Rome named after her.
    • Diambra
      • Edoardo
        • Description:

          Edoardo is the Italian form of Edward, a masculine name with ancient Anglo-Saxon origins. The name derives from the Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'weard' meaning 'guardian', together signifying 'wealthy guardian' or 'prosperous protector'. This melodic Italian variation carries an artistic, sophisticated flair while honoring the name's noble heritage. Edoardo has been borne by numerous Italian aristocrats, artists, and public figures throughout history. While consistently popular in Italy and other Italian-speaking regions, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an attractive option for parents seeking an elegant name with international appeal and rich historical connections.
      • Elena
        • Origin:

          Spanish, Italian, German, Greek variation of Helen
        • Meaning:

          "bright, shining light"
        • Description:

          Elena is at its most popular point ever in the US, thanks to its cross-cultural appeal and the overall popularity of El- names. It's more international than Ellen or Eleanor, but still accessible.
      • Eleonora
        • Origin:

          Italian, German, Dutch, and Polish variation of Eleanor
        • Description:

          Makes a serious name frilly and feminine, which, depending on your viewpoint, might be a good or a bad thing. In this case, we vote good.