Peculiar Italian Names - Boys

This sleek, warm-hued spelling spin on Rowan was chosen by Sharon Stone for one of her three sons back in the 2000s and it has since risen in popularity in the US. While it remains a long way behind its sometimes sound-alike Rowan, it was still given to more than 140 babies in a recent year.

With Ares trending upwards, this modern spelling is following in its footsteps, most notably in the UK where it climbed 200 places in a recent year. Also in the charts in France, it can be considered a variation of Ares, the Greek god of war, whose name means "ruin, bane", however, it that meaning doesn't appeal, it is considered a short for of Aristoteles, meaning "the best purpose".

One of Dumas' swashbuckling Three Musketeers, now better known as a men's cologne.

This Latinate name would have no problem fitting into an American classroom. It has made frequent appearances in the US Top 1000 over the last several decades. Borne by several Spanish saints, it boasts both a rhythmic sound and popular o-ending.

Rosario comes from the Spanish title of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora del Rosario, or "Our Lady of the Rosary", Rosary referring to the vocal and mental prayers in Catholicism, that reflect on the life of Christ and his Mother.

Uberto is a masculine Italian name derived from the Germanic element 'hug' meaning 'heart, mind, spirit' combined with 'beraht' meaning 'bright, famous.' Essentially the Italian form of Hubert, it carries the meaning 'bright heart' or 'famous intellect.' The name has a long history in Italy dating back to medieval times, including notable bearers such as Renaissance artists and nobility. While common in historical Italy, Uberto has become less frequently used in modern times, though it retains cultural significance. Outside Italy, the name remains rare but recognizable to those familiar with Italian naming traditions. Uberto offers a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Umberto or Roberto, with a strong masculine sound and noble heritage that connects to both Italian and broader European cultural traditions.

Trentino is a masculine name with Italian origins, possibly derived from the Trentino region in northern Italy. The name carries geographic significance and cultural heritage, making it appealing for families with Italian connections. As a personal name, Trentino is relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. It can be seen as an elaborate variation of the more common name Trent, which means 'rapid water' or 'torrent.' The '-ino' suffix adds a diminutive, affectionate quality in Italian naming traditions. While rare in international usage, Trentino has a melodic sound characteristic of Italian names. Its regional associations make it particularly meaningful for those with connections to northern Italian heritage.

Gionni is a masculine name representing an Italian variant spelling of Johnny or Gianni, both diminutive forms of John (Giovanni in Italian). The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' This particular spelling combines the traditional Italian 'Gi' beginning with an Americanized ending, creating a distinctive cross-cultural variant. While less common than Gianni or Johnny, Gionni offers families of Italian heritage a way to honor their cultural roots while using a more unique spelling. The name carries the friendly, approachable quality associated with diminutive forms while maintaining a connection to one of history's most enduring and widespread male names. Its distinctive spelling helps it stand out in contemporary naming landscapes.