135 Popular & Common Italian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings

Italian surnames carry a rich history, often reflecting regional origins, professions, or unique traits passed down through generations. These names tell stories of ancestry, cultural values, and sometimes a family’s connection to Italy’s iconic landscapes and trades.

From names representing ancient occupations and geographic roots to those inspired by character traits or symbols of strength, Italian surnames are an essential part of Italy’s legacy.

Read Also

Here, we’ve compiled a list of 135 popular and common Italian last names along with their meanings, giving you a deeper insight into the diverse and fascinating heritage of Italian families.

Popular & Common Italian Last Names With Meanings

135 Popular & Common Italian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings

1. Rossi

The most common surname in Italy, meaning “red” or “red-haired.” It originally described people with red hair or a ruddy complexion.

2. Russo

This surname, especially popular in southern Italy, also means “red” or “Russian,” reflecting either physical traits or cultural connections.

3. Ferrari

Derived from “ferraro,” meaning “blacksmith,” it’s one of Italy’s most recognizable names and associated with the famous sports car brand.

4. Esposito

A southern Italian surname meaning “exposed” or “abandoned.” Historically, it was often given to orphans or foundlings in Italy.

5. Bianchi

Meaning “white,” this name described people with fair skin or light hair and can indicate purity or nobility.

6. Romano

Meaning “from Rome” or “Roman,” it was given to people from Rome or those with connections to the ancient city.

7. Colombo

Derived from “colomba,” meaning “dove,” symbolizing peace. It was often given to children on Palm Sunday or to honor Saint Columba.

8. Ricci

Meaning “curly-haired,” this surname described people with curly or wavy hair and is especially common in central and northern Italy.

9. Marino

Derived from “mare,” meaning “sea,” it described those living near the coast or with seafaring occupations.

10. Greco

This surname means “Greek” and was given to people of Greek origin or those with Greek cultural ties, particularly in southern Italy.

11. Bruno

Meaning “brown” or “dark-haired,” it was used to describe those with brown hair or eyes and has Latin origins.

12. Gallo

Derived from the Latin word for “rooster,” it may have been used as a nickname or could refer to people from Gaul (modern-day France).

13. Conti

Meaning “count,” this surname indicates noble status and was originally given to individuals connected to aristocratic families.

14. De Luca

Meaning “of Luca” or “from Luca,” it’s a common patronymic surname for families with ancestral ties to the name Luca.

15. Costa

Meaning “coast” or “slope,” it described those living by the seaside or on hills and is common in many Italian coastal areas.

16. Giordano

Meaning “descendant of Jordan,” it’s derived from the Jordan River and was popularized by the Crusaders who brought water from the river.

17. Mancini

Derived from “mancino,” meaning “left-handed.” Historically, left-handedness was unique and sometimes considered a distinguishing trait.

18. Lombardi

Meaning “from Lombardy,” a northern region in Italy. It was often given to people who migrated from Lombardy to other regions.

19. Barbieri

An occupational surname meaning “barber.” Barbers were also surgeons in medieval Italy, making this a respected profession.

20. Moretti

Derived from “moro,” meaning “dark-skinned” or “Moorish,” it originally described those with darker features.

21. Leone

Meaning “lion,” symbolizing strength and bravery. It’s often associated with people of strong character or those connected to Saint Leo.

22. Longo

Meaning “tall” or “long,” it was used to describe people of considerable height or with long limbs.

23. Gentile

Meaning “gentle” or “kind,” it originally described someone with a noble or refined character.

24. Rizzo

Derived from “riccio,” meaning “curly.” Like Ricci, it referred to people with curly hair and is common in southern Italy.

25. Sorrentino

Meaning “from Sorrento,” a beautiful coastal town in southern Italy. It’s often linked to families with ancestral roots in Sorrento.

26. Martino

Meaning “of Mars,” referencing the Roman god of war. It’s often given in honor of Saint Martin, known for his kindness and generosity.

27. De Santis

Meaning “of the saints,” it was often used by families with strong religious ties or those who lived near holy sites.

28. D’Angelo

Meaning “of the angels,” it’s a surname often associated with devotion and spirituality.

29. Serra

Meaning “mountain ridge” or “hill,” it was given to those living in hilly or mountainous regions, particularly in Sardinia.

30. Grasso

Meaning “fat” or “stout,” it originally described people of larger build and is common in both Italy and Italian-American communities.

31. Guerra

Meaning “war” or “warrior,” this surname was likely given to soldiers or those involved in military service.

32. Vitale

Meaning “life,” it’s derived from the Latin word for “vital” and reflects the bearer’s energetic or lively character.

33. Pellegrino

Meaning “pilgrim,” it described those who went on religious pilgrimages, particularly to Rome, the Holy Land, or Santiago de Compostela.

34. De Rosa

Meaning “of the rose,” symbolizing beauty and grace. It may also reference devotion to Saint Rose.

35. Caruso

Meaning “smooth-faced” or “young,” it was often used for young men or those with a youthful appearance.

36. Benedetti

Meaning “blessed,” it comes from the Latin word “benedictus” and is often associated with Saint Benedict.

37. Fontana

Meaning “fountain” or “spring,” it describes those who lived near water sources and is associated with refreshment and life.

38. Monti

Meaning “mountains,” it referred to people living in highland areas and is often linked to families from mountainous Italian regions.

39. Pugliese

Meaning “from Puglia,” a region in southern Italy. It was often given to people who migrated from Puglia to other areas.

40. Fiore

Meaning “flower,” it symbolizes beauty, purity, and delicacy and may have been given to individuals known for their grace.

41. Amato

Meaning “beloved” or “loved one,” it expresses endearment and is often associated with devotion to family.

42. Carbone

Meaning “coal” or “charcoal,” it may describe those who worked with coal or lived near coal mines, particularly in southern Italy.

43. Romano

Meaning “Roman” or “from Rome,” it identifies those with ancestral ties to the city of Rome or who were of Roman heritage.

44. Santoro

Derived from “Sanctus,” meaning “holy,” it was given to families with strong religious backgrounds or those who lived near churches.

45. Rinaldi

A surname meaning “powerful” or “wise ruler.” It was derived from the Germanic name Raginwald and denotes nobility.

46. Parisi

Meaning “from Paris,” it described people who had connections to Paris or came from the city.

47. Messina

Meaning “from Messina,” a port city in Sicily. It often indicated people who migrated from Messina to other Italian regions.

48. Fabbri

Meaning “blacksmith” or “metalworker,” it’s derived from “fabbro” and reflects the importance of metalworking in Italian society.

49. Gallo

Meaning “rooster” or sometimes “French,” it’s linked to individuals with a lively or vocal personality and is popular in both Italy and Italian-American communities.

50. Ruggiero

Meaning “famous spear,” it derives from Germanic roots and became popular during the medieval period due to chivalric tales.

51. Silvestri

Derived from “silva,” meaning “forest,” this surname described people who lived near wooded areas or worked as foresters.

52. Orlando

Derived from the Germanic name “Roland,” meaning “famous land,” this name was made popular by the medieval Italian epic Orlando Furioso.

53. Vitelli

Meaning “little calf,” it originally described people associated with cattle herding or farming, particularly in rural regions.

54. Farina

Meaning “flour” or “miller,” it was used for those who worked in milling grain, a vital role in Italy’s agricultural society.

55. Mazza

Meaning “club” or “mace,” this surname could refer to someone with a strong or powerful personality or an occupation requiring physical strength.

56. Orlando

An Italian version of “Roland,” this name translates to “famous throughout the land” and is often associated with nobility and heroism.

57. Bianco

Meaning “white,” it often described people with light hair or fair skin, or symbolized purity and honor.

58. Amore

Meaning “love,” this surname might have been given to affectionate or beloved individuals, or those connected to the emotion of love.

59. Costanzo

Meaning “steadfast” or “constant,” it reflects loyalty and reliability. Costanzo was sometimes given to those with a firm character.

60. Pappalardo

Meaning “to eat lard,” it was an ironic or humorous nickname for someone with a big appetite or who enjoyed rich foods.

61. Salerno

Meaning “from Salerno,” a city in southern Italy known for its historical university and vibrant culture. It was often given to people from this region.

62. Morelli

A diminutive form of “moro,” meaning “dark-skinned,” it was used for those with darker features or Mediterranean ancestry.

63. Toscano

Meaning “from Tuscany,” it described individuals from this historic region, known for its cultural and artistic heritage.

64. Palumbo

Derived from “palumba,” meaning “dove” or “pigeon.” It may symbolize peace or describe people with gentle personalities.

65. Montagna

Meaning “mountain,” it describes those who lived in mountainous areas or came from highland regions of Italy.

66. Marino

Meaning “of the sea,” it’s linked to coastal or maritime areas and describes those with connections to the ocean.

67. Bellini

Meaning “little beauty,” it’s often used as a term of endearment or to describe someone with a pleasing appearance.

68. Guerra

Meaning “war” or “warrior,” this surname was given to those involved in battle or military service.

69. Agnello

Meaning “lamb,” it could symbolize purity or gentleness and was likely given to people with a mild disposition.

70. Sala

Meaning “hall” or “large room,” it may refer to those who lived in or worked at a large estate or hall.

71. Lombardo

Meaning “from Lombardy,” a region in northern Italy. It was commonly given to people who migrated from Lombardy.

72. Biagi

Derived from “Biagio,” it’s an Italian form of the Latin name Blasius, associated with Saint Blaise and often linked to people with spiritual connections.

73. Marchese

Meaning “marquis” or “nobleman,” this name was given to people connected to nobility or those serving in a marquisate.

74. Ferro

Meaning “iron,” this surname described individuals who worked with iron or displayed strong, enduring qualities.

75. Neri

Meaning “black” or “dark,” it often described people with dark features or connections to the Italian Black Nobility.

76. D’Agostino

Meaning “of Augustine,” this name was often given in honor of Saint Augustine, reflecting a family’s religious devotion.

77. D’Amico

Meaning “of a friend,” it may have been used to honor close friends or family members, symbolizing loyalty and friendship.

78. Del Monte

Meaning “of the mountain,” it’s a topographical name given to those who lived near mountains or highland areas.

79. Puglisi

Meaning “from Puglia,” it referred to people with roots in the Puglia region of Italy, also known for its rich history and agriculture.

80. Romano

Meaning “Roman” or “of Rome,” it’s a classic surname that emphasizes connections to Italy’s ancient capital and cultural heart.

81. Fortunato

Meaning “fortunate” or “lucky,” it was often given to those considered blessed with good fortune or luck.

82. Lupo

Meaning “wolf,” it may symbolize strength and courage, or it could have been given to those associated with the animal’s characteristics.

83. Donati

Meaning “gift” or “given,” this surname often symbolized a gift from God, especially in the context of a new baby.

84. Ventura

Meaning “good fortune” or “luck,” it reflects the idea of a favorable destiny or successful journey.

85. Valentini

Meaning “of Valentine,” it’s derived from the Latin “valens,” meaning “strong” or “healthy,” and is often linked to Saint Valentine.

86. Angelini

Meaning “little angel,” this surname reflects purity or devotion and is likely linked to individuals with a gentle character.

87. Di Carlo

Meaning “of Charles,” it’s a patronymic surname honoring ancestors named Carlo, a popular name in Italy.

88. Morello

Derived from “moro,” meaning “dark-skinned” or “brunette.” It’s often used for those with darker Mediterranean features.

89. Napoli

Meaning “from Naples,” it indicates origins in Naples, one of Italy’s most historic and culturally rich cities.

90. Favero

An occupational surname meaning “craftsman” or “artisan,” it refers to skilled laborers, especially in rural areas.

91. Izzo

Meaning “fire” or “passionate,” it may describe someone with a fiery personality or an association with fire or heat.

92. Ferrara

Meaning “from Ferrara,” a city in northern Italy. It indicates geographical origins, especially for families who moved from Ferrara.

93. Bellucci

Meaning “pretty” or “handsome,” it may have been given to individuals noted for their appearance.

94. Santini

Meaning “little saint,” this name was often given in devotion or respect to saints and religious figures.

95. Bassi

Meaning “short” or “small,” it’s a descriptive surname often referring to someone of small stature.

96. Parente

Meaning “relative,” it could indicate a family-oriented background or possibly a large, close-knit family.

97. Sani

Meaning “healthy,” this surname may refer to those with a robust constitution or link to the idea of health and well-being.

98. Gatti

Meaning “cats,” it may describe someone agile, quick, or even associated with the qualities of cats.

99. Trapani

Meaning “from Trapani,” a coastal city in Sicily. It often indicates ancestry from this region with historical maritime connections.

100. Leone

Meaning “lion,” symbolizing bravery and courage, and frequently used by families with a tradition of strength or leadership.

101. Di Lorenzo

Meaning “of Lorenzo,” a patronymic surname meaning “descendant of Lorenzo.” It was used to honor an ancestor named Lorenzo.

102. Giordano

Derived from the Jordan River, it means “descendant of Jordan” and was popularized by the Crusaders who brought water from the river.

103. Marini

Meaning “of the sea,” it reflects a connection to the ocean and is common among coastal families.

104. Orsini

Meaning “little bear,” it was associated with strength and bravery and was also the name of a noble Italian family.

105. Vassallo

Meaning “vassal” or “servant,” it was often given to individuals working in servitude or those with ties to noble households.

106. Malatesta

Meaning “bad head,” it was a nickname used humorously for people with a strong or stubborn personality.

107. Monti

Meaning “mountains,” it describes individuals from mountainous areas and symbolizes resilience and strength.

108. De Simone

Meaning “of Simon,” it’s a patronymic name honoring an ancestor named Simone, commonly associated with religious devotion.

109. Santoro

Meaning “of the saints,” it reflects a family with strong religious ties or one that lived near holy sites.

110. Lisi

Derived from the word for “lilies,” it was often used to symbolize purity and is connected to the Italian floral tradition.

111. Peruzzi

An old surname possibly meaning “of Peter,” honoring Saint Peter, the patron saint of Rome, or referring to a respected elder.

112. Venditti

Meaning “seller” or “vendor,” it was an occupational surname for merchants or tradespeople, especially those in bustling marketplaces.

113. Lombardi

Meaning “of Lombardy,” the name was given to people originating from the Lombardy region and is associated with industriousness.

114. Fiorentino

Meaning “from Florence,” it indicates origins in Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance and cultural heritage.

115. Rinaldi

A surname meaning “powerful” or “wise ruler,” derived from the Germanic name Raginwald, denoting nobility.

116. Casanova

Meaning “new house,” it describes individuals who settled in newly established homes or communities.

117. Monaco

Meaning “monk,” it referred to those associated with religious institutions or monastic orders.

118. Guerriero

Meaning “warrior,” it symbolizes bravery and was likely given to soldiers or those with a strong disposition.

119. Pisanò

Meaning “from Pisa,” indicating ancestral origins from Pisa, known for its leaning tower and maritime history.

120. Mazzi

Meaning “clubs” or “bundles,” it may have been a nickname for strong individuals or those who worked with large bundles or groups.

121. Tedeschi

Meaning “German” or “of German origin,” it was given to Italians with German ancestry or ties.

122. Barbato

Meaning “bearded,” it was a descriptive surname for those with notable facial hair, reflecting the beard as a symbol of wisdom or age.

123. Sacco

Meaning “sack” or “bag,” it may have been given to bag makers or those involved in trade and transportation.

124. Forte

Meaning “strong” or “brave,” this surname symbolizes resilience and strength of character, commonly used in southern Italy.

125. Iacovelli

Derived from the name “Jacob,” it reflects a patronymic origin, meaning “son of Jacob.”

126. Manzo

Meaning “steer” or “ox,” it could describe someone with strength or those associated with cattle farming.

127. Viti

Meaning “grapevines,” it indicates an association with vineyards or wine-making, common in Italian agricultural families.

128. Musso

Meaning “mule,” it may have referred to a hard-working or strong-willed person, as mules were essential in labor-intensive tasks.

129. Scalia

Meaning “ladder” or “stairs,” it may describe individuals living near steps or staircases, or it could symbolize ascension or ambition.

130. Arena

Meaning “sand” or “arena,” it could refer to someone working in an arena or living near sandy areas, especially in Sicily.

131. Biondi

Meaning “blonde,” it describes individuals with light hair and is relatively rare in darker-haired Mediterranean regions.

132. Palumbo

Derived from “palumba,” meaning “dove,” symbolizing peace or gentleness, it’s a popular surname in southern Italy.

133. Riccio

Meaning “curly-haired,” it describes people with curly hair and is similar in origin to Ricci and Rizzo.

134. Villani

Meaning “villager” or “peasant,” it describes people from rural areas, connected to agricultural life and simplicity.

135. Vinci

Meaning “from Vinci,” a town in Tuscany famously associated with Leonardo da Vinci. It reflects an origin from this culturally significant place.

Read Also

Sharing Is Caring:

Leave a Comment