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Valentino
Pronounced val-en-TEE-noh /ˌvæl.ənˈtiː.noʊ/High
Meaning: Italian diminutive of Valentino/Valentinus, from Latin 'valens' meaning strong, vigorous, or healthy; associated with the patron saint of love, ValentineHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Valentino is an Italian elaboration of the Latin Valentinus, derived from valens (strong, vigorous, healthy). The Roman martyr St. Valentine, associated with love and courtship since the Middle Ages, gave the name its enduring romantic connotation. Valentino as a distinct Italian form carries a more ornate, fashionable character.
As a given name, Valentino has been used in Italy for centuries but gained broader international appeal in the 20th century, partly through cultural figures bearing the name. In the United States it has grown steadily as a bold, romantic choice, particularly among families of Italian and Latin American heritage.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Rudolph Valentino (1895–1926)Italian-American silent film actor and early Hollywood heartthrob
- ★Valentino Garavani (1932–2026)Italian fashion designer known simply as Valentino
If you like Valentino…
Frequently Asked
What does Valentino mean?
Valentino comes from Latin 'valens' meaning strong, vigorous, or healthy. It is the Italian form of Valentinus, the name of the patron saint of love.
How do you pronounce Valentino?
Valentino is pronounced val-en-TEE-noh /ˌvæl.ənˈtiː.noʊ/ — four syllables with stress on the third.
Is Valentino an Italian name?
Yes. Valentino is distinctly Italian, an elaboration of the Latin Valentinus, and is associated with Italian fashion and romantic culture worldwide.
Is Valentino a popular boys' name?
Valentino has been rising in popularity in the U.S. and consistently ranks in the top 300 boys' names, prized for its romantic and fashionable feel.