What Does the Name Antonio Mean?
Antonio's meaning is debated by etymologists -- the Roman family name Antonius is possibly of Etruscan origin, though it has long been popularly interpreted through Latin as "priceless" or "praiseworthy."
The Origin & History of Antonio
Antonius was a prominent Roman family name, most famously borne by the general Mark Antony. Antonio developed as its Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form, and the name's popularity was reinforced for centuries by devotion to Saint Anthony of Padua, a 13th-century Franciscan friar.
Cultural Reach
Antonio is a mainstay across Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, and has also become a well-used name in the US, reflecting the broad reach of Romance-language naming traditions.
Famous People Named Antonio
Notable bearers include Antonio Banderas, the Spanish actor known for Desperado and The Mask of Zorro, and Antonio Vivaldi, the Baroque Italian composer of The Four Seasons.
Nicknames & Variations
Tony and Toni are the most common English-language nicknames, with Antón, Nino, and Tonio used in various European traditions. The English form of the name is Anthony.
Is Antonio a Good Name in 2026?
Antonio's long history, strong sound, and easy nickname in Tony make it a name that reads as both classic and internationally recognizable.