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Riccardo Boy

Popularity: #912 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationree-KAR-do / riˈkardo

Italian; Latin

Meaning

Italian: Powerful ruler; Latin: Strong leader

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Riccardo is of Italian origin, derived from the Germanic name Richard, which is composed of the elements 'ric,' meaning 'ruler' or 'king,' and 'hard,' meaning 'brave' or 'strong.' The name Richard was introduced to Italy through the influence of the Normans in the 11th century, who brought it from Old French, where it had evolved from the Old High German form. The transition into Italian saw the adaptation of the name into Riccardo, which retains the original meanings associated with strength and leadership.

Historically, the name Riccardo has been borne by several notable figures, including Riccardo Cuor di Leone (Richard the Lionheart), the King of England from 1189 to 1199, who is often celebrated in literature and folklore for his valor during the Crusades. The name also appears in various Italian historical contexts, particularly during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when it was common among nobility and influential families. Additionally, the name has been featured in literary works, such as the plays of Shakespeare, who referenced Richard III, further embedding the name in cultural consciousness.

Culturally, Riccardo carries connotations of nobility and courage, often associated with leadership and heroism. The name has also been linked to various saints, including Saint Richard of Chichester, who was a significant religious figure in the 13th century. The enduring appeal of Riccardo can be attributed to its strong historical roots and the positive attributes associated with its meaning. The diminutive form Riccardo can also be affectionately shortened to Ric, which has been used in various cultural contexts, though the full name remains prominent in its own right.

Trend Summary

The name Riccardo has seen moderate popularity in Italy and among Italian communities, with fluctuating trends in other countries.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Riccardo
  • Rico

International Variants

  • Richard (English)
  • Ricardo (Spanish)
  • Rikard (Swedish)

Famous people named Riccardo

Riccardo Muti is a conductor best known for his work with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, La Scala, and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Riccardo Tisci is a fashion designer best known for his role as creative director at Givenchy and Burberry.

Riccardo Montolivo is a former professional footballer best known for playing with AC Milan and the Italian national team.

Riccardo Patrese is a former Formula One driver best known for his time with Brabham and Williams.

Riccardo Scamarcio is an actor best known for his roles in Manuale d'amore, Tre metri sopra il cielo, and the Italian version of The Great Beauty.

Fictional characters named Riccardo

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Riccardo was first seen in the United States in 1913. Riccardo has ranked as high as #1089 nationally, which occurred in 1979, and has been most popular in New York, Illinois, California, Florida, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Riccardo has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Riccardo (2013)

StateBirthsShare
FL 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19135
19257
19397
19436
19468
19477
19485
194914
195014
195115
195220
195318
195432
195520
195622
195725
195824
195916
196024
196128
196218
196321
196424
196525
196624
196729
196826
196925
197029
197127
197232
197329
197420
197518
197625
197724
197829
197937
198031
198132
198216
198326
198426
198522
198622
198729
198825
198929
199024
199123
199222
199319
199422
199527
199622
199717
199810
199911
20008
200118
200213
200310
200410
200512
200617
200711
200820
200913
201012
201110
201214
201324
201415
201510
20168
201711
201812
201914
202010
202112
202216
202314
202412