Paolo

Paolo is a masculine given name of Italian origin. It is the Italian form of Paulus, derived from a Latin word meaning “small” or “humble.” The name is widely used in Italy and among Italian-speaking communities, and it appears in religious and cultural contexts due to the prominence of Saint Paul the Apostle. Variants in other languages include Paul (English), Paulo (Portuguese and Spanish), Pablo (Spanish), and Paulus (Latin).

In contemporary usage, Paolo remains a common personal name in Italian-speaking countries and places with Italian heritage. It is also encountered in literature, film, and media as a marker of Italian identity.

Notable individuals named Paolo include Paolo Maldini (born 1968), a former Italian professional footballer who captained AC Milan and the national team; Paolo Rossi (1956–2020), an Italian forward who played for the 1982 World Cup-winning squad; Paolo Conte (born 1937), an Italian singer-songwriter known for his distinctive style; Paolo Sorrentino (born 1970), an acclaimed Italian film director and Academy Award winner; and Paolo Genovese (born 1974), an Italian filmmaker recognized for contemporary comedies and dramas.

See also: Paul (given name) and Saint Paul.