Mario
Mario is a boy name of Italian origin meaning “Of Mars”, pronounced MAR-ee-oh. It ranked #438 in the United States in 2025, given to 721 babies, and peaked at #102 in 1980. Common nicknames: Mar.
How popular is Mario in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Mario mean, and where does it come from?
Mario is the Italian and Spanish form of the Roman name Marius, likely derived from Mars, the god of war, though some scholars connect it to the Latin "mas," meaning "male" or "manly." It has been a staple name across Italy, Spain, and Latin America for centuries and gained an entirely new dimension of global fame through Nintendo's video game character Mario, introduced in 1981 and now one of the most recognizable fictional characters in the world. The name balances old-world Mediterranean tradition with unmistakable modern pop-culture recognition.
How is Mario used around the world?
Mario is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
Female FormMaria
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Mario?
Famous People Named Mario
- Mario Lopez — American actor and television host
- Mario Andretti — Italian-American racing driver
- Mario — Nintendo's iconic video game character
Similar Names to Mario
If you like Mario, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Mario
Looking for names that pair well with Mario? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Mario mean?
Mario is a boy name of Italian origin meaning "Of Mars." Mario is the Italian and Spanish form of the Roman name Marius, likely derived from Mars, the god of war, though some scholars connect it to the Latin "mas," meaning "male" or "manly." It has been a staple name across Italy, Spain, and Latin America for centuries and gained an entirely new dimension of global fame through Nintendo's video game character Mario, introduced in 1981 and now one of the most recognizable fictional characters in the world.
How do you pronounce Mario?
Mario is pronounced MAR-ee-oh. Common variations include Marius, Marios, Mareo.
Is Mario a boy name?
Yes, Mario is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Mar.