Ottavia

/o-TAH-vyah/

ItalianGirl

Ottavia is an Italian girl's name pronounced /o-TAH-vyah/. Meaning eighth, this noble name flows seamlessly into the vowels of the family name.

Meaning of Ottavia

Meaning eighth, this noble name flows seamlessly into the vowels of the family name.

Ottavia is the Italian feminine form of the Latin name Octavia, derived from the Roman family name Octavius. It originates from the Latin 'octavus', meaning 'eighth', historically given to the eighth child or the eighth-born member of a clan.

Origin
Italian
Pronunciation
/o-TAH-vyah/

Cultural background

In Italy, the name maintains a sophisticated and classical reputation, though it is less common today than during the mid-20th century. It is occasionally chosen by parents seeking a traditional, noble name that deviates from more ubiquitous Italian staples.

Variations & nicknames

  • Octavia
  • Ottaviana
  • Tavia
  • Otta
  • Tavie

Famous people named Ottavia

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Ottavia Piccolo

    Acclaimed stage and film actress who won Best Actress at Cannes.

    Film · 1960s–present

  • Octavia the Younger

    Sister of the first Roman Emperor Augustus and wife of Mark Antony.

    Politics · 69 BC–11 BC

  • Ottavia Busia

    Italian mixed martial artist and former wife of Anthony Bourdain.

    Sport · 2000s–present

  • Ottavia Cestonaro

    Italian triple jumper and long jumper who competes at the international level.

    Sport · 2010s–present

  • Octavia E. Butler

    Groundbreaking American science fiction writer and MacArthur Fellow.

    Literature · 1970s–2006

Frequently asked about Ottavia

What does Ottavia mean?
Ottavia is an Italian name of Latin origin meaning 'eighth'.
How do you pronounce Ottavia?
It is pronounced ot-TAH-vyah, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Is Ottavia a boy or girl name?
Ottavia is a feminine name; the masculine equivalent in Italian is Ottavio.
Is Ottavia a rare name?
While well-recognized due to its Roman roots, it is considered relatively uncommon in modern Italy compared to names like Sofia or Giulia.

Love Ottavia? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Italian names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Ottavia with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Italian names

See all Italian names
Find more names like Ottavia