Arlotto

Arlotto is a medieval Italian masculine name, recorded in Latin as Arlotus. The name is possibly derived from Old French herlot, meaning "vagabond" or "tramp."

Historical Bearers

The most famous bearer of the name is Arlotto Mainardi (1396–1484), known as Pievano Arlotto or Piovano Arlotto, a Florentine priest celebrated for his jests and wit. He was a folk hero whose humorous sayings and practical jokes were compiled by an anonymous friend in the collection Motti e facezie del Piovano Arlotto. Arlotto counted many members of the Florentine elite among his friends, and his sometimes ribald stories appealed to a wide audience. The only surviving writing definitively by him is the epitaph on his tomb at the Oratory of Gesù Pellegrino in Florence, which invites anyone who cares to join him inside. His legacy reflects a sharp wit that prized virtues like sobriety and hard work.

Related Names

Arlotto shares its possible Old French root with the English name Arlott, both ultimately from herlot. The name is not common today but retains historical and folkloric significance in Italian culture.

• Meaning: Possibly "vagabond" or "tramp"
• Origin: Medieval Italian, from Old French
• Type: First name
• Usage Regíon: Italy (especially Tuscany)