The name Alfredo is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German name Alforad, which is a compound of the elements alf meaning "elf" and rad meaning "counsel" or "advice." The name was popularized during the medieval period and was particularly common in Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

In the 9th century, the name appears in the historical records of the Carolingian Empire, referring to a nobleman named Alfredo who served as a trusted advisor to Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. This early association with wisdom and counsel likely contributed to the name's enduring popularity.

One of the earliest documented bearers of the name Alfredo was Alfredo the Great, the King of Wessex from 871 to 899 CE. He is renowned for his military victories against the Danish Vikings and for his efforts in promoting education and legal reforms in England.

In the 12th century, the name Alfredo was borne by Alfredo di Borgo, an Italian jurist and legal scholar who played a significant role in the development of medieval Roman law. His commentaries on the Corpus Juris Civilis, a fundamental work in jurisprudence, were highly influential throughout Europe.

Another notable bearer of the name was Alfredo Acton, an Italian botanist and naturalist who lived from 1867 to 1934. He made significant contributions to the study of Mediterranean flora and was instrumental in establishing the first botanical gardens in Italy.

In the realm of literature, Alfredo is a character in the popular opera La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi, which premiered in 1853. The tragic love story between Alfredo and the courtesan Violetta has become a beloved classic in the opera repertoire.

Other notable individuals named Alfredo include Alfredo Catalani, an Italian opera composer from the late 19th century, and Alfredo Kraus, a celebrated Spanish operatic tenor who performed in the second half of the 20th century.