According to E. De Felice, Astolfi is a patronymic surname derived from the Germanic personal name Astolfo, introduced into Italy by the Lombards and documented from the Early Middle Ages. The name is notably associated with Haistulfus (Astolfo), the Lombard king who ruled in the 8th century.

De Felice explains that the name is composed of the Germanic elements haisti- (“strength,” “combativeness,” “vigor”) and wulfa- (“wolf”). Its original meaning may therefore be interpreted as “strong wolf,” “brave wolf,” or “combative wolf.” The wolf was an important symbol in Germanic culture, representing courage, strength, and warrior virtues. De Felice also notes that the surname became particularly widespread in northern Italy, especially in areas such as Trieste and Venezia Giulia.

E. Rossoni agrees with this interpretation and traces the surname to the Lombard name Astulfus, confirming its Germanic composition and symbolic association with strength and the wolf. He also cites documentary evidence from 1129 in the Varese area, demonstrating the early presence and continuity of the name in medieval Italy.

Overall, Astolfi is a patronymic surname meaning “descendants of Astolfo,” preserving an ancient Lombard name associated with strength, bravery, and the symbolic qualities of the wolf.