Rocco is an Italian masculine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the ancient German name Hrocus, which is composed of the elements "hrod" meaning "fame" or "renown," and "wulf" meaning "wolf." Therefore, Rocco means "famous wolf."
The name Rocco has been used in Italy for centuries and it gained popularity during the Middle Ages. It was often given to children born into noble families, as it conveyed a sense of strength and power associated with the wolf.
Some famous people named Rocco include the Italian actor Rocco Siffredi, known for his work in adult films, and the American football player Rocco Baldelli, who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite its Germanic origins, Rocco has been predominantly used in Italy and other Southern European countries.
In terms of popularity, Rocco peaked in the late 20th century but has since declined in usage. However, it remains a popular choice among parents looking for unique and strong-sounding names with historical significance.
"The name Rocco experienced a significant increase in popularity over the course of the 20th century, with a marked spike occurring between the late 1970s and early 1980s. From only 5 births recorded in 1891, the number grew steadily to reach its peak in 1987 with 432 births. However, since then, there has been a steady decline in the popularity of the name Rocco, with only 589 births recorded in 2023."