Angelo, derived from the Latin word 'angelus', meaning 'messenger' or 'angel', is a unisex given name of Italian origin. It has been used historically as both a masculine and feminine name in Italy and other parts of Europe, though it's more commonly known as a male name today.
The popularity of Angelo can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was often given as an attribute to saints, with Saint Angelo being the patron saint of messengers. In Italian art and literature, characters named Angelo have appeared in various forms, contributing to the name's enduring appeal over centuries.
In terms of notable figures, one of the most well-known is Angelo Badalamenti, a renowned American composer known for his work on the television series Twin Peaks. Other famous Angelos include Italian footballer Angelo Di Livio and Australian rules footballer Angelo Louli.
The name Angelo has also been adapted into various forms across different cultures. For instance, it becomes 'Ángel' in Spanish-speaking countries, 'Anhel' in Hungarian, and 'Engel' in Dutch or German. These variants demonstrate the widespread global recognition of this moniker.
Overall, Angelo is a classic Italian name with a rich historical background that continues to be popular today due to its unique sound and association with positive attributes such as messengers and angels.
The name Angelo had 11 births over two years, with slightly more babies born in 1988 than in 1987.