Gino is an Italian masculine given name derived from the Latin word "Juniperus," which means juniper tree or plant. The name was initially used as a nickname for people with a similar-sounding given name, such as Giovanni or Giambattista.
The name Gino gained popularity in Italy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming particularly prevalent among the working class. It is still widely used today, often appearing alongside traditional Italian names like Dante, Marco, or Paolo.
Historically, notable individuals named Gino include Italian film director Gino Valori (1875-1963) and Italian-American gangster Vincent "Gino" Cafaro (1892-1946), known for his involvement in the Chicago Outfit. These figures illustrate the diverse range of historical figures who have carried the name Gino.
In literature, Gino is also featured as a character in A.J. Cronin's novel "The Keys to the Kingdom," published in 1941. In this story, Gino serves as a devoted friend and companion to the protagonist, further showcasing the literary presence of this distinctive Italian name.
According to U.S. birth records, the name Gino has seen a consistent presence over the years, with six births each in both 1960 and 1972. This indicates that while not excessively popular, the name has maintained a steady niche within American naming trends during these two decades.