Antonio is a popular and traditional masculine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Antonius, which was widespread in ancient Rome. The name Antonius is believed to have been borne by an Etruscan god called Anthanos.
The meaning of Antonio is associated with several interpretations. One common interpretation is that it means "priceless" or "inestimable," which reflects the high regard and esteem given to individuals bearing this name. Another interpretation suggests that Antonio may mean "to be pruned" or "to flourish," relating to the Latin word "antonius," which refers to a type of flowering shrub.
The name Antonio has been popular throughout history, with notable figures such as Saint Anthony of Padua (1195-1231), an Italian Franciscan friar and theologian who is regarded as one of the Catholic Church's most powerful preachers. His fame and influence have contributed to the widespread use of the name Antonio in various cultures around the world.
The name Antonio has also been adopted by numerous people throughout history, including artists, politicians, and scientists. Some well-known individuals with this name include Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741), an Italian Baroque composer; Antonio Salazar (1883-1970), a Portuguese politician who served as Prime Minister from 1932 to 1968; and Antonio José Rodrigues (1810-1877), a Brazilian poet, journalist, and diplomat.
Today, Antonio remains a popular choice for parents around the world looking for a classic yet distinctive name for their sons. Its timeless appeal and rich history make it an attractive option for families seeking a meaningful and elegant name for their children.
The name Antonio has seen a significant amount of popularity and fluctuation over the years in the United States. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 258,813 births with the name Antonio.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can observe that the name's popularity started to increase significantly from the early 1900s onwards. In 1900, there were 74 births with the name Antonio, and this number continued to rise, reaching a peak of 3,802 births in 1979.
However, after this peak, the popularity of the name started to decline gradually. By 2023, the number of births with the name Antonio had decreased to 2,018. This trend suggests that while the name Antonio was once quite popular, it has since become less common over time.
Despite this recent decrease in popularity, the name Antonio still ranks among the top 500 most popular boy names in the United States today. Its historical significance and cultural relevance have contributed to its enduring appeal for many parents.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Antonio has fluctuated over the years, it remains a timeless choice that continues to be given to newborn boys in the United States.