Gregorio is a name of Spanish and Italian origin, derived from the Latin word "Gregorius". This name has been used since the Middle Ages in both Spain and Italy.
The meaning of Gregorio is associated with watchful or vigilant. It is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "gregor", which means to keep watch or guard. The name was popularized by several early Christian saints, including Saint Gregory the Illuminator and Pope Gregory I.
In Spanish-speaking countries, Gregorio is a traditional name that has been passed down through generations. It is often used as a given name, but it can also be used as a surname. In Italy, Gregorio is less common than in Spain, but it still appears among Italian families.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Gregorio. One of the most famous was Gregorio mutis, a Spanish botanist and explorer who made significant contributions to the scientific understanding of South American plants. Another notable figure was Gregorio Allegri, an Italian composer of the Roman School during the Baroque era.
Today, Gregorio remains a popular name in Spain and among Spanish-speaking communities around the world. It is often paired with names such as José, María, and Luis for boys and girls respectively. Despite its historical roots, Gregorio continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its traditional yet strong sound and meaning.
The name Gregorio has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with a total of 10,731 babies named Gregorio born since 1880.
In its early years of record-keeping, the name's popularity fluctuated quite significantly. Between 1880 and 1924, there were periods where the number of births rose dramatically - from just five births in 1880 to a peak of 187 births in 1923.
However, between 1925 and 1976, Gregorio's popularity began to decline. During this period, the number of births hovered around an average of 100 per year, with some years seeing as few as 56 births.
From 1977 onwards, there was a resurgence in popularity for the name Gregorio. The peak of this era came in 1982 with 159 births, which remained the highest number of Gregorio births until 1993 when it reached an all-time high of 187 births.
Since then, the popularity of the name has slowly decreased once again. Between 1994 and 2023, the average number of births per year was around 65, with the most recent data showing 45 births in 2023.
Despite this decline in recent years, Gregorio remains a classic and timeless name that has been beloved by parents throughout American history.