Apollo is a strong and distinctive given name of Greek origin. In Greek mythology, Apollo was the god of light, music, poetry, prophecy, healing, and plagues. He was also known as the patron of arts, knowledge, and wisdom. As the son of Zeus and Leto, Apollo had numerous siblings including Artemis, his twin sister who was the goddess of hunting and wild animals.
The name Apollo has a significant meaning in Greek culture and beyond. It translates to "light" or "destroyer," reflecting Apollo's role as the god of light and his ability to destroy disease with his healing powers. Throughout history, Apollo has been associated with many notable figures and institutions. For instance, NASA named its first manned mission to the moon after Apollo in honor of the Greek god of light.
In terms of history, the name Apollo gained popularity during the Renaissance period as artists like Botticelli and Titian created iconic works featuring the god Apollo. Today, Apollo remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and meaningful name for their child. Despite its ancient origins, Apollo has a modern sound that appeals to many.
The name Apollo has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two years, with a total of twelve babies named Apollo being born between 2020 and 2021. In 2020, there were five newborns given this distinctive name, while in 2021, seven more baby boys joined their ranks. This consistent growth in popularity indicates that parents are increasingly choosing the name Apollo for their children, likely drawn to its unique sound and potential positive associations. However, it is important to note that despite this rise in popularity, Apollo remains a relatively uncommon name, with only twelve births recorded over these two years.