Rocco is an Italian given name with a rich history and meaning behind it. The name is derived from the German name Rokkō or Hroc With God's Help, which comes from the elements hrod 'fame' and gōd 'god'. Thus, Rocco means "belonging to Hroc" or "with the help of god".
The name Rocco has its roots in medieval Germany, where it was used as a personal name. Over time, it spread throughout Europe, particularly in Italy, Spain, and France. In Italy, Rocco is often associated with Saint Rocco (1295-1376), who was born into a wealthy family but chose to live a life of poverty and charity. He is known for his devotion to helping the sick and needy, especially those suffering from plague.
In some cases, Rocco can also be considered as a variant spelling of the Italian name Rocko or Rocco (meaning "from the rock"), which has its origins in the Latin word ROCcus, meaning "rock". This association could also contribute to the name's popularity in certain regions.
Today, Rocco is still widely used throughout Europe and beyond. It remains popular in Italy, France, Spain, and other countries with a strong Italian or French influence. Despite its historical and religious associations, Rocco is not limited to any particular cultural or religious group. Instead, it is appreciated for its timeless meaning and unique sound.
In summary, Rocco is an Italian name with German origins that means "with the help of god". It has a long history, having been used throughout Europe since medieval times, and is associated with Saint Rocco in Italy. Despite these historical ties, Rocco remains a popular choice among parents today due to its meaning and unique sound.
"The name Rocco has seen a steady decline in popularity over the years in the United States, with only five babies being named Rocco in 1984. However, it is important to note that the total number of births in the country that year was also quite low, with only five births recorded overall."