Rocco
RAH-koh
Rocco is an Italian name of Germanic origin, derived from hrok or hroc meaning “rest” or “repose.” Saint Roch (Rocco in Italian) was a 14th-century plague healer venerated across Catholic Europe.
Saint Rocco’s cult spread through Italy, France, and Spain during the Black Death, as communities prayed for his intercession against disease. His feast day (August 16) is still widely celebrated.
Rocco peaked at No. 283 in 1922 with 388 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 500 with 609 births, surpassing its historical peak count.
What the name Rocco means
Madonna named her son Rocco Ritchie in 2000, bringing the name fresh celebrity exposure. The name also appears in Rocky lore (Rocky Balboa’s real name inspiration).
Two syllables - ROK-oh - are punchy and Italian. The hard consonants and open ending give it an energetic, warm-blooded character.
Italian-heritage names are surging in the US: Luca, Matteo, Enzo, and Rocco all reflect this trend. Parents value their Mediterranean warmth and European flair.
At 609 births in 2024, Rocco is in a modern renaissance. Its combination of saintly history and tough-guy sound gives it rare cross-appeal.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Rocco
Rocco - similar names
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