Short, tender and Mediterranean, Nino has conquered French hearts in just a few decades. Diminutive with universal charm, it combines biblical roots and Italian warmth. Deciphering a first name on the rise.
A short name, but full of stories
The first name Nino immediately evokes music, the sun and a certain tenderness. However, behind these four letters lies a rich and multiple heritage. Of Italian origin, Nino is first of all an affectionate diminutive of Giovanni – the equivalent of John – meaning in Hebrew “God is gracious”. But he is also the familiar name of Saturnino, Antonino or even Luciano in the Italian peninsula. To this Mediterranean origin is added a scent of Occitania: Nino would also be rooted in the lands of the South-West, where he won the hearts of parents.
An original and current first name
After a brief appearance in the 1950s, Nino really entered the registers at the end of the 1980s, alongside other solar first names like Matteo and Enzo. Since the 2000s, it has experienced spectacular growth: its attributions have increased twenty-fold, reaching a peak of more than 2,000 births in 2022. Today, Nino is among the 100 most given male first names in France, and is particularly popular in Occitanie, in departments such as Tarn, Lot and Corrèze. A return to the roots for this singing first name.
An (almost) international first name
If French-speaking Switzerland has adopted it, Quebec and Wallonia remain more reserved. Ironically, Italy, birthplace of the first name, only places it 461st in 2022. As is often the case, no one is a prophet in their country. But that does not detract from its timeless charm, which several notable personalities proudly wear: Nino Rota, legendary composer of GodfatherNino Ferrer, cult singer of The Southor even Nino Schurter, Swiss mountain bike champion.
With its sweet sound, spiritual meaning and multicultural roots, Nino ticks all the boxes of a modern and endearing name. Between tradition and freshness, this little name that has become big continues to chart its course at the top of the rankings… and in the hearts of young parents.