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Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
In 2024, a short and elegant male first name will become one of the favorite choices of young parents. This first name seduces with its simplicity, its soft sound and its multiple origins. Easy to wear in different languages, it reflects the growing appeal for names that are both retro and contemporary.
The first name Milo has been growing in popularity for several years, and in 2024, it will emerge as one of the favorite choices of parents looking for a first name that is modern, short and full of charm. Its success is based on a unique blend of simplicity and originality, while being easy to wear in many countries and cultures.
Origins and meaning of the first name Milo
According to the authors of the book L’Officiel des Prénoms (First Editions), Milo could have its origins in Latin aemilius“emulates” or “who competes”, thus being akin to Émile, of which it was long considered the diminutive. According to other sources, Milo is a first name of multiple origins, which explains its richness and cultural diversity. It finds its roots in several languages:
- Germanic origin: Milo would derive from the first name Miles, meaning “graceful” or “amiable”.
- Slavic origin: It could come from the term “mil”, which means “dear” or “loved”.
- Latin origin: It is sometimes considered a diminutive of Emilius or Aemilius, two Roman names which are said to mean “rival” or “emulative”.
The mention of Milo immediately transports us to the Cyclades archipelago. It was in fact on the Greek island of Milo or Milos that the famous Venus was discovered in 1820. This statue, supposed to represent Aphrodite, is one of the mythical works exhibited at the Louvre, in the same way as the Mona Lisa or the Victory of Samothrace. This international artistic glory did not, however, reflect on Milo’s career, which was late. It was only at the dawn of the 21st century that it appeared in the annals of INSEE. He then begins a brilliant ascent.
Although Milo is already short, several variations exist depending on countries and cultures. Among the most common are:
- Miles (Anglo-Saxon version, often more formal),
- Milos (version used in Slavic countries),
- Emilio or Emil (Latin or Germanic variants).
The return of short first names
In 2010, the number of little Milos born reached the 500 birth mark. Admitted to the top 100 in 2015, he is knocking, less than 10 years later, at the doors of the top 20. We can bet that he will be welcomed there with open arms! He has in fact renewed, with his followers Nino and Tiago, the wave of short, Italianate first names which propelled Enzo to the top.
In 2024, Milo is among the most fashionable male first names in several European and Anglo-Saxon countries, such as France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The first name was able to seduce with its international side, easy to pronounce in many languages, while remaining short and punchy.
Several social and cultural trends have contributed to the rise of this first name:
- Return to short first names: First names with one or two syllables, easy to remember and write, are increasingly popular.
- Vintage and retro names: Names like Milo, which have ancient roots but sound modern, fit well with young parents’ quest for authenticity.
- Media Influences: More and more characters in television series, films and even celebrities have the first name Milo, increasing its visibility and appeal.
Milo is the 117th most given male first name in France since the year 2000. This first name is given to almost one in 170 boys today.
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