Pio

Origin and meaning of Pio

Pio comes from the Latin pius, 'pious, devout, respectful of the gods and of one's duties' — a cornerstone of Roman virtue (pietas). It became a Christian name of great dignity, taken by many popes — from Pius V to Pius XII — and by saints. In Italy it is rare today but has an antique charm, sustained above all by devotion to Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio). Short and solemn, it evokes seriousness, moral integrity and a spirituality deeply rooted in tradition.

Variants around the world

How Pio sounds in other languages.

Famous people

• San Pio da Pietrelcina— saint