Danilo

The name Danilo is a masculine given name with Hebrew origins, widely used in Slavic, Romance, and Germanic-speaking countries, carrying the meaning 'God is my judge'.

Origin

Danilo is the Slavic, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form of the Hebrew name Daniel. The name Daniel originates from the Hebrew (דָּנִיֵּאל – Dāniyyēl), which is composed of two elements: 'Dan' (דָּן), meaning 'judge' or 'he judged', and 'El' (אֵל), which is a name for God. Therefore, the combined meaning is typically interpreted as 'God is my judge' or 'God is my adjudicator'. The biblical figure Daniel, known for his wisdom and righteousness in the Book of Daniel, played a significant role in popularizing the name.

Meaning

The core meaning of Danilo, derived from Daniel, is 'God is my judge'. This signifies a reliance on divine justice and guidance. Individuals named Danilo are often perceived through the lens of the biblical Daniel's characteristics: wisdom, integrity, faith, and the ability to interpret dreams or make sound judgments. The name implies a strong moral compass and a connection to divine authority.

Variations and Popularity

Danilo is a prevalent name in many cultures. Common variations include: Daniel (English, French, German, Scandinavian, Polish, Czech, Slovak, Romanian), Daniil (Russian, Bulgarian), Dániel (Hungarian), Daniele (Italian), and Daniyyel (Hebrew). Its popularity is notable in Slavic countries such as Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia, as well as in Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Latin American countries. The enduring appeal of the name is linked to its strong biblical roots and its pleasant phonetic quality across different languages.