Io

Meaning & origin

Io is a name of Greek origin, most famously linked to the mythological figure transformed by Zeus. It first appeared in U.S. data in 2000 and reached its highest rank of 14,942 in 2022, though its usage has been declining since 2021. In 2025, it remains a rare choice, with only about 1 in 321,453 newborns receiving the name. The name was given primarily in a few states, but overall its use is sparse. As a short, vowel-heavy name, Io fits a modern taste for minimalist and mythological names, yet it retains an ancient resonance that sets it apart from more common choices like Ava or Mia.

Io is a name of Greek origin, most famously borne in Greek mythology by a priestess of Hera who was transformed into a heifer. It may also be a short form of names like Ione, derived from the Greek word 'ion' for violet. The name saw limited historical use in ancient Greece and has been revived in modern times, particularly in English-speaking countries since the late 20th century.