Meaning: Its source is Gregorios, a Greek name meaning "Vigilant."

Languages: This boy's name is used in Italian and Spanish.

Popularity: The name Gregorio ranked 585th in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.

Narrative: Unlike classical Greek names, which often refer to pagan gods and goddesses, authorities believe Gregory's evolution was specifically Christian. It may have been derived from the scriptural admonition ''be vigilant'' (1st Peter, chapter 5, verse 8).

Use of the name has certainly been prominent in church history. Sixteen Roman Catholic popes, and numerous saints, have been named Gregory. It is also a popular traditional name among the Scots, who sometimes shorten it to Gregor.