Apo: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey)".It derives from the Greek word "apó stéllō > apostéllō > Apóstolos".
Apo has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Apo
Quick facts about Apo
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
apó stéllō > apostéllō > Apóstolos
Other Scripts
Bulgarian (Апо)
How to Pronounce Apo
Apo is pronounced /ˈæpoʊ/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ap-o
Say it like: "APOOO"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Apo is predominantly used in bulgarian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
bulgarian
Frequently Asked Questions About Apo
What does the name Apo mean?
Apo means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded.". The name comes from apó stéllō > apostéllō > Apóstolos. In its original form, the name derives from apó (ᾰ̓πό) stéllō (στέλλω) apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω) Apóstolos (Απόστολος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Apo for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Apo's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Apo?
Apo is a greek name. The name traces back to apó stéllō > apostéllō > Apóstolos. The original form apó (ᾰ̓πό) stéllō (στέλλω) apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω) Apóstolos (Απόστολος) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Apo is written as Bulgarian (Апо). The name remains closely tied to bulgarian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Apo a boy or girl name?
Apo is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Apo has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Apo?
Apo is pronounced "/ˈæpoʊ/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Bulgarian (Апо), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Apo is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Apo can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root apó stéllō > apostéllō > Apóstolos influences how Apo sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Apo?
Apo is commonly used as a nickname for Apostol. Being a shortened version of Apostol, Apo offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Apostol go by Apo throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Apo as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Apo as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Apo on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Apo?
Apo is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Apo offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Apo's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Apo holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Apo commonly used?
Apo is used primarily in bulgarian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Apo found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Apóstolos (Απόστολος),” from “apostéllō (ἀποστέλλω),” composed of two elements: “apó (ᾰ̓πό)” (from, away from) plus “stéllō (στέλλω)” (dispatch, send, set out, journey). In turn, the name means “messenger, to send, envoy, to send off, send away from, dispatch, on some mission or service.” The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles during the ministry of Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. After his resurrection, Jesus sent eleven of them (minus Judas Iscariot) by the Great Commission to spread his teachings to all nations, referred to as the dispersion of the apostles. There is also an Eastern Christian tradition derived from the Gospel of Luke of seventy apostles. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the name day of Apostolos on June 30, the day of the Assembly of the Apostles, when Christ chose the original 12 Apostles, Judas excluded." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Apo into their naming traditions. A child named Apo will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Apo is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.