Pippo

Pippo is a name commonly used in Italy, functioning both as a nickname and, in some cases, as a standalone given name. It is most often associated with the Italian form of Filippo (Philip) and is also recognizable as the Italian name for Disney’s character Goofy in Italian-language editions. The use of Pippo as a familiar form reflects a broader Italian practice of creating affectionate nicknames from formal names.

Etymology and forms: Pippo derives from Filippo, which itself comes from the Greek name Philippos, meaning “lover of horses.” As a nickname, Pippo is a familiar, informal form used in family and social contexts. Nicknames are common in Italian naming culture, and Pippo has become widely recognized beyond close circles.

Usage: In contemporary Italy, Pippo appears in everyday speech, on personal credits, and in popular media as a casual or stage name. It is most strongly linked to men named Filippo, though it can appear as an independent moniker in various contexts.

Notable people: Notable individuals commonly known as Pippo include Pippo Baudo, a prominent Italian television presenter; Filippo “Pippo” Inzaghi, a former Italian footballer and manager; Pippo Pollina, a singer and songwriter; and Pippo Franco, an Italian actor and comedian. These figures help keep the nickname visible in Italian public life.

In popular culture: The use of Pippo extends to translations of children’s entertainment, where Goofy is rendered as Pippo in Italian, reinforcing the association between the name and the character in Italian-speaking communities.