malo

Malo is a term used as a personal name, a surname, and a place name in various regions and languages. As a name, Malo appears in different cultural contexts and can be found among people in multiple countries.

Etymologically, malo means “bad” in Spanish and Italian, a common adjective in those languages. When used as a proper name or in toponyms, Malo often has distinct origins separate from the adjective, such as being derived from a saint’s name or historical naming practices. The best-known place associated with the term is Saint-Malo, a historic port city in Brittany, France, named after a sixth‑century saint who is said to have founded a monastery in the area.

Geographically, Malo appears in the names of several towns and villages across Europe and Africa, typically as a standalone locality name or as part of longer toponyms. Among these, Saint-Malo stands out internationally due to its walls, maritime heritage, and role in regional history. Other smaller settlements bearing the name Malo exist in various countries, often with limited administrative profiles.

In people, Malo is used as both a surname and a given name in diverse populations. Individuals bearing the name have appeared in religious, political, artistic, and athletic contexts, reflecting its cross-cultural presence rather than a single national origin.

Overall, Malo functions as a multi-use term in language and geography, with Saint-Malo serving as the most prominent example in contemporary reference.