Merlo
/ˈmɛr.loʊ/noun
An Italian word meaning “blackbird,” also used as a surname and in scientific names.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, the blackbird was associated with the god Apollo and appeared in Roman natural-history writings under the name merula.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*mer-
“Possibly connected with the blackbird’s dark or speckled coloring; the deeper reconstruction is uncertain.”
Classical Latin
Latin
merula
“Blackbird; a common songbird known for its dark plumage.”
Late Latin
Latin
merulus
“A variant form referring to a blackbird.”
Medieval Italian
Italian
merlo
“Blackbird; also used metaphorically and eventually as a personal or family name.”
Modern English
English
Merlo
“A surname, proper name, and occasional Italian loanword meaning “blackbird.””