Ago is a masculine given name of Germanic origin. It derives from the Old High German element ekka or Old Saxon eggia, meaning "edge, blade" (from Proto-Germanic *agjō). Alternatively, it may stem from Old High German egi meaning "fear" (from Proto-Germanic *agaz). This duality reflects common naming patterns in early Germanic languages, where names often incorporated elements referring to weapons or emotions. Etymology and Historical Context The name Ago is a short form or variant of longer names formed with the element ag-. Its root can be traced to Proto-Germanic agjō ('edge'), also found in names like Egil and Egon. The synonymous element “fear” (agaz) appears in other names such as Agil. Ago is also related to the Old High German agi, egi, which evolved into the modern German word Ekel (aversion). The name was borne by a 7th-century Duke of Friuli, an important Lombard nobleman. This historical figure underscores the name's early medieval roots in the Germanic world. Notable Bearers The 7th-century duke Ago (also known as Agon) ruled the Duchy of Friuli from around 645 onward. His leadership is recorded in Paul the Deacon's History of the Lombards, marking Ago as a person of political importance in Lombard Italy. Related Names and Variants Related forms include the Swedish Ove, Frisian Age 1 and Aike, Low German Eike, German Uwe and Egon, as well as the variant Agi.