The given name Gregorio has its origins in the Latin language and is derived from the Late Greek name Gregorios. The name Gregorios itself is a combination of the Greek words "gregoros" meaning "watchful" or "vigilant" and "agrein" which means "to chase" or "to hunt".

In its earliest form, the name was associated with the virtues of watchfulness, vigilance, and being alert or awake. It is believed to have first appeared in ancient Greek texts and writings from around the 3rd century AD.

One of the earliest notable figures to bear the name was Gregory of Nazianzus, a 4th-century Christian bishop and theological writer who was also one of the Cappadocian Fathers of the Church. Another prominent figure was Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great, who served as the Bishop of Rome from 590 to 604 AD and is recognized as one of the most influential popes in the history of the Catholic Church.

During the Middle Ages, the name Gregorio gained popularity across Europe, particularly in regions with strong Christian and Catholic traditions. It was borne by several notable figures, including Gregory VII, who was pope from 1073 to 1085 and is remembered for his efforts to reform the Church and assert papal authority over secular rulers.

In the field of science and philosophy, the Italian mathematician and astronomer Gregorio Ricci-Curbastro, who lived from 1853 to 1925, made significant contributions to the development of tensor calculus and the theory of relativity.

Another noteworthy bearer of the name was Gregorio Marañón, a Spanish physician, scientist, and writer who lived from 1887 to 1960 and made significant contributions to the fields of endocrinology and the study of human behavior.

The name Gregorio has also been carried by numerous artists and cultural figures throughout history, such as the Italian painter Gregorio Lazzarini, who lived from 1655 to 1730 and is known for his works in the Baroque style.