Portuguese Royal Baby Names
- Manuel
Origin:
Spanish variation of Emmanuel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Popular among Hispanic communities but also used internationally, Manuel is a name with a regal history.
- Jose
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese version of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Jose is as widespread in the Hispanic community as Joseph and Joe are elsewhere in the U.S., though its numbers here are starting to decrease somewhat. Jose is one of those Spanish baby names that has never crossed over into the Anglo naming culture.
- Alexandre
Origin:
French variation of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
What's the difference between Alexander, the usual English spelling of this deeply classical name, and Alexandre, the French version? English speakers might find the proper French pronunciation challenging: a-lehk-SAHN-dreh, but that last syllable is barely pronounced. Americans might an an a or an ee on the end of the name, or simply pronounce it as Alexander, for better or worse.
- Eugenia
Origin:
Feminine variation of Eugene, GreekMeaning:
"wellborn, noble"Description:
Eugenia, a name scarcely used at all since the 1980's, is another that flourished a century ago and could be due for a revival.
- Mafalda
Origin:
Italian and Portuguese variation of MatildaDescription:
Mafalda is nearly unknown in the English-speaking world, despite an appearance in Harry Potter. Indeed, it does have a witchy feel. Matilda itself is preferable, or her French form Mathilde, Spanish Matilde, or abbreviation Maud.
- Pedro
Origin:
Spanish; Portuguese variation of Peter, GreekMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
Pedro is one of the most familiar Spanish names for boys, via baseball star Pedro Rodriguez and many others.
- Micaela
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Israeli variation of MichaelaMeaning:
"who is like God"Description:
The original versions of Micaela have morphed into all manner of "inventive" spellings -- Makayla, McKalla et al -- but we prefer the genuine international versions, like this one.
- Augusto
Origin:
Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian variation of Augustus, LatinMeaning:
"majestic, venerable"Description:
With the current craze for ancient Roman names, variations of the Latin Augustus with its majestic meaning are becoming more popular in many cultures. Month name August, also drawn from the original Augustus, is the most popular form in the US, but Augusto may start showing up on international popularity lists.
- Vicente
Origin:
Spanish variation of Vincent, LatinMeaning:
"conquering"Description:
This classic Spanish name is well-used throughout Latin America and easily crosses cultures, ranking in the US Top 1000 for over a century. Vicente is notable as the name of Vicente Fernandez, the king of mariachi.
- Catarina
Origin:
Portuguese variation of KatherineDescription:
One of the most popular names of all time in Portugal and Brazil, with a romantic, lively sound. The main risk is confusion with other names that sound similar: Catalina, Katrina, and so forth. Caterina, with an "e," is more common in Italy.
- Diogo
Origin:
Portuguese form of DiegoMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
Diogo is the much-less-known brother of Diego, both forms of James, which is itself a form of the Biblical Jacob. And Diego itself probably started life as a short form of Santiago, aka Saint Jago, aka Saint James.
- Fernando
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese variation of FerdinandMeaning:
"bold voyager"Description:
Can you hear the drums Fernando? Although 58% of Nameberries prefer Ferdinand to Fernando, the Iberian variant has a softer, more romantic feel that makes it a better fit with all those Javiers, Lorenzos and Matteos.
- Francisca
Origin:
Spanish, PortugueseMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Spanish and Portuguese form of Frances or Francesca
- Henrique
Description:
Henrique is the Portuguese and Spanish form of Henry, a name with Germanic origins meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household.' This variation maintains the regal heritage of the original while adding a distinctive Latin flair through its pronunciation (en-REE-kay). Popular throughout Portugal, Brazil, and Spanish-speaking countries, Henrique conveys strength and nobility while sounding melodic and warm. The name has a long history of use among European royalty, carrying connotations of leadership and dignity. While less common in English-speaking countries, it has gained recognition through cultural exchange and global connectivity. Henrique offers parents a sophisticated international option with accessible nickname possibilities like Enrique, Ricky, or Rique.
- Berengaria
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"bear spear"Description:
Berengaria was one of the medieval queens of England - married to Richard I (also known as Richard the Lionheart). She was originally from Navarre (in modern northern Spain) and despite being the Queen of England, she only lived in England after her husband had died. Despite its royal roots, Berengaria is one of the less attractive medieval names, although it gets points for having an unusually strong meaning for a feminine name.
- Josefa
Description:
Josefa is a feminine name of Spanish and Portuguese origin, derived from the masculine name José (Joseph). The name ultimately traces back to Hebrew roots, from 'Yosef' meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' As the female equivalent of Joseph, Josefa carries biblical connections to the husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus in Christian tradition. The name has been consistently used in Spanish-speaking countries and communities for centuries. While Josefa has never reached high popularity rankings in the United States, it maintains steady usage in Latin American countries, Spain, and Portugal. The name projects strength and tradition, often associated with dignity and family values. Many women named Josefa go by affectionate nicknames such as Pepa, Pepita, or Fina.
- Teodosio
Description:
Teodosio is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the elements 'theos' meaning 'god' and 'dosis' meaning 'giving,' creating the meaning 'gift of God' or 'given by God.' This name has deep historical roots, most notably carried by Roman Emperor Theodosius the Great who ruled in the 4th century. The spelling Teodosio represents the Italian and Spanish form of the name, while other variations include Theodosius (Greek), Teodósio (Portuguese), and Teodoz (Russian). The name remains moderately popular in Mediterranean countries, particularly Italy and Spain, as well as in Latin America. Teodosio projects dignity and classical heritage, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical significance and religious connotations. Its melodious quality and traditional character make it a timeless choice with international recognition.
- Eugenio
Origin:
Spanish and Italian variation of EugeneDescription:
The name of four popes and several saints: a promising Italian import.
- Manuela
Origin:
Spanish, feminine variation of EmmanuelMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Manuela is one feminine form that's more energetic than the male original, and is worth considering if you're seeking an easily assimilated Spanish name.
- Urraca
Origin:
Basque or Portuguese, 'magpie'Description:
Urraca was the name of many infantas and queens of several medieval Iberian kingdoms (most notably Leon). Despite its royal roots, Urraca is one of the names best left to the history books.