Spanish Hispanic and Latin names

Erendira was the name of a Gabriel Garcia Marquez heroine and also a mythological princess. The name is best known in Mexico.

Hilaria, the ancient Roman form of Hilary also given to joyous festivals, is still used in Spain and Poland, while the intriguing Italian version is Ilaria. A notable current bearer is fitness expert and wife of Alec, Hilaria Baldwin, who was born Hillary.

A distinctive, rhythmic, and lovely Spanish name that suggests enlightenment.

Inocencia is like Chastity or Immaculata. Few modern girls outside the Latino community -- or even in it -- would appreciate having to carry this name.

Isla is a hit name throughout the English-speaking world but hasn't found the same popularity in other western countries, perhaps because its spelling and pronunciation don't make sense for those whose native language is not English. Think island without the final two letters.

Jacinta, the Spanish word for hyacinth, is a lot softer and sweeter than the English version. The correct Spanish pronunciation is ha-SEEN-ta, though many English speakers would say ja-SIN-ta. Although the name is slightly different, Jacinta is largely associated at present with Australian-born actress Jacinda Barrett.

A variation of Lionel that has made slow but steady gains in recent years, perhaps helped by the resurgence of Leo.

A bit grown-up for a tiny baby.

Mariposa is a rare, romantic choice with an intriguing meaning.

Marisol is a favorite Spanish name for girls, and an excellent candidate to cross the culture line, a la Soledad and Paz.

A pretty and unusual path to the nickname Mira. Mira is the main character in Nobel Prize-winner Federico Mistral's poem of the same name. Mireya Moscoso was Panama's first female president.

The meaning makes this name interesting, but the sound is too related to nemesis.

Sassy but slight nickname name.

Occasionally used in the Latino community, another Easter-related name.