Spanish Names

  1. Jacinto
    • Origin:

      Spanish, Portuguese
    • Meaning:

      "hyacinth"
    • Description:

      Less familiar than the feminine Jacinta. Jacinto is a sweet floral boy name that was most popular in early 20th century Spain and Brazil.
  2. Valentín
    • Description:

      Valentín is the Spanish and French form of Valentine, a masculine name derived from the Latin 'Valentinus,' meaning 'strong,' 'healthy,' or 'powerful.' This name carries the essence of its Latin root 'valens' (to be strong). Historically associated with several Christian saints, most notably St. Valentine, the name combines romantic connotations with strength of character. Valentín remains quite popular in Spanish-speaking countries and regions with Hispanic influence. The name typically features the accent mark (tilde) over the 'i' in Spanish usage, emphasizing the second syllable. Many parents choose this name for boys born near Valentine's Day or to honor family heritage.
  3. Santos
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "saint, holy"
    • Description:

      The Spanish and Portuguese variation of the all-saints name. Santos is a name that has appeared in the US Top 1000 every year except for two: 1913 and 1915.
  4. Nelia
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Cornelia
    • Meaning:

      "horn"
    • Description:

      This lively and appealing name originated as a short form of Cornelia, but is well able to stand on its own. Nelia is also often in the Hispanic culture, where it can be a short form of Manuela. It did have some American usage in the late nineteenth century, and with Cornelia having a comeback, Nelia could follow.
  5. Tabo
    • Description:

      Tabo is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Filipino culture, 'tabo' refers to a dipper used for bathing, representing cleanliness and utility in daily life. In some African cultures, particularly in regions of Tanzania and Kenya, Tabo may be used as a personal name with local significance. The name is also found in various Pacific Island cultures. With its simple two-syllable structure and strong ending vowel, Tabo has a distinctive, memorable quality. Though uncommon in Western countries, this name carries an international appeal and cultural richness. Its brevity and easy pronunciation make it accessible across language barriers.
  6. Viridiana
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "green"
    • Description:

      Viridiana is a frillier version of the medieval name Viridis, meaning green. Viridiana briefly made it into the top 1000 in the US in the 1990s.
  7. Prudencia
    • Description:

      Prudencia is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'prudentia' meaning 'prudence' or 'discretion.' It embodies the virtue of wisdom and careful judgment in conduct. This classic name has been used since medieval times, particularly in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian-speaking countries. While not among the most common names in English-speaking regions, Prudencia carries a dignified, traditional appeal. The name suggests someone who is thoughtful, wise, and makes good decisions. Bearers of this name might use nicknames like Pru or Dencia. Prudencia experienced moderate popularity in Catholic countries during the 19th century but has become less common in modern times.
  8. Fede
    • Description:

      Fede is a masculine name that originates primarily from Spanish and Italian language backgrounds. In Spanish, it's a shortened form of Federico (the Spanish equivalent of Frederick), which means 'peaceful ruler.' In Italian contexts, 'fede' literally translates to 'faith,' giving the name a spiritual dimension. This short, two-syllable name offers a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining international appeal. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, Fede has maintained modest popularity in Mediterranean countries and Latin American communities. The name carries a warm, positive connotation and works well cross-culturally. Its brevity makes it distinctive while remaining easy to pronounce in multiple languages.

  9. Leticia
    • Origin:

      Spanish form of Letitia or Laetitia, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "joy, happiness"
    • Description:

      Playful but elegant with a cheerful meaning, Leticia is the Spanish form of the English Letitia and the Latin Laetitia. Popular in Brazil, Portugal, and Hungary, and a familiar choice in Spain, it has also made the Top 1000 in the US and the UK in the past.
  10. Isolda
    • Description:

      Isolda is a feminine name with Celtic and Germanic origins, best known from the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde (also spelled Iseult or Isolde). The name may derive from elements meaning 'ice' and 'ruler' or 'battle,' though its exact etymology remains debated among scholars. Isolda carries an air of romance, tragedy, and medieval nobility due to its legendary associations. While never extremely common, it has maintained a presence throughout European history, experiencing occasional revivals when medieval themes become popular in culture. The name offers a dramatic, romantic option with rich literary connections. Isolda appeals to parents seeking names with historical depth and a touch of mystical, legendary quality.

  11. Eviana
    • Description:

      Eviana is a modern feminine name that likely emerged as a blend of popular names like Eva, Evie, or Evelyn with the romantic -ana suffix. It may also be viewed as a variation of Ivana or a feminine form of Evan. With its melodic four syllables, Eviana has a contemporary feel while maintaining a connection to more traditional naming roots. The name has gained some modest popularity in the 21st century, appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. Eviana carries an elegant, feminine quality with potential meanings connected to its root names - Eva relates to 'life' in Hebrew, while Evan has Welsh origins meaning 'young warrior.' Its flowing sound and unique character make it increasingly appealing in today's naming landscape.
  12. Oto
    • Description:

      Oto is a concise, cross-cultural masculine name with various origins and meanings. In Japanese culture, it means 'sound' or 'melody,' reflecting harmony and artistic qualities. In Slavic languages, particularly Czech and Slovak, Oto serves as a shortened form of Otto, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' The name also appears in some African cultures, including as a name among the Yoruba people. Oto's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal while its multicultural roots provide depth and character. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, its simplicity makes it easily pronounceable across language barriers.
  13. Cristina
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Catalan, and Romanian variation of Christina, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "a Christian"
    • Description:

      Cristina is one case where the streamlined version feels more alluring. Cristina is found more often than Christina in many European countries and cultures, including Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking Latin and South America.
  14. Dominica
    • Origin:

      Italian, feminine variation of Dominic
    • Meaning:

      "belonging to the Lord"
    • Description:

      Fashionably Continental and much fresher than Dominique, though it's been used since the Middle Ages. Dominica can be spelled any number of ways, from Dominika to Domenica, but we prefer this version.
  15. Yola
    • Description:

      Yola is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Polish, it's a diminutive of Jolanta, meaning 'violet flower.' The name also exists independently in African cultures, particularly in Nigeria among the Yoruba people. Additionally, Yola has Hungarian roots as a nickname for Jolán. This multicultural background gives the name a global appeal while remaining concise and melodic. Yola has never been extremely common in English-speaking countries, maintaining its distinctive quality. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds make it accessible across language barriers. Its rhythmic quality and gentle sound contribute to its feminine appeal. Parents might be drawn to Yola for its simplicity, international character, and the subtle natural connection to violets in its Polish origin.
  16. Milagros
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "miracles"
    • Description:

      Even in the Hispanic community, very religious and old-fashioned.
  17. Addis
    • Origin:

      Ethiopian, Amharic
    • Meaning:

      "new"
    • Description:

      This Ethiopian boy name looks like a shortening of popular Addison, but has separate roots. Nonetheless, with Addison's popularity, Addis would fit in while standing out as a boy's name in English-speaking countries. Addis means "new", as seen in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, meaning "new flower".
  18. Ventura
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "good fortune"
    • Description:

      Ventura started life as a shortening of Bonaventura, Spanish for good luck or good fortune, but now stands on its own. It has a pleasant sound and the stylish 'V' ending, but Angelenos would associate it with the Valley's main stem--Ventura Boulevard, and others might think of Ace or Jesse Ventura.
  19. Santana
    • Origin:

      Spanish, condensed form of Santa Ana
    • Description:

      Santana was most recently heard on a female character on hit television show Glee. Nonetheless, this name ranks higher for boys, which can be credited to Grammy Award-winning musician Carlos Santana.
  20. Ortega
    • Origin:

      Spanish name
    • Meaning:

      "dweller at the sign of the grouse"
    • Description:

      Dashing Latin surname name -- but also a well-known brand of Spanish packaged foods.