Spanish Names
- Fortunato
Description:
Fortunato is a masculine name of Italian and Spanish origin derived from the Latin 'fortunatus' meaning 'lucky,' 'fortunate,' or 'blessed.' With roots in ancient Roman culture, this expressive name has been used since medieval times, often given in the hope of bestowing good fortune on a child. While common in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, it remains relatively rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic, distinctive quality. The name carries rich literary associations, most notably as a character in Edgar Allan Poe's famous story 'The Cask of Amontillado.' Fortunato has a melodious, romantic sound typical of Italian names, and its meaningful connection to luck and prosperity makes it an optimistic choice with historical depth.
- Quintana
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"the fifth girl"Description:
Mexican place-name famously used by Joan Didion for her daughter, Quintana Roo.
- Anabella
Origin:
Spanish variation of AnnabelMeaning:
"loving"Description:
We like all forms of this name—Annabel, Anabel, Annabelle, Anabela, and Annabella—so you decide how elaborate you want to get. Actress Sela Ward chose the Anabella spelling.
- Alarico
Description:
Alarico is a masculine name with ancient Germanic roots, representing the Italian and Spanish form of Alaric. The name gained historical significance through Alaric I, the Visigothic king who famously sacked Rome in 410 CE. Its etymology derives from 'all-ruler' or 'ruler of all' in ancient Germanic languages, combining elements meaning 'all, whole' and 'ruler, king.' This powerful meaning gives the name a commanding presence. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Alarico has maintained usage in Italian and Spanish-speaking regions, particularly in families honoring their cultural heritage. The name carries a romantic, historical quality with its flowing vowels and distinctive ending. For parents seeking a masculine name with historical depth and an international character, Alarico offers strength and sophistication without being overly common.
- Sisqó
Origin:
Spanish nicknameDescription:
Catchy stage name of popular R & B singer (born Mark -- Sisqó was his childhood nickname).
- Mando
Origin:
Diminutive of Armando, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese form of HermanMeaning:
"soldier"Description:
Armando definitely makes Herman cooler and Mando or Mondo makes it cooler still. While Mando is usually short for Armando, it can be an abbreviation for any name containing Mando or Mondo.
- Claudio
Origin:
Italian, SpanishMeaning:
"lame; enclosure"Description:
Claudio, a most appealing Italian name, is featured in not one, but two Shakespearean plays, ,Measure for Measure and Much Ado About Nothing. While "lame" is the most widely acknowledged meaning, some etymologists theorize that the name may relate to the word for enclosure or clause, an alternate meaning that may appeal to a child with a form of this otherwise-attractive name.
- Quinto
Origin:
Spanish variation of QuintinMeaning:
"fifth"Description:
Quint or Quinton played to a Latin rhythm.
- Ondina
Origin:
Italian; Portuguese; Spanish, from LatinMeaning:
"little wave"Description:
A romantic Latinate form of Ondine, Ondina is an undiscovered gem that shares similar sounds with the trendy Olivia and Ophelia.
- Nelo
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of DanielDescription:
Lively nickname form of overused biblical favorite.
- Isamel
Description:
Isamel appears to be a variant or alternative spelling of Ismael, which has Hebrew and Biblical origins. The traditional name Ismael (or Ishmael) means 'God will hear' or 'God has heeded,' and refers to the son of Abraham and Hagar in religious texts. This variation with the transposed letters gives the name a unique quality while maintaining its rich historical connections. Isamel carries the spiritual significance of its original form, suggesting someone who is heard by God or divinely acknowledged. While less common than the standard spelling, this variant might appeal to parents seeking a subtle twist on the traditional name. The name resonates across multiple cultures, appearing in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, making it versatile across different cultural backgrounds.
- Guillermina
Description:
Guillermina is the feminine Spanish form of Wilhelm, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'will' or 'determination' and 'helmet' or 'protection.' This elegant name carries a sense of strength and nobility. Popular throughout Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Mexico and Argentina, Guillermina offers common nicknames like Mina, Guille, or Gema. The name exudes a classic, sophisticated quality while remaining approachable. Though less common in English-speaking regions, Guillermina has endured as a traditional choice that connects to Spanish heritage while offering the appeal of both formal elegance and cute nickname options.
- Vina
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"vineyard"Description:
Occasionally heard in the 1920s and 30s, along with siblings Bina and Mina; Vienna would be a more modern choice.
- Cinta
Description:
Cinta is a feminine name with Indonesian and Spanish origins, carrying beautiful meanings in both languages. In Indonesian, particularly in Javanese culture, Cinta means 'love' and is used both as a name and as an everyday expression of affection. In Spanish, it relates to 'cinta' meaning 'ribbon' or 'tape,' symbolizing connection and beauty. The name has a simple, melodic quality with its clear consonants and flowing vowel sounds. While rare in English-speaking countries, Cinta has maintained consistent usage in Indonesia and Spanish-speaking regions. The name's brevity and easy pronunciation make it accessible across languages, while its meaningful associations with love and beauty give it emotional resonance. Cinta offers a multicultural option that's both distinctive and meaningful.
- Graziella
Origin:
Italian, diminutive of Grazia or variation of GraceMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Graziella, an Italian form of Grace, is another Latin version that adds spice. Consider Graziella as a distinctive alternative to either Grace or Gabriella.
- Ovidia
Origin:
Feminine variation of Ovidius, Roman family nameMeaning:
"shepherd or sheep"Description:
Ovidia is the unusual feminine form of the ancient Roman Ovidius, most famous as the name of the exiled 1st century Roman poet Ovid. Modern male form Ovidio is known in Spain and Portugal. Ovida is another variation.
- Mónica
Description:
Mónica is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Monica, ultimately derived from the Latin name Monicus, which may have North African Berber origins. The name gained international popularity through Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine of Hippo. Mónica is appreciated for its melodious quality and classical roots. The name became particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries during the 20th century, and gained wider recognition in the 1990s through cultural influences like the character Mónica Geller from the television show "Friends." Today, Mónica remains a timeless choice that balances traditional values with modern appeal, especially throughout Latin America and Spain.
- Arcelia
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"treasure chest"Description:
Arcelia is an undiscovered Spanish treasure worth considering.
- Carlota
Origin:
Spanish, Portuguese variation of CharlotteMeaning:
"free man; Frenchman"Description:
Carlota is the preferred version of Charlotte in Spain and Portugal, each where it ranks among the Top 50 most popular girl names. Carlotta, with two Ts, is the Italian spelling.
- 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.
