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Portuguese Names for Boys

  1. Silvio

    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form of Silvius

    • Meaning:

      "wood, forest"

    • Description:

      A shiny and sylvan choice, this sleek yet spirited name feels familiar yet is rarely used.
  2. Diogo

    • Origin:

      Portuguese form of Diego

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Leão

    • Description:

      Leão is a Portuguese masculine name meaning 'lion.' It's the Portuguese equivalent of Leon or Leo, derived from the Latin 'leo.' The name carries strong connotations of courage, strength, and nobility across many cultures. In Portugal and Brazil, Leão has consistent popularity, though it's less common outside Portuguese-speaking regions. The tilde over the 'a' creates the distinctive nasal sound characteristic of Portuguese pronunciation. As animal names have gained popularity in recent decades, Leão offers parents a traditional yet distinctive option with powerful symbolic associations. The name connects to a rich tradition of lion imagery in various cultures while maintaining its authenticity as a Portuguese classic.

  4. Fredo

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alfredo or Frederico, Spanish and Italian forms of Alfred or Frederick, English or German

    • Meaning:

      "wise counselor or peaceful ruler"

    • Description:

      Fredo is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of the Italian names Alfredo or Federico. The name gained cultural recognition through its use in 'The Godfather' novels and films for the tragic character Fredo Corleone, giving it associations with Italian-American culture.
  5. Ricardo

    • Origin:

      Portuguese and Spanish variation of Richard

    • Meaning:

      "dominant ruler"

    • Description:

      Richard is far from fashionable, but Ricardo is one of the most popular Spanish names for boys in the US. And it does sound far more appealing that the English version.
  6. Jorge

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese variation of George

    • Description:

      The classic Jorge is one of the most popular and classic Spanish names for boys in the US. Some Latine families pronounce it the same way as George.
  7. Urbano

    • Description:

      Urbano is a masculine name of Latin origin meaning 'of the city' or 'refined and polite,' sharing its roots with the English word 'urban.' The name was borne by several popes, including Pope Urban I, who was later canonized as a saint. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Urbano enjoys moderate popularity in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries. The name carries connotations of civility, sophistication, and worldliness. It has a melodious quality with its balanced three syllables and strong vowel endings. For parents seeking a name with classical roots and international appeal, Urbano offers a distinguished option that works well across multiple language traditions.
  8. Ronaldo

    • Description:

      Ronaldo is a masculine name of Portuguese and Spanish origin, derived from the name Ronald, which has Germanic roots meaning 'ruler's counselor' or 'mighty ruler.' The name gained international prominence largely through Brazilian football (soccer) superstars, most notably Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima and later Cristiano Ronaldo. These sporting icons helped propel the name to global recognition, particularly in countries with strong football cultures. Ronaldo carries a dynamic, energetic quality and conveys strength and athletic prowess. While particularly popular in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries, the name has gained international appeal. The association with sporting excellence has made Ronaldo an attractive choice for parents seeking a name with connotations of success, skill, and determination.
  9. Macario

    • Origin:

      Spanish from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "blessed, happy"

    • Description:

      Macario is the modern Spanish form of the ancient Greek Makarios or the Latinized Macarius and the name of several early saints. Accessible and worldly, Macario can lead to the friendly nickname Mac.
  10. Mateus

    • Origin:

      Portuguese variation of Matthew, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"

    • Description:

      Portuguese variation of Matthew.
  11. Aarão

    • Description:

      Aarão is the Portuguese form of Aaron, a name with ancient Hebrew origins. In Hebrew, Aaron (or Aharon) was the brother of Moses and the first High Priest of the Israelites, making it a name with significant biblical heritage. The meaning is somewhat debated, with interpretations including 'mountain of strength,' 'exalted,' or 'enlightened.' The Portuguese spelling Aarão maintains the name's essence while adapting it to Portuguese phonology and orthography, including the distinctive tilde over the final 'a.' This name is primarily used in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal. Aarão carries the gravitas of its biblical associations while connecting to Portuguese linguistic heritage. Though less known internationally than the Aaron spelling, Aarão provides cultural specificity and honors Portuguese naming traditions while maintaining its ancient spiritual connections.
  12. Mundo

    • Description:

      Mundo is a masculine name with Spanish and Latin roots. It originates as a shortened form of 'Edmundo' or 'Raimundo' (Spanish versions of Edmund and Raymond). The name also directly relates to the Spanish word 'mundo,' meaning 'world.' In Latin American cultures, it can function as both a nickname and a standalone given name. Mundo carries connotations of worldliness, global perspective, and a cosmopolitan character. While not ranking among popular names in English-speaking countries, it maintains some usage in Spanish-speaking regions. The name offers a compact, multicultural option with an appealing international flair and simple pronunciation across languages. Its brevity and meaning make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with global significance.

  13. Cisco

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Spanish Francisco

    • Meaning:

      "Frenchman or free man"

    • Description:

      Shortening Francisco somehow makes it sound even cooler. Cisco is also the name of a digital security company.
  14. Rogerio

    • Description:

      Rogerio is a masculine name of Latin and Portuguese origin, being a variation of Roger. Derived from the Germanic elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'ger' (spear), it literally means 'famous spearman' or 'renowned warrior'. Particularly popular in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal, as well as in Spanish-speaking regions where it's sometimes spelled Rogério with an accent. The name carries a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and has historical associations with strength and nobility. While less common in English-speaking countries, Rogerio has maintained steady popularity throughout Latin America, where it's appreciated for its classic yet distinctive sound.
  15. Alexio

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "defending men"

    • Description:

      Removing one letter from the somewhat intimidating Alexios gives you Alexio, a charming and more accessible variation.
  16. Arnesto

    • Description:

      Arnesto is a masculine name that appears to be a variation of Ernest or Ernesto. The name ultimately derives from the Germanic element 'ernst,' meaning 'serious' or 'determined.' This variant spelling combines elements of the English Ernest and the Spanish/Italian Ernesto, creating a cross-cultural hybrid. While not widely used, Arnesto has found occasional usage particularly in Hispanic and Latino communities. The name carries the strong, dignified qualities associated with Ernest/Ernesto while offering a slightly different phonetic pattern. Arnesto provides a distinctive alternative that maintains the traditional name's essence of seriousness and resolve while presenting a unique orthographic identity.
  17. Afonso

    • Description:

      Afonso is a masculine Portuguese and Galician form of the name Alfonso, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'noble' and 'ready' or 'eager.' This name carries significant historical weight in Portugal and Spain, having been borne by numerous kings and nobles throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Afonso has remained consistently popular in Portugal and Brazilian communities, representing a strong connection to cultural heritage. The name has a dignified sound while maintaining approachability. Its distinctive spelling with a single 'l' marks it as specifically Portuguese rather than Spanish. Afonso projects qualities of leadership, dignity, and classical masculinity while still feeling relevant in modern contexts. Its rich historical associations give the name substance and character.

  18. Ramón

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Raymond

    • Description:

      Dashing Latin classic, familiar and functional here.
  19. Valentim

    • Description:

      Valentim is a masculine name of Portuguese and Brazilian origin, derived from the Latin name Valentinus, which comes from 'valens' meaning 'strong, healthy, or vigorous.' It's the Portuguese equivalent of Valentine, associated with Saint Valentine and themes of love and devotion. While common in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil, Valentim remains rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic quality. The name carries romantic connotations through its connection to Valentine's Day while maintaining masculine strength in its meaning. Valentim has a rhythmic, flowing pronunciation (va-len-TCHEEM) that adds to its appeal. For families with Portuguese heritage, it offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a name that stands out in international settings with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation.
  20. Adão

    • Description:

      Adão is the Portuguese form of Adam, one of the most ancient names in recorded history. Derived from the Hebrew 'adamah' meaning 'earth' or 'ground,' it refers to the biblical first man created from earth in Judeo-Christian tradition. The distinctive tilde over the 'a' indicates the Portuguese pronunciation, which gives the name a warm, resonant sound. Particularly common in Brazil and Portugal, Adão carries the weight of biblical significance while maintaining a strong cultural connection to the Portuguese-speaking world. The name conveys connotations of origin, beginnings, and mankind's creation story. Parents might choose this name for its religious significance, its cross-cultural appeal, or to honor Portuguese heritage.