Portuguese Names that Start With E
- Esmeralda
Origin:
Spanish and PortugueseMeaning:
"emerald"Description:
Esmeralda came into use as an applied use of the Spanish word for emerald, esmeralda. In the 1831 Victor Hugo novel Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, the heroine was born Agnes, but called La Esmeralda in reference to the jewel she wears around her neck. The name Esmeralda got increased visibility via the Disney version of the story.
- Evora
Origin:
Portuguese place nameMeaning:
"yew tree"Description:
Evora is a city in Portugal known for its magnificent Roman aged ruins. It is occasionally seen as a female name, evoking some of the mystique of this region.
- Elixane
Origin:
Basque, diminutive or local variant of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
A rare name even among Basque speakers (fewer than 20 women in Spain are called Elixane), this beautiful name has drawn some attention via Elixane Lechemia, the French pro-tennis player.
- Ernesto
Origin:
Spanish and Italian variation of ErnestDescription:
A Latin classic, widely used here and abroad, though in the U.S. it has fallen on the charts in recent years.
- Edmundo
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese variation of EdmundDescription:
Livelier Latin form of Edmund.
- Emelinho
Description:
Emelinho is a masculine name that appears to be a creative diminutive form inspired by Portuguese or Brazilian naming conventions. It likely derives from names like Emilio or Emanuel, with the Portuguese diminutive suffix "-inho" (meaning "little") added for affection. Emilio comes from the Roman family name Aemilius, meaning "rival" or "emulating," while Emanuel means "God is with us" in Hebrew. Emelinho is extremely rare as a formal given name, making it a highly distinctive choice. The name carries a playful, warm quality with its diminutive ending and may appeal to parents with Portuguese or Brazilian heritage or those seeking a unique name with Latin flair and built-in nickname potential.
- Estevao
Description:
Estevão is a masculine Portuguese name derived from the Greek name Stephanos (Στέφανος), meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' It is the Portuguese equivalent of the English name Stephen or Steven. The name carries significant historical weight, as Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr according to the New Testament. Estevão has been used throughout Portuguese-speaking regions including Portugal, Brazil, and parts of Africa. The pronunciation typically emphasizes the final syllable (es-te-VOW). While common in Portuguese-speaking countries, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking nations, giving it an exotic quality there. The name conveys strength and dignity, with its connection to the symbolism of crowns representing honor and achievement.
- Ernio
Description:
Ernio is a masculine name that likely developed as a variant of Ernest or Ernesto, names derived from the Germanic elements 'ernst' meaning 'serious' or 'resolute.' In some contexts, it may also function as a diminutive form of these more common names. With its melodious ending in '-io,' Ernio has a distinct Mediterranean or Latin flair despite its Germanic roots. This name remains quite uncommon in global usage, making it a distinctive choice. Ernio has a friendly, approachable sound while maintaining a classic feel. Though rare in mainstream usage, the name shares structural similarities with more familiar names like Mario or Antonio, making it accessible despite its uniqueness. For parents seeking an uncommon name with a warm, melodic quality, Ernio offers distinctiveness without excessive complexity.
- Emilinho
Description:
Emilinho is a masculine name that combines the classic name Emil with the Portuguese diminutive suffix '-inho,' meaning 'little Emil.' This affectionate form creates a playful, endearing quality. Emil itself derives from the Roman family name Aemilius, meaning 'rival' or 'emulating.' Emilinho is particularly used in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal, where diminutive forms of names are common expressions of warmth and familiarity. Though not widely used internationally, the name carries a friendly, approachable charm while maintaining connections to the more traditional Emil. It offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Latin roots and a melodious, affectionate quality.
- Ernestino
Description:
Ernestino is a masculine name that represents the Italian and Spanish diminutive form of Ernest. With Germanic roots, the original name Ernest derives from 'ernst,' meaning 'serious' or 'resolute.' The addition of the '-ino' suffix creates an affectionate or diminutive quality in Romance languages. Ernestino is most common in Italian and Hispanic communities, though it remains relatively rare even within these populations. The name carries a certain old-world charm and formality, evoking images of traditional Mediterranean masculinity. While usage has declined since the mid-20th century as naming trends have shifted toward shorter forms, Ernestino continues to be chosen by families honoring cultural heritage or ancestral naming patterns. It offers the potential for friendly nicknames like Tino or Nesto.