Portuguese Names that Start With J

  1. Jose
    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese version of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Jose is as widespread in the Hispanic community as Joseph and Joe are elsewhere in the U.S., though its numbers here are starting to decrease somewhat. Jose is one of those Spanish baby names that has never crossed over into the Anglo naming culture.
  2. Jacinda
    • Origin:

      Variation of Jacinta
    • Meaning:

      "hyacinth"
    • Description:

      Jacinda, a form of the lovely and unusual Spanish and Portuguese flower name Jacinta (for Hyacinth), was first popularized by the Australian actress Jacinda Barrett. Today, the girls' name Jacinda is most notable as the name of New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern, one of the first world leaders to give birth in office, widely credited with her strong and compassionate leadership during the coronavirus pandemic.
  3. 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.
  4. Joaquim
    • Origin:

      Portuguese variation of Joachim, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "established by God"
    • Description:

      A softer take on Joaquin or a quirkier version of Joachim, depending on how you look at it.
  5. Jaco
    • Origin:

      Portuguese variation of Jacob
    • Description:

      Intriguing twist on Jacob, but may be too strongly associated with Michael Jackson.
  6. Jordão
    • Description:

      Jordão is a masculine Portuguese name that originated as a variant of Jordan. The name derives from the Jordan River in the Middle East, which holds significant religious importance in Christianity as the site of Jesus's baptism. In Hebrew, the name means 'flowing down' or 'descender,' reflecting the river's downward path. Jordão has been particularly popular in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal. The name carries cultural significance while maintaining a connection to its biblical roots. The distinctive Portuguese spelling with the tilde over the final 'a' gives the name a melodic quality when pronounced. While less common internationally, Jordão remains a meaningful choice that reflects Portuguese linguistic heritage.

  7. Junha
    • Description:

      Junha is a name with multicultural origins, primarily found in Korean and Japanese traditions. In Korean, the meaning varies depending on the Hanja (Chinese characters) chosen, but often includes elements meaning 'talented,' 'obedient,' or 'summer.' While traditionally more common as a masculine name in Korea, in other contexts it may be used for girls. The name has a melodic simplicity with its two syllables and flowing sound. Junha remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality while being straightforward to pronounce. Parents might choose this name to honor East Asian heritage or simply for its appealing sound and subtle elegance.
  8. Januario
    • Description:

      Januario is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'Januarius,' which relates to Janus, the Roman god of doorways, beginnings, and transitions. The name literally connects to the month of January, the first month of the year. Particularly popular in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries, Januario carries connotations of new beginnings and fresh starts. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it maintains steady usage in Latin cultures, especially among Catholic families, as Saint Januarius is a venerated martyr. The name offers distinctive character with a classical heritage, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and meaningful connections to time and renewal.
  9. Januaria
    • Origin:

      Portuguese
    • Meaning:

      "January"
    • Description:

      Way before January Jones made this month a fashionable girls' name, there was Princess Januaria of Brazil, daughter of the King of Portugal and the Archduchess of Austria. One of the most pointed yet most original January baby names.
  10. Julha
    • Description:

      Julha is an uncommon feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Julia or possibly a Portuguese or Brazilian adaptation. Julia derives from the Roman family name Julius, ultimately meaning "youthful" or "downy-bearded" in Latin. The spelling with 'h' gives it a distinctive appearance while likely maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Julha is extremely rare in English-speaking countries but may have more presence in Portuguese-speaking regions. The name carries the classic elegance of Julia but with a unique twist that sets it apart. This spelling variation creates a name that feels both familiar and exotic simultaneously. For parents seeking a name with classical roots but a more distinctive presentation, Julha offers an intriguing alternative to more common iterations.