Portuguese Names that Start With M
- Macario
Origin:
Spanish from GreekMeaning:
"blessed"Description:
Macario is used in the modern US, the Spanish form of the ancient Greek Makarios or Latinized Macarius, the name of several early saints. Accessible and worldly, Macario can lead to the friendly nickname Mac.
- Mafalda
Origin:
Italian and Portuguese variation of MatildaDescription:
Mafalda is nearly unknown in the English-speaking world, despite an appearance in Harry Potter. Indeed, it does have a witchy feel. Matilda itself is preferable, or her French form Mathilde, Spanish Matilde, or abbreviation Maud.
- Marcos
Origin:
Portuguese and Spanish variation of MarkDescription:
Another culture's slant on Mark, sometimes associated with former president of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos and his shoe-collecting wife, Imelda.
- Mateus
Origin:
Portuguese variation of Matthew, HebrewMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Portuguese variation of Matthew.
- Moises
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese variation of MosesDescription:
This variation on Moses got a boost from Moises Alou, a Dominican-American baseball player who spent 17 seasons in the National League.
- Manoel
Description:
Manoel is a masculine name of Portuguese origin, representing a traditional variant of Manuel. Derived from the Hebrew name Emmanuel, meaning 'God is with us,' Manoel carries deep religious significance in Christian traditions. This spelling is especially common in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal, where it has been used for centuries. The name was popularized during the spread of Christianity through the Iberian Peninsula. While Manuel is more widely used globally, Manoel maintains strong cultural connections to Portuguese heritage. The name evokes a sense of tradition and dignity, often associated with respected family patriarchs in Portuguese culture.
- 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.
- Matteus
Description:
Matteus is a masculine name that represents a variation of Matthew, which derives from the Hebrew name Matityahu, meaning 'gift of God' or 'gift from God.' This form of the name is particularly common in Scandinavian countries, parts of Eastern Europe, and Brazil. Matteus carries the same biblical significance as Matthew, who was one of Jesus's twelve apostles and author of the first Gospel in the New Testament. The name combines traditional religious meaning with an international flair. While less common in English-speaking countries than the standard Matthew, Matteus has gained popularity among parents seeking a distinctive yet recognizable name with strong historical and spiritual connections.
- Maximino
Description:
Maximino is a masculine name with Latin roots, serving as a diminutive form of Maximus, meaning 'greatest' or 'largest.' Popular in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, it carries the impressive weight of its Latin origin while adding a more approachable, affectionate quality through the diminutive suffix. The name conveys aspirations of excellence and achievement for a child. Historically, it's been used among Roman Catholic families, with several saints bearing variations of the name. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, Maximino maintains steady popularity in Hispanic communities. Its combination of strength and warmth makes it an appealing option for parents seeking a name with classical roots and positive connotations.