Spanish Names that Start With P
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- Paloma
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"dove"Description:
Paloma is vibrant and ruby-lipped a la jewelry designer Paloma Picasso, but it also suggests peace, as symbolized by the dove. Paloma is a highly recommended striking but soft name, one of the best of the names that mean peace and girls' names starting with P.
- Pilar
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"pillar"Description:
The fact that this Spanish classic, which honors the Virgin Mary, does not end in the conventional letter 'a' gives it a special sense of strength, elegance, and style, making it a worthy choice.
- Peta
Origin:
Native American, Blackfoot,or Greek, "golden eagle, or rock, stone"Meaning:
"golden eagle, or rock, stone"Description:
Too tightly tied to the acronym for the activist group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
- Pablo
Origin:
Spanish variation of PaulMeaning:
"small"Description:
Pablo, the commonly used Spanish version of Paul, has the added bonus of some fantastic artistic bearers: painter Picasso, cellist Casals, and poet Neruda. Pablo has been consistently in the US charts since records began, and has been within the Top 500 since the mid 60s. However, Pablo has never cracked the Top 200, making it familiar but not overused or tired.
- Pedro
Origin:
Spanish; Portuguese variation of Peter, GreekMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
Pedro is one of the most familiar Spanish names for boys, via baseball star Pedro Rodriguez and many others.
- Paulina
Origin:
Spanish, feminine variation of PaulMeaning:
"small"Description:
More stylish than either Paula or Pauline, it was given a glamour gloss by model Paulina Porizkova in the nineties.
- Paco
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of Francisco; Native AmericanMeaning:
"eagle"Description:
Another winning and relaxed but energetic o-ending Latin name, sometimes associated with designer Paco Rabanne.
- Paz
Origin:
Hebrew; SpanishMeaning:
"gold; peace"Description:
Paz is an appealing Spanish name meaning "peace", derived from the Latin "pax". It's usually feminine in Spanish, but could also make an interesting literary choice for a boy, honoring the writer Octavio Paz.
- Perla
Origin:
Spanish variation of PearlDescription:
Consistently popular Latina gem name; good choice for those who can't shake Pearl's grandmotherly vibe.
- Prospero
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of ProsperMeaning:
"succeed, prosper"Description:
Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
- Pacifica
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"tranquil"Description:
When properly pronounced, has an alluring sound and harmonious meaning.
- Pazel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"peace"Description:
Pazel's abbreviated version, Paz, is far more modern and attractive.
- Peni
Description:
Peni is a compact feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Polynesian contexts, particularly Maori and Hawaiian traditions, it can be a diminutive form of Penina, meaning 'pearl.' In Finnish, it can mean 'small,' giving the name an endearing quality. This cross-cultural name carries a sweet simplicity that works well internationally. Though uncommon in Western countries, Peni enjoys some usage in Pacific Island communities where it's appreciated for its brevity and pleasant sound. Parents might choose this name for its exotic feel, its meaningful connections to ocean treasures, or simply its distinctive yet accessible quality in a world of longer feminine names.
- Perez
Origin:
Spanish from HebrewMeaning:
"to blossom"Description:
The newest surname names move beyond the Waspy, and this is an excellent example, associated these days with gossip blogger Perez (born Mario) Hilton.
- Panchito
Description:
Panchito is an affectionate Spanish diminutive of the name Francisco, adding the double diminutive suffix '-chito' to create a name that conveys warmth and endearment. Common in Hispanic communities, particularly Mexican culture, Panchito literally translates to 'little Frank' or 'little Francisco.' The name carries a cheerful, friendly connotation and is often given to boys with an expectation of vibrant, sociable personalities. While primarily used as a nickname in Spanish-speaking regions, some families choose it as a given name to honor a Francisco in the family while using a more distinctive form. The name evokes a sense of cultural pride and traditional values within Latino communities.
- Priscila
Description:
Priscila is a variant spelling of Priscilla, a name with Latin origins meaning 'ancient' or 'venerable.' This single-L spelling is more common in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. The name carries biblical significance as Priscilla appears in the New Testament as an early Christian who, along with her husband Aquila, was a friend and supporter of the apostle Paul. Priscila has a graceful, feminine quality with its flowing sounds and classical roots. While the traditional Priscilla peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1940s, Priscila offers a slightly more modern and international feel. The name suggests elegance and dignity while remaining approachable with nicknames like Prissy, Cila, or Cilla.
- Ponce
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"fifth"Description:
Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon may be a worthy namesake, but "poncey" is British slang for effeminate. An alternative might be Quintus, this name's Latin equivalent, or one of its variations.
- Perico
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"stone"Description:
Cooler and rarer than Pedro, but also has a slightly industrial sound.
- Paquito
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of FrancisDescription:
Paquito's minimizing ito ending could make your child feel insignificant.
- Pepina
Description:
Pepina is a feminine name with Spanish and Italian origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Josefa or Josephine, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Joseph meaning 'God will add'. This charming name carries a playful and affectionate quality with its diminutive ending. Pepina has never been widely used in English-speaking countries, maintaining its exotic appeal and distinctiveness. In Mediterranean cultures, it's appreciated for its melodic sound and feminine quality. The name has historical connections to European nobility and has occasionally appeared in literature and arts, though it remains relatively uncommon globally, making it a unique choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable.
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