Spanish Names for Boys

A zippy, lively name that has never been popular, but has never completely disappeared. It is best known for writer and wit Gore Vidal, and hairdresser Vidal Sassoon and his many products.

Vidal

While Hannibal may always be associated with the fictional cannibal to English ears, this alternative form is an Anglicization of the Portuguese and Spanish variant, Aníbal. Familiar (though not popular) in Spain and Brazil, it also ranked briefly in the US during the 60s and 70s.
 
Ultimately derived from Phoenician, it celebrates a number of storm and fertility Gods from Semitic mythology who were all given the title Ba'al.

Anibal

The name of four popes and several saints: a promising Italian import. 

Eugenio

Artemio gives energy to this august Greek mythological name.

Artemio

While Faust, who sold his soul to the devil, was anything but fortunate, this Latinate variation is more commonly heard and accepted.

Fausto

The name Pascual is traditionally given to babies born in the Spring around Passover or Easter, the literal meaning of the name. A few dozen baby boys are given the name in the US each year, making it a choice that's rare but not unfamiliar.

Pascual

Horacio is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Horatius, a masculine name of Latin origin derived from the Roman clan name Horatius, whose meaning remains uncertain. Made famous by the Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and intellectual associations. Horacio has been consistently popular in Spanish-speaking countries and Brazil, appreciated for its classical roots and distinguished sound. The name conveys a sense of cultural sophistication and historical depth. Notable bearers include Argentine writer Horacio Quiroga and numerous politicians and artists throughout Latin America, helping maintain the name's prestigious reputation.

Horacio

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.

Maximino

Claudio, a most appealing Italian name, is featured in not one, but two Shakespearean plays, ,Measure for Measure and Much Ado About Nothing. While "lame" is the most widely acknowledged meaning, some etymologists theorize that the name may relate to the word for enclosure or clause, an alternate meaning that may appeal to a child with a form of this otherwise-attractive name.

Claudio

Hilario is a masculine name of Latin and Spanish origin, derived from the Latin word "hilaris" meaning "cheerful" or "joyful." This name has deep historical roots, dating back to ancient Rome and carried forward particularly in Spanish-speaking cultures. Saint Hilarius, a 5th-century Pope and Doctor of the Church, helped spread the name's use in Christian communities. In modern times, Hilario remains relatively common in Spain, Mexico, and other Hispanic regions, while being less frequently used in English-speaking countries. The name naturally conveys a sense of happiness and positive energy, making it an auspicious choice for parents. Hilario typically follows naming trends in Hispanic communities, maintaining steady though not overwhelming popularity, and often appears in families honoring their linguistic and cultural heritage.

Hilario

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.
 
Quietly used in the US, it was given to around 30 boys in a recent year.

Macario

Wilfredo has been consistently used in Hispanic and Latino communities for generations, though it's never reached extreme popularity. The name carries a dignified, traditional quality while remaining distinctive. Wilfredo offers the friendly nickname options 'Wil,' 'Fredo,' or 'Freddy.' The name balances formal elegance with approachable warmth, making it versatile across different stages of life. It conveys strength and dignity while maintaining cultural connections to Hispanic heritage.

Wilfredo

Nilo

Isreal is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variant of Israel, with ancient Hebrew origins. The biblical name Israel carries profound significance, meaning "one who struggles with God" or "God contends," originating from the story of Jacob in the Book of Genesis. The Isreal spelling variant may have emerged through regional pronunciation differences or spelling adaptations. While less common than the traditional Israel spelling, Isreal maintains the same rich biblical and historical associations. The name connects to both the biblical patriarch and the modern nation, carrying spiritual significance across Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions. Its distinctive spelling offers a subtle differentiation while preserving the name's cultural and religious heritage and powerful meaning.

Isreal

Luiz is the Portuguese variation of Louis, a classic masculine name with Frankish and German origins. The name derives from the Germanic elements 'hlod' meaning 'famous' and 'wig' meaning 'warrior,' together conveying the sense of 'famous warrior' or 'renowned fighter.' Particularly common in Brazil and Portuguese-speaking countries, Luiz maintains the strong heritage of its origin while featuring the distinctive 'z' ending characteristic of Portuguese adaptation. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures including Brazilian soccer players, musicians, and political figures. Though less common in English-speaking countries than Luis (the Spanish form) or Louis, Luiz offers a distinctive international flair while remaining relatively easy to pronounce across languages.

Luiz

Variation of trendy angel name Ramiel that gets you directly to the fashionable nickname Remi. Thirty-five baby boys were named Remiel in the US last year, along with six baby girls.

Remiel

Alfonzo is a masculine name representing an alternate spelling of Alfonso, which derives from Germanic origins combining the elements 'adal' (noble) and 'funs' (ready), essentially meaning 'noble and ready' or 'eager for battle.' This variation with a 'z' instead of an 's' gives the name a slightly more distinctive appearance while maintaining its strong, melodic quality. The name has deep historical roots, having been borne by several kings of Spain and Portugal. Popular in Hispanic and Italian communities, Alfonzo carries a warm, distinguished character that balances traditional strength with musical elegance. The name conjures images of Mediterranean cultures and carries an air of sophistication, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and international appeal.

Alfonzo

Diago is sure to be confused with the more common Diego, the Spanish form of James.

Diago

Maximilliano is a masculine name that represents an expanded form of Maximiliano, itself an elaboration of the Latin name Maximilian. The name derives from the Roman family name Maximianus, which comes from 'maximus' meaning 'greatest.' This powerful name has royal associations through Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I and numerous other European nobles throughout history. Primarily used in Spanish and Italian-speaking cultures, Maximilliano offers the popular nicknames Max, Maxi, or Millo. While less common than Maximiliano or Maximilian, this spelling variation provides an extra touch of distinction and elegance. The name conveys strength, ambition, and achievement, making it a bold choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth and imposing presence.

Maximilliano

A variation of the clunky-bold Archibaldo, used occasionally in Chile and Mexico. 

Archivaldo

Spanish boy names are more popular in the US than ever before, with Spanish names for boys used both in the Latin American and Hispanic communities and crossing over to achieve widespread popularity.

Nameberry's audience includes Spanish-speaking countries around the world along with countries where Spanish may not be the primary language but Spanish names fit an international style. The 

 on Nameberry currently include the international

What are the top Spanish boy names in the US?

 most popular Spanish names for boys in the US

 Many of the most familiar Spanish boys' names end with the letter O, which in itself has been a major trend and has helped boost the popularity of baby names of Spanish origin.

Leonardo, Diego, Luis, Antonio, Miguel, Gael, Alejandro,

 Other Hispanic baby boy names include the dashing celebrity-influenced 

, which counts Spanish and Basque among its international origins.

What are the top Spanish boy names in Spain and Latin America?

Baby boy names popular in Spain and Latin America

, and Javier. Other intriguing and unique Spanish names for boys in style today include

All the Spanish boy names on Nameberry are here.

Spanish Boy Names, including a full list of boy names of Spanish origin with meanings and popularity, with top Spanish boy names in the US along with top boy names in Spain and Latin America. (Page 8)

Spanish Names for Boys (With Meanings & Popularity)