Spanish Word Names

Ventura started life as a shortening of Bonaventura, Spanish for good luck or good fortune, but now stands on its own. It has a pleasant sound and the stylish 'V' ending, but Angelenos would associate it with the Valley's main stem--Ventura Boulevard, and others might think of Ace or Jesse Ventura.

We've long been a fan of spice and herb names -- Saffron, Sage, Juniper -- and Spanish word names are starting to feel very right, so Canela has legs. It has a long history as a Latina first name, and Nell would be a great -- and easy -- nickname.

Personification of pep.

The feminine Quinta is virtually unused in the US, though male forms of the Roman family name Quintus, such as Quintin and Quentin, are quite popular. That may change with the emergence of comedian and actress Quinta Brunson, creator of the television show Abbott Elementary.

Attractive Spanish name heard in the movie Spanglish. Roll that final r. Or say it the French way: Fleur.

This alluring Spanish word name has the quirky meaning "hazelnut". Avellana has a beautiful sound, although it may be misheard as the trending Avianna.

Loving choice.

The Latin word for love. Amor has strong potential for the middle name position.

Like Benita, had some popularity in the fifties.

The Italian Gemma is rising, and Spanish Gema is following suit. More fresh and exciting than Emma or Ruby, Gema is a lovely alternative.

Patricia Arquette and Nicole Richie named their daughters Harlow, so why not consider this other great early screen icon?

After your first little Primo, you could always call the next Segundo -- though that's like naming them number one and number two.

Opera star Domingo was responsible for giving this popular Latin name its green card. It was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.

Flores is one of the most popular Spanish surnames and could certainly be adapted as a first.