Spanish Word Names
- Indio
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"Indian"Description:
This name of a California desert town, used by Deborah Falconer and Robert Downey, Jr. for their son, makes a much livelier and more individual – not to mention more masculine – improvisation on the themes of India and Indiana.
- Cala
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"castle, fortess"Description:
Extremely simple and extremely distinctive -- a winning combination. Sound-alike Calla is a Greek (and botanical) name that means beautiful.
- Abril
Origin:
Spanish and Catalan variation of AprilDescription:
This Spanish month name has been quietly used for several years now in the US.
- Domingo
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"born on a Sunday"Description:
Commonly heard in Hispanic cultures, a rhythmic possibility here.
- Gema
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"gem"Description:
The Italian Gemma is rising, and Spanish Gema is following suit. More fresh and exciting than Emma or Ruby, Gema is a lovely alternative.
- Zafiro
Description:
Zafiro is a masculine name derived from the Spanish word for 'sapphire,' referring to the blue precious gemstone. The name carries connotations of luxury, beauty, and rarity. In various cultures, sapphires symbolize wisdom, nobility, and divine favor. Zafiro has a melodic quality with its flowing sounds and distinctive 'z' beginning. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, it enjoys occasional use in Spanish-speaking regions. The name offers a unique option for parents seeking something with both exotic flair and a recognizable meaning. Its gemstone association gives it a touch of natural elegance and splendor.
- Avion
Description:
Avion is a distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. Most directly, it connects to the French word 'avion' meaning 'airplane' or 'aircraft,' giving it associations with flight, freedom, and modernity. It may also relate to the Latin 'avis' meaning 'bird.' The name has a contemporary feel with its smooth, flowing sound and aviation connections. While uncommon in most naming statistics, Avion has seen limited usage in the United States since the late 20th century, appealing to parents seeking a unique name with positive connotations. Its streamlined sound fits with modern naming trends favoring vowel-rich, two-syllable names for boys. The name's implications of soaring and ascension give it a dynamic, aspirational quality that appeals to parents envisioning limitless possibilities for their child.
- Quinta
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"fifth"Description:
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.
- Lienzo
Description:
Lienzo is an uncommon masculine name with Spanish origins, literally meaning 'canvas' or 'linen cloth.' This artistic name evokes creativity, possibility, and the blank canvas of potential that a child represents. Though rare as a first name, Lienzo has been gaining modest attention among parents seeking unique names with creative associations. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing sounds and distinctive 'z,' making it both memorable and pleasing to the ear. Lienzo carries subtle artistic connotations without being overly thematic, offering a name that's unique without being difficult to pronounce. For families with Spanish heritage or those drawn to artistic symbolism, Lienzo represents an expressive, uncommon choice that balances uniqueness with accessibility.
- Avellana
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"hazelnut"Description:
This alluring Spanish word name has the quirky meaning "hazelnut". Avellana has a beautiful sound, although it may be misheard as the trending Avianna.
- Jamaica
Origin:
Native American place nameMeaning:
"rich in springs"Description:
Among the least gimmicky, most appealing and colorful of all the names found in the atlas, Jamaica almost sings out the rhythms of the West Indies.
- Milagro
Description:
Milagro is a feminine name of Spanish origin meaning 'miracle.' This beautiful name carries profound spiritual significance in Hispanic culture, often given to children whose births were considered miraculous or particularly blessed. Milagro is also associated with religious miracles in Catholic tradition. While relatively uncommon in the United States, the name maintains steady popularity in Spanish-speaking countries and communities. Its melodic quality and meaningful background make it a powerful choice for parents seeking a name with depth and cultural significance. The name's four syllables create a rhythmic, flowing sound that embodies its celebratory essence. Milagro may also be chosen to honor Hispanic heritage or express gratitude for a child seen as a blessing.
- Ventura
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"good fortune"Description:
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.
- Lona
Origin:
Diminutive of LeonaDescription:
Unfashionable name, with the rather poignant lone sound.
- Gaviota
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"seagull"Description:
Another intriguing and virtually unused Spanish nature name to add to the books.
- Fortunato
Description:
Fortunato is a masculine name of Italian and Spanish origin derived from the Latin 'fortunatus' meaning 'lucky,' 'fortunate,' or 'blessed.' With roots in ancient Roman culture, this expressive name has been used since medieval times, often given in the hope of bestowing good fortune on a child. While common in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, it remains relatively rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic, distinctive quality. The name carries rich literary associations, most notably as a character in Edgar Allan Poe's famous story 'The Cask of Amontillado.' Fortunato has a melodious, romantic sound typical of Italian names, and its meaningful connection to luck and prosperity makes it an optimistic choice with historical depth.
- Tierra
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"earth"Description:
Earthy but ethereal Spanish word name that sounds a lot fresher than its sister Sierra.
- Gracia
Origin:
Spanish variation of GraceDescription:
Although Gracia is the literal Spanish translation of Grace and is used as the Grace equivalent in Spanish-speaking countries, where it's pronounced grah-see-ah or grah-thee-ah, it's also a long-time if unusual Grace variation pronounced gray-sha. You might consider Gracia if Grace is getting too commonplace for you.
- Chiquita
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"little one"Description:
As a term of endearment, maybe, but not as a proper name, where it would practically demand the refrain "Banana."
- Charra
Origin:
GaelicMeaning:
"large stoneor rock"Description:
Rarely heard as a name; Chiara might be preferable.