Spanish Word Names

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.

Another intriguing and virtually unused Spanish nature name to add to the books.

A bright and cheerful name, Joya may be considered an elaboration of the word name Joy and a variation of Joia, a multicultural choice with its roots in Catalan, Medieval English, and Judeo-French that also means "joy, happiness". Alternatively, Joya could be a Spanish word name, translating to "gem" or "jewel".

Silvestre is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The name essentially translates to 'from the forest' or 'wild,' conveying a natural, untamed quality. Popular in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Silvestre has ancient roots, notably carried by Pope Saint Sylvester I in the 4th century. The name maintains steady usage in Latin American countries, Spain, and Portugal, though it remains less common in English-speaking regions. It experienced modest peaks of popularity in the early 20th century and has seen periodic revivals. Parents may be drawn to Silvestre for its melodic quality, connection to nature, and cross-cultural appeal. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while evoking imagery of natural strength and wilderness.

Melisa is a feminine name with roots in Greek mythology, derived from 'melissa' meaning 'honey bee' or 'honeysuckle.' This sweet and melodious name carries connotations of industriousness, community, and sweetness, qualities associated with bees. Melisa serves as a variant spelling of the more common Melissa, offering a slightly different look while maintaining the same pronunciation in most language contexts. Popular throughout Spanish-speaking countries, Eastern Europe, and Turkey, this spelling variation has its own cultural presence. The name experienced peak popularity in the late 20th century but maintains steady usage worldwide. Melisa's cross-cultural appeal and natural connections make it both accessible and meaningful as a name choice.

Though little used as a first name, Loa will be familiar to many from the name of Hawaii's most famous volcano, Mauna Loa, on the Big Island.

Ala is the Igbo earth goddess whose symbol is the crescent moon. In a very different vein, Ala can be a diminutive for Alicja or Alexandra or really any other name with an A at both ends and an L in the middle. Ala is also an Arabic name meaning "excellence, supremacy"; could be confused as a homonym for Allah, or as part of a phrase like a la mode.

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.

A modern virtue name possibility.

Even in the Hispanic community, very religious and old-fashioned.

Extremely simple and extremely distinctive -- a winning combination. Sound-alike Calla is a Greek (and botanical) name that means beautiful.

Leal is a concise name with origins in multiple traditions. As a feminine name, it derives from French and Spanish roots meaning 'loyal' or 'faithful,' reflecting admirable character qualities. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel, while its historical usage connects it to traditional virtues. Leal has maintained modest usage in Spanish-speaking countries and has occasionally appeared in English-speaking ones. Its single-syllable structure makes it distinctive in an era of longer feminine names, while its soft consonants maintain a gentle quality. The name works well cross-culturally due to its straightforward pronunciation and spelling. For parents seeking a short, meaningful name with positive connotations, Leal offers an elegant choice that combines simplicity with depth. Its connection to loyalty and faithfulness gives the name substance beyond its attractive sound.

Serafin and Seraphim are much less known and used in the US than the feminine forms Serafina and Seraphina, but just as appealing. An out-of-the-box Spanish option with a deep history and an animated meaning.

Lucho is a warm, friendly masculine name of Spanish origin. It functions primarily as a diminutive of names like Luis (Spanish form of Louis) or Luciano. Popular throughout Latin America, especially in countries like Peru, Colombia, and Chile, Lucho carries a sense of familiarity and affection. The name has strong cultural associations with Spanish-speaking communities and often evokes a sense of closeness and informality. Despite its technical status as a nickname, many people are formally named Lucho on their birth certificates. The name has a strong, masculine sound while remaining approachable and unpretentious. In sporting contexts, particularly soccer, many famous Latin American athletes have been known by this name, adding to its cultural significance and appeal.

Día is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. In Spanish, 'día' means 'day,' suggesting brightness and new beginnings. The name may also relate to the Irish name Dea, meaning 'goddess.' With its accent mark, Día has a lyrical, flowing quality when pronounced (DEE-ah). This short, distinctive name works well cross-culturally, being recognizable and easy to pronounce in many languages. While not among the most common names in any country, its simplicity and positive associations with daylight and divinity give it a contemporary appeal. The name's brevity is balanced by its rich potential meanings across different cultural traditions.

Friendly but flimsy.

A name bestowed in honor of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora de la Nieves, referring to a miracle she performed with unmelted snow in the August heat of Rome.

Santa has an appealing sound, or maybe that's sleigh bells we hear? It's difficult to separate the Italian girls' name Santa from the association to Mr. Claus, king of Christmas. The German diminutive Senta -- or Snow or even Christmas -- might be an easier name to handle.

The Spanish and Portuguese form of popular Ruby is another addition to the list of attractive gem names for girls, that might sometimes be used by English speaking parents who want their child's name to stand out when written down. Rubi is also of Japanese origin, and associated with another gemstone: the lapis lazuli.