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My Favorite Latina Names!

  1. Alejandra

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Alexandra

    • Meaning:

      "defending men"

    • Description:

      Alejandra, the Spanish form of this popular and multivaried name, has fans both in and outside the Latino community. Still, it has lost ground since its peak in the 1990s.
  2. Amada

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Amado, Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "loved"

    • Description:

      Amada is an unusual Spanish name that's becoming more famous thanks to Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes, who named their second daughter Amada Lee and their first Esmeralda Amada. Amada was also the name of two characters played by Mendes and, not coincidentally, her grandmother's name. In 2015, it was used for only 21 girls while brother name Amado was used for twice as many girls, but we predict the name will become more popular thanks to its new star power. Related names include the Latin saints' name Amatus, the musical Amadeo, and even Amy and Amanda.
  3. Amaranta

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Italian form of Amarantha

    • Meaning:

      "unfading"

    • Description:

      Amaranta is the unusual and intriguing Latinate form of the Greek botanical name Amarantha, which connects to an eternal mythical figure. An excellent choice for the parent who wants an A name but wishes to move beyond the usual complement of names from Amelia to Annabel.
  4. Aranza

    • Origin:

      Basque

    • Meaning:

      "Among the thorns"

    • Description:

      The name of a popular Mexican singer and a telenovela character, Aranza incredibly rose out of obscurity to become Number 607 in the US in 2014.
  5. Brisa

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "breeze"

    • Description:

      Brisa is commonly used in Latino families, all but unheard of in others.
  6. Catalina

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Catherine

    • Meaning:

      "pure"

    • Description:

      This name of a touristed island in sight of Los Angeles makes an attractive and newly stylish variation on the classic Catherine or overused Caitlin.
  7. Coco

    • Origin:

      Spanish and French pet name

    • Description:

      Coco came to prominence as the nickname of the legendary French designer Chanel (born Gabrielle) and has lately become a starbaby favorite, initially chosen by Courteney Cox for her daughter Coco Riley in 2004. At first it was the kind of name that the press loves to ridicule, but we predict Coco's heading for more broad acceptance and even popularity.
  8. Consuelo

    • Origin:

      Spanish from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "she who brings consolation"

    • Description:

      Consuelo is a chic, highly sophisticated Spanish name that works well with Anglo surnames. It was regularly on the U.S. popularity list through 1983, reaching as high as Number 339 in 1930.
  9. Diablo

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "devil"

    • Description:

      Diablo Cody, self-named (she's really Brook Busey) screenwriter of Juno, singlehandedly helped popularize not just her heroine's name and her own but all o-ending names for girls. You don't need us to tell you that it takes a brave parent, in every way, to name a baby Diablo. Diablo is one of the Spanish baby names that diverges furthest from the well-paved camino.
  10. Dolores

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "lady of sorrows"

    • Description:

      Though it's related to the Virgin Mary, this name was once perceived as the height of sensuality, a role since taken over by nicknames Lola and Lolita.
  11. Elena

    • Origin:

      Spanish, Italian, German, Greek variation of Helen

    • Meaning:

      "bright, shining light"

    • Description:

      Elena is at its most popular point ever in the US, thanks to its cross-cultural appeal and the overall popularity of El- names. It's more international than Ellen or Eleanor, but still accessible.
  12. Emiliana

    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Emily

    • Meaning:

      "rival"

    • Description:

      The enormous popularity of Emily and Emma means that parents will be looking further afield for substitutes -- and this is one of the prettiest.

  13. Emmanuela

    • Description:

      Emmanuela is the feminine form of Emmanuel, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God is with us.' This elegant name carries biblical significance as Emmanuel is mentioned in the Book of Isaiah as a name for the Messiah. Less common than its masculine counterpart or the variant Emmanuelle, Emmanuela maintains a graceful, sophisticated quality with international appeal. While relatively rare in English-speaking countries, it has more presence in Latin and Mediterranean communities. The name offers several friendly nicknames including Emma, Ella, Manu, or Manuela, giving its bearer versatility throughout life. Emmanuela combines classical dignity with a melodic quality that makes it both distinctive and timeless.
  14. Esmeralda

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese

    • Meaning:

      "emerald"

    • Description:

      Esmeralda came into use as an applied use of the Spanish word for emerald, esmeralda. In the 1831 Victor Hugo novel Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, the heroine was born Agnes, but called La Esmeralda in reference to the jewel she wears around her neck. The name Esmeralda got increased visibility via the Disney version of the story.
  15. Esperanza

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "hope, expectation"

    • Description:

      Esperanza is a Spanish classic that's found its way onto the national popularity list in recent years. It came into the spotlight not long ago when jazz singer Esperanza Spalding "stole" the Best New Artist Grammy from favorite Justin Bieber. It's also the name of the main character in the novel The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, about a young Latina growing up in Chicago.
  16. Fidela

    • Description:

      Fidela is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'fidelis' meaning 'faithful' or 'loyal.' This beautiful, classic name carries strong connotations of trustworthiness and devotion. Particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, Fidela has historical significance as a name that embodies virtue and steadfastness. The masculine version, Fidel, may be more widely recognized, but Fidela has its own gentle charm and strength. Although not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, it maintains steady usage in Latin American and Catholic communities. The name's three melodic syllables flow gracefully, while its meaning offers a positive attribute that many parents wish for their daughters. Fidela combines traditional values with a distinctive, feminine sound.

  17. Fifi

    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Josephine, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"

    • Description:

      Fifi is a perfect name -- for a French poodle. But Fifi may seem more child-friendly as names like Coco and Lulu rise. Fifi in its fluffiness also balances the seriousness of such full names as Josephine or Federica.
  18. Florencia

    • Origin:

      Spanish, from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "flourishing, prosperous"

    • Description:

      A pretty elaboration on Florence used in Hispanic countries.
  19. Franka

    • Description:

      Franka is a feminine name with Germanic origins, serving as the feminine form of Frank. The name derives from the tribal name of the Franks, meaning "free one" or "free person." Popular throughout Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Germany, Poland, Croatia, and neighboring countries, Franka carries a strong, independent spirit in its meaning. The name has a classic European sensibility while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Franka offers a distinctive alternative to more common feminine names while still being easily recognizable and pronounceable. Its cross-cultural presence makes it an option for parents seeking a name with international appeal and a powerful meaning.

  20. Gabriella

    • Origin:

      Italian feminine variation of Gabriel

    • Meaning:

      "God is my strength"

    • Description:

      Gabriella is the feminine form of Gabriel, a name derived from the Hebrew Gavri’el. Gavri’el is composed of the elements gever, meaning "strong," and ’el, referring to God. Gabriella is used among a variety of cultures in the US, including Italian Americans, Latinos, and in the Jewish community. Gabriela is the Spanish spelling.
  21. Hermosa

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "beautiful"

    • Description:

      Hermosa, the name of a California beach town, means "beautiful".
  22. Iluminada

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "illuminated"

    • Description:

      A distinctive, rhythmic, and lovely Spanish name that suggests enlightenment.
  23. Isabella

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Italian variation of Elizabeth, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      Isabella has been a Top 10 name for girls in the US for two decades now. The Latinate form of Isabel, a variation of Elizabeth which originally derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba, Isabella reigned as Number 1 in 2009 and 2010.
  24. Joaquina

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Joaquin

    • Description:

      As Joaquin enters the American mainstream, his sister might just follow.
  25. Juana

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Juan

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      Juana has not achieved the popularity in the U.S. of the male version Juan. Whereas Juan has made it almost to the Top 50 on the U. S. hit parade, sister Juana has barely entered the thousand most popular. It is nevertheless a popular choice in Mexico.
  26. Kahlo

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "bald"

    • Description:

      Contrary to popular belief, the name Kahlo has German origins, rather than Spanish. It derives from kahl, a German word meaning "bald." Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo was born to a German father, photographer Guillermo Kahlo.
  27. Leocadia

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "splendid brightness"

    • Description:

      Leocadia marries a mix of sounds: the strength of a lion, with a rhythmic Latin ending.
  28. Lorena

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Lorraine

    • Meaning:

      "from the province of Lorraine"

    • Description:

      A feminine name heard most often in the Hispanic community. Surprisingly, Lorena was on the US Top 1000 list of girls' names for an impressive 130 years, from 1880 until falling off in 2011. We do not predict an imminent return.
  29. Lucia

    • Origin:

      Italian, feminine variation of Lucius, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "light"

    • Description:

      Lucia is a lush, rich Latinate equivalent of Lucy, popular in Spain and throughout Latin America and also a cross-cultural favorite. You might be surprised to know that Lucia has ALWAYS ranked among the Top 1000 girl names in the US, though she's really taken off only since the turn of this century.
  30. Luvena

    • Description:

      Luvena is a feminine name with possible derivation from Latin roots, potentially related to 'luv' or 'love.' It may be a variation of names like Lavinia or a creative formation based on the English word 'love' with a feminine ending. The name has a gentle, affectionate quality in its sound and implied meaning. Luvena has never been widely popular but maintains a quiet presence in naming records, particularly in some Southern American naming traditions. The name's soft consonants and flowing vowel sounds give it a melodic quality that appeals to parents seeking something unconventional yet pleasant-sounding. Luvena carries romantic connotations without being overly sentimental, striking a balance between uniqueness and accessibility. Its similarity to words for love in various languages gives it a universal appeal.

  31. Manuela

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Emmanuel

    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"

    • Description:

      Manuela is one feminine form that's more energetic than the male original, and is worth considering if you're seeking an easily assimilated Spanish name.
  32. Marita

    • Origin:

      German and Spanish diminutive of Maria

    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      Derived from Maria, the meaning of which is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).
  33. Mercedes

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "gracious gifts, benefits"

    • Description:

      Mercedes is one of the few names attached to luxury living that we can wholeheartedly recommend, it being a legitimate Spanish appellation stemming from one of the epithets given to the Virgin Mary--Santa Maria de las Mercedes, or Our Lady of the Mercies. The car, by the way was named after the eleven-year-old daughter of the Daimler company's French distributor in 1901.
  34. Mesa

    • Origin:

      Spanish, Thai

    • Meaning:

      "table; April"

    • Description:

      Mesa is both the term for a flat-topped mountain, derived from the Spanish word for "table", and the Thai variation of April.
  35. Miguela

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Miguel

    • Description:

      If you're looking for an unusual Michaela alternative, try this Spanish route.
  36. Natividad

    • Origin:

      Spanish from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "nativity"

    • Description:

      Traditionally given to girls born on the September birth date of the Virgin Mary.
  37. Nazaret

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "of Nazareth"

    • Description:

      Occasionally heard Spanish name referring to Christ's native village.
  38. Ninetta

    • Origin:

      Italian and Spanish diminutive of Nina

    • Meaning:

      "little girl"

    • Description:

      Might be carrying things too far -- little little girl? -- though could freshen up this favorite.
  39. Noelia

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Noel

    • Description:

      This name of an admired Puerto Rican pop singer has been picked up by hundreds of Hispanic parents.
  40. Norita

    • Description:

      Norita is a feminine name with Spanish origins, developed as a diminutive form of Nora or Eleanor. The name carries the meaning "honor" or "light" from its root elements. While not extremely common in English-speaking countries, Norita has maintained steady usage in Hispanic communities. It has a melodic quality with its soft ending, giving it a gentle, graceful feel. Some parents choose Norita for its uniqueness while still having recognizable roots. The name saw modest popularity in the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with multicultural appeal.
  41. Otavia

    • Description:

      Otavia is a feminine name representing a variation of Octavia, which has Latin origins meaning 'eighth' or 'born eighth.' The classical name derives from the Roman family name Octavius, famously borne by the sister of Emperor Augustus (born Octavian). This spelling variation with the removal of the 'c' gives the traditional name a slightly more modern and exotic appearance while maintaining its historical essence. Otavia carries the elegant, classical associations of its original form, evoking images of Roman nobility and antiquity. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds. While less common than Octavia, this variant might appeal to parents seeking a name with classical roots and feminine elegance but with a slightly distinctive spelling that sets it apart from the more traditional form.
  42. Pacifica

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "tranquil"

    • Description:

      When properly pronounced, has an alluring sound and harmonious meaning.
  43. Pedra

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "rock"

    • Description:

      Pedra has never caught on with anything like the popularity of its male counterpart, Pedro. The Greek Petra sounds a lot cleaner and more refined.
  44. Querida

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "dear, beloved"

    • Description:

      Loving choice.
  45. Quintana

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "the fifth girl"

    • Description:

      Mexican place-name famously used by Joan Didion for her daughter, Quintana Roo.
  46. Rosalina

    • Origin:

      Variation of Rosaline, English

    • Meaning:

      "rose"

    • Description:

      A feminine and fragrant member of the Rose family.
  47. Rosario

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "rosary"

    • Description:

      Anglo parents are taking note of this Hispanic classic, thanks to actress Rosario Dawson and a character on Will & Grace. Poetic and powerful, it comes from the Spanish title of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora del Rosario, or "Our Lady of the Rosary", Rosary referring to vocal and mental prayer in Catholicism, that reflect on the life of Christ and his Mother.
  48. Rosita

    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Rosa

    • Meaning:

      "rose"

    • Description:

      This spirited Spanish variation of Rosa was familiar in the mid-20th century, but is used more quietly now. Given to around 35 babies in the US each year, it could work as a fresh alternative to Roberta or Rosie.
  49. Sancha

    • Origin:

      Spanish, from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "sacred"

    • Description:

      Sancha of Leon was an 11th century princess who became Queen of Spain after her brother was killed by Ferdinand I, whom she then married. A twisted tale indeed, but Sancha is one of those names that is both historic and extremely rare -- no babies were named Sancha or Sancho in the US in 2021. Sancho Panza was the sidekick of the fictional Don Quixote.
  50. Sefarina

    • Origin:

      Spanish, from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "west wind"

    • Description:

      Sefarina is dramatic and feminine, but Serafina is far more commonly used. Think of Sefarina as deriving from Zephyr, which can be used as a male name; the female version is Zephyrine or Zephyrina, or the Portuguese Zeferina.
  51. Selena

    • Origin:

      Latinized variation of Greek Selene

    • Meaning:

      "moon"

    • Description:

      Selena is smooth, shiny, and sensual, a nineteenth-century name that found new life in the Latino community, following the biopic of slain Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, starring Jennifer Lopez. But you don't have to be Latin to love Selena, which is both distinctive yet in step with stylish modern names such as Seraphina and Celia.
  52. Socorro

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese

    • Meaning:

      "succour, help, relief"

    • Description:

      Socorro is a Spanish and Portuguese word name taken from a title of the Virgin Mary, "Mary of Perpetual Succour." Its religious meaning makes it somewhat old-fashioned and not among the Spanish names for girls widely used in the US.
  53. Tavia

    • Origin:

      Spanish short form of Octavia

    • Meaning:

      "eighth"

    • Description:

      Cute, distinctive diminutive for this regal-sounding name.
  54. Tornado

    • Origin:

      Spanish word name

    • Meaning:

      "tornado"

    • Description:

      Tornado first meant thunderstorm and only later came to mean whirlwind, the common modern meaning. More recently, Tornado is the first name of a tennis-playing teen whose sister is called the equally attention-getting Hurricane. Both names work for either gender, if you think you can withstand the storm jokes.
  55. Trinidad

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "holy trinity"

    • Description:

      Rhythmic name with both religious and geographical ties, commonly heard in Latin countries.
  56. Ursulina

    • Description:

      Ursulina is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Ursula, which derives from the Latin word "ursa" meaning "bear." This elaborated version adds a delicate, affectionate quality to the stronger root name. Ursulina has Latin origins and is found primarily in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian language communities. While Ursula gained recognition through Saint Ursula and the character in "The Little Mermaid," Ursulina remains considerably rarer. The name carries a traditional, somewhat old-world charm with its flowing syllables and romantic language roots. Despite its connection to the word for bear, Ursulina has a surprisingly gentle, feminine quality that contrasts with the strength implied by its etymological meaning.

  57. Verde

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "green"

    • Description:

      Verde is an uncommon color name with a Latinate accent, perfect for a spring baby.
  58. Vida

    • Origin:

      Spanish, Slovene, Lithuanian, Persian, Swedish, Serbian,"life, visible, willow, to see"

    • Meaning:

      "life, visible, willow, to see"

    • Description:

      Vida is a multicultural gem, familiar in a number of languages by not overly popular. It featured in the US Top 1000 in the first half of the 20th century, and in recent years, it has seen renewed interest.
  59. Viva

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "alive, living, life"

    • Description:

      Viva la baby with this life-affirming name, one of the appealing group of girl names that mean life.! Singer Rufus Wainwright chose it for his baby daughter, perhaps in celebration of a new life entering the world the year after he lost his mother Kate McGarrigle. The baby's middle name is Katherine.
  60. Ximenia

    • Origin:

      Spanish nature name

    • Description:

      For any parents out there searching for a nature name starting with x -- and we doubt there are many -- this one, named for a Spanish monk called Ximenes, is a small tropical plant bearing wild limes.
  61. Ynesita

    • Description:

      Ynesita is a feminine name that represents a diminutive form of Ynés, the Spanish variation of Agnes. The suffix '-ita' adds a sense of endearment and smallness in Spanish. Agnes derives from the Greek 'hagnos,' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Ynesita carries this meaning while adding affectionate overtones. The name has a distinctly Spanish or Latin American character and conveys sweetness and delicacy. While uncommon even in Spanish-speaking countries, it represents the tradition of creating intimate, affectionate variations of established names. Ynesita has a musical quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending, giving it an elegant yet gentle impression.
  62. Zamora

    • Origin:

      Spanish place- and surname

    • Description:

      Heard in Spain more as a last name, but would work here as an alluring first.
  63. Zarita

    • Description:

      Zarita is a feminine name with Spanish or Latin American origins, possibly a diminutive form of names like Zara or Sarah. The suffix '-ita' is a Spanish diminutive denoting affection or smallness. The name has a musical, rhythmic quality with its alternating consonants and vowels. While relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Zarita carries an exotic charm that makes it attractive to parents seeking distinctive names. It evokes images of warmth and vibrancy, resonating with the cultural richness of Hispanic heritage. The name's rarity gives it a special quality, allowing bearers to stand out while still having a name that's melodic and accessible in pronunciation.