Favorite Portuguese Names for Boys

Tristão
Urbano
- Description:
  Urbano is a masculine name of Latin origin meaning 'of the city' or 'refined and polite,' sharing its roots with the English word 'urban.' The name was borne by several popes, including Pope Urban I, who was later canonized as a saint. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Urbano enjoys moderate popularity in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries. The name carries connotations of civility, sophistication, and worldliness. It has a melodious quality with its balanced three syllables and strong vowel endings. For parents seeking a name with classical roots and international appeal, Urbano offers a distinguished option that works well across multiple language traditions.

Valentim
- Description:
  Valentim is a masculine name of Portuguese and Brazilian origin, derived from the Latin name Valentinus, which comes from 'valens' meaning 'strong, healthy, or vigorous.' It's the Portuguese equivalent of Valentine, associated with Saint Valentine and themes of love and devotion. While common in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil, Valentim remains rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic quality. The name carries romantic connotations through its connection to Valentine's Day while maintaining masculine strength in its meaning. Valentim has a rhythmic, flowing pronunciation (va-len-TCHEEM) that adds to its appeal. For families with Portuguese heritage, it offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a name that stands out in international settings with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation.
Vasco
- Origin:
  Spanish
- Meaning:
  "someone from the Basque region"
- Description:
  Schoolchildren will recognize this name via Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.
Vicente
- Origin:
  Spanish variation of Vincent, Latin
- Meaning:
  "conquering"
- Description:
  This classic Spanish name is well-used throughout Latin America and easily crosses cultures, ranking in the US Top 1000 for over a century. Vicente is notable as the name of Vicente Fernandez, the king of mariachi.

Victor
- Origin:
  Latin
- Meaning:
  "conqueror"
- Description:
  Victor is one of the earliest Christian names, borne (as Vittorio) by several saints and popes, symbolizing Christ's victory over death. It has been quietly in the Top 200 since 1880, but just recently has taken on a cool edge by fashionable parents in London and seems ripe for a similar reevaluation here too.
Virgilio
- Description:
  Virgilio is a masculine name with Latin origins, being the Italian and Spanish form of Virgil. The name references the renowned classical Roman poet Publius Vergilius Maro (known as Virgil), who authored the epic poem 'The Aeneid.' The name derives from the Latin 'virga,' meaning 'staff' or 'wand,' possibly suggesting someone who flourishes or has authority. Virgilio has remained consistently popular in Italian and Hispanic communities, though it's less common in English-speaking countries. The name carries connotations of literary excellence, classical education, and cultural sophistication. Many bearers of this name might go by the nicknames 'Virgi' or 'Lio.'
Vergílio

Viriato
Xavier
- Origin:
  Basque
- Meaning:
  "new house"
- Description:
  Xavier originated is use as a given name after Saint Francis Xavier, cofounder of the Jesuit order, who got his name from the Spanish-Basque village where he was born. His birthplace was Javier, the name of which was derived from the Basque place name Etxeberria, meaning "castle" or "new house."
Zacarias
- Description:
  Zacarias is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Zachariah, which originates from the Hebrew name Zekharyah, meaning "God has remembered." This biblical name appears in the Old Testament and refers to several figures, including the father of John the Baptist. Zacarias carries a rich spiritual heritage and conveys a sense of divine mindfulness. While more common in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. Parents drawn to this name often appreciate its biblical roots, distinctive sound, and the way it balances traditional significance with a slightly unusual quality in many Western contexts.