Portuguese Names

Rhythmically appealing international spin on the stiff original.

Jacinda, a form of the lovely and unusual Spanish and Portuguese flower name Jacinta (for Hyacinth), was first popularized by the Australian actress Jacinda Barrett. Today, the girls' name Jacinda is most notable as the name of New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern, one of the first world leaders to give birth in office, widely credited with her strong and compassionate leadership during the coronavirus pandemic.

Intriguing twist on Jacob, but may be too strongly associated with Michael Jackson.

Can you hear the drums Fernando? Although 58% of Nameberries prefer Ferdinand to Fernando, the Iberian variant has a softer, more romantic feel that makes it a better fit with all those Javiers, Lorenzos and Matteos.

Macario is used in the modern US, the Spanish form of the ancient Greek Makarios or Latinized Macarius, the name of several early saints. Accessible and worldly, Macario can lead to the friendly nickname Mac.

This evocative Spanish surname would make an unusual but lively choice for a girl.

Familiar as a Latin surname but has potential as a first.

Cristina is one case where the streamlined version feels more alluring.

Lighter Latin version of Anselm.

Another culture's slant on Mark, sometimes associated with former president of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos and his shoe-collecting wife, Imelda.

Paulo suffers in comparison to the richer and more authentic-sounding Paolo.

Rolando, along with brother name Orlando, are among the most attractive and appealing of Latinate names. It has been in the US Top 1000 every year since 1946.

This possible word name, which rhymes with Maia, makes an even more distinctive alternative.

Ovidia is the unusual feminine form of the ancient Roman Ovidius, most famous as the name of the exiled 1st century Roman poet Ovid. Modern male form Ovidio is known in Spain and Portugal. Ovida is another variation.

The final o in Patricio adds a bit of punch and pizzazz, though it also spins the name closer to the feminine Patricia.

Vanina is a name that is, at first glance, miles apart from its origin. But once you say it aloud and look for it, you can see the direct line from Evangelina to Vanina. Vanina could also be a good alternative for people who like the sound of Vanille or Vanilla, but can't bring themselves to use a flavor as a name.

A softer take on Joaquin or a quirkier version of Joachim, depending on how you look at it.

Portuguese variation of Matthew.

Removing one letter from the somewhat intimidating Alexios gives you Alexio, a charming and more accessible variation.