Awesome Portuguese Baby Name List!
- Maria
Origin:
Hebrew or EgyptianMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
As a highly popular girls’ name in all Spanish-speaking countries, this saintly Latin variation of Mary retains a timeless beauty. Through the centuries, Maria remains one of the most widely-used girl names starting with M.
- Mario
Origin:
Italian variation of Marius, form of mythological name MarsMeaning:
"warlike"Description:
Many may associate Mario with the popular platform game - unsurprising when it's the 5th best-selling video game worldwide, and was voted the 2nd best game ever by IGN in 2024. The titular plumber was apparently named after American businessman, Mario Segale, who rented a warehouse to Nintendo, and this in itself reflects that Mario is much more established than just a name for a video game character.
- Marques
Description:
Marques is a masculine name with roots in both Portuguese and Spanish language traditions, representing a variant spelling of Marquis. The name originates from the medieval European title of nobility that designated a nobleman ranking between a count and a duke. While not among the most common male names, Marques has maintained steady usage, particularly in Hispanic and Portuguese communities and their diaspora. The name carries connotations of distinction, leadership, and refinement due to its aristocratic origins. In the United States, the spelling variant Marques gained some popularity in the late 20th century. The name combines an air of sophistication with multicultural appeal, attracting parents who appreciate its noble heritage and distinctive character.
- MARTINHO
- Mateus
Origin:
Portuguese variation of Matthew, HebrewMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Portuguese variation of Matthew.
- Mauricio
Origin:
Spanish variation of MauriceMeaning:
"dark-skinned"Description:
This Spanish version of Maurice has been on the US charts since the 60s. Mauricio peaked in the early 2000s, getting as high as #353 before falling again. With lively, "-o" ending names getting the attention they have got in recent years, Mauricio would be a great option. Mauricio Macri was a former president of Argentina.
- Maximiliano
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"greatest"Description:
This is a Spanish variation of Maximilian that has begun to gain some popularity. It has a luxurious feel -- maybe it's the suggestion of "millions"? -- but this is one of those Spanish baby names that come with Anglicized nicknames that can make it work across cultures.
- MECIA
- Micaela
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Israeli variation of MichaelaMeaning:
"who is like God"Description:
The original versions of Micaela have morphed into all manner of "inventive" spellings -- Makayla, McKalla et al -- but we prefer the genuine international versions, like this one.
- Miguel
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese variation of Michael, HebrewMeaning:
"Who is like God"Description:
Mike Tyson put a twist on his own name by naming a son Miguel. It's the first name of Cervantes, the great Spanish novelist and poet who wrote Don Quixote.
- Narciso
Description:
Narciso is a masculine name with Greek origins, derived from the mythological figure Narcissus, a hunter known for his beauty who fell in love with his own reflection. The name literally relates to the narcissus flower, which according to legend sprouted where the youth died. Popular in Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese-speaking countries, Narciso carries an air of classical elegance and cultural depth. Unlike the negative connotations sometimes associated with 'narcissism,' the name itself has been respected throughout Mediterranean cultures for centuries. It peaked in popularity during the early 20th century but remains a distinctive choice that conveys a connection to classical mythology and natural beauty.
- Neves
Origin:
PortugueseMeaning:
"snows"Description:
A name that refers to a title of the Virgin Mary -- "Maria des Neves," or Maria of Snows.
- NICOLAU
- NUNO
- Natividade
- Ofelia
Description:
Ofelia is a feminine name with roots in ancient Greek literature, derived from the name Ophelia. It originated from the Greek word 'ophelos,' meaning 'help' or 'benefit.' This name gained literary prominence through Shakespeare's character in 'Hamlet.' The Spanish and Italian variant Ofelia has been particularly popular in Hispanic and Mediterranean cultures. Throughout history, it has conveyed a sense of tragic beauty and poetic elegance. In modern times, Ofelia has experienced renewed interest as parents seek names with classical origins and rich cultural significance. The name carries an air of sophistication and timeless appeal, with a hint of dramatic flair.
- Osvaldo
Origin:
Spanish variation of OswaldDescription:
Popular in the Hispanic community, unlike its English cousin. It has been very near the bottom of the US Top 1000 for the last three years.
- Palmira
Origin:
Latin, from Palmyra, ancient Syrian cityDescription:
A place name relating to the tropical palm tree.
- Pascoal
Description:
Pascoal is a masculine name of Portuguese and Galician origin, derived from the Latin "Paschalis" meaning "relating to Easter" or "born at Passover." It's the Portuguese equivalent of Pascal or Pascual. The name carries deep Christian significance through its connection to the Easter celebration and resurrection themes. Pascoal has been used consistently in Portuguese-speaking countries like Portugal and Brazil, though it's not among the most common names. The name combines religious heritage with a melodic quality characteristic of Portuguese naming patterns. Pascoal's rhythmic three-syllable structure gives it a warm, flowing sound. The name might appeal particularly to families with Portuguese or Brazilian heritage or those seeking a distinctive name with clear religious connections that still sounds approachable and warm in everyday use.
- Patricio
Origin:
Spanish variation of PatrickDescription:
The final o in Patricio adds a bit of punch and pizzazz, though it also spins the name closer to the feminine Patricia.