Spanish Names

Like Benita, had some popularity in the fifties.

This perky Spanish nickname deserves to be more popular. Singer Michael Bublé recently used it as one of the middle names for his daughter Cielo, which may give Yoli a boost.

Martia, more distinctive than cousins Marta, Marcia and Marsha, also has a strong image and slightly unexpected feel.

A Desi variation that moves the name away from Lucy -- though it's just as dizzy. TV star Jaime Pressly used it for her son.

Savanna has lost ground in recent years. It remains eclipsed by its more traditionally spelled cousin Savannah.

Less substantial than many other Latin choices.

Schoolchildren will recognize this name via Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.

Another appealing member of the Alexandrian clan.

Mino is traditionally a name for people born along Spain's Minho River or Rio Mino. It may be a surname or a first name.

Demetrio is an original way to a mythological name, and is further appealing as a boy's name inspired by a goddess, the earth mother Demeter.

Junot, which sounds like the goddess and indie movie name "Juno" and the Alaskan place name Juneau, is actually someting completely different. The literati will recognize the unusual name of writer Junot Diaz.

This pretty female form of Laurence originated in ancient Rome and is still sometimes heard in the Latino community. It is one of the many intriguing Latin names for girls worth consideration by modern parents, as a more distinctive spin on Laura or Lauren. The name's rhythm also makes it perfect for Ren or Wren as a nickname.

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.

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

The Spanish version, with its -eena ending, takes the name out of the Oh My Darlin' realm, which for many American parents may be just the thing.

Strongly associated with Cuban revolutionary Guevara.

The haunting Lorca is a place name from the Spanish province of Navarre, but far more famous as the surname of the eminent Spanish poet and playwright Federico Garcia Lorca, who was the direct inspiration for the name of Leonard Cohen's now-grown daughter Lorca.

Name given in honor of the Virgin Mary that might prove difficult for a modern Spanish-American child to pull off.

This Spanish variation of the French Estelle and spelling spin on Estella is on the rise, along with most star-related names, even Starr (and Star) herself. Popular personality Ali Landry chose it for her daughter.

Dark, woody name that's brings to mind rich panelling, beautiful colors and luxury.