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Peru is a beautiful country situated on the north-western shores of South America. If you’re looking for Peruvian baby names, chances are you’ve either visited Peru or are intrigued by what you’ve seen or heard about it. Or maybe you have roots in this country and want to choose a name that keeps the bond alive. Whatever might be your reason for choosing a Peruvian name, you have come to the right place for it.
The Hispanic culture has majorly influenced Peru due to the 16th-century Spanish conquest of the continent. Hence, they have a range of beautiful Spanish names you could choose from for your child. Read on to find our list of unique Peruvian names for your little one.
Key Pointers
- Peruvian names connect the child to the rich Peruvian cultural heritage.
- The father’s name is passed down to their offspring in the Peruvian tradition.
- Many Peruvian baby names have Chinese, Arabic, Basque, and Japanese influences.
Peru Baby Naming Culture
Peruvian names are influenced by their indigenous languages, historical personalities, and Spanish colonization. In recent years, the names have leaned toward environmental consciousness and cultural pride, with many nature-derived and traditional names being used.
Peruvian babies are given two names at the time of baptism. The first name could be derived from the Bible or refer to a deceased relative or ancestor. However, only a family’s eldest daughter can carry the name of the mother. Names derived from Catholic saints are also common, for example, Miguel for Saint Michael.
One unique aspect is that only male Peruvian names can end with -o, and only feminine names can end with -a. Despite being a feminine name, Maria is a common Peruvian name for girls and boys. Girls often carry it as a first name and boys have it as a second or middle name, in which case, they abbreviate it as M.
For the surnames, the Peruvian people follow the patronymic system. Peruvians follow the Spanish custom of carrying two surnames — their father’s first surname and their mother’s first surname. Post-marriage, women may choose to keep their maiden name as is or add their husband’s surname to their last name, separated by the element -de. The most common Peruvian surnames include Garcia, Fernandez, Alvarez, Gonzales, and Chavez. Surnames of other nationalities are also used because of the influx of immigrants in Peru. For instance, Chu is Chinese, Benalcazar is Arabic, Arizmendi is Basque, and Fujimori is Japanese.
Peruvian Boy Names With Meanings
Peruvian boy names primarily derive from the Bible and Spanish culture, honoring powerful historical figures and the virtues of strength and spirituality. These names exemplify the resilience of the Peruvian people and the values they hold close to their hearts.
1. Aaron
Aaron, a favorite name of the Jews, began to take hold in Peru after the Protestant Reformation. This classic Biblical name means ‘mountain of strength’.
2. Albert
Albert may sound old fashioned to American and European parents, but Peruvians find it incredibly cool. Albert means ‘bright’.
3. Alejandro
Don’t you think Alejandro sounds smoother and sleeker than Alexander? This Spanish classic name means ‘defender of mankind’.
Did you know?4. Alex
As a standalone name, Alex has been bestowed on Peruvian babies for over a century. Alex means ‘defender of mankind’.
5. Alexander
The multiple derivations and nicknames of Alexander has enhanced its popularity in Peru. Alexander means ‘defender of mankind’.
6. Alois
Alois, as a name, has both classical charm and cosmopolitan coolness to it. Alois means ‘famous warrior’.
7. Anderson
Anderson, meaning ‘son of Andrews’, has a sense of dignity, tradition, and old school history to it.
8. Andre
As a baby boy name, Andre has sophistication, style, and oozes confidence. Andre means ‘man, warrior’.
9. Angel
Peruvians follow the Spanish custom of using the name Angel for boys. The moniker means ‘messenger of God’.
10. Annie
Surprisingly, Annie is used for baby boys in Peru and holds the 41st spot on the Peru baby name list. It means ‘grace’.
11. Anthony
Even after decades of usage, Anthony does not feel overused or worn out. In fact, it enjoys success with almost all the ethnicities. Anthony means ‘flower’.
12. Brayan
Just a minor tweak in the traditional spelling can take a moniker to an entirely new level. Brayan means ‘strong and virtuous’.
13. Bruno
Bruno, meaning ‘brown’, deserves the gold medal for the tough guy name. It brings to mind a brawny and masculine man.
14. Bryant
Bryant is Brian with a little more attitude. The moniker means ‘noble’.
15. Carlos
Carlos, meaning ‘free man’, is a charming, boyish name, which has a huge chance of crossing over and gaining widespread success.
16. Christian
Christian is an excellent choice for parents who want to declare their faith in a straightforward way. Christian means ‘follower of Christ’.
17. Cisco
Cisco, the diminutive of Spanish name Francisco, is the ultimate sidekick name. It means ‘free man’.
18. Colbert
Colbert is one of the most contemporary-sounding Peruvian last names as first name options. It means ‘calf herder’.
19. Cristopher
While in the rest of the world, Christopher is popular, in Peru Cristopher reins. Cristopher means ‘follower of the Christ’.
20. Daniel
The timelessness of this name has played a crucial part in its popularity in Peru. Daniel means ‘God is my judge’.
21. Danny
Danny sounds more grown up than most abbreviations of original names we have seen in these years. It means ‘God is my judge’.
22. David
David is one of the most popular names in the Christian and Jewish traditions. It is indeed ‘beloved’ by all.
23. Diego
As odd as it may sound, Diego is the Spanish version of James and means ‘supplanter’. You didn’t see that coming, right?
24. Eduardo
This stalwart of Spanish and Peruvian nomenclature would work well with the Anglos as well. Eduardo means ‘wealthy guardian’.
25. Elmer
The name Elmer sounds charming, albeit in an old fashioned way. It means ‘noble’.
26. Ernesto
This Latin variation of Ernesto is used widely in Peru and other surrounding regions, but has fallen several places in the US. Ernesto means ‘serious’.
27. Frank
This variation of Francis has outperformed even the original in the top 100 Peru baby name list. Frank means ‘free man’.
28. Gabriel
What could be better than bestowing your child a name meaning ‘man of God’?
Quick fact29. Gael
Gael quick ascent to the baby name charts was instigated by the popularity of Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal. It means ‘Gaelic’.
30. Hans
Hans is the German, Dutch, and Scandinavian form of Johannes and means ‘God is gracious’. Peruvian parents choose this name for its countryside image.
31. Hector
The Greek mythology name, Hector has been in use in Peru since the turn of the 20th century. It’s usually opted by parents who want their children to have virtues like the Greek warrior. Hector means ‘holding fast’.
32. Henry
The name Henry has an antique charm that separates it from its modern sounding brethren Harry. Henry means ‘estate ruler’.
33. Isac
Isac is a spelling variation of Isaac used primarily by the Peruvians. It means ‘laughter’.
34. Jefry
Jefry is the spelling Peruvians used for Jeffery. A moniker with an erudite style of its own, Jefry means ‘God’s peace’.
35. Jesus
People of Hispanic descent, including the Peruvians show no discomfort in using the name Jesus for their sons. Jesus means ‘to save’.
36. Jheremy
If you have a penchant for Biblical name, but want to make it look a bit different, you can opt for Jheremy, the Peruvian version of Jeremy. Jheremy means ‘Yahweh has established’.
37. Joaquin
Joaquin is among the good Hispanic boy names, a version of Biblical name Joachim that translates to ‘lifted by Yahweh’. We feel it’s an excellent alternative to Jose and Juan.
38. Jose
Simple and thoroughly masculine name Jose, is a risk free naming choice like Jack and John. And it’s a true classic as well. Jose means ‘Jehovah increases’.
39. Juan
Juan, meaning ‘God’s gracious gift’, is a classic choice for baby boys. It brings to mind both a pick up artist and a rock star.
40. Julio
Julio is the Hispanic equivalent of Julius and means ‘youthful’. This distinguished and dignified name would be a perfect option for baby boys born in July.
41. Lucio
Lucio is the sleek and sophisticated version of Lucius and means ‘light’. This moniker is steadily climbing the tandem with other Lu- names.
42. Luigi
Luigi, like Marcos and Manuel, has an ethnic flavor to it. It means ‘famous warrior’.
43. Luis
Luis, the Spanish form of Ludwig, is one of the most popular names for Peruvian baby boys. It means ‘famous warrior’.
44. Manuel
Manuel, meaning ‘God is with you’, has an elusive factor to it – a manly name in the truest sense.
45. Marcos
This confident sounding variation of Mark suggests strength and virility. Marcos means ‘God of War’.
46. Martin
There’s a certain gentleness and simplicity to this name, which makes it highly appealing to non-frilly parents. Martin means ‘mars’.
47. Matias
Matias has shown impressive usage in both the Americas since 2009. We feel it’s a lot to do with Chilean soccer star Matias Fernandez. Matias means ‘gift of God’.
48. Maverick
Mel Gibson can be attributed to the excessive usage of strong and masculine name Maverick. It means ‘independent’.
49. Michael
Michael, meaning ‘who is like God’, seems like a timeless and ageless name that just doesn’t seem to sound old fashioned. It is one of the most popular baby names around the world.
50. Miguel
Miguel, one of the most famous Peruvian baby boy names, conveys a sense of bravery, power, and strength. Miguel means ‘who is like God’.
51. Omar
The usage level of Omar is quite impressive in Peru. And we feel it will continue to ‘flourish’ for the next decade as well.
52. Oscar
Oscar is an elaborate and colorful name, loaded with symbolic meaning. It means ‘little deer’.
53. Pedro
Pedro has been on the Peruvian naming charts for decades and is enjoying considerable success. It means ‘stone, rock’.
54. Percy
Percy is an adorable name that is shedding its prissy image in this era of soft, yet traditional names. Percy means ‘pierces the valley’.
Trivia55. Piero
Piero is a melodic and elegant Italian variation of Peter, meaning ‘rock’. It brings to mind the Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
56. Renzo
This diminutive of Lorenzo is strong enough to stand on its own. Renzo means ’from Laurentium’.
57. Ricardo
The growing Latino and Peruvian population in the US has made this name popular there too. Ricardo means ‘dominant ruler’.
58. Richard
Richard is a timeless choice and a longstanding favorite name, meaning ‘powerful’. And it’s flexible in terms of nicknames too.
59. Salvador
Salvador, a Spanish name, meaning ‘savior’ has a handsome quality to it. A baby with this name is guaranteed to be dynamic and sprightly.
60. Sandro
If you’re seeking an unusual and exotic version of Alexander, pick short and snappy Sandro, which means ‘defender of mankind’.
61. Saturnin
If you want a celestial and divine name for your son, you can pick Saturnin, a variation of Saturn. Though we must warn you that the name stands for gloomy.
62. Selestino
Selestino, meaning ‘belonging to heaven’, is a classic Spanish name with celestial vibes.
63. Tomas
Wondering how to pay tribute to your ancestor named Tom? Then name him Tomas, the Spanish and Portuguese form of Thomas, meaning ‘twin’.
64. Victor
Victor, meaning ‘victory’, has maintained a steady and constant place on the Peru baby names charts for over a 100 years.
65. Wilton
Unlike its cousin names Hilton and Milton, English name Wilton does not sound dated even a wee bit. Wilton means ‘place by the stream’.
66. Yefferson
Yefferson is a variation of Jefferson and means ‘son of Jeffery’. This moniker has an intelligent and dignified quality to it, which makes it an excellent option for your baby boy.
Peruvian Girl Names With Meanings
Peruvian girl names showcase the family’s values and cultural history. These names mostly have Biblical origins and honor maternal figures. They also derive from other languages and reflect human virtues of strength, power, and resilience, reflecting the importance of women in Peruvian culture.
67. Abigail
This Old Testament name, brought to South America by the Puritans in the 17th century, is hugely popular in Peru. It means ‘father’s joy’.
68. Aiko
Aiko is a common Japanese name with a lovely meaning, which is also used in Peru. It means ‘beloved child’.
69. Alessa
Alessa, is one of the best options for parents looking for an alternative to Alice or Alexis. It means ‘defender’.
70. Alessandra
Alessandra, meaning ‘defender of mankind’, had floundered for a while, but is again heading up the charts, probably because of the Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio.
71. Andrea
Andrea, the female equivalent of Andrew, holds the top spot for girls in the Peru names list, despite its ‘manly’ etymology. We think it would be a fitting name for a tomboy.
72. Angelica
A perfect name for your little angel. Angelica is derived from Latin word ‘angelicus’ and means ‘like an angel’.
73. Ariane
Smooth and exotic name Ariane is on the rise, along with sisters Ariana and Ariadne. It means ‘most holy’.
74. Azucena
If mommies are looking for a true blue Peruvian baby girl name, they can pick Azucena, which means ‘lily’ in Spanish and Peruvian language.
75. Beatriz
This attractive form of Beatrice is very popular with the Hispanic and Peruvian parents. Beatriz means ‘blessed’.
76. Carito
Carito, the Spanish version of Caesar, is essentially a baby boy name, but is used for girls in Peru. It means ‘long haired’.
77. Chio
If you’re not shy of using uncommon and unique names for your daughter, you can pick Chio, a Spanish name, meaning ‘Rocio’.
78. Cristina
Cristina, without the ‘h’, is the Spanish, Italian, and Peruvian version of Christian and means ‘a Christian’.
79. Cynthia
Cynthia is a classic, sophisticated, and intelligent sounding Greek name used widely in Peru. It means ‘woman from Kynthos’.
80. Daniela
Daniela, a Hebrew name, translating to ‘God is my judge’, holds the second spot in terms of popularity in the Peruvian baby name list for girls.
81. Diane
Diane, meaning ‘divine’, has a mid-century appeal to it. It has several distinguished bearers such as Diane Ladd, Diane Eve, and Diane Murphy.
82. Elena
Elena is the Spanish and Italian version of Helen and means ‘ray or sunbeam’. This moniker is soft, lyrical, and sounds way more poetic than the original.
83. Eunice
Eunice is the English version of Greek name Eurike and means ‘good victory’. It has fallen into obscurity in the rest of the world, but is enjoying its success in Peru.
84. Evelyn
This feminine name with a plethora of etymologies is experiencing a revival after decades. One of the widely accepted meanings is ‘a living being’.
85. Evy
Evy, the variation of the oldest name in the Book, is coming back into style in Peru. We feel this simple and pure name has more resonance and strength than most of the short names. Evy means ‘life’.
86. Fiorella
It seems that Peruvians have a fascination for Italian names. Fiorella, the Italian name meaning ‘little flower’, holds the 11th spot in the Peruvian name list.
87. Gabriela
Gabriela, the feminine version of Gabriel, may have slipped slightly when compared to its other variations, but is still holding strong. The name means ‘woman of God’.
88. Gaby
Gaby, the French form of Gabriela, is used as a first name in some parts of Peru. It means ‘God is my strength’.
89. Gina
Gina, the short form of Angelina and Regina, has been used as its own in Peru since the 1920s. It’s also tied with the glamorous Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida.
90. Gladys
Gladys emerged in 1900 and took the naming world by storm. The meaning ‘lame’ could be a turn off for some parents.
91. Jahaira
Jahaira is the Peruvian version of Hebrew name Yahaira and means ‘string or teaching God’.
92. Janet
Janet began as a nickname for Jane, but has been used independently for a long time. Janet means ‘God is gracious’.
93. Janeth
Janeth is the Scottish and Hebrew version of Jane and means ‘God is gracious’. Some parents even use it as an alternative to Janet. Both ways, we feel Janeth will make a cool name for your daughter.
94. Karen
Karen, the Danish version of Katherine, has been in use in Peru for more than a century. It means ‘pure one’.
Trivia95. Karla
Karla, the feminine version of Charles, meaning ‘free man’ is a simple and pretty name with a beautiful freedom etymology.
96. Katherin
This spelling of Katherin without ‘e’ is used predominantly in Peru. It means ‘pure’.
97. Katia
Katia, an earthy and warm diminutive of Katerina, is in vogue in Peru. It means ‘pure’.
98. Keyla
Keyla, a spelling variation of Kayla, began entering the baby name charts when the popularity of the original began to decline. It means ‘laurel’.
99. Laka
Laka, meaning ‘gentle and tame’, is the name of a hero in Polynesian mythology. It’s a baby boy name, but Peruvian parents use it for their baby girls.
100. Lesli
If you want to show off your Scottish heritage, you can pick the name Lesli, which originates from a Scottish surname. Lesli means ‘garden of hollies’.
101. Lisbeth
One of the many short forms of Elizabeth, Lisbeth takes an entirely new and powerful image as the lead of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”. Lisbeth means ‘blessed’.
102. Liz
Liz, the diminutive of Elizabeth, would work best in the middle spot. It means ‘pledged to God’.
103. Lorena
Lorena, the Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian name, meaning ‘famous army’, is enjoying respectable popularity in Peru.
104. Lucia
Just like its meaning (light), Lucia sounds friendly, bright, melodic and intelligent. It has an Italian zest and a European flair.
105. Lucila
This Spanish version of Lucy has overpowered the original version and how. Lucila means ‘light’.
106. Luz
Luz, the Spanish word for ‘light’ is used to refer Nuestra Señora de la Luz, which is a Spanish title for the Mother Mary.
107. Marcielo
Marcielo, the Peruvian version of Marcella, meaning ‘warlike’, has started to feel stylish again after being in mothballs for long.
108. Maria
Maria has always been a favorite in the Hispanic-American community, including the Peruvian community. This lovely, three syllable name means ‘beloved’.
109. Marilyn
The name of America’s megastar continues to be a favorite with Peruvian parents. It’s basically a combination of Mary and Lynn.
110. Marjoree
Hispanic variation of Margery was at the height of its popularity in 1920s in European countries. The trend subsided there, but took over in South American countries, including Peru. Marjoree means ‘pearl’.
111. Mayra
Just like many other ancient names, even Mayra is coming back into style, especially in Peru. It means ‘sweet smelling oil’.
112. Melisa
Melisa, the Peruvian spelling of Melissa, a Greek name meaning ‘honeybee’, is at the zenith of its popularity in the country of Llamas.
113. Mishael
In Peru, Mishael, instead of Michelle, is used for the baby girls. The moniker is a feminine version of Michael and means ‘godlike’.
114. Naida
Naida, a Greek name, meaning ‘water nymph’, is perfect for baby girls born under any of the water signs such as Pisces, Cancer, or Scorpio.
115. Nicole
Nicole, the feminine version of Nicholas, meaning ‘victorious people’ is a great option for parents who want traditional, but not overused names for their babies.
116. Noelia
Noelia, the Spanish version of Noel and the moniker of one of the most famous Puerto Rican pop singer has been picked by hundreds of parents in Peru. It means ‘Christmas’.
117. Raquel
Raquel, the Hispanic form of Rachel, is dainty, delicate, and confident, just like the original. The name means ‘ewe’.
118. Rocio
The Hispanic name Rocio refers to Mother Mary as Virgin of the Dew. The meaning of Rocio is ‘dewdrops’.
119. Rosa
Rosa, the Latinate for of Rose, is used is several different cultures and countries, including Peru. This minimalist and straightforward name means ‘rose’.
120. Roseangela
Roseangela is a Peru exclusive name, created by combining Rose and Angela. It holds the 37th spot on the Peru name list.
121. Rosemary
Rosemary may not be the most smoosh name, but is used widely in Peru. It means ‘the rosemary plant’.
122. Ruth
Ruth is an ancient Biblical name, meaning ‘friend or companion’. It ranks high in both Peru and Ireland, but isn’t used much in the rest of the world.
123. Sandra
Sandra, meaning ‘defender of mankind’, developed as an abbreviation of Alessandra, but stands strong on its own, especially in Peru.
124. Sara
Sara is a sweet and straightforward Biblical name with a contemporary and modern feel to it. Sara means ‘princess’.
125. Shirley
In early times, Shirley was used only for boys, but the tide turned after the publication of the novel, “Shirley”. Shirley is composed of the Old English elements and means ‘old space or meadow’.
126. Sofia
This alternate spelling of Sophia maintains a high position on the Peruvian baby name charts. Sofia means ‘wisdom’.
127. Stephany
Stephany is the spelling variation of Stephanie used in Peru. This name manages to be girlish, without being too feminine. Stephany means ‘garland’.
128. Susan
Just like the lily flower, even the name Susan has been a perennial favorite. And it has made a triumphant comeback to its former glory in Peru. Susan means ‘lily’.
129. Taylor
Taylor has been used for Peruvian baby boys since the 19th century, but ascended the baby girl name charts in the 1980s. It means ‘tailor’.
130. Treysi
A very unconventional take on traditional French name Tracy, this moniker means ‘of Thracia’.
131. Veronica
Veronica is the Latin form of Greek name Berenice, and means ‘she who brings victory’. Roni or Ronnie would be impressive nicknames for Veronica.
132. Yessica
If you like the name Jessica, but cringe at the thought of your daughter sharing it with another girl, you can pick its Spanish version Yessica, meaning ‘God beholds’.
133. Zoila
Zoila is an enchanting Greek name, meaning ‘life’.
We hope you find our compilation of Peruvian baby names useful. For any queries or suggestions, leave us a comment below.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How has the use of Peruvian baby names evolved?
People of Peru mostly have two names, one is for their official records, and one is the name originally given by their parents. For years, the government refused to accept authentic Peruvian names and only accepted names in Spanish or English. However, Peruvians have been protesting against this practice to protect their language and traditions over the years.
2. How do Peruvian baby names compare to those of other Latin American countries?
There is not much difference as Peruvian first names are primarily Spanish, similar to those used in other Latin American countries. What makes the names different is their last name which differs according to the customs followed in the country.
3. What are the benefits of choosing a Peruvian baby name?
If you are a Peruvian living in a different country, keeping a Peruvian name for your child can represent your ethnicity and connect your child to their roots.
4. Are there any potential drawbacks to choosing a Peruvian baby name?
The only drawback of a Peruvian name is that it is in Spanish, so it may be challenging to pronounce in a non-Spanish-speaking country. For instance, the name José could be pronounced as ‘joe-ss’ when the actual pronunciation is ‘ho-zay.’
We hope that this compilation of Peruvian baby names will be helpful when you are in search of uncommon and exciting names for your little one. If you either belong to Peru or have visited the place and its remarkable beauty still holds a place in your heart, you could consider Peruvian names for your baby. It could help them stay connected to their roots or feel a special connection to a place that is close to your heart. So scroll through and choose the perfect Peruvian name for your little bundle of joy.
Infographic: Best Baby Names Of Peruvian Origin
Peru, a stunning little country in the western region of South America, is known for its lush greenery and the ancient city of Machu Picchu. So, if you’re looking for a baby name with a fascinating history, some Peruvian names in the infographic below could be useful. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Ethnic And Popular Peruvian Baby Names For Girls And Boys
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Watch this video showcasing the most enchanting Peruvian baby girl names and get set to explore a delightful collection of 20 distinctive and breathtaking names for your precious little bundle of joy.
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