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Puerto Rico is a beautiful place and is a Caribbean island. Choosing a Puerto Rican baby name would imply that you are in love with this mesmerizing place and the culture. In this post, we have listed some of the best Hispanic names common on the island of Puerto Rico. Read on and choose the one you like the best.
Key Pointers
- Puerto Rican names are often inspired by the island’s picturesque natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history.
- These names mostly carry a religious or spiritual association, reflecting the people’s beliefs.
- If you are fascinated by Puerto Rican culture and want to assign such names to your baby boy, some examples include Hayden, Pablo, Luis, Rio, or Carlos.
- Puerto Rican unique baby girl names include Amanda, Linda, Adriana, and Tonia.
Puerto Rican Names For Boys With Meanings
1. Adolfo
Adolfo, meaning ‘noble wolf’ would make a nice choice for you. It’s a quintessential Puerto Rican name. As you must have fathomed by now, Adolfo is a variation of Adolf.
2. Mateo
Mateo is a Puerto Rican name, meaning ‘God’s gift.’ It’s a variant of the name Mathew but has a beautiful lilt and glamor all its own.
Trivia3. Manolito
Here’s another traditional Puerto Rican name for you. The meaning of Manolito is ‘God is with us’.
4. Abran
Abran is the variant of the name Abram, which means ‘exalted father.’ The name has Spanish origins.
5. Hayden
Here’s another lovely Rican name for your little son. Hayden is a Hispanic name and means ‘hedged valley.’
6. Neftali
Neftali is a variation of Naphtali, one of the rarely used biblical choices. Naphtali was the name of Jacob’s son. So if you want a name that is deep rooted in your culture, Neftali can be considered.
7. Pablo
Meaning ‘little one,’ Pablo would make a perfect pick for the youngest son in your family. This Spanish version of Paul is increasing in popularity, and you’re sure to meet a few Pablos shortly.
8. Jadzia
Jadzia is one of those names that wouldn’t hear much after crossing the Puerto Rican coast. It’s a variation of the gemstone name Jade, and is quite loved by the Ricans. Use Zia or Jade for the nickname.
9. Sebastian
Sebastian is one of the glorious Puerto Rican Baby names. It is a traditional Spanish name and is used widely on the island.
10. Garcia
The name Garcia has been shooting up in popularity with the Americans, but not many know that it’s a Puerto Rican name. The meaning of this name is ‘mighty with a spear’.
11. Santiago
The name Santiago is the Spanish for St. James, the son of Zebedee in the Bible. It’s also the name of the largest city in Chile.
12. Luis
Luis is one of the most famous Hispanic names in America. It’s quite a familiar name, still sounds extremely exotic. Luis has plenty of namesakes as well, from the baseball star Luis Aparicio to football icon Luis Suarez.
13. Miguel
Miguel is a variation of Michael and means ‘who is like the Lord.’
14. Rio
Rio is a Spanish variation of River. It’s one of our favorite o-ending names. You can say it’s one of the most famous place names as well- Rio de Janeiro, the second largest Brazilian city and the Rio Grande, one of the longest rivers in North America.
15. Paco
Paco is one of the cutest Puerto Rican nicknames for boys. It’s often used as a nickname for Francisco, a Puerto Rican form of Francis.
16. Benigno
Benigno is a Latin origin name, meaning ‘blessed.’ This name is familiar not just with the Puerto Ricans, but also with the Italian and Spanish speaking families.
17. Cordero
This is such a lovely sounding name. Cordero is a Spanish name and means ‘lamb.’ This name has been steadily moving up the popularity charts in the United States.
18. Braulio
Braulio is a German name, meaning ‘shining.’ This name has the flash of a racecar driver and the dignity of an attorney general.
19. Estephan
Here’s another striking name for your reference. Estephan means ‘crowned in victory.’ Use Esti when he’s a baby and then move into the swanky Estephan in his preschool days.
20. Jorge
Jorge is the Puerto Rican variation of George. But we believe that it sounds so much more sophisticated and even more mysterious than George.
21. Ezequiel
Ezequiel is a Hebrew name, meaning ‘God’s strength.’ It brings to mind the image of a 6-foot tall football player.
22. Jose
The meaning of Jose is ‘may God increase’. The name sounds slightly retro, as compared to the other Puerto Rican names. But will never go out of the trend that we can surely say.
23. Osvaldo
Osvaldo is a variation of the name Oswald and cannot decide which form we like more. It’s an old English winsome and manly name, meaning ‘God rule.’
24. Benito
Benito is a smooth sounding Puerto Rican name, which is popular in Spanish and Italian countries as well. The only issue is its association with Mussolini. Ben is the obvious nickname choice for Benito.
25. Raleigh
This name sounds extremely pleasing to the ears, just like a soft breeze. Raleigh has English origins and means ‘from the deer meadow’.
26. Carlos
Here’s a regal pick for your prince. Carlos is Spanish for Charles and means ‘warrior’. This name is reminiscent of baseball players, world leaders and the legendary guitarist, Carlos Santana. Do you want any more namesakes?
27. Diego
The impressive and elegant name Diego got a boost lately from the cartoon character “Go Diego Go”. Diego is a Spanish form of Jacob. Dee would be the best nickname.
28. Eduardo
This Spanish variation sounds much more stylish and sophisticated that its original name Edward. Ed and Eddie would be our nicknames for Eduardo.
29. Enrique
Enrique is the Spanish form of Henry and means ‘rules his household.’ The handsome hunk Enrique Iglesias gave this name a shot of sensuality. Ricky or Rick are top picks as nicknames for Enrique.
30. Leonidas
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Leonidas is a perennially favorite name for the Puerto Rican baby boys. Meaning ‘lion,’ Leonidas sounds much cooler than Leo or Leonardo.
31. Celestino
Here’s a perfect name suiting your child’s angelic personality. Celestino is a Latin name, meaning ‘heavenly.’
32. Humberto
Meaning ‘bright support’, Humberto is a beautiful name that would inspire your child to become a better person.
33. Gualtiero
Do you wish your son to become a leader? Then without a second thought, name him Gualtiero, which means ‘ruler of the army.’
34. Hernan
Peace is what we need to teach the children of this generation. And what better way to take the initiative than by naming him Hernan, which means ‘peace.’
35. Jaime
Jaime is a unisex Puerto Rican name, which will work best as a nickname. It’s a Spanish form of Jacob and means ‘supplanter.’
36. Joaquin
Pronounced as wa-queen, Joaquin has a dark and brooding appeal to it. Joaquin Phoenix made this name popular with the Puerto Rican families. Quin is our pick for its nickname.
37. Moises
Moises is a Spanish variation of Moses. Its most popular bearer is Moises Alous, the great basketball player.
38. Ramon
Ramon is an elegant and popular Puerto Rican baby name, meaning ‘mighty counsel,’ It sounds even more impressive when you roll the ‘R’ in it.
39. Rafael
The name Rafael has an artistic ring to it. It’s a Spanish name, meaning ‘God has healed.’ Do we really need to mention its namesake? We think everyone knows Rafael Nadal, the famous tennis player.
40. Juan
Here’s another popular name of Puerto Rico. This name will suit everyone, right from nobleman King Juan Carlos of Spain to the feisty lover Don Juan.
Puerto Rican Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
1. Ivelisse
The meaning of Ivelisse is ‘life’ and it’s believed to have Spanish origins. There are plenty of nickname options for Ivelisse, like Iva, Eva or Lissie. The most famous bearer of this name is Ivelisse Blanco, who competed for Cuba in 1969 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships.
2. Valeria
Valeria is a form of Valerie. It’s a Latin name, meaning ‘strong.’ The moniker comes from the old Roman name Valerius, used by the early Christian saints. It’s also the name of a female character in William Shakespeare’s play, Coriolanus”.
3. Valentina
This one’s timeless. It’s a Latin name, meaning ‘strong.’ This name has been used in more than one country. So you can say it’s a global name that is currently more popular with the Puerto Ricans.
4. Clarita
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Meaning ‘clear and bright,’ Clarita would make a beautiful choice for your little darling. It’s one of the familiar Puerto Rican baby names, and many Americans have started using it for their baby girls.
5. Acindina
Acindian is a traditional Puerto Rican name, so there are high possibilities that you may not have heard this name before. Being said, Acindina is a very cute name with plenty of nickname options. The meaning of Acindina is ‘safe’.
6. Georgia
Georgia is among the lovely Hispanic girl names and means ‘farmer.’ The name Georgia is quite popular in Puerto Rico, and yes, other parts of the world as well. We think this strong name would make a good pick for people who want to pay their respects to the farmers.
7. Isabel
Isabel is one of the most popular baby names in Puerto Rico. The name was made famous by the Spanish, when they inhabited the region. Bella or Isa would make a cute nickname.
8. Amanda
Amanda was one of the top ten baby names for girls in the year 2009. It means ‘worthy or love.’ Not the most unique name, but sounds beautiful. In fact, it’s one of those names that everyone will love.
9. Abril
Abril is one of our favorite Puerto Rican baby names for girls. It is a twist on April, the name of the 4th month in the calendar. The name is currently sitting pretty in the top 1000 spot.
10. Alondra
Alondra is one of the most used Puerto Rican names for baby girls. It came to the forefront when it appeared on a Spanish television show. Mexican singer Alondra can also be accredited for its popularity. The meaning of Alondra is ‘lark’.
11. Ana
Ana, one of the variations of Hanna, is liked by the Puerto Ricans as much as it is loved by Americans, Spanish, and British. The meaning of Ana is ‘grace’.
12. Constanza
The Puerto Rican version adds a Hispanic flair to the somewhat stoic, Constance and Constantine. The meaning of this name is ‘constant’.
13. Beatriz
Beatriz is an attractive translation of British name Beatrice and is very popular with Puerto Rican parents. But its popularity isn’t just restricted to Puerto Rico. It’s the fourth most popular name in Portugal.
14. Marisol
Here’s another Puerto Rican favorite. The meaning of Marisol is “Mary of Solitude”. It is also associated with Spanish words for sea and sun (mar y sol). The French-born artist Marisol Escobar, noted for its Pop Art figure sculptures is it most popular bearer.
15. Hailey
Hailey is another great name to consider for your daughter. It’s not a typical Puerto Rican, but is very famous there. Hailey has an identity of its own. It is not associated with any country.
Trivia16. Adriana
Adriana is the feminine variation of Adrian, and means ‘man of Adria’. It derives from the name of a northern Italian city, Adria. We love this name for its lovely and soft sound. It was also used by Shakespeare in his play, “The Comedy of Errors”.
17. Camila
The Spanish name Camila is the fastest rising version often-royal name Camilla. The name is inspired by the Camilla in the Roman mythology. Camilla was the fast-footed huntress who could run over a field without bending even a blade of grass.
18. Antonella
Antonella is the Italian version of the exotic name Antonia. This name is heard widely in Russia, Poland and of course, Puerto Rican. The meaning of Anotella is ‘firstborn’.
19. Alanis
Alanis is a beautiful, one-person name. You can consider this Puerto Rican name as an update of Alana. Singer Alanis Morsette made this name highly popular with the masses. Alanis would make a nice pick for your daughter, considering that the s-ending names are making a comeback.
20. Teofila
Teofila is the epitome of a good name. It means ‘god’s friends’. Now that’s a pretty name, with an even prettier meaning.
21. Alma
Alma is not a very popular retro name, primarily because of the image reinforced by Michelle William’s character in the movie “Brokeback Mountain”. So it will make a unique pick for your child.
22. Tequila
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We don’t want your child to be a laughing stock in school, but you cannot even deny that it sounds lovely. So use this name as a nickname. Did you know that Tequila is Mexico’s national drink?
23. Albina
This name would make a great name for a platinum-blonde baby name. It’s a Spanish name, and means ‘white’.
24. Alejandra
If you don’t want the common name Alexandra, but still like the nickname Ally, this Spanish variation would make a smart choice. The meaning of Alejandra is ‘defender of mankind’.
25. Linda
This pretty name may refer to Linden, an ornamental tree used for medicinal purposes. It’s one of the classic Puerto Rican baby names. Lindy would make a great name for Linda.
26. Xiomara
In the current scenario, girls today have to be fighters. They face plenty of battles in their lives, and they must try to win all. So name your daughter Xiomara, which means ‘famous warrior’.
27. Tonia
Tonia would make a lovely nickname for your darling girl. It means ‘invaluable’, which your child is to you. Apart from its lovely meaning, the name sounds pleasing too! Use it as a nickname for Antonia.
28. Asuncion
The name Asuncion has a Puerto Rican charm to it. And it’s uncommon too, so would make your daughter stand out from the crowd. The meaning of Asuncion is ‘ascension’.
29. Carleigha
Carleigha may means ‘little’, but its appeal is not. This pleasant and clean name has a Puerto Rican elan to it.
30. Brandeye
Here’s another alcohol inspired baby name for you. Brandeye is a Dutch name, meaning ‘distilled wine’. And it’s definitely more alluring than Brandy. Use it as a nickname for your daughter if you want to be on the safe side.
31. Emilia
Why name your darling Emily when you have the option of going for this elegant, Shakespearean variation? The meaning of this eternal Latin name is ‘industrious’.
32. Genevalisse
If you want your daughter’s name to be fancy and elaborate, you can use Genevalisse for her. It’s a French name, meaning ‘juniper tree’. And it’s one of those few French names popular in Puerto Rico. Gini would make the best diminutive for Genevalisse.
33. Brissa
Brissa is the best Puerto Rican nickname we could come up for Brianna and other Bri- beginning names. This stylish name is popular with celebs as well.
34. Annalisse
Annalisse is a classic, sultry and appealing Puerto Rican name. Pronounce this moniker as ‘anna-lee-see’ to add a romantic touch to it.
35. Carmen
The baby with this name is destined to be dramatic, bold and romantic, just like the opera character it is inspired from. The meaning of this Latin name is ‘son’. Carman or Carma, its variations can also be considered.
36. Casandra
Casandra sounds slightly more contemporary than Sandra. It was the name of the tragic Trojan princess whom Apollo gave the gift of prophecy, but condemned never to be believed. The meaning of this lovely name is ‘prophetesses.
37. Dayanara
Dayanara is a Greek name, meaning ‘husband-slayer’. There’s absolutely no denying that it’s a unique moniker, but its literal meaning might be a bit turn off for some parents.
38. Karelma
Karelma comes from an Old German word, meaning ‘free’. It has a feisty and exotic allure to it. It was one of the most glamorous Puerto Rican baby names in the last decade.
39. Maritza
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Maritza is a Latin name, meaning ‘star of the sea’. A beautiful name with an equally beautiful meaning. It sounds perfect for ballerina.
40. Yara
One of the most exotic baby names in the list. Yara is a Brazilian name, meaning ‘water lady’. Use it as a nickname for your daughter, if you think Yara is too tiny for a given name.
41. Luisa
is the feminine variation of Luis and means ‘fame’. If you are expecting twins, you can use Luis for baby boy and Luisa for baby girls. Isn’t that cute?
We hope our list helps you narrow down your list. Which ones did you like the most? Share your choice with us by commenting 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 do I ensure that the Puerto Rican baby name I choose is appropriate and respectful to the culture and traditions of Puerto Rico?
By learning about Puerto Rican culture, researching the meaning and origin of the name, using the correct spelling and pronunciation, and avoiding names associated with negative connotations, one can ensure that the name they are choosing is not disrespectful to the culture of Puerto Rico.
2. What are the best Puerto Rican baby name books?
Baby Names from Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican Baby Names: Names from Puerto Rico for Girls and Boys are common books that one can refer to while searching for Puerto Rican baby names.
3. How is the naming tradition different in Puerto Rico compared to other countries?
The Puerto Rican naming traditions often involve individuals having two last names, the first being the father’s surname and the second being the mother’s surname. This naming practice helps the individuals maintain the connection to their paternal and maternal lineages (1).
4. What are the cultural influences on Puerto Rican baby names?
Puerto Rican baby names draw cultural influence from Spanish, Indigenous Taíno, African, and Caribbean elements, among several others. However, Puerto Rican baby names are diverse and may vary from one family to another. Some names may reflect a combination of multiple cultures, while others may be more firmly rooted in a specific cultural tradition.
Puerto Rican baby names mean a lot to some parents, especially if they come from a character they have adored for a long time. Most of these names sound musical and are pleasant. They have beautiful meanings and are easy to pronounce. So the list above holds many suggestions originating from this fascinating Caribbean island. Thus, it is an excellent source of information to begin your research and find the most suitable name for your child. Choose a name that will add to the child’s personality as names say a lot about the child, family, and overall background. And a name that complements their personality would be a boon for the child.
Infographic: Sweet Baby Names From Puerto Rico
A little far away from the heavy city rush, Puerto Rico is a Hispanic-speaking island known for its culture and colorful people. So, if you’re looking for unique names for your baby, Puerto Rican names would fit your description. Let’s look at the infographic below for such names with their beautiful meanings.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Interesting Puerto Rican Baby Names With Meanings
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Embark on a delightful journey through Spanish baby names in this enchanting video, showcasing 80 stunning options for girls and boys. Discover modern, unique, and popular nombres de bebé for 2021.
References
- Introduction to Puerto Rico Genealogy: Language Help.
https://libguides.nypl.org/puertoricogenealogy/names
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