Illustration: MomJunction Design Team
When selecting a baby name, returning to the basics is always wise. The Aztecs might have died long ago, but they are alive with us in several ways, including being a rich source of unique Aztec baby names for your child. These names beautifully reflect the cultural essence and vibrant heritage of the Aztecs. Aztec people were ethnic groups found in Northern Mexico in the 16th century. They are believed to have originated from Aztlan, a mythological place for the Nahuatl speakers. The term Aztecs also referred to the people of Tenochtitlan, which is now Mexico City. It was in Tenochtitlan; the Aztec Triple Alliance was built upon raised islets in Texcoco Lake. This was the first instance of artificial islands. The capital flourished soon and was soon inhabited by over 200,000 inhabitants. The inhabitants were divided into several strata, like nobles, rules, commoners, and enslaved people. The Aztec people had complex and rich mythological and religious traditions. Much of their history and culture can be known through the archaeological evidence found in the excavations of the Templo Mayor in Mexico. Just like the culture and tradition, even the Aztec names carry a rich history. Aztec naming culture usually consists of two elements- a calendar name taken from the baby's birth date and a personal name followed by a surname. Their close association with nature can be seen reflected in their names. Boys usually have names inspired by animals, places, and personal qualities, such as Tochtli, meaning rabbit, and Itzcoatl meaning obsidian serpent. While girl names usually reflect inspiration from flowers and other feminine elements. For instance, Atzi is a feminine name meaning rain, and Miyaoaxochitl means Maize tassel flower. The post below has compiled a list of distinctive Aztec baby names with meanings. So, whether looking for a unique yet meaningful or a name with rich historical association, Aztec baby names are worth exploring.
| Name | Gender | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|---|
 Xochicotzin |  |  Girl | Fire serpent |
| Xochil | | Girl | Flower |
| Xochilt | | Girl | A variant of Xochil; Flower. |
| Xochipilli | |  Boy | Flower prince |
| Xochiquetzal | | Girl | Most beautiful flower |
| Xochitl | | Boy | Flower |
| Xochiyotl | | Girl | Heart of a gentle flower |
| Xoco | | Girl | Youngest sister |
| Xocotzin | | Girl | Youngest daughter |
| Xocoyotl | | Girl | Youngest child |
| Xolo | |  Unisex | God's dog |
| Xolotl | | Boy | Precious twin |
| Yaotel | | Boy | Rival |
| Yaotl | | Unisex | Combatant; Soldier; Warrior; Defender; Fighter; Rival |
| Yaotyl | | Boy | A spelling variant of Yaotel; Rival |
| Yaretzi | | Girl | You will always be loved |
| Yolihuani | | Girl | Source of life |
| Yolotli | | Boy | Heart |
| Yoloxochitl | | Girl | Flower of the heart |
| Yolyamanitzin | | Boy | He who is considerate and just |
| Zeltzin | | Girl | Delicate |
| Zipactonal | | Boy | Harmonic light |
| Zolin | | Boy | Aztec word for quail |
| Zuma | | Boy | Lord frowns in anger |
| Zyanya | | Girl | Forever; Always |
Our hand-picked collection of Aztec baby names with meanings includes several options to help you choose a unique, beautiful, and meaningful name for your baby. So, whether you're interested in names with historical backgrounds or admire the rich culture and traditions of this Mesoamerican culture, giving your baby an Aztec name will indeed reflect your passion and interest. So, explore and browse this carefully crafted list of baby names with your partner to find the perfect name for your cherished child.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Aztec names mean heart?
Some Aztec names that are associated with the meaning ‘heart’ include names such as Xochiyotl, meaning ‘heart of a gentle flower,’ Yoloxochitl meaning ‘heart flower,’ Tepēyōllōtl meaning ‘heart of the mountains,’ and Yolotli or Yollotl meaning ‘heart’ or ‘life.’
2. Are there any traditional Aztec naming ceremonies for babies?
According to ancient Aztec texts, on the fourth day after the baby is born, a ceremony is held before dawn, attended by the parents and kin of the infant. It involves the child’s exposure to water and sunlight, summoning the power of these elements to protect the child and shape their future. Once the ceremony is completed, the baby is assigned a name depending on the day and time of birth (1).
3. What are some common themes in Aztec baby names?
Aztec babies sometimes have two names. One is called a calendar name and taken from the day of their birth, and the second is a personal name. Cultural and religious concepts usually inspire this personal name, along with behavioral attributes and natural elements highly valued by the Aztecs, such as animals and the elements.
Infographic: Baby Names Of Aztec Origin And Their Meanings
If you love history-inspired titles, giving your baby an Aztec-inspired name could be a perfect naming choice for you. This Mesoamerican culture can provide you with several unique names with significant meanings. So, dive into this list of Aztec baby names given in the infographic below and pick your favorite title for your little one.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Birth Rituals in the Codex Mendoza;
https://worldhistorycommons.org/birth-rituals-codex-mendoza
