350 Best Spanish Boy Names with Meanings: Heritage List

Naming a son is terrifying. I remember standing in the fluorescent-lit hospital hallway, holding a tiny, wrapped bundle that looked suspiciously like a burrito, realizing I had to pick the single word that would define him for the rest of his life. No pressure, right? If you’re reading this, you’re likely in the same boat. You’re probably scrolling through endless pages at 3 AM, eyes burning, looking for that spark. You want something that honors your roots, sounds good on a playground, and looks respectable on a business card twenty years from now. You are looking for the Best Spanish Boy Names with Meanings, and you need a list that goes deeper than the top ten chart-toppers.

We aren’t just picking labels here; we are picking identity. Whether you are fully fluent, third-generation Latino, or just love the lyrical flow of the language, Spanish names carry a weight and warmth that is hard to beat. They roll off the tongue. They command a room.

Also Read: Best Boy Names That Start with K and Best American Last Names with Meanings

Key Takeaways

• Heritage Matters: A name is a bridge. It connects a newborn to ancestors he’ll never meet but whose blood he carries.
• The Starbucks Test: The best names work effortlessly in both English and Spanish. You want a name that doesn’t require a spelling tutorial every time he orders a coffee.
• Meaning Over Trend: Trends fade like fast fashion. A name like “Valiente” (Brave) or “Amado” (Loved) carries weight forever.
• Finding Balance: You can hit that sweet spot between a traditional biblical heavyweight and a modern, nature-inspired choice.

Why does picking the right name feel so heavy?

I went through this battle with my wife a few years ago. We wanted a name that screamed “heritage” but didn’t require a ten-minute pronunciation guide for every new teacher. I loved “Ignacio.” It’s strong, classic, and “Nacho” is arguably the coolest nickname in existence. My wife looked at me like I had sprouted a second head. “We are not naming our son Nacho,” she said. End of discussion.

That’s the real struggle. You want the history, but you live in the modern world. A name is the first gift you give your son. It’s the sound he will hear when you call him for dinner, the signature he will scrawl on his first mortgage, and the legacy he leaves behind when he’s gone.

When we look at the Best Spanish Boy Names with Meanings, we are hunting for strength. Spanish culture values family, honor, and passion. The name needs to reflect that. It needs a heartbeat. It needs to stand up straight.

What are the timeless classics that never fade?

Some names are bulletproof. They withstand centuries, cross oceans, and somehow still sound fresh in 2025. These are the heavy hitters. If you want a name that commands respect instantly, you start here.

1. Mateo Meaning: Gift of God Mateo has exploded recently. It’s everywhere. And for good reason—it’s the Spanish form of Matthew, but with twice the style. It’s soft yet masculine, and it works in every language without modification.

2. Santiago Meaning: Saint James This is the ultimate heritage name. It’s the patron saint of Spain. It has a rhythmic bounce to it that English names just can’t match. Plus, calling your kid “Santi” is incredibly charming.

3. Alejandro Meaning: Defender of mankind You can’t say this name without standing a little taller. It flows. It has history. It’s the Spanish version of Alexander, but let’s be honest, Alejandro sounds way cooler. It has a rhythm to it—A-le-jan-dro.

4. Gabriel Meaning: God is my strength Biblical, solid, and gentle. Gabriel is a known entity in English and Spanish, making it a perfect bilingual bridge. It’s a name for a poet or a linebacker.

5. Daniel Meaning: God is my judge Simple. Classic. Unpretentious. Daniel works for a doctor, a mechanic, or an artist. It never goes out of style because it never tries too hard.

6. Leonardo Meaning: Brave lion Leo is a fantastic nickname, but the full “Leonardo” brings an artistic, Renaissance flair to the table. It feels cultured.

7. Carlos Meaning: Free man A royal name. Kings of Spain have borne this name. It’s short, punchy, and universally recognized. Everyone knows a Carlos, and usually, he’s a good guy.

8. Manuel Meaning: God is with us Often shortened to “Manny,” this name carries a deep spiritual weight while remaining approachable. It’s the name of a man who works hard and loves his family.

9. Javier Meaning: New house or bright The “X” or “J” start gives it a bit of an edge. It feels distinctly Spanish without being difficult to pronounce for non-speakers.

10. Antonio Meaning: Priceless one There is a reason this name persists. It’s strong and romantic. Tony is the classic American nickname, but Tonio works too. It feels like a hug from a grandmother.

How do family traditions shape our choices?

I have to tell you about my Abuelo, Rafael. He was a man who could fix anything with a piece of wire and a grumble. He smelled like tobacco and sawdust. When he passed, the void in the family felt massive, like a wall had been removed from the house. My cousin just had a baby boy and named him “Rafa.” The first time I heard them call the baby Rafa, it felt like my grandfather was still in the room.

That is the power of naming conventions in our culture. We don’t just pick sounds we like; we pick ghosts we want to honor. We pick the traits of men we admired and hope they transfer to the baby.

11. Rafael Meaning: God has healed A beautiful name for a rainbow baby or a child born after a difficult time. It signals recovery and hope.

12. Miguel Meaning: Who is like God? The Spanish Michael. It’s a warrior’s name, associated with the Archangel. It’s a protector’s name.

13. José Meaning: God will increase You cannot have a list of Spanish names without José. It is the bedrock of Hispanic naming conventions, often combined (José Luis, José Miguel). It’s the denim of names—goes with everything.

14. Francisco Meaning: Free man / From France Paco or Pancho are the nicknames here. It’s a name with a lot of warmth and history (think Pope Francis). It feels kind.

15. Pedro Meaning: Rock Solid. Unmovable. Pedro is a name for a boy you hope grows up to be a dependable man. He’s the guy you call when your car breaks down.

16. Eduardo Meaning: Wealthy guardian Eddie is an easy nickname, but Eduardo has a sophistication that Edward lacks. It sounds educated.

17. Luis Meaning: Renowned warrior Short, sharp, and strong. It pairs well with almost any middle name. It’s the ultimate connector name.

18. Fernando Meaning: Adventurous, bold voyager This name just sounds like an adventure. It’s lyrical and full of energy. ABBA wrote a song about it for a reason—it catches the ear.

19. Ricardo Meaning: Powerful leader Ricky is the go-to short form, but Ricardo commands authority. It demands to be taken seriously.

20. Jorge Meaning: Farmer, earth-worker The Spanish George. The “Hor-hay” pronunciation is distinctive and proud. It connects to the land.

Are you looking for names that mean ‘Warrior’ or ‘Strength’?

Let’s face it, we want our sons to be tough. Not just physically, but mentally. We want them to have grit. The world is soft, but life is hard. Giving them a name that literally means “strength” is like giving them a little psychological armor before they face the world.

21. Valiente Meaning: Brave It’s bold to use it as a first name, but it’s becoming more common. It sets a high bar.

22. Guerrero Meaning: Warrior Usually a surname, but I’ve seen it used as a first name recently. It is undeniably tough. No one messes with a kid named Guerrero.

23. Alvaro Meaning: Guardian of all This is a personal favorite. It’s underused in the States but wildly popular in Spain. It sounds sophisticated, like a diplomat or a general.

24. Bernardo Meaning: Strong as a bear If you want a nature connection that isn’t flowery, this is it. It’s robust.

25. César Meaning: Head of hair / Emperor Associated with leadership and power. It’s a boss name.

26. Nicolás Meaning: Victory of the people Nico is a fantastic, snappy nickname that works well on a kid and an adult. It’s agile.

27. Victor Meaning: Conqueror It says exactly what it means. It’s a winner’s name. Simple, two syllables, victory.

28. Rodrigo Meaning: Famous ruler A name with a hard “R” sound that implies backbone and resilience. It sounds like the name of a king in a fantasy novel.

29. Esteban Meaning: Crown, garland The Spanish Stephen. It sounds much more distinguished than the English version.

30. Martin Meaning: Of Mars (War) Simple, bilingual, and rooted in strength. It’s quiet strength, though. Not flashy.

Can biblical names sound modern in 2025?

Religion plays a massive role in Hispanic culture, but you don’t want a name that sounds dusty. You don’t want your kid sounding like he was born in 1850. You want something that honors the faith but fits in a modern classroom.

31. Elías Meaning: The Lord is my God This name is on fire right now. It sounds sleek and vowel-heavy, which is very trendy.

32. Isaías Meaning: God is salvation The Spanish version of Isaiah. That extra “s” sound at the end gives it a nice finish. It rolls better.

33. Matías Meaning: Gift of God A variation of Mateo. It feels a little more unique, a little less common. It’s the hipster cousin of Mateo.

34. Joaquín Meaning: God will establish Fun to say, distinct, and historically significant. It has a bit of a rasp to it.

35. Aarón Meaning: Mountain of strength The accent mark adds a specific emphasis that makes it pop. It’s strong and reliable.

36. Caleb Meaning: Whole-hearted, faithful While used in English, the Spanish pronunciation (Kah-leb) is sharp. It sounds more defined.

37. Isaac Meaning: Laughter A happy name for a happy baby. It’s hard to say Isaac without smiling.

38. Lucas Meaning: Light-giving Incredibly popular across Latin America and Europe. It’s short and bright.

39. Simón Meaning: He has heard A classic that is currently underused. It’s ready for a comeback. It feels intellectual.

40. Tomás Meaning: Twin Simple, effective, and recognized everywhere. It’s a doubting name, a thinking name.

Which nature-inspired names are gaining traction?

We are seeing a huge shift away from titles and towards the earth. Parents want names that feel grounded. I have a buddy who is an avid hiker; he named his son “Rio.” At first, I thought, “Like the casino?” But then I saw the kid. He’s wild, energetic, and never stops moving. The name fits perfectly.

41. Río Meaning: River Short, punchy, and full of life. It’s modern without trying too hard.

42. Sol Meaning: Sun Technically unisex, but very strong for a boy. It radiates heat.

43. Monte Meaning: Mountain Solid and unmovable. A name for a big kid.

44. Lobo Meaning: Wolf For the parents who want something fierce. It’s a bit out there, but very cool.

45. Mar Meaning: Sea Usually part of a compound name, but works alone for a middle name. It’s calm.

46. Cielo Meaning: Sky / Heaven Evocative and spiritual. It lifts the eyes up.

47. Campo Meaning: Field Earthy and rustic. It smells like fresh grass.

48. Jacinto Meaning: Hyacinth A flower name, but masculine. It’s old-school cool.

49. Silvestre Meaning: Wild, from the forest Classic but has a rugged feel. It’s untamed.

50. Bosco Meaning: Forest Trendy, hipster vibe. It feels very European.

How do you handle the bilingual pronunciation test?

This is the “Starbucks Test.” If the barista can spell it, your kid is going to have an easier time in life. My cousin named his son “Guillermo.” Beautiful name. Regal. But in the US, he gets “Gwill-ermo” constantly. He ended up going by “Memo” just to save everyone the embarrassment.

If you want to avoid that headache, you look for “crossover names.” These are the chameleons.

51. Adrian Meaning: From Hadria Identical in English and Spanish. Zero confusion. It just works.

52. Julian Meaning: Youthful Soft, intelligent, and completely bilingual. It sounds smart.

53. Oscar Meaning: Champion warrior Works perfectly in both languages. It’s a bit gruff, but lovable.

54. Sebastian Meaning: Venerable A bit long, but easily understood. It has great nicknames like Seb or Bash.

55. Samuel Meaning: Told by God Sam is the universal passport. You can go anywhere with this name.

56. David Meaning: Beloved Pronounced “Dah-veed” in Spanish, but spelled the same. It’s timeless.

57. Leo Meaning: Lion Short names are winning right now because they don’t get butchered. Leo is king of the jungle.

58. Max Meaning: Greatest Short for Maximiliano, but great on its own. Punchy.

59. Bruno Meaning: Brown Has a European flair that works in the US. It’s strong and compact.

60. Hugo Meaning: Intellect Sophisticated and easy to spell. It feels very high-fashion.

What are the trendy “New Wave” Spanish names?

These aren’t your Abuelo’s names. These are the names dominating Instagram and kindergarten rosters right now. They are influenced by soccer stars, singers, and the general vibe of the 2020s.

61. Thiago Meaning: Supplanter A derivative of Santiago, but stands on its own. Huge in soccer culture thanks to Messi’s son.

62. Gael Meaning: Celt Short, airy, and incredibly popular. It sounds modern and light.

63. Enzo Meaning: Estate ruler Technically Italian origin but widely adopted in Spanish-speaking countries. It’s fast.

64. Dylan Meaning: Son of the sea Yes, it’s Welsh, but look at the charts in Mexico and Spain. It’s massive. Latin America loves this name.

65. Ian Meaning: God is gracious Short and sweet. Two vowels and a consonant.

66. Izan Meaning: Ethan The Spanish adaptation of Ethan. It looks cool written down.

67. Axel Meaning: Father of peace Rockstar vibes. It sounds edgy.

68. Iker Meaning: Visitation Basque origin, made famous by soccer player Iker Casillas. It’s distinct.

69. Dante Meaning: Enduring Literary and cool. It has a bit of darkness to it.

70. Cruz Meaning: Cross Became trendy thanks to the Beckhams, but it’s deeply Spanish. It’s a verb and a noun.

Why consider surnames as first names?

This is a massive trend in the US, and it’s crossing over into Spanish names. It sounds distinguished, like a law firm on a birth certificate. It sounds expensive.

71. Cortez Meaning: Courteous Sounds sharp. Like a conqueror.

72. Santos Meaning: Saints Very popular as a first name now. It’s holy but tough.

73. Franco Meaning: Free one Short and strong. It has a vintage feel.

74. Reyes Meaning: Kings Regal and bold. It implies royalty.

75. Salvador Meaning: Savior Sal is a great nickname. It’s a big name to live up to.

76. Santana Meaning: Saint Anne Musical associations make this cool. It rocks.

77. Duran Meaning: Enduring Unique and rhythmic. Sounds like a boxer.

78. Ponce Meaning: Fifth Rare, but historical.

79. Velasco Meaning: Crow Very distinct. You won’t find another one in his class.

80. Zapata Meaning: Shoe maker Revolutionary vibes. It screams rebellion.

The Massive List: 270 More Spanish Boy Names

We promised you a heritage list. Here is the deep dive. These cover everything from the Visigoth origins to modern adaptations. Scan this list. Say them out loud. See which one feels right in your mouth. Don’t rush this part.

A

81. Abel – Breath (Biblical)
82. Abraham – Father of many
83. Abram – High father
84. Adalberto – Noble and bright
85. Adán – Earth / Man
86. Adolfo – Noble wolf
87. Agustín – The exalted one
88. Alano – Handsome
89. Alberto – Noble and bright
90. Aldo – Old and wise
91. Alejo – Defender
92. Alfredo – Elf counsel
93. Alonso – Noble and ready
94. Amado – Loved
95. Amador – Lover of art/life
96. Amadeo – Lover of God
97. Ambrosio – Immortal
98. Andrés – Manly (Spanish Andrew)
99. Ángel – Messenger
100. Aníbal – Grace of Baal
101. Anselmo – God’s protection
102. Apolo – Manly beauty
103. Aquiles – Pain (Mythological warrior)
104. Archibaldo – Truly brave
105. Armando – Soldier
106. Arnaldo – Eagle power
107. Arturo – Bear man (King Arthur)
108. Atilio – Father figure
109. Augusto – Great, magnificent
110. Aureliano – Golden
111. Aurelio – Golden

B

112. Baldomero – Bold and famous
113. Baltasar – God protects the King
114. Barack – Lightning (adopted usage)
115. Bartolo – Son of the farmer
116. Bartolomé – Son of Talmai
117. Basilio – Royal
118. Bautista – Baptist
119. Beltrán – Bright raven
120. Benicio – Benevolent one
121. Benito – Blessed
122. Benjamín – Son of the right hand
123. Bernabé – Son of consolation
124. Bernal – Strong as a bear
125. Berto – Bright
126. Blas – Stutterer (Saint name)
127. Bonifacio – Good fate
128. Boris – Battle / Fighter (Adopted)
129. Braulio – Shining

C

130. Caín – Spear
131. Camilo – Young ceremonial attendant
132. Candelario – Candle
133. Cándido – Pure, white
134. Carmelo – Garden/Orchard
135. Casimiro – Peacemaker
136. Castiel – Shield of God
137. Cayetano – From Gaeta
138. Ceferino – West wind
139. Celestino – Heavenly
140. Celso – High, lofty
141. Cesar – Hairy
142. Che – Buddy/Friend (Nickname used as name)
143. Cipriano – From Cyprus
144. Ciro – Sun / Throne
145. Claudio – Lame (Roman Emperor origin)
146. Clemente – Merciful
147. Clodoveo – Famous warrior
148. Conrado – Bold counsel
149. Constantino – Constant
150. Cornelio – Horn
151. Cosme – Order, beauty
152. Cristián – Follower of Christ
153. Cristóbal – Bearer of Christ
154. Cuauhtémoc – Descending eagle (Aztec/Mexican heritage)
155. Curro – Free (Nickname for Francisco)

D

156. Damián – Tamer
157. Danilo – God is my judge
158. Darío – Possessing goodness
159. Demetrio – Earth lover
160. Desiderio – Desired
161. Diego – Supplanter (Teaching)
162. Dionisio – God of wine
163. Domingo – Born on Sunday
164. Donato – Given by God
165. Doroteo – Gift of God

E

166. Edmundo – Wealthy protector
167. Efraín – Fruitful
168. Eladio – Greek
169. Eleazar – God helps
170. Eliseo – God is my salvation
171. Eloy – Chosen
172. Elrey – The King
173. Emanuel – God is with us
174. Emilio – Rival
175. Emiliano – Work
176. Eneas – Praised one
177. Enrique – Home ruler
178. Erasmo – Beloved
179. Eric – Eternal ruler
180. Ernesto – Serious / Battle to the death
181. Esaú – Hairy
182. Estéfano – Crown
183. Eugenio – Well-born
184. Eusebio – Pious
185. Evaristo – Well-pleasing
186. Ezequiel – God strengthens

F

187. Fabián – Bean grower
188. Fabio – Bean grower
189. Fausto – Lucky
190. Federico – Peaceful ruler
191. Feliciano – Happy
192. Felipe – Lover of horses
193. Félix – Lucky / Successful
194. Fermín – Strong
195. Fernán – Ardent for peace
196. Fidel – Faithful
197. Flavio – Blond
198. Florencio – Blossoming
199. Florentino – Flowering
200. Fortunato – Fortunate
201. Froilán – Lord

G

202. Gabino – Of Gabium
203. Galeno – Calm / Healer
204. Galileo – From Galilee
205. Gaspar – Treasurer
206. Gastón – Guest / Stranger
207. Genaro – January
208. Gerardo – Spear strength
209. Germán – Warrior / Brother
210. Gerónimo – Sacred name
211. Gilberto – Bright pledge
212. Giraldo – Spear ruler
213. Godofredo – God’s peace
214. Gonzalo – Safe from harm / Battle
215. Gregorio – Watchful
216. Guido – Guide
217. Guillermo – Resolute protector
218. Gustavo – Staff of the Goths

H

219. Héctor – Holding fast
220. Helio – Sun
221. Heriberto – Bright army
222. Herminio – Army man
223. Hernán – Adventurous
224. Hilario – Cheerful
225. Hipólito – Freer of horses
226. Horacio – Timekeeper
227. Humberto – Bright warrior

I

228. Ignacio – Fire born
229. Ildefonso – Battle ready
230. Inigo – My little one / Fiery
231. Isandro – Liberator of man
232. Isidoro – Gift of Isis
233. Isidro – Gift of Isis
234. Iván – God is gracious

J

235. Jacinto – Hyacinth
236. Jacob – Supplanter
237. Jacobo – Supplanter
238. Jaime – Supplanter
239. Jairo – He shines
240. Javier – Bright / New house
241. Jenaro – January
242. Jeremías – God will uplift
243. Jerónimo – Sacred name
244. Jesús – God saves
245. Jonás – Dove
246. Jordán – To flow down
247. Josué – God is salvation
248. Juan – God is gracious
249. Julián – Youthful
250. Julio – Youthful / Downy-bearded
251. Justino – Just
252. Justo – Just

L

253. Lamberto – Bright land
254. Lázaro – God has helped
255. Leandro – Lion man
256. León – Lion
257. Leonel – Young lion
258. Leopoldo – Bold people
259. Lisandro – Liberator
260. Lope – Wolf
261. Lorenzo – From Laurentium
262. Luciano – Light
263. Lucio – Light
264. Luis – Renowned warrior

M

265. Macario – Blessed
266. Manolo – God is with us
267. Marcelino – Young warrior
268. Marcelo – Young warrior
269. Marco – Warlike
270. Marcos – Warlike
271. Mariano – Related to Mars / Mary
272. Mario – Mars / Man
273. Marlon – Little hawk (Adopted)
274. Martín – Warrior of Mars
275. Mateo – Gift of God
276. Mauricio – Dark-skinned / Moor
277. Mauro – Dark-skinned
278. Maximiano – Greatest
279. Maximiliano – Greatest
280. Melchor – King of light
281. Melquiades – My king is God
282. Moisés – Drawn from water

N

283. Narciso – Daffodil
284. Natalio – Birthday
285. Natanael – God has given
286. Navarro – Plains
287. Néstor – Traveler / Returner
288. Nicanor – Victorious army
289. Nicolás – Victory of the people
290. Noé – Rest / Comfort
291. Norberto – Northern brightness

O

292. Octavio – Eighth
293. Odón – Possessor of wealth
294. Oliverio – Olive tree
295. Omar – Flourishing
296. Orlando – Famous land
297. Osvaldo – Divine power
298. Ovidio – Sheep herder

P

299. Pablo – Small / Humble
300. Pascual – Born on Easter
301. Patricio – Nobleman
302. Paz – Peace
303. Pepe – God will increase (Nickname for Jose)
304. Plácido – Placid / Calm
305. Platón – Broad-shouldered
306. Porfirio – Purple-clad
307. Primitivo – First formed
308. Próspero – Prosperous

Q

309. Quico – Free (Nickname)
310. Quinto – Fifth
311. Quirino – Spear

R

312. Raimundo – Wise protector
313. Ramiro – Supreme judge / Great counselor
314. Ramón – Wise protector
315. Raúl – Wolf counsel
316. Raymundo – Wise protector
317. Renato – Reborn
318. René – Reborn
319. Rey – King
320. Reynaldo – King’s advisor
321. Rico – Brave ruler
322. Rigoberto – Wealthy / Bright
323. Roberto – Bright fame
324. Rodolfo – Famous wolf
325. Rogaciano – To ask
326. Rogelio – Famous spearman
327. Rolando – Famous land
328. Román – Citizen of Rome
329. Romeo – Pilgrim to Rome
330. Ronaldo – Rules with counsel
331. Roque – Rest
332. Rosario – Rosary
333. Rubén – Behold, a son
334. Rufino – Red-haired
335. Ruperto – Bright fame

S

336. Salomón – Peace
337. Salvador – Savior
338. Sancho – Holy saint
339. Sandro – Defender of man
340. Santiago – St. James
341. Santos – Saints
342. Saturnino – Sowing
343. Saúl – Prayed for
344. Sergio – Servant / Attendant
345. Severo – Stern
346. Silvio – Wood / Forest
347. Stefano – Crown

T

348. Tadeo – Heart
349. Teo – God
350. Teodoro – Gift of God
351. Teófilo – Loved by God
352. Tito – Title of honor
353. Tobías – God is good
354. Tristán – Sad / Tumult

How do you make the final decision?

At the end of the day, you have to ignore the lists. Ignore the mother-in-law who hates the name. Ignore the trends that say everything needs to end in “-aden.” You have to look at that list of Best Spanish Boy Names with Meanings and see what punches you in the gut.

I remember staring at my son for three hours before we signed the birth certificate. We had a “shortlist” of three names written on a napkin. But in that quiet, beeping hospital room, only one fit the person I was looking at. Trust that instinct. The heritage is in the blood, but the name is the future you are writing for him.

For more hard data on what other parents are doing (so you can avoid them), checking the official Social Security Administration data is a solid move.

Whatever you choose, make sure you can tell him the story of it later. Tell him about the grandfather he was named after, or the saint who protects him, or just that you liked the way it sounded when you whispered it. That story matters more than the letters.

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