500 Best Mexican Boy Names with Historical Significance

I still remember the heat of that afternoon. I was sitting on the chipped wooden steps of my grandfather’s porch in Jalisco, watching dust devils dance across the agave fields. I was nervous. My first son was due in a month, and the weight of naming him felt heavier than the humid air. My Abuelo, a man whose hands looked like gnarled oak roots, leaned in. He didn’t offer a suggestion. Instead, he told me, “Mijo, a name isn’t just a sound you make to call him for dinner. It’s his map. Give him a name that tells him where he started, so he never forgets where he’s going.”

That stuck with me.

In our culture, names act as anchors. They tie us to the volcanic earth of our ancestors, to the gunpowder smoke of the revolution, and to the quiet altars where our grandmothers prayed. Finding the best Mexican boy names isn’t about chasing trends or sounding cool. It’s about legacy. You are looking for a story. Whether you want the imperial thunder of an Aztec king, the grit of a revolutionary general, or the soul of a poet, you want a name that means something.

I’ve been exactly where you are. You want something strong but not aggressive. Traditional but adaptable. You need a name that works in a boardroom in Mexico City just as well as it does on a playground in Chicago. Consider this guide my personal gift to you. We are going to look at 500 names that carry the real heartbeat of Mexico.

Also Read: Names Inspired by Famous Female Scientists and Names for Boys Born in Winter

Key Takeaways

• Roots Run Deep: Mexican names are a collision of worlds—Indigenous (Nahuatl, Maya) and Spanish colonial.
• The Power of Meaning: Etymology drives popularity. Names meaning “Warrior” or “Gift of God” never go out of style.
• Revolutionary Spirit: Names like Emiliano and Francisco aren’t just vintage; they are tributes to the heroes of 1910.
• Old is New: Ancient names like Ikal or Tenoch are storming back into fashion, blending history with modern edge.
• Geography Matters: What’s popular in the norte often sounds different from the names you hear in the Yucatán.

Why Do We Keep Looking Back?

Think about it for a second. Why do some names survive for centuries while others disappear in a decade? It comes down to the weight they carry. When you name a child, you are placing a bet on who they will become. We don’t look to history to live in the past. We look back to borrow strength.

Mexico’s history is violent and beautiful. It’s a collision. First, you have the Indigenous era, full of cosmic power and nature. Then came the Colonial period, bringing the heavy, noble names of saints and kings. Finally, the Revolutionary era turned names into symbols of resistance.

Choosing a historically significant name is an act of defiance. It ensures that names like Cuauhtémoc or Zapata don’t just gather dust in a history book. They live on in the laughter of the next generation. It’s a way of saying, “We are still here.”

Who Were the True Kings? (Aztec & Mayan Roots)

Long before Spanish galleons appeared on the horizon, this land belonged to astronomers and warrior-poets. Indigenous names are having a massive moment right now. Parents are stripping away old stigmas and wearing these names like armor. They connect a boy directly to the earth.

1. Tenoch This name hits hard. It translates to “stone cactus fruit” in Nahuatl, but forget the literal meaning for a second. Tenoch was the legendary founder of Tenochtitlán. That’s the heart of the Aztec empire. Naming a boy Tenoch connects him to the very bedrock of Mexico City.

2. Cuauhtémoc This might be the most powerful name in our history. It means “descending eagle.” Cuauhtémoc was the last Aztec emperor, the man who stared down the conquest and didn’t blink. He represents total dignity in the face of impossible odds.

3. Ikal Short, punchy, and surprisingly modern. It’s Mayan and means “spirit.” I’ve seen this name everywhere recently. It fits perfectly with modern naming trends but keeps that deep, ancient root.

4. Balam In the Maya world, the jaguar (Balam) wasn’t just an animal. It was a symbol of royalty and ferocity. A boy named Balam carries the spirit of the jungle protector.

5. Canek Associated with the hero Jacinto Canek who led a rebellion in the Yucatán. It symbolizes the fight for freedom.

The Indigenous Collection: 50 Nature and Warrior Names

These names come from the Nahuatl, Maya, and Zapotec languages. They define our pre-Hispanic soul.

• Acatl: Reed (Nahuatl). It represents resilience—bending, not breaking.
• Adair: Chosen one.
• Ameyal: Spring water.
• Béla: To invite (Zapotec).
• Canneo: Gift of the gods.
• Citlalli: Star.
• Ché: Wood or tree (Mayan).
• Cipactli: Crocodile; the first day of the Aztec calendar.
• Coszcatl: Jewel.
• Cualli: Good or virtuous.
• Ehécatl: The wind god. He clears the path for the rain.
• Etapalli: Wing.
• Guatemoc: Variant of Cuauhtémoc.
• Huitzil: Hummingbird. The Aztecs believed fallen warriors returned as these birds.
• Ilhicamina: He who shoots arrows at the sky.
• Itzcoatl: Obsidian serpent. An early emperor.
• Itzli: Obsidian knife.
• Izel: Unique; the only one.
• Kabil: He who has a good hand for sowing (Mayan).
• Kin: Sun (Mayan).
• Lool: Flower.
• Mani: Peanut (an agricultural staple).
• Masawa: The evening wind.
• Matlal: Dark green.
• Mazatl: Deer. Grace and alertness.
• Mictlan: The underworld. A gothic, strong choice.
• Milintica: Fire that waves.
• Miztli: Puma.
• Moch: Everything.
• Nahui: Four; movement.
• Namacuix: King or leader.
• Necalli: Battle.
• Netzahualcóyotl: Hungry coyote. The philosopher-king.
• Nopaltzin: Venerable cactus.
• Ohtli: Path.
• Ollin: Movement.
• Polo: Sea (Quiché Maya).
• Quetzal: Precious feather.
• Rahim: Often conflated with indigenous sounds.
• Tlacaélel: The hero who lifts the spirit.
• Tlaloc: God of rain.
• Tlanextli: Radiance.
• Tonatiuh: The sun god.
• Ueman: Venerable time.
• Xipilli: Jeweled prince.
• Xiuhcoatl: Weapon of destruction.
• Xochipilli: Prince of flowers.
• Yaotl: Warrior.
• Yooko: Tiger (Yaqui).
• Yolotli: Heart.
• Zolin: Quail.
• Zumac: He who frowns like a lord.

Who Fought for Our Land? (1910 Era)

Let’s jump forward. The Spanish are gone, but the land is unequal. It’s 1910. Men are riding south on horseback, and the air smells like change. The Mexican Revolution forged the modern identity we know today. Naming a son after a revolutionary isn’t just a nod to history; it’s a statement of grit. It says, “My son will stand his ground.”

56. Emiliano Emiliano Zapata is the icon. He didn’t fight for power; he fought for the campesinos. His slogan, “Tierra y Libertad,” still resonates. The name Emiliano implies a connection to the soil and a moral compass that points true north.

57. Francisco Pancho Villa was born Doroteo Arango, but he is immortalized as Francisco. It’s a classic name, sure. But in Mexico, it carries the wild, untamable spirit of the Division of the North. It’s a leader’s name.

58. Venustiano After Venustiano Carranza, the man who helped draft our constitution. It sounds distinguished, weighty.

59. Porfirio A complicated choice. Porfirio Díaz was the dictator whose rule sparked the war, but he also built the modern nation. The name means “purple-clad,” or royal. It’s bold.

60. Lázaro Lázaro Cárdenas came later, in the 30s, but he delivered on the revolution’s promises. He gave the oil back to the people. Lázaro commands respect.

The Revolutionary Battalion: 40 Names of Grit

These names evoke dusty trails and smoky backrooms where the future was decided.

• Abelardo: Noble strength.
• Adolfo: Noble wolf.
• Agustín: The great (Iturbide).
• Alvaro: Guardian (Obregón).
• Amado: Beloved.
• Ambrosio: Immortal.
• Anacleto: Invoked.
• Aureliano: Golden.
• Belisario: Swordsman.
• Benjamin: Son of the right hand.
• Bernardo: Strong as a bear.
• Cándido: Pure.
• Casimiro: He who preaches peace.
• Cleofas: Glory of the father.
• Doroteo: Gift of God (Villa’s birth name).
• Eulalio: Well-spoken.
• Evaristo: Pleasing.
• Felipe: Lover of horses (Felipe Ángeles, the brilliant general).
• Felix: Lucky.
• Filiberto: Very bright.
• Genaro: January-born.
• Gustavo: Staff of the Goths.
• Heriberto: Bright army.
• Hermila: Messenger (Male variant Hermilo).
• Hilario: Cheerful.
• Ignacio: Fiery (General Zaragoza).
• Isidro: Gift of Isis.
• Jesús: God saves.
• José María: Combining parents of Jesus.
• Justo: Fair.
• Lucio: Light.
• Maclovio: Son of life.
• Mariano: Related to war.
• Máximo: Greatest.
• Otilio: Wealth.
• Pascual: Born at Easter.
• Plutarco: Rich ruler.
• Rodolfo: Famous wolf.
• Roque: Rest.
• Salvador: Savior.
• Sebastián: Venerable.
• Serapio: Fiery one.
• Silvestre: From the forest.
• Victoriano: Victor.

Does Faith Still Guide Us? (Saints and Tradition)

You can’t talk about Mexican names without talking about the Church. It’s impossible. Even if you don’t step foot in a cathedral, the cultural weight is there. For many families, the “Santo” (Saint’s day) matters just as much as the birthday. These names offer protection.

105. Santiago Santiago (St. James) is Spain’s patron saint, but Mexico adopted him. We have towns, rivers, and canyons named Santiago. It means “St. James,” but it feels adventurous. It’s the name of a pilgrim. It bridges the gap between ancient tradition and modern cool better than almost any other name.

106. Miguel The Archangel Michael led God’s army. But in Mexico, this is Miguel Hidalgo, the father of the nation. Naming a boy Miguel hands him a sword and a bell. It’s a name of action.

107. Juan Diego You can’t get more Mexican Catholic than this. Juan Diego was the indigenous man who saw the Virgin of Guadalupe. He represents humility and the bridge between two worlds.

108. José The classic. Often part of a compound like José Luis. It honors the father of Jesus. It implies reliability, hard work, and fatherhood.

Also Read: Rare Norse Boy Names and Cute Biblical Girl Names

The Altar List: 60 Names of Faith

These staples have appeared on baptismal certificates for centuries.

• Abrahán: Father of many.
• Adán: Earth/Man.
• Alejandro: Defender of men.
• Andrés: Manly.
• Antonio: Priceless.
• Bartolomé: Son of Talmai.
• Basilio: Royal.
• Benedicto: Blessed.
• Camilo: Minister.
• Cayetano: From Gaeta.
• César: Head of hair.
• Cipriano: From Cyprus.
• Claudio: Lame (Roman nobility).
• Cornelio: Horn.
• Cristián: Follower of Christ.
• Cristóbal: Christ-bearer.
• Cruz: Cross.
• Damián: To tame.
• Daniel: God is my judge.
• David: Beloved.
• Domingo: Of the Lord.
• Eduardo: Wealthy guardian.
• Efrén: Fruitful.
• Elías: The Lord is my God.
• Eliseo: God is salvation.
• Emanuel: God is with us.
• Esteban: Crown.
• Ezequiel: God strengthens.
• Fabián: Bean grower.
• Faustino: Lucky.
• Federico: Peaceful ruler.
• Fermín: Strong.
• Fernando: Adventurous journey.
• Gabriel: God is my strength.
• Gerardo: Spear strength.
• Gregorio: Watchful.
• Guillermo: Resolute protector.
• Héctor: Holding fast.
• Humberto: Bright warrior.
• Ismael: God hears.
• Ivan: God is gracious.
• Jacinto: Hyacinth.
• Jacob: Supplanter.
• Javier: New house.
• Jerónimo: Sacred name.
• Joaquín: Lifted by Yahweh.
• Jorge: Farmer.
• Julián: Youthful.
• Lorenzo: From Laurentum.
• Lucas: Light-giving.
• Luis: Renowned warrior.
• Manuel: God is with us.
• Marcos: Warlike.
• Martín: Warrior of Mars.
• Mateo: Gift of God.
• Matías: Gift of God.
• Mauricio: Dark-skinned.
• Moisés: Drawn from water.
• Nicolás: Victory of the people.
• Noé: Rest.
• Osvaldo: Divine power.
• Pablo: Humble.
• Patricio: Nobleman.
• Pedro: Rock.
• Rafael: God has healed.
• Raimundo: Wise protector.
• Ramiro: Great judge.
• Ramón: Wise protector.
• Raúl: Wolf counsel.
• Ricardo: Powerful leader.
• Roberto: Bright fame.
• Rubén: Behold, a son.
• Samuel: Told by God.
• Saúl: Prayed for.
• Sergio: Servant.
• Simón: He has heard.
• Tadeo: Heart.
• Timoteo: Honoring God.
• Tomás: Twin.
• Vicente: Conquering.

Where is the Soul in the Name? (Artists & Intellectuals)

Mexico is a cultural superpower. We gave the world muralism, magical realism, and gut-wrenching poetry. Naming a son after an artist is a different kind of strength. It’s the strength of the mind.

180. Diego You say “Mexican Art,” you think Diego Rivera. The name implies a larger-than-life personality and a rebellious streak.

181. Octavio Octavio Paz, our Nobel Prize winner. He dissected the Mexican soul in The Labyrinth of Solitude. Octavio sounds classical (meaning “eighth”), but it represents high intellect.

182. Alfonso Alfonso Cuarón or Alfonso Reyes. It means “noble and ready.” It’s for a boy who will observe the world and change how we see it.

183. Guillermo Guillermo del Toro is the master of modern fantasy. The name is the Spanish William. It sounds friendly, solid, and imaginative.

184. Rufino Rufino Tamayo fused European styles with Mexican themes. It’s a rare name now, meaning “red-haired,” but it carries a bohemian flair.

The Creative Class: 30 Names for Dreamers

• Agustín: (Lara, composer).
• Aldo: Old/Wise.
• Amado: (Nervo, poet).
• Ángel: Messenger.
• Armando: Soldier (Manzanero, composer).
• Carlos: (Fuentes, novelist).
• Celso: High.
• Clemente: Merciful (Orozco).
• David: (Siqueiros).
• Demetrio: Earth-lover.
• Efraín: Fruitful.
• Eleazar: God helps.
• Eliseo: (Diego, actor).
• Enrique: Home ruler.
• Ernesto: Serious.
• Eugenio: Well-born (Derbez).
• Frida: (Rare male variant Frido exists).
• Gael: (García Bernal).
• Gilberto: Bright pledge.
• Homero: Hostage (Aridjis).
• Jaime: (Sabines).
• José Clemente: (Orozco).
• Juan: (Rulfo).
• Julio: (Cortázar).
• León: Lion.
• Mario: (Cantinflas).
• Pedro: (Infante).
• Plácido: Peaceful.
• René: Reborn.
• Rodolfo: (Usigli).
• Rosario: (Historically unisex).
• Xavier: (Villaurrutia).

The “Abuelo” Effect: Is Vintage Cool Again?

There is a sweet spot in naming—the “Old Man” name that sounds cool on a toddler. These are our grandfathers’ names. They smell like tobacco and leather. I see these popping up in hipster neighborhoods in Mexico City and spreading north.

217. Anselmo “God’s protection.” Gentle but firm. A name for a man who works with his hands.

218. Inés Traditionally female, but historically used for men in religious contexts.

219. Rosendo “Excellent path.” A traditional ranchero name that is almost extinct, making it ripe for a revival.

220. Silvano “Of the woods.” Earthy and strong.

The Vintage Vault: 50 Names Ready for Dusting Off

• Abundio: Abundant.
• Adalberto: Noble nobility.
• Albino: White.
• Alcides: Strength.
• Ambrocio: Divine.
• Anastacio: Resurrection.
• Apolinar: Of Apollo.
• Aristeo: Best.
• Arnulfo: Eagle wolf.
• Asunción: Assumption.
• Atilano: Attila.
• Aurelio: Golden.
• Baldomero: Famous boldness.
• Baltasar: Bel protects the King.
• Benito: Blessed.
• Bernabé: Son of consolation.
• Bonifacio: Good fate.
• Braulio: Shining.
• Calixto: Most beautiful.
• Camilo: Attendant.
• Candelario: Candle.
• Cecilio: Blind.
• Celestino: Heavenly.
• Cesáreo: Hairy.
• Cirilo: Lordly.
• Conrado: Bold counsel.
• Cosme: Order.
• Crispin: Curly-haired.
• Dario: Possessing goodness.
• Desiderio: Desired.
• Dionisio: God of wine.
• Donato: Given.
• Edmundo: Wealthy protector.
• Eleuterio: Free.
• Eligio: Chosen.
• Eliseo: God is my salvation.
• Eloy: Chosen.
• Emeterio: Half-wild.
• Epifanio: Manifestation.
• Erasmo: Beloved.
• Eulogio: Good speech.
• Eusebio: Pious.
• Eustacio: Fruitful.
• Evaristo: Well-pleasing.
• Facundo: Eloquent.
• Fausto: Lucky.
• Feliciano: Happy.
• Fidel: Faithful.
• Florencio: Blossoming.
• Fortunato: Fortunate.
• Gabino: From Gabium.
• Gaspar: Treasurer.
• Gervasio: Spear.
• Gil: Joy.
• Glafiro: Polished.
• Gonzalo: Battle genius.
• Graciano: Pleasing.
• Gualberto: Bright power.
• Gumaro: Man of the army.
• Gumersindo: Strong man.

The Modern Mexican: Global Citizens with Roots

Today’s parents want “passport names”—names that travel. They need to work in English and Spanish without changing spelling. These are the heavy hitters in maternity wards right now.

280. Matías Fresher than Mateo. It has a soft, rhythmic sound and is incredibly popular.

281. Sebastián Sophisticated. It has a European flair but is deeply entrenched in Mexican society.

282. Iker A Basque name that exploded because of goalkeeper Iker Casillas. It means “visitation.”

The Modern Mix: 50 Trending Names

• Abdiel: Servant of God.
• Adriel: Flock of God.
• Alan: Handsome.
• Alexis: Defender.
• Alonso: Noble.
• Álvaro: Elf warrior.
• Andrés: Manly.
• Ángel: Messenger.
• Ariel: Lion of God.
• Arturo: Bear man.
• Axel: Father of peace.
• Brayan: (Mexican spelling of Brian).
• Bruno: Brown.
• Caleb: Wholehearted.
• Carlos: Free man.
• Cristian: Christian.
• Damián: Tamer.
• Dante: Enduring.
• Diego: Supplanter.
• Dylan: Son of the sea.
• Edgar: Wealthy spear.
• Edwin: Rich friend.
• Elian: The Lord is my God.
• Emilio: Rival.
• Erick: Eternal ruler.
• Fabián: Bean grower.
• Fernando: Adventurer.
• Francisco: Frenchman.
• Franco: Free.
• Gael: Wild.
• Giovanni: God is gracious.
• Hector: Holding fast.
• Hugo: Mind.
• Ian: God is gracious.
• Isaac: Laughter.
• Isaias: God is salvation.
• Ivan: God is gracious.
• Jared: Descent.
• Javier: New house.
• Jesus: God saves.
• Joel: Yahweh is God.
• Jonathan: God has given.
• Jorge: Farmer.
• Josué: God is salvation.
• Julian: Youthful.
• Kevin: Handsome.
• Leo: Lion.
• Leonardo: Brave lion.
• Liam: Helmet of will.
• Luca: Light.
• Luis: Famous warrior.
• Manuel: God is with us.
• Marco: Warlike.
• Mario: Warlike.
• Martin: Warlike.
• Mateo: Gift of God.
• Maximiliano: Greatest.
• Miguel: Who is like God?
• Nicolas: Victory.
• Omar: Flourishing.
• Oscar: Deer lover.
• Patricio: Noble.
• Paul: Small.
• Rafael: God heals.
• Ricardo: Brave ruler.
• Rodrigo: Famous ruler.
• Santiago: St. James.
• Santino: Little saint.
• Sergio: Servant.
• Thiago: Supplanter.
• Uriel: God is my light.
• Valentino: Strong.
• Victor: Conqueror.
• Yahir: He will enlighten.

The Complete “A to Z” of Mexican Heritage (Filling the 500)

We have covered the stars and the saints. But the beauty of Mexican nomenclature is its depth. Here is the final push to reach 500, grouped by the vibe they give off.

The “Fuerte” Collection (Strong, Masculine Names)

These names sound like they could lift a truck. They are authoritative.

• Abel: Breath.
• Adalberto: Noble brightness.
• Adolfo: Noble wolf.
• Adrián: From Hadria.
• Agapito: Beloved.
• Alberto: Noble bright.
• Aldo: Old.
• Alejo: Defender.
• Alfonso: Noble and ready.
• Alfredo: Elf counsel.
• Alonso: Noble.
• Amador: Lover of God.
• Amando: Lovable.
• Amancio: Loving.
• Amín: Trustworthy.
• Amós: Borne by God.
• Aníbal: Grace of Baal.
• Anselmo: Helmet of God.
• Antolín: Priceless.
• Apolonio: Of Apollo.
• Aquiles: Pain.
• Arcadio: Of Arcadia.
• Arnaldo: Eagle power.
• Arsenio: Virile.
• Atanasio: Immortal.
• Augusto: Venerable.
• Aureliano: Golden.
• Aurelio: Golden.
• Balbino: Stammerer.
• Baltasar: Baal protect the King.
• Barack: Lightning.
• Bartolo: Son of the furrow.
• Basilio: Kingly.
• Beltrán: Bright raven.
• Benedicto: Blessed.
• Benigno: Kind.
• Benito: Blessed.
• Benjamín: Son of the right hand.
• Bernabé: Son of prophecy.
• Bernardino: Bold as a bear.
• Bernardo: Bold as a bear.
• Beto: (Short for Alberto/Roberto).
• Blas: Stutterer.
• Boris: Wolf/Short.
• Bruno: Brown.
• Buenaventura: Good fortune.
• Cain: Spear.
• Calixto: Most beautiful.
• Camilo: Free-born.
• Cándido: Pure.
• Carlos: Free man.
• Casimiro: Proclaimer of peace.
• Casto: Chaste.
• Cayetano: From Gaeta.
• Ceferino: West wind.
• Celestino: Heavenly.
• Celso: High.
• César: Head of hair.
• Cesario: Hairy.
• Cipriano: From Cyprus.
• Cirilo: Lordly.
• Ciro: Sun/Throne.
• Claudio: Lame.
• Clemente: Merciful.
• Clímaco: Ladder.
• Conrado: Bold counsel.
• Constancio: Constant.
• Constantino: Constant.
• Cornelio: Horn.
• Cosme: Order.
• Crisanto: Gold flower.
• Crisólogo: Gold speech.
• Crishpin: Curly haired.
• Cristián: Christian.
• Cristóbal: Christ-bearer.
• Cuauhtli: Eagle.
• Curro: Free.
• Custodio: Guardian.
• Cyrano: From Cyrene.
• Daciano: From Dacia.
• Dámaso: Tamer.
• Damián: Tamer.
• Dan: Judge.
• Daniel: God is my judge.
• Danilo: God is my judge.
• Dante: Enduring.
• Darío: Possessing goodness.
• David: Beloved.
• Demóstenes: Strength of the people.
• Diego: Supplanter.
• Dimas: Sunset.
• Dino: Little sword.
• Dionisio: God of wine.
• Domingo: Lord’s day.
• Donato: Given.
• Doroteo: Gift of God.
• Duilio: War.
• Edelmiro: Noble.
• Edgardo: Wealthy spear.
• Edmundo: Wealthy protector.
• Eduardo: Wealthy guardian.
• Efraín: Fruitful.
• Eladio: From Greece.
• Eleazar: God helps.
• Eleuterio: Free.
• Eli: Ascended.
• Elías: Yahweh is God.
• Eliel: My God is God.
• Eligio: Chosen.
• Eliseo: God is salvation.
• Eloy: Chosen.
• Elpidio: Hope.
• Emanuel: God is with us.
• Emeterio: Half wild.
• Emilio: Rival.
• Enrique: Home ruler.
• Epifanio: Manifestation.
• Erasmo: Beloved.
• Eric: Eternal ruler.
• Ernesto: Serious.
• Esaú: Hairy.
• Esteban: Crown.
• Eugenio: Well born.
• Eusebio: Pious.
• Eustacio: Fruitful.
• Evaristo: Well pleasing.
• Ezequiel: God strengthens.
• Fabián: Bean grower.
• Fabio: Bean grower.
• Fabricio: Craftsman.
• Facundo: Eloquent.
• Faustino: Lucky.
• Fausto: Lucky.
• Federico: Peaceful ruler.
• Feliciano: Happy.
• Felipe: Horse lover.
• Félix: Lucky.
• Fermín: Strong.
• Fernando: Adventurous.
• Fidel: Faithful.
• Filemón: Loving.
• Filiberto: Very bright.
• Flavio: Golden.
• Florencio: Blossoming.
• Florentino: Blossoming.
• Fortunato: Fortunate.
• Francisco: Frenchman.
• Froilán: Lord.
• Fructuoso: Fruitful.
• Gabino: From Gabium.
• Gabriel: God is my strength.
• Gael: Wild.
• Galileo: From Galilee.
• Gamaliel: Recompense of God.
• Gaspar: Treasurer.
• Gastón: Guest.
• Gaudencio: Happy.
• Genaro: January.
• Generoso: Generous.
• Gerardo: Spear strength.
• Germán: Brother.
• Gerónimo: Sacred name.
• Gervasio: Spear.
• Gil: Joy.
• Gilberto: Bright pledge.
• Gines: Origin.
• Glafiro: Polished.
• Godofredo: Peace of God.
• Gonzalo: Battle genius.
• Graciano: Pleasing.
• Gregorio: Watchful.
• Gualberto: Bright power.
• Guido: Guide.
• Guillermo: Resolute protector.
• Gumaro: Army man.
• Gumersindo: Strong man.
• Gustavo: Staff of the Goths.
• Harold: Army ruler.
• Héctor: Holding fast.
• Heliodoro: Gift of the sun.
• Heraclio: Glory of Hera.
• Heriberto: Bright army.
• Hermenegildo: Immense tribute.
• Herminio: Army man.
• Hernán: Adventurous.
• Higinio: Healthy.
• Hilario: Cheerful.
• Hipólito: Freer of horses.
• Homero: Hostage.
• Honorato: Honored.
• Honorio: Honor.
• Horacio: Timekeeper.
• Huberto: Bright mind.
• Hugo: Mind.
• Humberto: Bright warrior.
• Iago: Supplanter.
• Ignacio: Fiery.
• Ildefonso: Battle ready.
• Inocencio: Innocent.
• Ireneo: Peace.
• Isaac: Laughter.
• Isaías: Salvation of God.
• Isidoro: Gift of Isis.
• Isidro: Gift of Isis.
• Ismael: God hears.
• Iván: God is gracious.
• Jacinto: Hyacinth.
• Jacob: Supplanter.
• Jacobo: Supplanter.
• Jaime: Supplanter.
• Jairo: He shines.
• Javier: New house.
• Jenaro: January.
• Jeremías: God exalts.
• Jerónimo: Sacred name.
• Jesús: God saves.
• Joaquín: God establishes.
• Joel: Yahweh is God.
• Jonás: Dove.
• Jonathan: God has given.
• Jorge: Farmer.
• José: He will add.
• Josué: God is salvation.
• Juan: God is gracious.
• Judas: Praised.
• Julián: Youthful.
• Julio: Youthful.
• Justino: Just.
• Justo: Just.
• Juvenal: Youthful.
• Ladislao: Glorious rule.
• Lamberto: Bright land.
• Lauro: Laurel.
• Lázaro: God has helped.
• Leandro: Lion man.
• Leobardo: Beloved bold.
• León: Lion.
• Leonardo: Brave lion.
• Leoncio: Lion-like.
• Leonel: Young lion.
• Leopoldo: Bold people.
• Liberato: Free.
• Liborio: Free.
• Lino: Flax.
• Lisandro: Liberator.
• Lope: Wolf.
• Lorenzo: From Laurentum.
• Lucas: Light.
• Luciano: Light.
• Lucio: Light.
• Luis: Famous warrior.
• Macario: Blessed.
• Macedonio: From Macedonia.
• Maclovio: Son of life.
• Manuel: God is with us.
• Manolo: God is with us.
• Marciano: Of Mars.
• Marco: Warlike.
• Marcos: Warlike.
• Mariano: Of Mars.
• Marino: Of the sea.
• Mario: Warlike.
• Martín: Warrior.
• Mateo: Gift of God.
• Matías: Gift of God.
• Mauricio: Dark skinned.
• Mauro: Dark.
• Maximiano: Greatest.
• Maximiliano: Greatest.
• Máximo: Greatest.
• Melchor: King of light.
• Melquiades: My King is Yahweh.
• Memo: (Short for Guillermo).
• Miguel: Who is like God?
• Misael: Who is like God?
• Modesto: Modest.
• Moisés: Drawn out.
• Narciso: Daffodil.
• Natalio: Christmas.
• Natanael: Gift of God.
• Nazario: From Nazareth.
• Nemesio: Justice.
• Néstor: Traveler.
• Nicanor: Victorious army.
• Niceto: Victory.
• Nicolás: Victory of people.
• Nilo: Nile.
• Noé: Rest.
• Norberto: Northern brightness.
• Octavio: Eighth.
• Odón: Wealthy protector.
• Olegario: Old spear.
• Oliverio: Olive tree.
• Omar: Flourishing.
• Onofre: Defender of peace.
• Orlando: Famous land.
• Oscar: Deer lover.
• Osvaldo: Divine power.
• Otoniel: Lion of God.
• Pablo: Small.
• Pancracio: All powerful.
• Pánfilo: Friend of all.
• Pascual: Easter.
• Patricio: Noble.
• Paulino: Small.
• Pedro: Rock.
• Pelayo: Seaman.
• Perfecto: Perfect.
• Petronilo: Yokel.
• Pio: Pious.
• Plácido: Peaceful.
• Plutarco: Rich ruler.
• Policarpo: Much fruit.
• Pompilio: Fifth.
• Porfirio: Purple.
• Primitivo: First.
• Prudencio: Prudent.
• Rafael: God heals.
• Raimundo: Wise protector.
• Ramiro: Great judge.
• Ramón: Wise protector.
• Raúl: Wolf counsel.
• Raymundo: Wise protector.
• Regino: Queenly (Male variant).
• Reinaldo: Wise ruler.
• Remigio: Oarsman.
• Renato: Reborn.
• René: Reborn.
• Rey: King.
• Reynaldo: Wise ruler.
• Ricardo: Powerful leader.
• Rigoberto: Rich brightness.
• Roberto: Bright fame.
• Rodolfo: Famous wolf.
• Rodrigo: Famous ruler.
• Rogelio: Famous spear.
• Rolando: Famous land.
• Román: Roman.
• Romeo: Pilgrim to Rome.
• Romualdo: Famous rule.
• Rómulo: Roman founder.
• Roque: Rest.
• Rosendo: Excellent path.
• Rubén: Behold a son.
• Rufino: Red haired.
• Rufo: Red.
• Ruperto: Bright fame.
• Sabino: Sabine.
• Salomón: Peace.
• Salvador: Savior.
• Samuel: Told by God.
• Sancho: Saint.
• Santiago: St. James.
• Santos: Saints.
• Saturnino: Saturn.
• Saúl: Prayed for.
• Sebastián: Venerable.
• Segismundo: Victorious protection.
• Sergio: Servant.
• Servando: Serve.
• Severino: Severe.
• Severo: Severe.
• Silvano: Of the woods.
• Silvestre: Of the forest.
• Silvio: Wood.
• Simón: He has heard.
• Siro: Glowing.
• Sixto: Sixth.
• Sócrates: Whole power.
• Sofío: Wisdom (Male variant).
• Tadeo: Heart.
• Tancredo: Thoughtful counsel.
• Telésforo: Bearing fruit.
• Teo: God.
• Teobaldo: Bold people.
• Teodoro: Gift of God.
• Teófilo: Loved by God.
• Tiburcio: From Tibur.
• Timoteo: Honoring God.
• Tito: Title.
• Tobías: God is good.
• Tomás: Twin.
• Toribio: Turbulent.
• Trinidad: Trinity.
• Tristán: Sad/Tumult.
• Ubaldo: Heart/Mind.
• Ulises: Wrathful.
• Urbano: City dweller.
• Uriel: God is my light.
• Valdemar: Famous ruler.
• Valente: Brave.
• Valentín: Strong.
• Valeriano: Strong.
• Valerio: Strong.
• Venancio: Hunting.
• Venceslao: Greater glory.
• Ventura: Good fortune.
• Venustiano: Beauty/Love.
• Vicente: Conquering.
• Víctor: Conqueror.
• Victoriano: Conqueror.
• Victorino: Conqueror.
• Vidal: Life.
• Viggo: Battle.
• Vinicio: Wine.
• Virgilio: Flourishing.
• Vladimiro: Famous power.
• Walter: Army ruler.
• Wenceslao: Greater glory.
• Wilfredo: Desiring peace.
• William: Resolute protector.
• Xavier: New house.
• Yael: Mountain goat.
• Yahir: He will enlighten.
• Zacarías: God has remembered.
• Zaid: Increase.
• Zenón: Gift of Zeus.

Names are more than just labels. They are the first gift we give our children. Whether you choose the imperial echo of Tenoch, the revolutionary fire of Emiliano, or the gentle faith of Mateo, you are weaving your son into the tapestry of Mexican history.

For further reading on the anthropological roots of these names, I recommend visiting the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) for deep dives into Mexico’s indigenous past.

FAQs – Best Mexican Boy Names