Peruvian baby names are shaped by ancestors, religious texts, and Spain’s influence on the country.
Peru is a lovely country located on the northwest coast of South America. If you’re searching for Peruvian baby names, you probably have been to Peru or are interested in what you’ve seen or heard. You may also have ancestry in Peru and want to pick a name that honors that connection. No matter your reason for wanting a Peruvian baby name, you’ve come to the right spot.
Peru’s culture has been greatly impacted by Spain’s conquest in the 16th century, leading to a variety of lovely Spanish names for your child. Keep reading to discover some special Peruvian baby names for your little one.
Peru Baby Naming Culture
Peruvian babies receive two names when they are baptized. The first name might come from the Bible or honor a deceased family member. In Peru, surnames are typically passed down paternally. Common last names in Peru include Garcia, Fernandez, Alvarez, Gonzales, and Chavez. Due to the large number of immigrants in Peru, surnames from other countries are also used. For example, Chu is Chinese, Benalcazar is Arabic, Arizmendi is Basque, and Fujimori is Japanese.
Popular Peruvian Baby Names For Boys With Meanings
- Aaron
The name ‘Aaron’ became popular among the Jews in Peru after the Protestant Reformation. This Peruvian baby name means ‘mountain of strength’ in the Bible.
- Albert
Albert may seem old-fashioned to parents in America and Europe, but Peruvians think it’s really cool. This Peruvian baby name means ‘bright.’
- Alejandro
Do you think Alejandro sounds smoother and more stylish than Alexander? This popular name means ‘defender of humanity.’
- Alex
Alex has been given as a name to Peruvian babies for more than 100 years. This Peruvian baby name means ‘defender of mankind’.
- Alexander
Alexander has become very popular in Peru due to its various origins and different names. The name Alexander means someone who defends humanity.
- Alois
Alois is a name that combines traditional elegance and modern sophistication. The Peruvian baby name means ‘a renowned fighter’.
- Anderson
This Peruvian baby name means ‘son of Andrews’, carries a feeling of respect, heritage, and a connection to the past.
- Andre
Andre is a baby boy name that exudes sophistication, style, and confidence. This Peruvian baby name means ‘man, warrior’.
- Angel
Peruvians use the name Angel for boys, which comes from Spanish tradition and means ‘messenger of God’.
- Annie
Annie is a surprising choice for baby boys in Peru, ranking 41st on the list of popular names. This Peruvian baby name means ‘grace’.
- Anthony
Anthony still feels fresh and relevant, even though it has been used for many years. It is popular among people from various cultural backgrounds and the name Anthony actually means ‘flower’.
- Brayan
A small change in the usual way of spelling a name can completely change its meaning. For example, the name Brayan means ‘strong and virtuous.’
- Bruno
This Peruvian baby name means ‘brown’, definitely deserves the top prize for being a tough guy name. It makes you think of a strong and masculine man.
- Bryant
Bryant is like Brian, but with a bit more of a bold personality. The name Bryant means ‘noble.’
- Carlos
Carlos, a name that means ‘free man’, is a cute and youthful name that has a good possibility of becoming very popular.
- Christian
Christian is a great option for parents who want to express their belief in a simple manner. This Peruvian baby name means ‘follower of Christ.’
- Cisco
Cisco is a nickname for the Spanish name Francisco and is often associated with being the ultimate sidekick name. This Peruvian baby name means ‘free man’.
- Colbert
Colbert is a popular choice for using a last name as a first name because it has a modern sound. The name means ‘calf herder’.
- Christopher
Christopher is well-known globally, but specifically in Peru, he is particularly revered. The name Christopher means ‘follower of the Christ.’
- Daniel
The name Daniel has remained popular in Peru for a long time because it means ‘God is my judge’.
- Danny
Danny appears to be more mature compared to other shortened versions of full names that have been popular in recent years. This Peruvian baby name means ‘God is my judge’.
- David
David is a widely used name in Christianity and Judaism. It is loved by many people.
- Diego
Diego is the Spanish equivalent of James and its meaning is ‘supplanter’, which may surprise you. Were you expecting that?
- Eduardo
Eduardo is a common name in Spain and Peru that would also be suitable for English speakers. This Peruvian baby name means ‘wealthy guardian.’
- Elmer
The name Elmer has a pleasant and classic feel to it. This Peruvian baby name means ‘noble.’
- Ernesto
Ernesto, a Latin version of the name that is popular in Peru and nearby areas, has dropped in popularity in the US. The name Ernesto means ‘serious’.
- Frank
This version of the name Francis is more popular than the original in the top 100 list of baby names in Peru. This Peruvian baby name means ‘free man’.
- Gabriel
What could be more special than giving your child a name that means ‘man of God’?
- Gael
Gael’s sudden rise in popularity as a baby name was influenced by the famous Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal. This Peruvian baby name means ‘Gaelic’.
- Hans
Hans is a name used in Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia that comes from the name Johannes and symbolizes ‘God is kind’. In Peru, parents like to use this name because it gives a rustic vibe.
- Hector
The name Hector, which comes from Greek mythology, has been popular in Peru since the early 1900s. Parents often choose this name for their children because they admire the virtues of the Greek warrior Hector, who was known for his strength and bravery. The name Hector itself means ‘holding fast.’
- Henry
Henry has an old-fashioned charm that makes it different from the more modern name Harry. The name Henry means ‘estate ruler.’
- Isac
Isac is a different way of spelling Isaac that is mainly used by people in Peru. This Peruvian baby name means ‘laughter.’
- Jefry
This is the spelling Peruvians use for Jeffery. The name Jefry has a sophisticated style and means ‘God’s peace’.
- Jesus
People of Hispanic heritage, like Peruvians, don’t have a problem naming their sons Jesus. This Peruvian baby name means ‘to save.’
- Jheremy
If you like Biblical names but want something unique, you can choose Jheremy instead of Jeremy. Jheremy is the Peruvian version of Jeremy and it means ‘Yahweh has established’.
- Joaquin
Joaquin is a Hispanic name that comes from the Biblical name Joachim, meaning ‘lifted by Yahweh’. It is a great option instead of Jose or Juan.
- Jose
Jose is a common and very masculine name, similar to Jack and John. It has a classic appeal and means ‘Jehovah increases’.
- Juan
Juan, which means ‘God’s gracious gift’, is a popular name for baby boys. It can evoke thoughts of a charming person and a musician with a lot of fame.
- Julio
Julio is similar to the name Julius in Hispanic culture and it means ‘youthful’. This elegant and respectable name would be a great choice for baby boys born in July.
- Lucio
Lucio is a modern and stylish variation of the name Lucius, which means ‘light’. It is becoming more popular along with other names starting with ‘Lu-‘.
- Luigi
Luigi, like Marcos and Manuel, has a cultural touch to its name. This Peruvian baby name means ‘renowned warrior’.
- Luis
In Peru, the name Luis, which comes from Ludwig in Spanish, is commonly chosen for baby boys and it signifies a well-known warrior.
- Manuel
Manuel, which means ‘God is with you’, has a strong and masculine connotation to it.
- Marcos
This confident-sounding version of the name Mark implies power and masculinity. This Peruvian baby name means ‘God of War’.
- Martin
This name has a gentle and simple quality that is attractive to parents who prefer less fancy names. This Peruvian baby name means ‘mars’.
- Matias
Matias has displayed impressive skills in both North and South America since 2009. The reason behind this could be attributed to Chilean soccer player Matias Fernandez. The name Matias means ‘gift of God’.
- Maverick
Mel Gibson is known for using the strong and masculine name Maverick frequently. This Peruvian baby name means ‘someone who is independent’.
- Michael
Michael, which means ‘who is like God,’ is a classic and enduring name that never seems to go out of style.
- Miguel
Miguel is a popular name for baby boys in Peru and it symbolizes courage, might, and resilience. The name Miguel means to ‘similar to God’.
- Omar
Omar is very popular in Peru. We believe that its popularity will keep growing for the next ten years.
- Oscar
The name Oscar is detailed and vibrant, with a lot of symbolism. This Peruvian baby name means ‘small deer.’
- Pedro
For many years, the name Pedro has been popular in Peru and continues to be successful. This Peruvian baby name means ‘stone’ or ‘rock’.
- Percy
In this modern era, the name Percy is becoming more popular and losing its old-fashioned image. Percy is a name that means ‘pierces the valley’.
- Piero
Piero is a beautiful Italian version of the name Peter, which means ‘rock’. It is reminiscent of the famous Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.
- Renzo
Renzo, a shorter version of Lorenzo, is powerful by itself. This Peruvian baby name means ‘from Laurentium.’
- Ricardo
The name Ricardo has become popular in the US due to the increasing number of Latino and Peruvian immigrants. This Peruvian baby name means ‘dominant ruler’ in English.
- Richard
Richard is a classic name that has been popular for a long time, and it means ‘powerful’. It also has many options for nicknames.
- Salvador
Salvador is a Spanish name that means ‘savior’ and has a strong and attractive quality. A baby named Salvador is likely to be energetic and lively.
- Sandro
If you want a unique and exotic alternative to Alexander, consider choosing the name Sandro, which means ‘defender of mankind’ and is short and catchy.
- Saturnin
If you’re looking for a special and heavenly name for your son, you could choose Saturnin, which is a variation of Saturn. Just be aware that the name has a negative connotation of being gloomy.
- Selestino
Selestino is a traditional Spanish name that means ‘belonging to heaven’ and has a heavenly feel.
- Tomas
Trying to honor your ancestor named Tom? Consider naming him Tomas, which is the Spanish and Portuguese version of the name Thomas, which means ‘twin’.
- Victor
The name Victor, which means ‘winning’, has consistently appeared on the list of popular baby names in Peru for more than a century.
- Wilton
Unlike the old-fashioned names Hilton and Milton, the English name Wilton sounds modern and fresh. Wilton means a location near a stream.
- Yefferson
Yefferson is another form of the name Jefferson, and it means ‘son of Jeffery’. This name has a smart and dignified feel to it, making it a great choice for a baby boy.
Popular Peruvian Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
- Abigail
This name from the Old Testament was introduced to South America by the Puritans in the 17th century and is very popular in Peru. This Peruvian baby name means ‘father’s joy’.
- Aiko
Aiko is a popular Japanese name that is also used in Peru. This Peruvian baby name means ‘beloved child’.
- Alessa
Alessa is a great choice for parents seeking a different name than Alice or Alexis. This Peruvian baby name means ‘defender.’
- Alessandra
The name Alessandra, which means ‘defender of mankind’, struggled for a bit, but is now rising in popularity again, possibly due to the influence of the Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio.
- Andrea
Andrea, which is the female version of Andrew, is a very popular name for girls in Peru, even though it has a masculine origin. We believe it would be a good name for a girl who is a bit of a tomboy.
- Angelica
A great name for your sweet child. The name Angelica comes from the Latin word ‘angelicus’. This Peruvian baby name means ‘resembling an angel.’
- Ariane
Ariane is a name that is well-liked and appreciated by many for its beauty and sophistication. The name Ariane, along with its similar versions Ariana and Ariadne, is becoming more popular. This Peruvian baby name means ‘most holy’.
- Azucena
If mothers want a genuine Peruvian baby girl name, they can choose Azucena, which means ‘lily’ in both Spanish and the Peruvian language.
- Beatriz
Beatrice in this appealing form is widely loved by Hispanic and Peruvian parents. This Peruvian baby name means ‘blessed’.
- Carito
Carito, which is the Spanish equivalent of Caesar, is typically a name given to baby boys, but in Peru, it is also used for girls. The name means ‘long haired.’
- Chio
If you’re okay with choosing unusual and distinctive names for your daughter, you could consider using the Spanish name Chio, which means ‘Rocio’.
- Cristina
Cristina, spelled without the letter ‘h’, is the Spanish, Italian, and Peruvian equivalent of the name Christian, and it means ‘a Christian’.
- Cynthia
Cynthia is a popular Greek name in Peru that sounds elegant and smart. This Peruvian baby name means ‘woman from Kynthos.’
- Daniela
Daniela, a Hebrew name meaning ‘God is my judge’, is the second most popular name for girls in Peru.’
- Diane
Diane, which means ‘divine’, has a retro charm. It is associated with well-known people like Diane Ladd, Diane Eve, and Diane Murphy.
- Elena
Elena is the Spanish and Italian equivalent of the name Helen, which means ‘ray or sunbeam’. This name is gentle, musical, and sounds more poetic than the original version.
- Eunice
Eunice is an English name that comes from the Greek name Eurike, which means ‘good victory’. While this name is not very popular globally, it is gaining popularity in Peru.
- Evelyn
This name, which has many possible origins, is becoming popular again after many years. One commonly recognized meaning is ‘a living creature.’
- Evy
Evy, one of the oldest names ever, is becoming popular again in Peru. We believe this uncomplicated and straightforward name carries more meaning and power than many shorter names. This Peruvian baby name means ‘life’.
- Fiorella
Peruvians seem to really like Italian names. For example, the name Fiorella, which means ‘little flower’ in Italian, is the 11th most popular name in Peru.
- Gabriela
Gabriela, the feminine form of Gabriel, is not as popular as some other variations but still remains strong. This Peruvian baby name means ‘woman of God.’
- Gaby
Gaby is a variation of the name Gabriela in French, and some people in Peru use it as a first name. The name Gaby is said to mean ‘God is my strength’.
- Gina
The name Gina, which is a shortened version of Angelina and Regina, has been used on its own in Peru. The name is also associated with the famous Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida.
- Gladys
Gladys became popular in 1900 and became a trendy choice for baby names. However, some parents may be wary of its meaning ‘lame’.
- Jahaira
Jahaira is a Peruvian baby name that comes from the Hebrew name Yahaira, and it means ‘string or teaching associated with God’.
- Janet
Janet originally started off as a short form of the name Jane, but it has been used on its own for quite some time. The name Janet carries the meaning of ‘God is gracious’.
- Janeth
Janeth is the Scottish and Hebrew form of the name Jane, and it means ‘God is gracious’. Some parents choose to use Janeth instead of Janet. No matter which way you choose, we think Janeth would be a great name for your daughter.
- Karen
In Peru, the name Karen, which is the Danish version of Katherine, has been used for over 100 years. This Peruvian baby name means ‘pure one’.
- Karla
Karla is a name for girls that comes from Charles, it means ‘free man’ and has a nice association with freedom.
- Katherin
The name Katherin without the letter ‘e’ is most commonly used in Peru, This Peruvian baby name means ‘pure’.
- Katia
Katia, a nickname for Katerina that is down-to-earth and friendly, is currently trendy in Peru. This Peruvian baby name means ‘pure’.
- Keyla
Keyla is a different way to spell the name Kayla. It started becoming popular as an alternative when the original name was not as popular anymore. The name Keyla means ‘laurel.’
- Laka
In Polynesian mythology, the name Laka means ‘gentle and tame’ and is associated with a hero. While traditionally a name for baby boys, parents in Peru use it for their daughters.
- Lesli
If you want to display your Scottish roots, you can choose the name Lesli, which comes from a Scottish last name. The name Lesli means ‘garden of hollies.’
- Lisbeth
Lisbeth is a common nickname for Elizabeth, but in ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’, Lisbeth has her own strong and unique character. The name Lisbeth means ‘blessed’.
- Liz
Liz, which is short for Elizabeth, is ideal for use as a middle name. Its meaning is ‘devoted to God’.
- Lorena
The name Lorena is popular in Peru and it means ‘famous army’.
- Lucia
Lucia is a name that sounds friendly, bright, melodic, and intelligent, just like its meaning ‘light.’ It has a lively Italian vibe and a stylish European touch.
- Lucila
The Spanish adaptation of Lucy has become more popular than the original version. This Peruvian baby name means ‘light’.
- Luz
The name Luz in Spanish means ‘light’ and is also used to talk about Nuestra Señora de la Luz, a Spanish term for the Virgin Mary.
- Marcielo
The Peruvian baby name Marcielo, which is similar to Marcella and means ‘warlike’, is becoming fashionable again after being out of style for a while.
- Maria
Maria has always been a popular choice in the Hispanic-American community, especially among Peruvians. The name Maria, which is made up of three syllables, means ‘beloved’ in English.
- Marilyn
The meaning of the name Marilyn is ‘drop of the sea’ and is of Welsh origin. Peruvian parents still love the name of the American megastar, which is a mix of Mary and Lynn.
- Marjoree
The Hispanic version of Margery was very popular in European countries during the 1920s. While the trend decreased in Europe, it remained popular in South American countries such as Peru. This name means ‘pearl’.
- Mayra
Like many old names making a comeback, Mayra is becoming popular again, especially in Peru. The name means ‘sweet smelling oil.’
- Melisa
Melisa is the Peruvian version of the Greek name Melissa, which means ‘honeybee’. It is currently very popular in Peru.
- Mishael
In Peru, baby girls are often named Mishael instead of Michelle. This name is derived from Michael and conveys the meaning ‘godlike’.
- Naida
Naida is a Greek name that means ‘water nymph’ and is ideal for baby girls born under water signs like Pisces, Cancer, or Scorpio.
- Nicole
Nicole is the female counterpart of the name Nicholas. The name means ‘victorious people’ and is a good choice for parents looking for classic yet not too common names for their children.
- Noelia
Noelia is a popular name in Peru, chosen by many parents. It is the Spanish version of Noel and is the name of a well-known Puerto Rican pop singer. The name means ‘Christmas’.
- Raquel
Raquel, which is the Hispanic version of Rachel, is described as small, fragile, and self-assured, similar to the original. The name means ‘ewe’, a type of female sheep.
- Rocio
The name Rocio, which is of Hispanic origin, is used to refer to Mother Mary as the Virgin of the Dew. This Peruvian baby name means ‘dewdrops’.
- Rosa
The name Rosa, which comes from the Latin word for Rose, is used in various cultures and countries like Peru. This simple and uncomplicated name means ‘rose’.
- Roseangela
Roseangela is a name unique to Peru, made by merging Rose and Angela. It is ranked 37th on the list of names in Peru.
- Rosemary
Rosemary might not be a very common name, but it is popular in Peru where it refers to the plant itself.
- Ruth.
Ruth is an old name from the Bible that means ‘friend or companion’. It is popular in Peru and Ireland, but not commonly used in other countries.
- Sandra
The name Sandra, which means ‘defender of mankind’, originated as a shorter form of Alessandra, but has become popular on its own, especially in Peru.
- Sara
Sara is a lovely and simple name from the Bible that also has a modern touch. This Peruvian baby name means ‘princess.’
- Shirley
Originally, Shirley was a name used for boys but it became more popular for girls after the novel ‘Shirley’ was published. The name Shirley comes from Old English and means ‘old space or meadow’.
- Sofia
This different way of spelling the name Sophia is very popular in Peru for baby names. This Peruvian baby name means ‘wisdom’.
- Stephany
Stephany is a different way of spelling Stephanie in Peru. This name is feminine but not overly girly. This Peruvian baby name means ‘a garland or wreath.’
- Susan
Similar to the lily flower, the name Susan has always been popular. In Peru, it has recently regained its popularity. This Peruvian baby name means ‘lily’.
- Taylor
Taylor has been a popular name for baby boys in Peru since the 1800s, but it became more popular for girls in the 1980s. The name means ‘tailor’.
- Treysi
The name Treysi is a unique twist on the traditional French name, and it means ‘of Thracia’.
- Veronica
Veronica is a Latin version of the Greek name Berenice, which means ‘she who brings victory’. Nicknames like Roni or Ronnie could be used for Veronica, which would make for cool alternative names.
- Yessica
If you love the name Jessica but don’t want your daughter to have the same name as someone else, you can consider using the Spanish version Yessica, which means ‘God beholds’.
- Zoila.
Zoila is a captivating Greek name that means ‘life’.
Frequently Asked Questions
We believe that this list of Peruvian baby names can assist you in finding unique and interesting names for your child. If you have a connection to Peru or have been touched by its beauty, you might want to consider giving your baby a Peruvian name. This could help them feel connected to their heritage or a place that is dear to you. Take a look and pick the ideal Peruvian name for your precious little one.