Can I choose a Portuguese name for my baby boy if I'm not Portuguese?

You can choose a Portuguese name for your baby boy, even if you are not Portuguese. Many people worldwide choose names from different cultures for their children to honor their heritage or appreciate the sound and meaning of the name, or simply because they find it beautiful. You can choose a name that you and your partner love and carries a special meaning for you, regardless of your cultural background.

What are some famous Portuguese male names?

Afonso is a masculine name in Portuguese culture, meaning ‘noble and ready.’ Similarly, Eduardo meaning ‘rich guard,’ and Joaquim meaning ‘Yahweh will establish’ or ‘raised by Yahweh,’ which are popular among parents.

What are the rules for names in Portugal?

The Portuguese naming system showcases remarkable flexibility, adhering to laws that mandate at least one personal name and one surname from either parent for a child. Additionally, the law outlines a maximum limit of two personal names and four surnames, allowing for a diverse range of naming possibilities while maintaining clarity and structure.

Do Portuguese last names go to mother or father?

Traditionally, it was a custom for daughters to inherit their mothers surname, while sons carried their fathers surname. Some surnames practices often involve children receiving both their parents surnames, with the mothers surname preceding the fathers. It was regular for women to keep their maiden surname throughout their lives. However, since the start of the 20th century, it is common for individuals to include their fathers surname in formal settings.

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12 Portuguese Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With N

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Neymar	Boy	Neptune; Mars
Nestor	Boy	Returner; Homecomer
Noriel	Unisex	Light of God; Fire of God
Nilo	Boy	The river Nile
Nobel	Unisex	Force; Noble
Narciso	Boy	Sleep; Numbness; Daffodil
Nicodemo	Boy	Victory of the people
Neco	Unisex	God is with us
Nando	Boy	Peace; Boldness; Journey; Daring
Nuno	Boy	Grandfather; Squire; Fish

Nelio	Boy	Horn
Nicolau	Boy	Brazilian variant of Nicholas, meaning victory of people

Infographic: Meaningful Portuguese Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With N

If you seek exquisite baby names that are creative, culturally significant, and impactful, check out our infographic below. It features some charming

that would fit diverse preferences. Each name on the list is unique and deeply meaningful. Explore them to find a name that celebrates your child's individuality and reflects your dreams and aspirations for them.

Portuguese Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With N(infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.