Puerto Rico is a tiny island nation with a deep history entwined in its status as a territory belonging to the United States. Puerto Rican girl names are proof of that history, with American, Spanish, and native influences that make these names stand out.
There’s a lot regarding Puerto Rican name meanings, pronunciation, and variations. Our fun-to-read list has all the information you’ll need to pick a gorgeous name so your baby girl can thrive.
100 Beautiful Puerto Rican Names for Girls
Explore Puerto Rican girl names to discover where old and new world traditions meet.
Abril
Abril is a Spanish variation on April, taken from the Latin “aperire,” meaning “to open.” It’s a beautiful example of Puerto Rican girl names that honor a month of the year—in this case, April.
- Origin: Puerto Rican
- Meaning: To open
- Pronunciation: Ah-BRIYL
- Variations: Abrille, Abrila
- Namesakes: Abril Méndez, a Venezuelan actress known for Inmensamente Tuya. Abril Conesa, a Spanish synchronized swimmer and bronze medalist at the 2018 European Aquatics Championships.
- Popularity: Abril is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 461st in Spain in 2014.
Alejandra
Alejandra is a traditional Spanish form of the Greek Alexandra. Based on Alexandros. It also means “defender of the people” for little girls who rule.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Defender of the people
- Pronunciation: Ah-ley-HHAAN-Drah
- Variations: Alexandra, Alejanda
- Namesakes: Alejandra Oliveras, an Argentine boxer and former WBC female super lightweight champion. Alejandra Benítez, a Venezuelan saber fencer who competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Alejandra ranked 1,107th worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 52nd in Chile in 2014.
Alma
Alma is a very important part of the Latin phrase “alma mater,” meaning “benevolent mother.” Alma mater originally was a title for the Virgin Mary, which helped Alma become a well-known name.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Italian
- Meaning: Soul, spirit
- Pronunciation: AEL-Mah
- Variations: Allma
- Namesakes: Alma Dufour, a French member of Parliament since 2022. Alma Denny, an American writer for The New York Times.
- Popularity: Alma ranked 921st worldwide and is primarily used in Mexico, where it ranked 47th in 2014.
Alondra
Alondra is the Spanish word for “lark” and “songbird.” It’s also the name of a resort on the Spanish island of Lanzarote. Alondra ranked as the most popular girl’s name in Puerto Rico in 2009.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Lark
- Pronunciation: Ah-LAON-Drah
- Variations: Londra, Alandra
- Namesakes: Alondra Johnson, a Canadian football player for the Calgary Stampeders. Alondra Oubré, an American anthropologist known for the book Instinct and Revelation.
- Popularity: Alondra is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 766th in Puerto Rico in 2014.
Amaia
Amaia has its roots in the Aymara culture of the indigenous people in the Andes of South America. It also means “night rain” in Arabic and “mother city” in Spanish.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Arabic
- Meaning: Beloved daughter
- Pronunciation: Ah-MAA-Yah
- Variations: Amayah, Ammaya, Amya
- Namesakes: Amaia Andrés, a Spanish middle-distance runner and bronze medalist at the Mediterranean Games. Amaia Salamanca, a Spanish actress known for the series Sin tetas no hay paraíso.
- Popularity: Amaia is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Indonesia.
Amanda
Amanda means “worthy of love” in Latin and derives from “amare,” meaning “to love.” Amanda specifically refers to “she who must (or is fit to) be loved,” an ideal wish for your baby girl.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Lovable
- Pronunciation: Ah-MAEN-Dah
- Variations: Mada, Amandia
- Namesakes: Amanda Fondell, a Swedish singer, and winner of the eighth series of Swedish Idol. Amanda Peet, an American actress known for Saving Silverman (2001).
- Popularity: Amanda ranked 358th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 478th for girls in 2023.
Ana
Ana is probably the most popular Puerto Rican name for girls on our list. It means “favored grace” in Hebrew but is based on Ana Maria in Spanish – traditionally for girls born on Sunday.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: Grace
- Pronunciation: AA-Naa
- Variations: Ann, Anna
- Namesakes: Ana Gasteyer, an American actress appearing on the Saturday Night Live series from 1996 to 2002. Ana Vrljić, a Croatian tennis player who peaked at 180th in 2013.
- Popularity: Ana ranked 16th worldwide, is mostly used in Brazil, and ranked 239th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Angelica
Angelica comes from the Latin “angelicus,” meaning “angelic.” In Greek, Angelika refers to a “messenger of God” or an “angel,” a good inspiration for your little lady.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Angelic
- Pronunciation: Aen-JHEHL-ih-Kah
- Variations: Angellica, Anjelika
- Namesakes: Angelica Zawadzki, a Mexican sprint canoer who competed at the 1968 Summer Olympics. Angelica Bridges, an American actress appearing on the reality show Kicking & Screaming in 2017.
- Popularity: Angelica ranked 847th worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 74th in Bolivia in 2014.
Antonella
Antonella means “priceless one” and is a diminutive for Antonia. It also means “as beautiful as a flower” in Latin and is the female equivalent of Antonello.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Italian
- Meaning: Praiseworthy
- Pronunciation: Aen-tah-NEHL-ah
- Variations: Antonela
- Namesakes: Antonella Clerici, an Italian TV host of Forza Italia on Odeon TV. Antonella Rebuzzi, an Italian senator from 2006 to 2008.
- Popularity: Antonella is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in Italy, ranking 52nd in 2014.
Asunción
Asunción refers to the Spanish word for “the assumption of Mary.” The Virgin Mary’s Assumption Day is every August 15th, while Asunción is also the capital of Paraguay.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Assumption
- Pronunciation: Ah-Suwn-siy-OWN
- Variations: Ascension
- Popularity: Asunción is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 217th in Spain in 2014.
Aurora
Aurora is the ancient Roman female name for the goddess of the dawn, whose tears were the morning dew. Aurora was said to have traveled in her chariot across the sky every morning.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: Ah-ROWR-ah
- Variations: Aura, Aurore
- Namesakes: Aurora Ljungstedt, a Swedish writer considered the first Swedish crime author. Aurora Levins Morales, a Puerto Rican writer known for her essay collection, Medicine Stories (1998).
- Popularity: Aurora ranked 1,712th worldwide and is mainly used in Mexico, where it ranked 166th in 2014.
Beatriz
Beatriz is the Spanish spelling for Beatrice, a mainstay in Spain and Portugal. It derives from the Latin Beatrix and means “she who brings others happiness.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Bringer of joy
- Pronunciation: Beh-aa-TRIYS
- Variations: Beatrice, Beatrix
- Namesakes: Beatriz Zavala, the Mexican Secretary of Social Development since 2006. Beatriz Sarlo, an Argentine founding editor of Punto de Vista (“Point of View”).
- Popularity: Beatriz ranked 452nd worldwide, is a name primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 57th in Colombia in 2014.
Benita
Benita is based on the Latin “benedictus,” meaning “blessed.” It’s also associated with the Latin “bene,” meaning “good,” and “dicere,” meaning “to speak.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Blessed one
- Pronunciation: Beh-NIY-taa
- Variations: Benitta, Bennita
- Namesakes: Benita Haastrup, a Danish drummer and winner of the 1998 Ben Webster Prize. Benita Sanders, a Canadian printmaker with a collection in the National Gallery of Canada.
- Popularity: Benita is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 213th in Bolivia in 2014.
Brissa
Brisa is the name given to a northeast wind known to blow through Puerto Rico. It’s taken from Briseis, the ancient Greek character loved by Achilles in Homer’s Iliad.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Breeze
- Pronunciation: BRIHS-ah
- Variations: Briza, Brissa
- Namesakes: Brisa Carraro, an Argentine artistic gymnast, and the 2021 South American champion. Brisa Hennessy, a Costa Rican surfer who competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Brisa is rare worldwide and mainly used in Mexico, ranking 1,075th in 2014.
Camilla
Camilla derives from the Latin Camillus, meaning “young ceremonial attendant.” Camilla is also famous for St. Camillus de Lellis, a 16th-century healer.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Young religious servant
- Pronunciation: Kah-MIHL-ah
- Variations: Camila
- Namesakes: Camilla Parker Bowles, the Queen of the United Kingdom and wife of King Charles III. Camilla Scott, a Canadian actress appearing on the soap opera Days of Our Lives.
- Popularity: Camilla is rare worldwide, primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 285th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Carmen
Carmen is a Spanish variation of Carmel, meaning “song.” It’s also a nickname for Carmelo, taken from the Hebrew “karmel,” meaning “God’s vineyard.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Song
- Pronunciation: KAAR-Mahn
- Variations: Carman
- Namesakes: Carmen Martín Gaite, a Spanish author awarded the Premio Nadal in 1957 for Entre visillos. Carmen Campagne, a Canadian singer, and winner of a 1989 Juno Award for Lullaby Berceuse.
- Popularity: Carmen ranked 92nd worldwide and is mostly used in Puerto Rico, where it ranked 2nd in 2014.
Cassandra
Cassandra appeared as Kassandra in ancient Greece, meaning “excelling over men.” It’s inspired by the Trojan priestess dedicated to the god Apollo in Greek mythology.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Shining upon man
- Pronunciation: Kah-SAEN-drah
- Variations: Kassandra
- Namesakes: Cassandra Tate, an American track and field athlete, and bronze medalist at the 2015 World Championships. Cassandra Williams, the Dominican Minister of State since 2022.
- Popularity: Cassandra is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 710th for girls in 2023.
Catalina
Catalina is the Spanish equivalent of Katherine, originally based on the Greek Hekaterine. Its original root was “hekateros,” meaning “the far-reaching one,” but these days, it means “pure.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: Kaet-ah-LIYN-ah
- Variations: Katalina
- Namesakes: Catalina Denis, a Colombian actress appearing in the film Brick Mansions (2014). Catalina Parot, the Chilean president of the National Television Council.
- Popularity: Catalina ranked 1,421st worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 101st in Romania in 2014.
Charo
Charo is super cool among uncommon Puerto Rican female names today. It’s a diminutive meaning, “Hail Mary,” or María del Rosario in Spanish.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Rosary
- Pronunciation: CHAA-Row
- Namesakes: Charo, a Spanish-American flamenco guitarist appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Charo Ronquillo, a Filipino model with Ford models.
- Popularity: Charo is rare worldwide and mostly used in Kenya, where it ranked 540th in 2014.
Clarita
Clarita is a Spanish diminutive for the French name Claire that also means “famous” and “clear.” It originated as the Latin Clarus, the 13th-century saint, Clare of Assisi.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Bright
- Pronunciation: Klaa-RIY-tah
- Variations: Clareta
- Namesakes: Clarita Carlos, the Filipino National Security Adviser from 2022 to 2023. Clarita de Quiroz, a Scottish singer-songwriter, named north-east Scotland’s “Young Musician of the Year” in 1998.
- Popularity: Clarita is rare worldwide and mainly used in the Philippines, ranking 331st in 2014.
Costanza
Costanza is an Italian version of Constance, meaning “constant” and “steadfast.” Today, it’s one of the prettiest Puerto Rican baby girl names, even if hugely popular in Italy.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Italian
- Meaning: Constant
- Pronunciation: Kaa-STAEN-zaa
- Variations: Constanza
- Namesakes: Costanza Ferro, an Italian synchronized swimmer who competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Costanza Bonaccorsi, an Italian canoeist and winner at the Wildwater Canoeing World Championships.
- Popularity: Costanza is rare worldwide and primarily used in Italy, where it ranked 542nd in 2014.
Coraly
Coraly derives from the Latin “corallium,” meaning “coral,” but also means “pearl” in Dutch and French. It’s more commonly spelled Coralie as one of the most unique girl names beginning with C.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, French
- Meaning: Coral
- Pronunciation: KAO-rah-Liy
- Variations: Coralie
- Popularity: Coraly is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Culebra
Culebra derives from the Old Spanish “culuebra,” meaning “snake” and “serpent.” Culebra is also an island off Puerto Rico’s coast known as Isla Chiquita (“little island”).
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Snake
- Pronunciation: khoow-LEH-brah
- Popularity: Culebra is extremely rare worldwide, with just eight known occurrences in 2014, from Belgium and the Dominican Republic to Russia and the U.S.
Daniela
Daniela goes back to the Hebrew “daniyel,” meaning “God is my judge.” It’s the feminine version of Daniel, and its unique spelling is hot in Puerto Rico and Romania.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my judge
- Pronunciation: Daan-YEH-laa
- Variations: Daniella
- Namesakes: Daniela Ruah, an American-Portuguese actress known for the series NCIS: Los Angeles. Daniela Silivaș, a Romanian artistic gymnast who won six medals at the 1988 Summer Games.
- Popularity: Daniela ranked 419th worldwide, is mainly used in Italy, and ranked 26th in Romania in 2014.
Dayanara
Dayanara is a distinct variation of Deyanira, meaning “forceful.” It originated as Dayana, itself a particular offshoot of Diana. Dayanara is a brilliant way to breathe new life into Puerto Rican girl names with D.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Forceful
- Pronunciation: Daey-ah-NAHR-aa
- Variations: Daya
- Namesakes: Dayanara Torres, a Puerto Rican actress who won Miss Universe in 1993.
- Popularity: Dayanara is rare worldwide, primarily used in the Philippines, and ranked 410th in Curaçao in 2014.
Delfie
Delfie is based on the Greek “delphys,” meaning “womb.” Many associate it with the French Delphine, meaning “dolphin,” while others believe Delfie to be a pet name meaning “from Delphim.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Dolphin
- Pronunciation: DEHL-Fiy
- Variations: Delfine
- Popularity: Delfie is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Indonesia.
Dukine
Dukine is one of the more mysterious Puerto Rican names for girls, with simply the meaning “sweet.” It may relate to the Spanish “dulce,” meaning “sweet,” and is all but extinct today.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Sweet
- Pronunciation: Duw-KEEN
- Popularity: Dukine is extremely rare worldwide, with just four known occurrences in 2014, mainly in Papua New Guinea.
Edelira
Edelira means “distinguished,” “famous,” and “noble.” It’s associated with the German boy’s name Adalmar and also means “conqueror.” Edelira is an area located in Itapua, Paraguay.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, German
- Meaning: Noble heritage
- Pronunciation: Eh-dih-LIH-rah
- Variations: Edelmira
- Popularity: Edelira is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Paraguay, ranking 108th in 2014.
Elena
Elena is a classic standout version of Helen used by cultures as diverse as Spanish, Welsh, and Slavic. In Greek mythology, Elena was considered the most beautiful woman in Greece and the daughter of Zeus.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Shining light
- Pronunciation: Eh-LEH-Naa
- Variations: Elana
- Namesakes: Elena Udrea, the Romanian tourism minister from 2008 to 2009. Elena Grushina, a Ukrainian ice dancer and the 2006 Olympic bronze medalist.
- Popularity: Elena ranked 31st worldwide, is mostly used in Russia, and ranked number one in Kazakhstan in 2014.
Emma
Emma comes from the German “ermen,” meaning “universal.” It was traditionally used as a short form of names ending in “ermen.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, German
- Meaning: Whole
- Pronunciation: EHM-ah
- Variations: Emm, Ema
- Namesakes: Emma Laird, an English actress appearing in the series Mayor of Kingstown. Emma Hippolyte, the Saint Lucian Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives, and Consumer Affairs from 2011 to 2018.
- Popularity: Emma ranked 458th worldwide, is mainly used in England, and ranked 2nd for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Esperanza
Esperanza means “expectation” and “waiting.” It’s taken from the Spanish “esperar,” meaning “to wait or expect,” and the Latin “sperare,” meaning “to hope.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Hope
- Pronunciation: Ehs-peh-RAAN-saa
- Variations: Esparanza, Esperanzah
- Namesakes: Esperanza Martínez, a Mexican painter who studied with the artist Diego Rivera. Esperanza Cabral, the Filipino Secretary of the Department of Health from 2009 to 2010.
- Popularity: Esperanza ranked 1,749th worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 10th in Equatorial Guinea in 2014.
Evita
Evita is a powerful, sexy nickname for Eva, meaning “living one,” as the first woman in the Bible. Eva Perón was the most famous Evita who inspired films, books and plays in her name.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Life
- Pronunciation: Eh-VIY-Taa
- Variations: Eva
- Namesakes: Evita Robinson, an African-American founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe. Eva Perón (known as Evita), the First Lady of Argentina from 1946 to 1952.
- Popularity: Evita is rare worldwide, mostly used in Indonesia, and ranked 346th in Latvia in 2014.
Fabiola
Fabiola is a Spanish and Italian diminutive for Fabiana and the female equivalent of Fabiano. It goes back to the Roman Fabianus, from the Latin “faba,” meaning “bean.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Bean
- Pronunciation: Faa-biy-OW-Laa
- Variations: Fabia
- Namesakes: Fabiola Yáñez, the First Lady of Argentina since 2019. Fabiola Valentín, a Puerto Rican model, crowned Miss Grand Puerto Rico 2020.
- Popularity: Fabiola is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 52nd in Haiti in 2014.
Fausta
Fausta means “lucky” when based on the Latin “faustus,” also meaning “successful” and “prosperous.” It’s also associated with “faveō,” meaning “support” and “to be favorable” for your little lady luck.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Fortunate
- Pronunciation: FAHWST-aa
- Variations: Fawsta
- Namesakes: Fausta Cialente, an Italian writer and recipient of the Strega Prize. Fausta Shakiwa Mosha, a Tanzanian scientist and director for the Ministry of Health since 2011.
- Popularity: Fausta is rare worldwide, primarily used in Tanzania, and ranked 321st in Uganda in 2014.
Felisa
Felisa is an interesting variation on the male Felix, meaning “good fortune” in Latin. In ancient Rome, it means to be divinely blessed by the goddess Felicitas.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Lucky
- Pronunciation: Feh-LIHS-ah
- Variations: Feliza
- Namesakes: Felisa Rincón de Gautier, the mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, from 1947 to 1969. Felisa Batacan, a Filipino writer and winner of the 2002 Manila Critics’ Circle National Book Award.
- Popularity: Felisa is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Italy.
Gabriela
Gabriela means “heroine of God” as the female equivalent of Gabriel. Gabriel was known as one of the seven archangels in the Bible.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my strength
- Pronunciation: Gaa-briy-EHL-ah
- Variations: Gabriella, Gavriella
- Namesakes: Gabriela Masłowska, a Polish member of the Sejm since 2005. Gabriela Sánchez, an Argentinian field hockey player for the Argentina national team.
- Popularity: Gabriela ranked 479th worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 37th in Romania in 2014.
Génesis
Génesis means “birth” and is best known as the first book of the Christian Bible. It also means “creation” and “beginning,” making it an offbeat choice ideal as a girl’s middle name.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: Origin
- Pronunciation: JHEHN-eh-Sihs
- Variations: Genesies, Genesiss
- Namesakes: Génesis Valentín, a Puerto Rican badminton player who competed at the 2014 Central American and Caribbean Games. Génesis Rodríguez, an American actress appeared in the telenovela Prisionera (2004).
- Popularity: Génesis is rare worldwide and primarily used in Venezuela, ranking 90th in 2014.
Georgia
Like its male counterpart George, Georgia means “earthworker.” It’s inspired by a long line of Christian saints named George and the patron saint of England, Saint George.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Farmer
- Pronunciation: JHOWR-Jhah
- Variations: Georgina
- Namesakes: Georgia Bonora, an Australian gymnast and gold medalist at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Georgia Tennant, an English actress appearing in the program Merlin.
- Popularity: Georgia is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Greece, and ranked 13th in Cyprus in 2014.
Gianna
Gianna is a diminutive for Giovanna, the Italian form of Johanna. It links back to John and the meaning “Yahweh is merciful.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Italian
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHIYAE-Nah
- Variations: Giana
- Namesakes: Gianna Rolandi, an American opera singer performing at the New York City Opera. Gianna Hablützel-Bürki, a Swiss fencer and silver medalist at the 1996 European Championships.
- Popularity: Gianna is rare worldwide and mainly used in Italy, where it ranked 288th in 2014.
Henar
Henar is one of the stranger varieties of Puerto Rican female names. It means “hayfield” in Spanish and “pomegranate” in Kurdish, but it’s uncommon outside of Spain.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Hayfield
- Pronunciation: HHEH-Ner
- Namesakes: Henar Álvarez, a Spanish scriptwriter and co-host for the Cadena SER radio show Buenismo bien.
- Popularity: Henar is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Spain, ranking 925th in 2014.
Hortensia
Hortensia derives from the Latin “hortus,” meaning “garden.” It refers to “one who takes care of the gardens” and is used for the hydrangea flower.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Gardener
- Pronunciation: Hohr-TEHN-siy-Ah
- Variations: Hortencia, Hortense
- Namesakes: Hortensia Bussi, the First Lady of Chile from 1970 to 1973. Hortensia Arzapalo, a Peruvian runner who competed at the 2015 World Championships in Athletics.
- Popularity: Hortensia is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 353rd in Chile in 2014.
Isabel
Isabel means “pledged to God” and “God is perfection.” It sprung out of the classic Elizabeth during the Middle Ages, yet it means “God of plenty” in Hebrew.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: God is my oath
- Pronunciation: IHZ-ah-Behl
- Variations: Isabelle
- Namesakes: Isabel Parra, a Chilean singer-songwriter in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement. Isabel Aboy, a Spanish actress appearing in the series Médico de familia.
- Popularity: Isabel ranked 230th worldwide and is mainly used in Angola, where it ranked 4th in 2014.
Itxaro
Itxaro is a particularly Basque name meaning “hope.” It also means “wait” and doesn’t often occur outside Spain or Portugal.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Basque
- Meaning: Hope
- Pronunciation: Iht-KAAR-ow
- Variations: Itxarro
- Namesakes: Itxaro Mentxaka, a Basque opera singer who performed at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona.
- Popularity: Itxaro is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Spain.
Ivelisse
Ivelisse is possibly the coolest version of Ivy or Eve you could hope for. It means “life” and “vine” and may also be connected to the French Yvette, meaning “yew wood.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, French
- Meaning: Life
- Pronunciation: Iy-VLIYZ
- Variations: Evaluise
- Namesakes: Ivelisse Vélez, a Puerto Rican wrestler and the Lucha Underground Trios Champion. Ivelisse Echevarría, a Puerto Rican baseball player inducted into the International Softball Federation Hall of Fame in 2003.
- Popularity: Ivelisse is rare worldwide, mostly used in the Dominican Republic, and ranked 110th in Puerto Rico in 2014.
Jacinta
Jacinta derives from the original Greek Hyacinthus, for the Hyacinth flower. It represented the Greek Hyacinthus, an ancient Spartan prince associated with violet or purple.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Hyacinth
- Pronunciation: HHaa-SIYN-tah
- Variations: Jacinda
- Namesakes: Jacinta Tynan, an Australian news presenter for Sky News Australia. Jacinta John, an Australian actress appearing in the Agatha Christie play The Mousetrap.
- Popularity: Jacinta is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in Kenya, ranking 231st in 2014.
Jadzia
Jadzia is by far the most Polish of Puerto Rican baby girl names with J. It also means “war battle” as a diminutive of the Polish Jadwiga, meaning “female warrior.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Polish
- Meaning: Warrior princess
- Pronunciation: HHAD-ziy-Ah
- Variations: Jadwiga
- Namesakes: Jadzia Axelrod, an American comic book author of Galaxy: The Prettiest Star for DC Comics.
- Popularity: Jadzia is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Poland, where it ranked 734th in 2014.
Jesusa
Jesusa is the most famous female name based on the name Jesus. It uses the Spanish spelling and pronunciation for Jesus and stands out for girls with a strong spirit.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is salvation
- Pronunciation: Hhey-SUWS-ah
- Variations: Jesusah
- Namesakes: Jesusa Rodríguez, a Mexican social activist and Senator of the Morena party.
- Popularity: Jesusa is rare worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines, and ranked 519th in Peru in 2014.
Josephine
Josephine, like the male Joseph, means “he shall increase.” It originally appears as the male Hebrew Yosef but is considered a vintage choice for proper baby girls.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: God increases
- Pronunciation: HHOW-sah-Fiyn
- Variations: Josefine
- Namesakes: Josephine Cashman, an Aboriginal-Australian Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Council member in 2013. Princess Josephine of Denmark, a member of the Danish royal family and child of Prince Frederik.
- Popularity: Josephine is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Kamila
Kamila has roots in Slavic cultures but is based on the Arabic “kamil,” meaning “perfect” or “complete.” It ranked 2nd for girls’ names in Puerto Rico in 2010, making it popular among names with K.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Slavic
- Meaning: Helper to the priest
- Pronunciation: Kaa-MIY-laa
- Variations: Camila, Camilla
- Namesakes: Kamila Valieva, a Russian figure skater and the 2022 European champion. Kamila Gasiuk-Pihowicz, a Polish member of the Sejm since 2015.
- Popularity: Kamila is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in Poland, ranking 74th in 2014.
Karina
Karina has many meanings, including “nice” and “love.” When spelled Carina, it dates back to the Latin “carus,” meaning “sweet” and “expensive.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Pretty
- Pronunciation: Kah-RIY-nah
- Variations: Karinah, Karinna, Karrina
- Namesakes: Karina Beteta, a Peruvian congresswoman from 2006 to 2011. Karina Ocasio, a Puerto Rican volleyball player for the women’s national team.
- Popularity: Karina ranked 641st worldwide, is mostly used in Russia, and ranked 69th in Belarus in 2014.
Lala
Lala may be connected to Lara, meaning “famous” and “cheerful.” In Hindi, Lala is a title of respect based on a Persian word used for an elder brother. Nowadays, it can be a short form for names like Esmeralda.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Slavic
- Meaning: Tulip
- Pronunciation: LAA-Laa
- Variations: Lalah, Lalla
- Namesakes: Lala Kent, an American media personality and founder of Give Them Lala Beauty. LaLa Anthony, an American TV personality appearing in Think Like a Man (2012).
- Popularity: Lala is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in India, and ranked 19th in Nepal in 2014.
Leala
Leala feels so familiar but isn’t related to the more common Leila. It means “faithful” in French and, though beautiful, is as rare as they come.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, French
- Meaning: Loyal
- Pronunciation: Leh-AH-lah
- Popularity: Leala is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Linda
Linda is the Spanish word for “pretty,” but it also has German roots. “Lind” means “tender” in German and alludes to the Linden tree.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Pretty
- Pronunciation: LIHN-Dah
- Variations: Lynda
- Namesakes: Linda Carter Brinson, an American writer and first woman assistant editor at The Baltimore Sun. Linda Ohama, a Canadian filmmaker for the 2001 film Obāchan’s Garden.
- Popularity: Linda ranked 91st worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 825th for girls in 2023.
Lluvia
Lluvia originated with the Latin “pluvia,” meaning “rain.” The song, Lluvia Cae, meaning “rain is falling,” was a single by Enrique Iglesias.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Rain
- Pronunciation: LUW-viy-Ah
- Namesakes: Lluvia, a Mexican wrestler for Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre.
- Popularity: Lluvia is rare worldwide and mainly used in Mexico, ranking 1,003rd in 2014.
Lorena
Lorena is the female equivalent of Laurence, meaning “person from Laurentum.” It uses the Latin root “laurus,” meaning “laurel tree,” to celebrate an ancient symbol of victory for your baby girl.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Laurel tree
- Pronunciation: Low-REHN-ah
- Variations: Lorenna, Lorrena
- Namesakes: Lorena Blanco, a Peruvian badminton player, and bronze medalist at the 2003 Pan American Games. Lorena Feijóo, a Cuban ballet dancer at the Cuban National Ballet.
- Popularity: Lorena ranked 988th worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 81st in Chile in 2014.
Luisa
Luisa is a Spanish representation of Louisa, the female form of Louis (or Luis in Spanish). It dates back to the German Ludwig, meaning “famous combat.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Renowned warrior
- Pronunciation: LWIY-Saa
- Variations: Louisa, Luiza
- Namesakes: Luisa de Guzmán, the Queen of Portugal and regent from 1656 until 1662. Luísa Diogo, the Prime Minister of Mozambique from 2004 to 2010.
- Popularity: Luisa ranked 599th worldwide, is mostly used in Italy, and ranked 25th in Venezuela in 2014.
Luna
Luna means “moon” and is represented by the Roman personification of the moon. It also means “happiness” when based on the Hawaiian “luana,” meaning “to enjoy.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Moon
- Pronunciation: LUW-Naa
- Variations: Lunah
- Namesakes: Luna Solomon, an Eritrean sport-shooter who competed at the 2020 Olympic Games. Park Sun-young (known as Luna), a South Korean singer and former member of the girl group f(x).
- Popularity: Luna is rare worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 526th in Spain in 2014.
Luz
Luz is the Spanish word for “light,” but derives from Nuestra Señora de la Luz, meaning “our lady of light.” It’s a well-known title for the Virgin Mary, revered by Hispanic populations globally.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Light
- Pronunciation: LUWS
- Variations: Lux
- Namesakes: Luz Magsaysay, the seventh First Lady of the Philippines from 1952 to 1957. Luz María Zetina, a Mexican actress and former Miss Mexico in 1994.
- Popularity: Luz ranked 215th worldwide and is primarily used in Colombia, where it ranked 4th in 2014.
Maria
Maria is the famously Latin form of Mary, meaning “bitter,” “beloved,” and “rebellious.” It symbolizes the Virgin Mary and has often held the top spot for girls’ names worldwide.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Grace
- Pronunciation: Mah-RIY-ah
- Variations: Marija
- Namesakes: Maria Ressa, a Filipino-American journalist awarded the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize. María Bazo, a Peruvian windsurfer and bronze medalist at the 2019 Pan American Games.
- Popularity: Maria ranked 1st worldwide, is mostly used in Brazil, and ranked 58th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Mariana
Mariana is one of many spellings for this combination of Mary and Ann. It means “star of the sea” and is sometimes linked to the Latin Marianus, meaning “dedicated to the god Mars.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Of the sea
- Pronunciation: Meh-riy-AEN-Ah
- Variations: Marianna, Maryana, Maryanna
- Namesakes: Mariana Seoane, a Mexican actress appearing in the telenovela Retrato de Familia. Mariana Díaz Oliva, an Argentinian tennis player who won the 2002 Internazionali Femminili di Palermo.
- Popularity: Mariana ranked 576th worldwide, is mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 189th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Marina
Marina means “maiden of the sea” when taken from the Latin “mare,” meaning “sea.” Marina is the daughter of Pericles in the Shakespearean play, but it also means “coast” for the Spanish coastal town called Marina.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: From the sea
- Pronunciation: Maa-RIY-naa
- Variations: Marinna, Marrina
- Namesakes: Marina Abramović, a Serbian performance artist known as the “grandmother of performance art.” Marina de Tavira, a Mexican actress known for Roma (2018).
- Popularity: Marina ranked 92nd worldwide, is primarily used in Russia, and ranked 491st for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Mariposa
Mariposa comes from the Greek “mariposario,” meaning “butterfly house” or “butterfly garden.” Mariposa also means “California lily” and represents a transformation for beautiful young girls.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Butterfly
- Pronunciation: Meh-rih-POW-Sah
- Variations: Marriposa, Maryposa
- Popularity: Mariposa is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the Philippines.
Marisol
Marisol was born from a much longer name—María de la Soledad. It means “Mary of the solitude” when referring to the Virgin Mary.
- Origin: Puerto Rican
- Meaning: Mary of the solitude
- Pronunciation: Maa-rih-SAAL
- Variations: Marysol
- Namesakes: Marisol Touraine, the French Minister of Social Affairs from 2012 to 2017. Marisol Malaret, a Puerto Rican model and Miss Universe 1970.
- Popularity: Marisol is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 95th in Chile in 2014.
Maritza
Maritza, like Marina, means “star of the sea” and is one of many Puerto Rican girl names rooted in Mary. It also means “bitter” and “little beloved,” perfect for your special gal.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Of the sea
- Pronunciation: Maa-RIYTZ-ah
- Variations: Maritsa, Maritzah
- Namesakes: Maritza Correia, a Puerto Rican swimmer and the first African-American swimmer to win an Olympic medal. Maritza Olivares, a Mexican actress known for Entre el amor y el odio.
- Popularity: Maritza ranked 1,995th worldwide and is primarily used in Cuba, ranking 32nd in 2014.
Marquita
Marquita originated with the Roman Marcus, meaning “dedicated to Mars” in Latin. It also means “little warrior” in Spanish and “ladybird” for nature-loving girls like yours.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Ladybird
- Pronunciation: Maar-KIY-taa
- Variations: Marquetta, Marquitta
- Namesakes: Marquita Rivera, a Puerto Rican performer at the 1939 New York World’s Fair.
- Popularity: Marquita is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 897th in Barbados in 2014.
Melosa
Melosa means “bee” and “honey” in Greek and is sometimes associated with Melissa. It’s also based on the Latin “mellosus,” meaning “relating to honey.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Sweet as honey
- Pronunciation: Meh-LOW-saa
- Variations: Malosa
- Popularity: Melosa is extremely rare worldwide, with 53 known occurrences in 2014, mainly in the Philippines.
Mia
Mia means “mine” in Italian, where it’s a nickname for Maria. In Slavic cultures, it means “dear.” In addition to being super popular in Puerto Rico, Mia ranked 8th for U.S. girls in 2023.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Slavic
- Meaning: Mine
- Pronunciation: MIY-ah
- Variations: Miah, Miyah
- Namesakes: Mia Mottley, the eighth prime minister of Barbados since 2018. Mia Kirshner, a Canadian actress known for the series 24 (2001 to 2005).
- Popularity: Mia is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Indonesia, and ranked number one in Puerto Rico in 2010.
Mikaela
Mikaela is a Spanish and Italian spelling for Michaela, the female counterpart to Michael. It means “who is like God” and is a wonderful way to pass down the name Michael to your baby girl.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: Who resembles God
- Pronunciation: Miy-KAEHL-ah
- Variations: Michaela, Mikhaela, Mikayla
- Namesakes: Mikaela Hoover, an American actress appearing in the series Sorority Forever (2008). Mikaela Shiffrin, an American alpine skier, and a two-time Olympic gold medalist.
- Popularity: Mikaela is rare worldwide, mostly used in Brazil, and ranked 316th in Sweden in 2014.
Milena
As a Slavic girl’s name, Milena is made up of “mil,” meaning “gracious” or “pleasant.” Its male equivalents are Milan, although you could call upon “mille’s,” meaning in Latin (“thousand”), to celebrate your new baby.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Slavic
- Meaning: Gracious
- Pronunciation: Miy-LAA-naa
- Variations: Milana
- Namesakes: Milena Gaiga, a Canadian field hockey player who competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics. Milena Gimón, a Venezuelan footballer for the Venezuelan women’s national football team.
- Popularity: Milena is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 38th in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2014.
Nahiara
Nahiara means “city In the Basque country” in Spanish. It’s based on the Basque place name Naiara with an H added to emphasize the pronunciation in Puerto Rico.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Town between the rocks
- Pronunciation: Nah-hiy-AHR-Ah
- Variations: Nahira
- Namesakes: Naiara Telletxea, a Spanish road cyclist who competed at the 2006 UCI Road World Championships. Naiara Azevedo, a Brazilian singer-songwriter whose 2017 song, Pegada Que Desograma, topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Popularity: Nahiara is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Spain.
Narcisa
Narcisa comes from the Latin “narcissus” – a name for the daffodil flower. It’s also based on Narcissus, a character in Greek mythology famous for his vanity.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Daffodil
- Pronunciation: Naar-CISS-ah
- Variations: Narcissa
- Namesakes: Narcisa Lecuşanu, a Romanian handballer and silver medalist at the 2005 World Championship. Narcisa Pérez Reoyo, a Spanish writer known for Cantos de la infancia (1865).
- Popularity: Narcisa is rare worldwide and primarily used in Ecuador, where it ranked 84th in 2014.
Novia
Novia means “new” in Latin but is better known for its use in Spanish to denote a girlfriend or sweetheart. Novia is a thoughtful way to name your baby girl and works for boys as Novio.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Sweetheart
- Pronunciation: NOW-viy-Ah
- Variations: Nova
- Popularity: Novia is rare worldwide and mainly used in Indonesia, ranking 731st in 2014.
Osana
Osana means “health” in Spanish and “God save us” in Hebrew. The most famous Osana was a Northumbrian princess who was also an unofficial saint.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Hebrew
- Meaning: Health
- Pronunciation: Ow-ZAEN-ah
- Variations: Osanna
- Popularity: Osana is rare worldwide, primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 1,063rd in Lebanon in 2014.
Osita
Osita refers to a “little bear” or “teddy bear.” It also means “may good things stay permanent” and “divinely strong” in the language of the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Nigerian
- Meaning: Bear
- Pronunciation: Oh-SIY-Tah
- Variations: Ositha
- Popularity: Osita is rare worldwide and mostly used in Nigeria, where it ranked 790th in 2014.
Paloma
Paloma means “pigeon,” but is better known for meaning “dove” when based on the Latin “palumbus.” Doves were a traditional symbol used by the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Dove
- Pronunciation: Pae-LOW-maa
- Variations: Palomah, Palloma
- Namesakes: Paloma Faith, an English singer whose album Do You Want the Truth or Something Beautiful? went double platinum. Paloma del Río, a Spanish journalist for Televisión Española.
- Popularity: Paloma is rare worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 204th in 2014.
Ramona
Ramona represents the female form of Ramon, meaning “protecting hands.” It’s used in multiple cultures, in Spain, Romania, and Latin America.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, German
- Meaning: Wise protector
- Pronunciation: Raa-MOW-naa
- Variations: Ramonna
- Namesakes: Ramona Fradon, an American comics artist who illustrated Aquaman. Ramona Young, an American actress known for the series Santa Clarita Diet.
- Popularity: Ramona ranked 1,197th worldwide, is primarily used in Argentina, and ranked 21st in Paraguay in 2014.
Rita
Rita is traditionally a diminutive for Margarita, meaning “pearl.” When it’s used in Hindi cultures, Rita means “truth” and “order” where it stands on its own.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Pearl
- Pronunciation: RIY-Taa
- Variations: Ritta
- Namesakes: Rita Deverell, a Canadian broadcaster and founder of the Canadian television channel Vision TV. Rita Kassabian, an Armenian composer and member of the French Société des auteurs.
- Popularity: Rita ranked 77th worldwide, is mostly used in India, and ranked 943rd for girls in the U.S. in 2014.
Rosalinda
Rosalinda is made up of the Old German “hros,” meaning “horse,” and “linta,” meaning “lime tree.” It’s also a compound name composed of “rose,” for the flower, and “linda,” meaning “beautiful” in Spanish.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, German
- Meaning: Gentle horse
- Pronunciation: Row-saa-LIYN-Daa
- Variations: Roselinda, Rosalind
- Namesakes: Rosalinda Galli, an Italian voice actress known for the anime series Urusei Yatsura. Rosalinda Asuncion Vicente, an associate justice of the Philippine Court of Appeals from 2003 to 2013.
- Popularity: Rosalinda is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in the Philippines, and ranked 139th in 2014.
Rosario
Rosario is a Spanish title used for the Virgin Mary, meaning “Our Lady of the Rosary.” Rosario means “rosary,” deriving from the Latin “rosarium,” first meaning “rose garden.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Rosary
- Pronunciation: Row-SAA-riy-Ow
- Variations: Rosareo
- Namesakes: Rosario Fernández, the Prime Minister of Peru from March to July 2011.
- Popularity: Rosario ranked 898th worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 25th in the Dominican Republic in 2014.
Sofia
Sofia originated as the Greek name Sophia, meaning “wisdom.” It was a name used for the holy spirit in Christianity and became Sofia in countries like Spain and Italy.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom
- Pronunciation: Sow-FIY-aa
- Variations: Sophia
- Namesakes: Sofia Loren, an Italian actress named one of the greatest stars of Classical Hollywood cinema by the AFI. Sofia Muratova, a Soviet gymnast and gold medalist at the 1960 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Sofia ranked 656th worldwide, is mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 7th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Stella
Stella means “celestial star” in Latin and became known due to Philip Sidney’s 16th-century poem Astrophel and Stella. Stella is famous today because of the female character in A Streetcar Named Desire.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Star
- Pronunciation: STEHL-ah
- Variations: Stellah
- Namesakes: Stella Pevsner, an American children’s book writer and recipient of the 1980 Carl Sandburg Award. Stella Dupont, a French representative in the National Assembly since 2017.
- Popularity: Stella ranked 711th worldwide, is mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 72nd for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Talisa
Talisa is a tough nut to crack where Puerto Rican names for girls are concerned. When based on Talia, it means “dew from God” and “flourishing,” but it also means “consecrated to God” in Africa.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Of noble birth
- Pronunciation: Taa-LIY-saa
- Variations: Talisah, Talisya, Talissa
- Namesakes: Talisa Soto, an American actress known for the 1989 film License to Kill. Talisa Torretti, an Italian gymnast and bronze medalist at the 2018 Junior European Championship.
- Popularity: Talisa is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Teofila
Teofila is an Italian spelling variation of the Greek Theophila. It’s composed of “theós,” meaning “God,” and “phílos,” meaning “loved.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Loved by God
- Pronunciation: Teh-ao-FIY-Laa
- Variations: Theofila, Theophila
- Namesakes: Teófila Martínez, the mayor of Cádiz, Andalusia (Spain) from 1995 to 2015. Teófila Márquiz, a Venezuelan fencer who competed at the 1960 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Teofila is rare worldwide and mostly used in Peru, ranking 181st in 2014.
Tierra
Tierra is a gender-neutral name meaning “earth” that’s more popular for girls. It derives from Terra, a word used in the phrase “tellus mater,” meaning “mother earth.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Earth
- Pronunciation: Tiy-EYR-ah
- Variations: Tiera
- Namesakes: Tierra Whack, an American rapper whose debut album Whack World was released in 2018.
- Popularity: Tierra is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Tonia
Tonia may look like Tania, but it’s actually a short form of Antonia. Antonia dates back to the ancient Roman family name Antonius. It means “priceless” for the little treasure you love best.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Praiseworthy
- Pronunciation: TAOHN-Yaa
- Variations: Tonja, Tonya
- Namesakes: Tonia Tisdell, a Liberian footballer for Telecom Egypt. Tonia Todman, an Australian TV personality appearing on Good Morning Australia.
- Popularity: Tonia is rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 372nd in Liberia in 2014.
Trini
Trini is a nickname for the Spanish Trinidad, from “trinitas,” meaning “Holy Trinity.” Trini is associated with the Scandinavian Trina, meaning “triple,” and also refers to those from Trinidad and Tobago.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Holy Trinity
- Pronunciation: TRIY-Niy
- Variations: Trina
- Namesakes: Trini Tinturé, a Spanish-Catalan cartoonist awarded the Grand Prize at the 2023 Barcelona International Comic Fair. Trini Alvarado, an American actress known for Little Women (1994).
- Popularity: Trini is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Usoa
Usoa may not seem familiar, but it shares the meaning of “dove” in both African and Spanish cultures. It also happens to be short for the United States of America.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, African
- Meaning: Dove
- Pronunciation: Yuw-SOW-ah
- Variations: Usoah
- Popularity: Usoa is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Spain.
Valentina
Valentina means “strong” when based on the Roman Valentinus. It uses the Latin root “valens,” meaning “vigorous,” and appears everywhere from Italy and Russia to Portugal and Puerto Rico.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Healthy
- Pronunciation: Vaa-lehn-TIY-Naa
- Variations: Valenteena, Valentyna
- Namesakes: Valentina Matos, a Dominican-Spanish figure skater and the 2019 Open d’Andorra champion. Valentina Figuera, the first Venezuelan woman to win the Miss Grand International title in 2019.
- Popularity: Valentina ranked 376th worldwide, is primarily used in Russia, and ranked 4th in Latvia in 2014.
Victoria
Victoria is one of the most powerful Puerto Rican female names with origins in ancient mythology. It’s the name of the Roman goddess of victory and Queen Victoria, who inspired the entire Victorian era with her name.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Victory
- Pronunciation: Vihk-TOWR-iy-Ah
- Variations: Victoriah, Victorya, Viktoria
- Namesakes: Victoria Principal, an American actress known for the soap opera Dallas (1978 to 1999). Victoria Nyame, a member of Ghana’s Parliament from 1965 until 1966.
- Popularity: Victoria ranked 206th worldwide, is mostly used in Nigeria, and ranked 36th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Vinita
Vinita is a Spanish diminutive for Vina, meaning “vineyard.” It also has Sanskrit origins in India, meaning “she has been brought to accomplish a great thing,” – which is super inspiring.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Vineyard
- Pronunciation: Viy-NIY-taa
- Variations: Vinitah
- Namesakes: Vinita Mahesh, an Indian actress appearing on the soap opera Bhatak Lena Baware. Vinita Nair, an American journalist and co-host of CBS This Morning Saturday.
- Popularity: Vinita is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in India, and ranked 420th in 2014.
Xantina
Xantina means “saint” in Portuguese and is inspired by Xantiago, the Portuguese spelling for Santiago. Meaning “follower of Saint James,” Xaintina also means “flower” for many in South America.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Little saint
- Pronunciation: Zan-TIYN-ah
- Variations: Xanti
- Popularity: Xantina is extremely rare worldwide, with just two known occurrences in 2014 in Peru and Uruguay.
Xiomara
Xiomara is associated with the Spanish male given name Guiomar, originally the German Wigmar. It means “famous in battle” in Aramaic and is one of the most exotic Puerto Rican baby girl names with X.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Ready for battle
- Pronunciation: Ziy-ow-MAAR-ah
- Namesakes: Xiomara Molero, a Puerto Rican volleyball player who competed at the 2002 FIVB Women’s World Championship. Xiomara Reyes, a Cuban principal dancer with the American Ballet Theater.
- Popularity: Xiomara is rare worldwide and primarily used in Cuba, where it ranked 50th in 2014.
Yara
Yara comes from the mythology of the Tupi-Guarani language, one of fifty Tupian languages in South America. In the story, Yara (or Lara) is a water goddess and a river spirit. In Arabic, Yara also means “small butterfly.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Lady of the Lake
- Pronunciation: YAA-Raa
- Variations: Yarah, Yarra
- Namesakes: Carla Nazih al-Berkashi (known as Yara), a Lebanese pop singer who won the music competition Kass el-Nojoum in 1998. Yara Bou Rada, a Lebanese footballer for the Lebanon national team.
- Popularity: Yara is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Egypt, ranking 139th in 2014.
Ynes
Ynes evolved from the Greek Hagni, from “hagnos,” meaning “chaste.” It’s also related to the Latin “agnus,” meaning “lamb” and “holy,” which led to the female Agnes.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: Iy-NEHZ
- Variations: Ines, Inez, Ynez
- Namesakes: Ynés Mexía, a Mexican-American botanist who discovered a genus of Asteraceae flowers named Mexianthus.
- Popularity: Ynes is rare worldwide and mainly used in Venezuela, where it ranked 615th in 2014.
Yuliana
Yuliana is a uniquely Russian spelling of Juliana, meaning “youthful” or “Jupiter’s child.” It uses the Latin root “juvenalis” and also refers to someone “devoted to Jove” in the ancient Roman world.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Latin
- Meaning: Youthful
- Pronunciation: Yuw-liy-AEN-ah
- Variations: Juliana
- Namesakes: Yuliana Salakhova, a Russian sprint canoeist and silver medalist at the 2010 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships. Yuliana Peniche, a Mexican actress appearing in the program Madres Egoístas (1991).
- Popularity: Yuliana is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in Indonesia, ranking 70th in 2014.
Zantina
Zantina means “one who is a great devotee” and is a version of the Spanish Santina. It’s possibly related to Santiago, meaning “follower of Saint James.”
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Little saint
- Pronunciation: Zaen-TIY-nah
- Variations: Santina, Xantina
- Popularity: Zantina is extremely rare worldwide, with just ten known occurrences in 2014, in places like Brazil, Guatemala, and the U.S.
Zenobia
Whether one grows up in a palace or a ghetto, there’s no denying that being named Zenobia feels royal. That’s because it’s inspired by the 3rd-century Queen Zenobia, who ruled Palmyra in the Arabian desert.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Greek
- Meaning: Life of Zeus
- Pronunciation: Zeh-NOW-biy-Ah
- Variations: Zenobea, Zenobiah
- Namesakes: Zenobia of Armenia, an Iberian princess of the Pharnavazid dynasty who was Queen of Armenia from 51 to 53 and 54 to 55 CE.
- Popularity: Zenobia is rare worldwide, mostly used in Peru, and ranked 429th in Bolivia in 2014.
Zita
Zita means “little hope” in Spanish, “saint” in Basque, and “mistress” in Arabic. It’s also a nickname used for Felicity in Hungary.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: Little hope
- Pronunciation: ZIY-Taa
- Variations: Zeeta, Zitah, Zyta
- Namesakes: Zita Nelson, a Spanish-Argentine opera singer who performed on National Radio and Radio Culture (1937). Zita Okaikoi, a Ghanaian Ambassador to the Czech Republic from 2013 to 2017.
- Popularity: Zita is rare worldwide, mainly used in Hungary, and ranked 27th in Lithuania in 2014.
Zuleyka
Zuleyka derives from the Persian name Zulaykha, meaning “brilliant beauty” and “lovely one.” It means “well-born” in Egyptian, “bright and fair” in Arabic, and is popular in Puerto Rico today.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Persian
- Meaning: Lovely, brilliant
- Pronunciation: Zuw-LEY-Kah
- Variations: Zuleikha, Zuleica
- Namesakes: Zuleyka Rivera, a Puerto Rican actress crowned Miss Puerto Rico Universe 2006. Zuleyka Silver, a Mexican-American actress appearing on Univision’s Nuestra Belleza Latina.
- Popularity: Zuleyka is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Panama, and ranked 529th in Puerto Rico in 2014.
Zurina
Zurina is one of many Puerto Rican girl names with Basque origins. It means “white” but also lends itself to everything from “pure” to “heavenly” for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Puerto Rican, Spanish
- Meaning: White
- Pronunciation: Zuh-RIY-naa
- Variations: Zureena, Zurinah
- Popularity: Zurina is rare worldwide and primarily used in Malaysia, where it ranked 353rd in 2014.
Puerto Rican Female Names FAQs
Do Puerto Ricans Have Two First Names?
Some Puerto Ricans have two first names, like Maria Jose, while most have both a first and middle name. They also often use two surnames to represent their maternal and paternal last names. Usually, their father’s surname will come first, followed by their mother’s surname.
What’s a Common Puerto Rican Female Name?
In 2019, Valentina was the most popular girl’s name in Puerto Rico. It derives from the Latin Valentinus and means “strength” and “health.” Valentina also ranked 203rd for girls in the U.S. in 2023. Other common Puerto Rican girl names include Isabel, Mia, and Victoria.
Who Is the Most Famous Puerto Rican Woman?
Rita Moreno is probably the most famous Puerto Rican female celebrity. She is a Puerto Rican actress and EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) award recipient. Her most famous film was West Side Story in 1961, and she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004.
