Santos Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationSAHN-tos / /ˈsæntoʊs/Spanish; Portuguese
Meaning
Spanish: 'saint'; Portuguese: 'holy'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Santos has its roots in the Latin word "sanctus," meaning "holy" or "sacred." This term evolved through various linguistic stages, first appearing in early Christian texts as a reference to saints. The name was adopted into Spanish and Portuguese as "Santos," which directly translates to "saints" in English. This transition reflects the influence of the Christian tradition in the Iberian Peninsula, where the veneration of saints played a significant role in cultural and religious life. The name entered the English language primarily through the Spanish and Portuguese explorers and missionaries during the Age of Exploration, particularly from the 15th century onward.
Historically, the name Santos has been associated with numerous saints in Christianity, most notably Saint Anthony of Padua, who is often referred to as "Santo Antonio" in Portuguese and Spanish. His life and works in the 13th century contributed to the name's prominence in regions influenced by Catholicism. Additionally, the name has been borne by various notable figures throughout history, including saints and religious leaders, which has further solidified its significance within Christian communities. The name appears in various historical texts and religious documents, reflecting its longstanding association with holiness and virtue.
Culturally, Santos carries connotations of reverence and spirituality, often associated with the celebration of saints' feast days in Catholic traditions. The name is frequently used in conjunction with other names, such as "Santos de la Cruz," which translates to "Saints of the Cross," highlighting its religious significance. The enduring nature of the name can also be seen in its use in various cultural contexts, including literature and art, where it symbolizes purity and sanctity. Overall, Santos reflects a rich tapestry of linguistic, historical, and cultural influences that have contributed to its lasting resonance.
Trend Summary
The name Santos has seen moderate popularity in the United States, particularly within Hispanic communities.
Similar Names
Variants
- Santo
International Variants
- Santos (Spanish)
- Santos (Portuguese)
Famous people named Santos
Santos Dumont is an aviation pioneer best known for his early heavier-than-air flight and the development of the 14-bis and Demoiselle aircraft.
Santos Escobar is a professional wrestler best known for his work in WWE and AAA.
Fictional characters named Santos
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Santos was first seen in the United States in 1880. Santos has ranked as high as #1066 nationally, which occurred in 2023, and has been most popular in Texas, California, New York, Arizona, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Santos has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Santos (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 67 | |
TX | 63 | |
AZ | 16 | |
IL | 13 | |
FL | 11 | |
NY | 10 | |
OH | 8 | |
WA | 8 | |
GA | 7 | |
NC | 7 | |
TN | 6 | |
VA | 6 | |
AL | 5 | |
NV | 5 | |
AR | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 5 |
1888 | 5 |
1892 | 5 |
1897 | 5 |
1900 | 9 |
1901 | 11 |
1902 | 10 |
1903 | 10 |
1904 | 8 |
1905 | 11 |
1906 | 19 |
1907 | 13 |
1908 | 19 |
1909 | 18 |
1910 | 23 |
1911 | 17 |
1912 | 22 |
1913 | 12 |
1914 | 35 |
1915 | 40 |
1916 | 47 |
1917 | 62 |
1918 | 64 |
1919 | 75 |
1920 | 88 |
1921 | 98 |
1922 | 93 |
1923 | 106 |
1924 | 111 |
1925 | 125 |
1926 | 96 |
1927 | 126 |
1928 | 112 |
1929 | 92 |
1930 | 97 |
1931 | 86 |
1932 | 99 |
1933 | 88 |
1934 | 81 |
1935 | 77 |
1936 | 60 |
1937 | 81 |
1938 | 89 |
1939 | 85 |
1940 | 80 |
1941 | 83 |
1942 | 103 |
1943 | 88 |
1944 | 128 |
1945 | 122 |
1946 | 117 |
1947 | 154 |
1948 | 123 |
1949 | 139 |
1950 | 124 |
1951 | 134 |
1952 | 100 |
1953 | 123 |
1954 | 160 |
1955 | 122 |
1956 | 136 |
1957 | 149 |
1958 | 144 |
1959 | 159 |
1960 | 142 |
1961 | 152 |
1962 | 165 |
1963 | 149 |
1964 | 158 |
1965 | 140 |
1966 | 143 |
1967 | 159 |
1968 | 156 |
1969 | 162 |
1970 | 174 |
1971 | 186 |
1972 | 159 |
1973 | 173 |
1974 | 172 |
1975 | 190 |
1976 | 172 |
1977 | 178 |
1978 | 172 |
1979 | 172 |
1980 | 221 |
1981 | 226 |
1982 | 180 |
1983 | 199 |
1984 | 162 |
1985 | 176 |
1986 | 185 |
1987 | 178 |
1988 | 157 |
1989 | 172 |
1990 | 186 |
1991 | 215 |
1992 | 189 |
1993 | 223 |
1994 | 209 |
1995 | 233 |
1996 | 221 |
1997 | 217 |
1998 | 227 |
1999 | 238 |
2000 | 227 |
2001 | 246 |
2002 | 245 |
2003 | 277 |
2004 | 236 |
2005 | 259 |
2006 | 302 |
2007 | 273 |
2008 | 294 |
2009 | 254 |
2010 | 240 |
2011 | 230 |
2012 | 212 |
2013 | 242 |
2014 | 237 |
2015 | 236 |
2016 | 215 |
2017 | 208 |
2018 | 205 |
2019 | 220 |
2020 | 243 |
2021 | 273 |
2022 | 277 |
2023 | 314 |
2024 | 297 |