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Diego

Diego is believed to be a Spanish version of the name 'James,' which traces back to Latin 'Iacobus,' itself from the Hebrew name 'Yaakov.' Its cultural significance in Spanish-speaking countries is evident, as Diego is a common name historically associated with the Catholic saint, Saint James the Greater.

IPA: /ˈdjeɪɡoʊ/ · Simplified: DYAY-go

Male
Spanish
Spanish
Iberian Peninsula
dynamic
charismatic
artistic
loyal

65/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2024

Peak Year

Meaning of Diego

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Diego is believed to be a Spanish version of the name 'James,' which traces back to Latin 'Iacobus,' itself from the Hebrew name 'Yaakov.' Its cultural significance in Spanish-speaking countries is evident, as Diego is a common name historically associated with the Catholic saint, Saint James the Greater.

Does Diego flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Diego

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈdjeɪɡoʊ/ · Simplified: DYAY-go

Nicknames for Diego

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Didi
Dago
Dieguito
Dee

Diego name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

80

Mexico

78

Spain

75

Argentina

73

Colombia

60

United States

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Iago

Didacus

Thiago

Names like Diego

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Diego

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Diego is often associated with a vibrant and passionate personality, embodying creativity and charisma. Those with this name are considered to be outgoing and energetic, often with a strong artistic or athletic flair.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Diego

Well-known figures who share this name.

D

Diego Rivera

Mexican painter and muralist, 1886-1957

D

Diego Maradona

Argentinian footballer, 1960-2020

Frequently asked questions about Diego

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Diego mean?
Here is the meaning behind Diego: Diego is believed to be a Spanish version of the name 'James,' which traces back to Latin 'Iacobus,' itself from the Hebrew name 'Yaakov.' Its cultural significance in Spanish-speaking countries is evident, as Diego is a common name historically associated with the Catholic saint, Saint James the Greater.
Is Diego a boy or girl name?
Diego is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Diego?
Diego scores 65/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2024.
What are good nicknames for Diego?
Popular nicknames for Diego: Didi, Dago, Dieguito, Dee.
What names are similar to Diego?
Names similar to Diego: Santiago, Daniel, Dieudonné, Dmitri — close in sound, origin, or style.

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