Brazilian Portuguese Names and Surnames

According to the 2010 Census, there are around 200 million inhabitants in Brazil, accounting for over 130,000 different Brazilian Portuguese names. Lately, more modern names have been becoming popular among parents naming their kids. However, the list of the most common Brazilian Portuguese names still features traditional names dating way back, such as José, João, and Ana.

Most Common Brazilian Portuguese Boy Names

Most Common Brazilian Portuguese Girl Names

Most Common Baby Names in Brazil

Lately, the names given to newborns are fairly different from the list of most common Brazilian Portuguese names.  According to the National Association of Natural Person Registrars, the most popular baby names of 2022 in Brazil were:

Most Common Brazilian Surnames

In most cultures, a surname, family name, or last name indicates one’s family, tribe, or community. In the early years of Brazil, the Catholic Church registered babies without a surname. Only in the 19th century that registration became standard in Brazil and began to include surnames on birth certificates.

Until today, most surnames in Brazil are of Portuguese origins, due to colonization. Origins for other surnames include tree names, patronymic, and toponymic names.

Brazilian Portuguese Nicknames

The use of nicknames is fairly common in Brazil, especially among friends and family, as it creates a sense of affection and intimacy between individuals.

Even though people can use physical characteristics or funny events to make up nicknames for others, the most common way is by abbreviating their names or using their diminutive form. Just add -inho, -inha, -zinho or -zinha to the name of your friend and you have a nickname for them. For example, Olavo becomes Olavinho and Clara is nicknamed Clarinha.

If you want to learn more about Nickanes in Brazil, read our blog post: Nicknames In Brazil: a Way To Show Affection.

Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on 10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us on Instagram for some Portuguese tips and news.