Santos is a name of Spanish and Portuguese origin, meaning "saints" or "holy". It is derived from the Latin word "sanctus", which translates to "holy" or "sacred". The name Santos has been traditionally used as both a given name and a surname throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
The name Santos has a rich history that dates back centuries. In medieval Spain, it was often given to children born around religious holidays or in honor of saints. It was also common for people to adopt Santos as a surname if they lived near a church or holy site.
Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Santos. One famous example is Friar Antonio deSantos (1698-1743), a Spanish Franciscan friar who traveled extensively throughout South America and was known for his evangelical work among indigenous populations.
Today, Santos remains a popular name in Spain and Portugal, as well as in Latin American countries with significant Spanish or Portuguese influence. It is often given to boys but can also be used for girls. In some cultures, it may be considered more appropriate for use as a middle name rather than a first name.
Overall, the name Santos carries a strong association with religious devotion and holiness due to its origins and meaning. However, it has also been embraced by many families simply because they like how it sounds or feels meaningful in other ways.
The name Santos has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there were fewer than 10 births per year with the name Santos. However, starting around 1944, the number of annual births began to rise significantly.
By the 1950s, over 100 babies were being named Santos each year. This trend continued into the 1960s and 1970s, with the name reaching its peak popularity in 1971, when 186 babies were given the name.
The popularity of the name Santos has fluctuated somewhat since then, but it has remained a popular choice. In recent years, over 200 babies have been named Santos annually, with a record high of 314 births in 2023. Overall, from 1880 to 2023, there were a total of 18,173 births with the name Santos in the United States.
This data demonstrates the enduring appeal of the name Santos and its growing popularity over time.