Gonzalo

Contains a Germanic element meaning “battle”; the full meaning is uncertain.

Gonzalo is a Spanish masculine name with Germanic roots and an element meaning “battle”. The rest of its meaning is uncertain: familiar translations such as “saved in battle” go beyond what can be securely established. Behind the modern spelling lies the medieval form Gundisalvus, giving Gonzalo a long Iberian history. Say it in three beats, gon-SA-lo, with the middle syllable stressed. In Latin America the z generally sounds like s; in much of Spain it sounds like th in thin. The firm opening and strongly placed a give the name presence, while the final -lo softens its landing. To the ear, it has a substantial, traditional warmth. Portuguese Gonçalo is a corresponding given name. González, by contrast, is a surname derived from Gonzalo: the two are connected, but they are not interchangeable spellings.

Etymology: The Spanish form of medieval Gundisalvus, a name with Germanic roots. Its second element remains unexplained.