Ignacio

Original meaning uncertain; later associated with Latin ignis, “fire”.

Ignacio is the Spanish form of Ignatius, from the Roman family name Egnatius. Its original meaning is uncertain, and its older roots may be Etruscan. The familiar interpretation “fiery” comes from a later association with Latin ignis, “fire”, rather than a securely established original meaning. Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, gives the name a strong place in Christian naming tradition. Nacho is an established affectionate form: beside the more formal Ignacio, it feels brisk and companionable. In Latin American Spanish, Ignacio has an s sound in its ending; in parts of Spain, the c is pronounced like the th in English “thin”. Both put the stress on na. That open, emphasized a and the rounded final o give Ignacio a warm, expansive sound.

Etymology: Spanish form of Latin Ignatius, an altered form of the Roman family name Egnatius, possibly of Etruscan origin.