Paloma

Dove; pigeon

Paloma is a feminine Spanish name taken from the word for “dove” or “pigeon”. Peace belongs to the dove’s symbolism; it is not a separate literal translation of the name. There is also a religious resonance: the dove represents the Holy Spirit in Christian imagery, and Madrid honours Mary as the Virgen de la Paloma. In Spanish, the emphasis falls on the middle syllable: pa-LO-ma. The clear opening p gives way to the softer l and m, a combination that can make Paloma feel both definite and gentle. An everyday bird word gains a lyrical sweep when used as a name.

Etymology: From the Spanish word paloma, whose earlier source is Vulgar Latin palumba.