Find out how popular the first name Cristoval has been for the last 47 years (from 1974 to 2020) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Cristoval by gender

Based on the last 47 years of data, Cristoval is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2020, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Cristoval.

The history of the first name Cristoval

Cristoval is a masculine given name with roots in the Spanish and Portuguese languages. The name is derived from the Late Latin name Christophorus, which itself is a combination of the Greek words "Christos" (meaning "Christ") and "phoros" (meaning "bearer" or "carrier").

The name Cristoval gained prominence during the Middle Ages, particularly in regions with strong Christian influence, such as the Iberian Peninsula and parts of Latin America. It was often associated with the legend of St. Christopher, who was believed to have carried the Christ child across a river, earning him the title "Christ-bearer."

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Cristoval can be found in the 12th-century Spanish epic poem "El Cantar de Mio Cid," where a character named Cristoval is mentioned. The name also appears in various medieval religious texts and chronicles, further solidifying its association with Christian tradition.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Cristoval. One of the most famous is Cristoval Colon, better known as Christopher Columbus (1451-1506), the Italian explorer who sailed across the Atlantic Ocean and initiated the Spanish colonization of the Americas.

Another prominent figure was Cristoval de Vaca (c. 1490-1558), a Spanish explorer and chronicler who is known for his expeditions in what is now the southwestern United States and his accounts of interactions with Native American tribes.

In the realm of art, Cristoval de Villalpando (c. 1649-1714) was a renowned Mexican painter and architect who contributed significantly to the Baroque style in New Spain (now Mexico).

Cristoval Balenciaga (1895-1972) was a Spanish fashion designer who founded the iconic Balenciaga fashion house and is considered one of the masters of 20th-century couture.

Additionally, Cristoval Rojas (1857-1890) was a Venezuelan poet and writer who is regarded as a significant figure in the country's literary tradition.

While the name Cristoval has evolved over time and across different cultures, it remains deeply rooted in its religious and historical origins, serving as a testament to the enduring influence of Christian tradition and the cultural exchange between Spain, Portugal, and the Americas.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Cristoval was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Cristoval, please contact us.

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