Find out how popular the first name Iago has been for the last 22 years (from 2002 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Iago by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Iago is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Iago.

The history of the first name Iago

The name Iago has its origins in the Basque language, spoken in parts of Spain and France. It is derived from the Basque word "iago," which means "to watch over" or "to guard." The earliest recorded use of the name dates back to the 12th century in the Basque region.

Iago gained prominence in English literature through William Shakespeare's play "Othello," written around 1603. In the play, Iago is the main antagonist, a villain who manipulates and betrays the protagonist, Othello. This association with treachery and deceit has influenced the perception of the name in English-speaking cultures.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Iago was Iago Arista (770-851), the first King of Pamplona in the Iberian Peninsula. He played a significant role in the resistance against the Moors during the Reconquista period.

Another notable figure was Iago Galván (1220-1283), a Spanish nobleman and military leader who served under King Alfonso X of Castile. He was renowned for his bravery and military exploits during the Reconquista.

In the 16th century, Iago Ramos (1510-1580) was a Spanish explorer and navigator who accompanied Ferdinand Magellan on his famous circumnavigation of the globe. He was one of the few survivors of the expedition and provided valuable accounts of their journey.

The name Iago also found its way into religious circles. Iago de Valladolid (1452-1519) was a Spanish Dominican friar and theologian who played a significant role in the Spanish Inquisition and the conversion of Jews and Muslims to Christianity.

In the 18th century, Iago Andrada (1720-1792) was a prominent Portuguese architect and engineer. He designed several notable buildings, including the Basilica da Estrela in Lisbon, and contributed to the reconstruction efforts after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.

While the name Iago has a rich historical background, its association with Shakespeare's villainous character has made it less popular in modern times, particularly in English-speaking countries. However, it remains a traditional name in the Basque region and parts of Spain and Portugal.

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 Iago was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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