Diego

Diego is a prevalent Spanish masculine given name with a rich etymological background, primarily linked to the name James but also potentially to the Latin Didacus.

Origin and Etymology

The most widely accepted origin of Diego is as a Spanish cognate of James, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov (יַעֲקֹב), meaning 'supplanter' or 'he who follows'. This Hebrew name evolved into the Greek Iakobos (Ἰάκωβος) and then the Latin Iacobus. In the Iberian Peninsula, Iacobus became 'Iago'. The common invocation 'Sant Iago' (Saint James) led to the forms 'Santiago' and the shortened 'Tiago', from which 'Diego' is believed to have evolved as a hypocoristic or variant form. An alternative, though less commonly accepted, theory suggests Diego may derive from the Latin name Didacus, which itself is possibly of Greek origin from 'didachē' (διδαχή), meaning 'teaching' or 'doctrine'.

Meaning

Reflecting its primary etymological connection to Jacob/James, the predominant meaning of Diego is 'supplanter'. This refers to the biblical figure Jacob, who was born holding his twin brother Esau's heel and later acquired his birthright. If the alternative origin from Didacus is considered, the name could also imply 'learned', 'teacher', or 'doctrine'.

Usage and Significance

Diego is an exceedingly popular name in Spanish-speaking countries and has seen increased usage internationally. Its strong association with Saint James the Greater (Santiago el Mayor), the patron saint of Spain, has significantly contributed to its historical and ongoing prevalence. Another notable saintly namesake is Saint Didacus of Alcalá (San Diego de Alcalá), a 15th-century Spanish Franciscan lay brother, whose name in Spanish is San Diego. The city of San Diego, California, is named after him.

Notable Figures

Numerous prominent individuals have borne the name Diego, including the celebrated Spanish Golden Age painter Diego Velázquez (1599-1660), the iconic Argentine footballer Diego Maradona (1960-2020), and the influential Mexican muralist Diego Rivera (1886-1957). These figures, among others, have contributed to the global recognition of the name.