Inklingo

How to Say "name" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “name” is “nombre” — use 'nombre' for a person's given name or surname, or for the general fame or renown of a person or thing.

English → Spanish

nombre

nom-brehˈnom.bɾe

NounA1General
Use 'nombre' for a person's given name or surname, or for the general fame or renown of a person or thing.
A simple name tag with a blank space for a name, with a friendly hand pointing to it.

Examples

¿Cómo te llamas? Mi nombre es Ana.

What is your name? My name is Ana.

¿Cuál es tu nombre?

What is your name?

Mi nombre es Sofía.

My name is Sofía.

Le pusieron el nombre de su abuela.

They gave her her grandmother's name.

Always a 'Masculine' Word

Even if it's a woman's name, the word 'nombre' itself is always masculine. So you say 'el nombre' (the name) or 'un nombre bonito' (a pretty name).

Mixing up 'nombre' and 'apellido'

Mistake: “Pensé que tu nombre era García.”

Correction: Pensé que tu apellido era García. Use 'nombre' for a first name (like 'David') and 'apellido' for a last name (like 'García').

llame

YAH-meh / SHAH-meh (in certain regions)ˈʎa.me

VerbA1General
This is a verb form (from 'llamar') used to ask or state what something is called, often when you don't know the specific term.
A joyful illustration of an adult holding a small baby up gently, representing the act of naming or identification.

Examples

No sé cómo se llame ese platillo, pero huele delicioso.

I don't know what that dish is called, but it smells delicious.

No sé cómo se llame ese plato, pero es delicioso.

I don't know what that dish is called (may be named), but it is delicious.

Espero que le llame Juan a su hijo.

I hope he names his son Juan.

Piense en un nombre que llame la atención.

Think of a name that draws attention.

The Passive Idea of Being Called

When asking for a name, you use the reflexive form 'se llame': '¿Cómo quiere que se llame?' (What do you want it to be called?).

fama

FAH-mahˈfa.ma

NounB1General
Use 'fama' when referring to a general reputation or public recognition, often positive but can be neutral.
A skilled carpenter confidently handing a perfectly crafted wooden object to another person, who looks at the object with clear trust and admiration, symbolizing a good reputation.

Examples

Ese restaurante tiene fama de ser muy caro.

That restaurant has a reputation for being very expensive.

Ese hotel tiene fama de tener el mejor servicio de la ciudad.

That hotel has a reputation for having the best service in the city.

Perdió su buena fama después del escándalo.

He lost his good reputation after the scandal.

reputación

NounB1General
Use 'reputación' to describe the general opinion or estimation of someone's character or status, often implying a moral or professional standing.

Examples

Ella tiene una reputación intachable como abogada.

She has an impeccable reputation as a lawyer.

denominación

NounB2Formal
Use 'denominación' for the official title, designation, or label of an organization, product, or concept.

Examples

La denominación de origen protege los productos tradicionales.

The designation of origin protects traditional products.

Nombre vs. Fama/Reputación

Learners often confuse 'nombre' with 'fama' or 'reputación'. Remember that 'nombre' is primarily for a person's name or general renown, while 'fama' and 'reputación' specifically refer to public perception or standing.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.