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Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
In 2024, many parents are looking for names that combine originality, history and depth. Among the emerging choices, a boy’s name stands out for its rarity and rich heritage. Discover this boy’s name.
Of ancient origin, this masculine first name evokes both strong cultural roots and a fascinating literary imagination. Long discreet, it is now experiencing a resurgence of interest among families looking for a unique identity for their child.
Iago, a first name of Hebrew origin
Iago is a variant of the name Jacob, which means “he who supplants” or “God has favored” in Hebrew. The name is particularly popular in Welsh and Spanish-speaking countries, where it is a form of James or Jacques, respectively. It has spanned the centuries, taking root in different cultures, which gives it an international dimension.
In Spain, Iago is often associated with Saint James, the patron saint of pilgrims and a key figure in Christianity. In Galicia, it is linked to the city of Santiago de Compostela, an emblematic destination on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. This religious heritage makes it a name full of spirituality and tradition.
Iago in popular culture
The name Iago is deeply rooted in popular culture thanks to Shakespeare, who made it famous in his tragedy Othello. Iago is an intriguing, manipulative and devious character, traits that have left a lasting mark on the collective imagination. This character is sometimes seen as a hindrance to the use of the name, but it also contributes to its singularity and depth, arousing as much fascination as mistrust.
A rare gem in 2024
In 2024, the name Iago is part of a broader trend of returning to old or less common names. Today’s parents are looking to stand out while giving their child a name with meaning, and Iago ticks all those boxes. Although still discreet in France, it is gaining popularity in other European countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and Spain. This choice reflects a desire to give the child a strong identity, anchored in history while remaining timeless.
Why choose this first name?
For today’s parents, choosing the name Iago means combining tradition and modernity. It has the advantage of being both rare and easy to pronounce in many languages, an asset in an increasingly international world. In addition, its rich history and symbolism make it a name that never goes out of fashion and can stand the test of time.
In conclusion, Iago is a powerful name, both mysterious and evocative. For parents looking for originality and depth, Iago appears to be a wise and inspiring choice.
Slideshow: Top rare and sweet boys’ names