Origin and Meaning of Rico

Meaning & Origin

Brave Ruler or Powerful

Origin: Spanish - Rico is a diminutive of the name Enrique, which is the Spanish form of Henry, derived from the Germanic name Heimirich meaning 'home ruler.'

Interesting Facts

  • Rico gained popularity as a stand-alone name in the 20th century, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries and among Hispanic communities in the United States.
  • The name is often used informally in Spanish-speaking regions to denote someone who is affluent or wealthy, as 'rico' translates to 'rich' in Spanish.
  • Notable bearers include Rico Rodriguez, an actor known for his role in the television series 'Modern Family', and Rico Suave, a popular song from the 1990s.
  • Rico has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S. over the decades, peaking in the early 1990s among Hispanic families.
  • Variations of Rico include Enrico (Italian), Eric (English), and Henrique (Portuguese).