A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Candelario since 1907
Babies named Candelario per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 82 |
| 1920s | 269 |
| 1930s | 231 |
| 1940s | 260 |
| 1950s | 267 |
| 1960s | 188 |
| 1970s | 263 |
| 1980s | 241 |
| 1990s | 238 |
| 2000s | 157 |
| 2010s | 85 |
| 2020s | 33 |
Meaning & origin
Candelario is a Spanish name with deep roots in the Iberian Peninsula and Latin American communities. First recorded in U.S. data in 1907, it peaked in 1929, reflecting early 20th-century immigration patterns. Though rare today, ranked 7,194 in 2025, it has seen a slight revival since 2020, particularly in Texas, the top state for this name. Its meaning is tied to religious candle imagery or a place name, giving it a distinct cultural resonance. Parents choosing Candelario today often honor family traditions, as its rarity makes it a distinctive yet meaningful choice.
Candelario is a Spanish name of uncertain derivation, likely related to the word 'candelaria,' which refers to the Feast of the Purification of the Virgin (Candlemas). It may also derive from the town of Candelario in the province of Salamanca, Spain. The name has been used primarily in Spanish-speaking communities, especially in Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Where Candelario is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cande, Candy, Lario
Variants: Candelaria
Sibling names for Candelario
Names that share Candelario's style, for a brother or sister.
