Afonso

Afonso is a Portuguese and Galician masculine given name. It is cognate with the Spanish name Alfonso.

Origin and Meaning:

The name Afonso derives from the Visigothic name Adelfuns, a compound of the Germanic elements adal meaning "noble" and funs meaning "ready, eager, willing." Therefore, the name Afonso can be interpreted as "noble and eager" or "noble and willing."

Variations:

• Alfonso (Spanish)
• Alfons (German, Polish)
• Alphonse (French)

Historical Significance:

The name is strongly associated with Portuguese royalty. Afonso Henriques was the first King of Portugal (Afonso I), and several subsequent Portuguese monarchs bore the name. The name also appears frequently in the royal houses of Spain (as Alfonso).

Common Use:

Afonso remains a relatively common given name in Portugal and Brazil. Its popularity in other countries is lower.

Notable People Named Afonso:

• Afonso Henriques (Afonso I of Portugal)
• Afonso de Albuquerque (Portuguese admiral and statesman)
• Afonso Cruz (Portuguese writer)