What does Modesto mean and where does it come from?
'Modesto' is of Spanish origin, derived from the word 'modesto,' meaning humble or moderate. It is often used in Spanish-speaking countries and can be seen as a virtue name that conveys a sense of simplicity and groundedness. The name has been historically used in various regions, including Spain an
Cultural significance
Modesto has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of humble, moderate.
Peak popularity
Reached #1195 in 1927 — currently #9432 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Modesto?
Modesto works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Modesto Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Modesto John
One syllable · timeless choice
Modesto Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Modesto Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Modesto Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Modesto Dean
One syllable · on the rise
How popular is Modesto right now?
Falling — down 1844 spots — currently #9432 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #9432 | 8 | ▼ down 1844 · -27% births |
| 2024 | #7588 | 11 | ▼ down 818 · -15% births |
| 2023 | #6770 | 13 | ▼ down 400 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #6370 | 14 | ▼ down 142 |
| 2021 | #6228 | 14 | ▼ down 263 |
| 2020 | #5965 | 14 | ▲ up 1564 · +40% births |
| 2015 | #7529 | 10 | ▼ down 2033 · -37% births |
| 2010 | #5496 | 16 | ▲ up 103 · +14% births |
| 2005 | #5599 | 14 | ▼ down 2969 · -60% births |
| 2000 | #2630 | 35 | ▲ up 11 · +25% births |
| 1995 | #2641 | 28 | ▼ down 508 · -18% births |
| 1990 | #2133 | 34 | ▼ down 148 · +17% births |
| 1985 | #1985 | 29 | ▼ down 279 · -15% births |
| 1980 | #1706 | 34 | ▲ up 527 · +70% births |
| 1975 | #2233 | 20 | — |
The story of Modesto
Modesto entered American naming records in 1908 and has been in use for over 116 years. With 2,499 total births recorded, Modesto remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1696 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #6770 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Modesto in 1927:
Modesto by decade
Modesto peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 7 | |
| 1910s | 115 | |
| 1920s | 233 | |
| 1930s | 203 | |
| 1940s | 245 | |
| 1950s | 245 | |
| 1960s | 262 | |
| 1970s ★ | 295 | |
| 1980s | 273 | |
| 1990s | 280 | |
| 2000s | 220 | |
| 2010s | 107 | |
| 2020s | 33 | |
💎With 2,499 total births, Modesto is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Modesto?
Famous people named Modesto
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Modesto (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Modesto bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
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Modesto (Latin American historical figure)
Modesto used this name across South and Central America as Spanish naming traditions spread.
M(
Modesto (Spanish royal)
Modesto held this name in the Spanish Crown, giving it aristocratic resonance across the Hispanic world.
M(
Modesto (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Modesto bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Modesto?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Modesto also consider these
How is Modesto written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Modesto?
Common questions about the name Modesto
What does the name Modesto mean?
Modesto means "Humble, moderate" — a name rooted in Spanish tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Modesto?
Modesto is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Modesto have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Modesto?
Modesto originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Modesto?
Modesto is a three-syllable name pronounced moh-DEST-oh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Modesto?
Modesto pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Spanish heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.