What does Vasco mean and where does it come from?
Vasco is a name of Portuguese and Spanish origin, notably associated with Vasco da Gama, the famed Portuguese explorer. The name likely comes from the Basque word 'Bask' meaning 'crow'. In the context of explorers, Vasco reflects a sense of adventure and exploration into new territories. The name ha
Cultural significance
Vasco has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Portuguese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of crow.
Peak popularity
Reached #1420 in 1910 — currently #6424 in the US.
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Related Reading
Portuguese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Vasco?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Vasco?
Vasco works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Vasco Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Vasco John
One syllable · timeless choice
Vasco Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Vasco Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Vasco Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Vasco Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Vasco right now?
Falling — down 544 spots — currently #6424 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #6424 | 14 | ▼ down 544 · -12% births |
| 2024 | #5880 | 16 | ▲ up 6257 · +167% births |
| 2023 | #12137 | 6 | ▼ down 1375 · -14% births |
| 2022 | #10762 | 7 | ▼ down 1132 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #9630 | 8 | ▼ down 927 |
| 2020 | #8703 | 8 | ▲ up 2003 · +33% births |
| 2015 | #10706 | 6 | ▼ down 947 · -14% births |
| 2010 | #9759 | 7 | ▼ down 2062 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #7697 | 9 | ▼ down 2788 · +50% births |
| 1975 | #4909 | 6 | ▼ down 1133 · +20% births |
| 1935 | #3776 | 5 | ▼ down 649 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3127 | 8 | ▼ down 298 · -20% births |
| 1925 | #2829 | 10 | ▲ up 752 · +43% births |
| 1920 | #3581 | 7 | ▼ down 1329 · -42% births |
| 1915 | #2252 | 12 | — |
The story of Vasco
Vasco entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. With 471 total births recorded, Vasco remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1420 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12137 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Vasco in 1910:
Vasco by decade
Vasco peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s ★ | 95 | |
| 1920s | 78 | |
| 1930s | 63 | |
| 1940s | 43 | |
| 1950s | 24 | |
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 11 | |
| 1980s | 17 | |
| 1990s | 17 | |
| 2000s | 50 | |
| 2010s | 55 | |
| 2020s | 38 | |
💎Vasco has only 471 total recorded births since 1910 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Vasco?
What names sound and feel like Vasco?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Vasco also consider these
How is Vasco written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Vasco
What does the name Vasco mean?
Vasco means "Crow" — a name rooted in Portuguese 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 Vasco?
Vasco is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Vasco?
Vasco originates from Portuguese tradition. Portuguese 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 Vasco?
Vasco is a two-syllable name pronounced VASK-oh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Vasco a common or rare name?
Vasco is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.