Fidel
Fidel is a boy name of Latin origin meaning “Faithful”, pronounced fee-DEL. It ranked #1875 in the United States in 2025, given to 84 babies, and peaked at #631 in 1959. Common nicknames: Fide, Lelo.
How popular is Fidel in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Fidel mean, and where does it come from?
Fidel comes from the Latin fidelis, "faithful" — the same root as fidelity and as the motto Semper Fidelis. Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen carried it into Catholic Europe, and it became a steady Spanish name, recorded in the United States since 1892. Its twentieth-century history is dominated by one man, and Fidel Castro's long rule means the name now arrives with politics attached whether a family intends it or not. In the Philippines it has a different weight entirely, through President Fidel Ramos.
How is Fidel used around the world?
Fidel is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 5+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Fidel?
Famous People Named Fidel
- Fidel Ramos — President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998
- Fidel Castro — Cuban revolutionary and head of state from 1959 to 2008
- Fidel Sánchez Hernández — President of El Salvador
Similar Names to Fidel
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Sibling Name Ideas for Fidel
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Fidel mean?
Fidel is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Faithful." Fidel comes from the Latin fidelis, "faithful" — the same root as fidelity and as the motto Semper Fidelis. Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen carried it into Catholic Europe, and it became a steady Spanish name, recorded in the United States since 1892.
How do you pronounce Fidel?
Fidel is pronounced fee-DEL. Common variations include Fidelis, Fidèle, Fedele.
Is Fidel a boy name?
Yes, Fidel is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Fide, Lelo.