Fulgencio

Fulgencio is a masculine given name of Spanish origin. It derives from the Latin name Fulgentius, itself from words meaning “to shine” or “shining,” and is commonly interpreted as “bright” or “brilliant.” The name has been used in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking regions for many centuries and remains in use, though it is less common in contemporary English-speaking contexts. The Portuguese form is Fulgêncio.

In historical and religious contexts, the name is associated with Latin-derived variants such as Fulgentius, including saints and early Christian figures, which helped popularize its use in Catholic regions. As a result, Fulgencio has appeared in literature and records across Iberian-influenced cultures.

Notable bearers of the name include Fulgencio Batista (1901–1973), the Cuban military officer and politician who served as president in the 1940s and later ruled as a dictator after a 1952 coup until his overthrow in 1959. Beyond this well-known figure, the name Fulgencio has been used by individuals across Latin America and other Spanish-speaking communities, reflecting its enduring presence in Iberian and Latin American naming traditions.