Gustavo

Gustavo is a masculine given name common in Spanish-, Portuguese-, and Italian-speaking communities. It is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Gustav and is related to other forms such as Gustave and Gustavus.

Etymology: The name is of Germanic origin, from the historic name Gustav/Gustavus, usually linked to elements that denote power and divinity; interpretations vary, including “staff of the gods” or “royal staff.”

Usage: It is widely used in Latin America, as well as in various European countries, with local variants such as Gustav and Gustaf in Scandinavia. In Italy and Spain, Gustavo is a standard form of the name, while other languages retain forms like Gustav or Gustave.

Notable people: The name has been borne by several public figures across fields such as music, sports, and politics. Gustavo Santaolalla is an Argentine musician and Oscar-winning composer; Gustavo Dudamel is a renowned Venezuelan conductor; Gustavo Kuerten is a Brazilian tennis player and former world No. 1; Gustavo Cerati was an Argentine musician and Soda Stereo frontman; Gustavo Petro is a Colombian politician who has served as president.