Hernán

Hernán is a masculine given name of Spanish origin. It is a traditional form related to the medieval name Hernando, which itself is linked to the Germanic name Heinrich (Henry). As such, Hernán sits within the broader family of names that trace back to the meaning “home ruler” or “ruler of the estate.”

The name is widely used across Spain and throughout Latin America, where Spanish-speaking communities have carried it for centuries. It appears in historical records, literature, and contemporary public life, including sports, the arts, and politics, reflecting its enduring presence in the Spanish-speaking world.

Notable people named Hernán include Hernán Cortés (1485–1547), the Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that contributed to the fall of the Aztec Empire. Another well-known bearer is Hernán Crespo (born 1975), an Argentine former professional footballer who played as a striker for major clubs in Europe and the Argentina national team.

Variants and related names include Hernando, a longer form, and other language-adapted equivalents of the broader Henry family. The name remains in occasional use in contemporary Spanish-speaking populations, maintained by cultural and familial traditions.