Valentín

Valentín is a masculine given name of Spanish origin, derived from the Latin Valentinus, which generally means strong, healthy, or powerful. The form is associated with Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr whose feast day on February 14 helped popularize the name in Europe and among Spanish-speaking communities.

In Spanish-speaking countries, Valentín remains a common given name, used in Spain and across Latin America. The accent on the last syllable reflects Spanish pronunciation. Variants outside the Spanish-speaking world include Valentin (used in German, French, and other languages) and Valentino (Italian). Valentín can also appear as a surname in some cases, though less frequently than as a given name.

Cultural usage and recognition of Valentín are tied to broader associations with Saint Valentine and with popular culture where the name appears in literature, film, and sports. Its enduring presence across generations reflects both religious heritage and contemporary naming trends in the Spanish-speaking world.

Notable individuals named Valentín include Valentín Elizalde (1979–2006), a Mexican ranchera singer known as "El Gallo de Oro"; Valentín Gómez Farías (1781–1858), a Mexican politician who served as head of state in the early 19th century; and Valentín Paniagua (1936–2006), a Peruvian politician who served as president from 2000 to 2001. These examples illustrate the name’s historical depth and continued use in diverse fields.