paco

Paco is a given name that is most commonly used as a diminutive of Francisco in Spanish-speaking countries. The given name Francisco comes from the Latin Franciscus, meaning “Frenchman” or “Frankish.” In everyday use, Paco functions as an affectionate, informal form of Francisco, though it may also be used as a stand-alone given name in some cases.

The nickname is widely used across Spain, Mexico, and much of Latin America, reflecting regional naming practices in Spanish-speaking communities. Outside of Spanish-speaking contexts, the form may appear as a familiar or stage name among people of Spanish heritage.

Notable individuals associated with the name include Paco Rabanne (Francisco Rabaneda y Cuervo, 1934–2023), a Spanish-born fashion designer who built a career in France; Paco de Lucía (Francisco Sánchez Gómez, 1947–2014), a renowned Spanish flamenco guitarist and composer; and Paco Alcácer (Francisco Alcácer García, born 1993), a Spanish professional footballer who has represented club and country.

Paco also connects to related nicknames for Francisco, such as Pancho (more common in Mexico), Chico, and Fico, which illustrate regional variations in the affectionate forms of the name.