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Origin and meaning of the name Letinha

What is the origin of the name Letinha?

The name Letinha is a diminutive of the female given name Maria Letícia, which is a Portuguese variation of the Latin name Maria and the Brazilian variant of Leticia. The name Maria is derived from the Hebrew Miryam, meaning "bitter" or "rebellious," while Leticia is of Greek origin, coming from letos (birth) and eudaimonia (happiness), symbolizing the joy of giving birth. The diminutive Letinha, common in Brazil, softens the name Maria Letícia to a more affectionate form.

Learn more about the origin of the name Letinha

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Letinha

Letinha is a diminutive form of the Portuguese given name Maria. The name Maria originates from Hebrew and means "bitterness," "rebellion," or "longing." In Latin, it became Maria, which was later transformed into Mariya in Slavic languages and Mary in English. The diminutive forms like Letinha are used in Portuguese-speaking countries to express affection towards the bearer of the name. It's important to note that names in many cultures often have multiple meanings or origins, and their usage can evolve over time based on regional or cultural influences.

Character traits associated with the name Letinha

Letinha, a Portuguese name, is often associated with individuals who possess vibrant and spirited personalities. They are typically friendly, outgoing, and have a strong connection to their cultural roots. Letinhas tend to be empathetic, displaying a keen understanding and concern for the feelings of others. Their energy and enthusiasm can be infectious, making them popular among friends and acquaintances. While they may also show determination and resilience in the face of challenges, their sociable nature often leads them to value harmony and good relations with those around them. Letinhas are often adaptable, able to navigate various social situations with ease due to their charm and charisma.

Popularity of the name Letinha

Letinha is a common Portuguese female name, particularly popular among Brazilian speakers due to its usage within the Brazilian Portuguese-speaking community. It's a diminutive form of the name Maria, which is one of the most frequently used names in Portugal and Brazil. The popularity of Letinha can be attributed to its friendly and playful sound, making it appealing to parents seeking a warm and affectionate name for their daughter. Its widespread use, particularly among younger generations, demonstrates that it remains a popular choice in contemporary Brazilian naming practices.

Famous people with the name Letinha

Letinha is a Portuguese female given name that is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. In music, Letícia Gonçalves, popularly known as Letinha, is a Brazilian singer and songwriter who gained fame after winning the talent show "Popstar" in 2003. Another well-known figure is Letitia Wright, a British actress of Guyanese and Portuguese descent, best recognized for her role as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films. Lastly, Letícia Santos, a Portuguese footballer, has also made significant strides in sports. She played professionally for various clubs such as Sporting CP, Benfica, and Liverpool before retiring in 2019 due to injuries. Each of these women has achieved success in their respective fields, making the name Letinha noteworthy in international circles.

Variations of the name Letinha

The name Letinha can be spelled and pronounced differently based on regional variants and language influences. Here are some variations:

1. Letícia - This is the original Portuguese spelling of the name, which means "little girl" in Latin. It derives from the biblical name Elisabeth.
2. Letícia Maria - A common full name for girls, combining Letícia with Maria, the most popular female name in Portugal and Brazil.
3. Letyña - A possible English spelling of the name, using the "ny" sound instead of "ti" found in Portuguese.
4. Letinia - An alternate spelling, derived from Letícia by changing the "c" to "t," which can be seen in some languages.
5. Lettisha - A creative adaptation of the name, blending it with the common English name Tish.
6. Leticiah - A variant with an additional "h" at the end, found in some names databases or genealogy websites.
7. Letisha (US) - An Americanized spelling, similar to Lettisha. It's less common but still appears in name records.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 27 July 2025

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