# Rodrigo

/ɹəˈdɹiɡoʊ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rodrigo
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a common male name in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. It comes from an old name meaning 'famous ruler'.

For teachers: a masculine given name of Germanic origin, common in Ibero-Romance languages. Derived from the name Roderick, it combines the elements for 'fame' and 'power' or 'ruler'.

## Examples

- Rodrigo is a very popular name in Spain.
- The history teacher, Rodrigo, explained the origins of the Spanish empire to the class.
- In medieval literature, Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, known as El Cid, remains one of the most celebrated figures of the Reconquista.

## Usage notes

- Used as a proper noun; typically capitalized.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.