Meaning, origin, history
Pepe is a Spanish given name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic name Yusuf, which means "God will increase." In Spain, Pepe has been used as a nickname for José, the Spanish form of Joseph, and it has become popular in its own right.
The use of Pepe can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was first used as a diminutive of José. Over time, it has become widely recognized as an independent name in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries.
Pepe has also been used as a surname, with some families adopting it as their last name over generations. Today, Pepe remains a popular choice for parents looking for a short, simple, and charming name for their sons.
Despite its widespread use in Spain, Pepe is not limited to that country alone. It can be found throughout Latin America and has even gained popularity in other parts of the world, such as the United States. In fact, some famous Pepec include Mexican singer Pepe Aguilar and Spanish football player José "Pepe" Reina.
In popular culture, Pepe has been used as a character name in various movies, TV shows, and books. For example, there is a character named Pepe in the popular cartoon series South Park, and it also appears as a nickname for one of the main characters in the novel "The Sun Also Rises" by Ernest Hemingway.
Overall, Pepe is a classic Spanish name with deep roots in history and culture. Its simple yet charming sound makes it appealing to parents around the world looking for a unique and meaningful name for their sons.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Pepe since 1880
Total births
155
Total since 1880
Peak year
1962
11 births
in 2002
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years