Refugio is a unique and uncommon given name of Spanish origin, meaning 'refuge' or 'haven'. It is derived from the Latin word 'refugium', which refers to a place of shelter or protection. Traditionally, Refugio has been more prevalent in Spanish-speaking countries, but it can be found worldwide among individuals with Hispanic heritage or those drawn to its distinctive sound and meaning.
The name Refugio carries historical significance in some regions. For instance, in Texas, USA, the town of Refugio was named after a Mexican fort called "Refugio de la Bahia", which translates to 'refuge of the bay'. This fort played a notable role during the Texas Revolution in the early 19th century.
While Refugio may not be among the most popular names globally, it offers an appealing alternative for parents seeking unique and meaningful names. Its rarity can make it stand out, while its root meaning adds depth and significance. As such, Refugio could be an interesting choice for those looking to confer a distinctive name with a compelling backstory upon their child.
The name Refugio experienced fluctuating popularity over the years, with a significant increase around World War I and a decline after the 1940s. The most notable years for the birth of girls named Refugio were 1918 with 37 births and 1926 with 35 births. However, in recent decades (post-1980), it appears that the name has become much less common, with only five births each recorded between 1982 and 1988. Overall, from 1890 to 1988, there were a total of 863 girls named Refugio born in the given statistics.