Nando is a short form (hypocorism) of Fernando or Ferdinando, common in Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish usage. Etymology Nando ultimately derives from Ferdinand, a Gothic name introduced to the Iberian Peninsula by the Visigoths. The name is composed of the elements friþus meaning "peace" (or alternatively farþa "journey") and nanþa meaning "boldness, daring." In its shortened form, Nando retains the sense of bravery from nanþa, as reflected in its interpretation as "bold" or "reckless."