Dimas

Dimas is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Dismas, a name derived from Greek dysme meaning "sunset." Dimas, like its source, is traditionally associated with the repentant thief who was crucified alongside Jesus, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 23:39–43). In Christian tradition, the penitent thief is commonly called Dismas, while the unrepentant thief is named Gestas. The name Dismas—and by extension Dimas—thus carries connotations of redemption and mercy.

Etymology and Religious Roots

The name Dimas enters the Spanish and Portuguese onomasticon through the Latin form Dysmas, which itself comes from the Greek word dysme (δυσμή), meaning "sunset" or "west." The choice of this meaning likely reflects the idea of the thief's life ending as the sun would set, or allegorically, the end of his sinful ways. The Dismas tradition became prominent in Christian folklore and art, especially after the publication of the medieval apocryphal "Gospel of Nicodemus," which named the two thieves and elaborated on their stories. The name Dimas is used primarily in Catholic cultures, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America.

Notable Bearers and Cultural Use

While Dimas is not among the most common given names, it has been borne by a number of notable individuals, especially in religious contexts. For example, San Dimas is the name of a municipality in São Paulo state, Brazil, named after the saint. There is also a well-known town in California, San Dimas, which takes its name from a Spanish Catholic mission tradition honoring the penitent thief. Outside of given names, Dimas appears as a surname, particularly in Hispanic communities, furthering the dissemination of the name beyond its Iberian roots.

• Meaning: Sunset, west (via Greek dysme)
• Origin: Greek; Spanish and Portuguese form of Dismas
• Type: Given name (traditionally masculine); also a surname
• Usage Regions: Spain, Portugal, Latin America, Philippines (via Spanish influence)