247 Meaningful Armenian Baby Names With Historical Roots

A timeless collection of echoes of the ancient highland heritage.

Written by Kavita Kankani, MBA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 7 years

Kavita has a diverse background in finance, human resources, and teaching. She did her MBA in Finance and HR at Solapur University, and bachelor in Education at Pune University. After working for three years in the banking industry, Kavita took up teaching before moving to writing.

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Fact-checked by N Pravenchandra Singh, MA Specialty: Literature and RelationshipsExperience: 2 years

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Last Updated on Jul 24, 2024

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Are you looking for names that reflect your heritage? Or do you want a distinctive and unusual name from a different culture, something as diverse as a country’s landscape? Then you should look at our list of Armenian baby names. The Armenian baby names bring to mind the ancient nation whose vigor and strength overcame tyranny, genocide, terror, and Stalin’s Great Purge. Being a nation with a history dating back to 2000 B.C., Armenians have a rich list of personal names. While most of these names are borrowed from the Bible and other cultures and civilizations, many others are names of elements found in nature. Armenian names consist of first names and a surname, and patronymics are used in between the first name and surname. According to tradition, Biblical names are used as first names, which could be Hebrew, Greek, or Latin in origin. Besides their cultural and religious significance, Armenian baby names’ uniqueness also arises from their phonetic characteristics derived from the Armenian language. Nature is also thought to play a significant role in Armenian values and beliefs as many of their titles are inspired by it, thus expanding the diversity of their names. Some beloved and common choices include Hovan, meaning ‘God’s gift,’ which signifies the people’s devotion and the Almighty’s promise of endless blessings and grace. Another example is the name, Artur, meaning ‘bear,’ which is derived from the majestic and one of the strongest creatures found in nature, emphasizing bravery and strength. Additionally, the language also boasts classic and timeless choices like Alex, meaning ‘to defend.’ Here the name signifies a regal connection due to its association with Alexander and symbolizes courage and greatness. We do agree that most of these names are best confined to the Armenian community, but some deserve wider circulation. Below, we have compiled a list of popular and traditional Armenian baby names with meanings to assist you. Have a look!

Name	Gender	Meaning
Mark	Boy	Mars; God of war; Male; Warlike; Hammer; Defender
Ari	Boy	Lion; Eagle; Brave; Most holy; Sun-like; Visible; Generous; Chief; Superior
Henrik	Boy	Lord of the house; Estate ruler 80
Arman	Boy	Desire; Hope; Wish; From Armenia; Roman
Mari	Girl	Donation; Mother; Genuine; Village; Reason; Logi
Alek	Boy	Defender of men; Black and white cow
Levon	Boy	Lion
Aram	Boy	Calm; Fortress; Elevated place; Glittering; Lustrous; Splendid
Aren	Boy	Eagle; Eagle ruler; Mountain of strength
Taleen	Unisex	Green shoot; Seedling

Aleksandr	Boy	Defender of mankind
Alen	Boy	Little rock; Handsome
Narek	Boy	Name of an Armenian saint; A city in Ancient Armenia
Armen	Boy	From Armenia
Kamyla	Girl	Helper to the priest
Kami	Boy	Lord; Loving; Divine; A youth employed in religious services; God
Ohana	Girl	Family
Avik	Boy	Brave; Might; Powerful; One with Strength of a Diamond; Good news
Yamila	Boy	Beautiful and strong
Nare	Girl	Pomegranate; Fire

Zylan	Unisex	Land of Stones
Syon	Boy	Followed by good luck
Darlyn	Unisex	Beloved; Darling
Davit	Boy	Beloved; Uncle
Artin	Boy	Resurrection; Righteous; Pure; Holy
Zaven	Boy	God is gracious
Ryzen	Unisex	Powerful; Innovative; Cutting-edge
Caliah	Unisex	Beautiful; Graceful; Strong
Kamber	Unisex	Strong, adventurous, confident
Garen	Boy	Pure; Each of the two; My consecration of your name

Karmella	Girl	Graceful, compassionate, and blessed
Kathalina	Girl	Pure, gentle, beloved
Aleks	Boy	Defender of men
Makaya	Unisex	Strength and power; God's gift
Arzoyi	Unisex	Unique, exotic, charismatic
Donya	Girl	Worldly, influential, determined
Dariah	Unisex	Feminine, strong, and royal
Sarkis	Boy	A shepherd
Zylen	Boy	Modern and unique
Imir	Boy	Powerful ruler

Ohanna	Girl	Man of exceptional courage, nobility, and strength
Sosa	Unisex	Willow tree
Marsel	Boy	Warlike, strong, courageous
Mikayel	Boy	Who is like God
Vardan	Girl	Gifted or bestowed with blessings and abundance
Arka	Boy	King of kings; Of Arcadia; Sun; Fire; Copper
Bellami	Unisex	Beautiful; Sweet sound
Syra	Unisex	Radiant or glowing
Kevork	Boy	Farmer
Ziara	Unisex	Visit; Pilgrimage

Anania	Unisex	Yahweh is gracious
Gor	Boy	Fierce; Brave; Proud
Zalena	Girl	Sunshine; Bright light
Zariana	Girl	Sacred
Jaze	Unisex	Unique; Modern; Charismatic
Trea	Unisex	Trinity or threefold
Arch	Boy	Holy and brave; Bold master; Bear
Rosalin	Girl	Rose; beautiful and graceful
Xandria	Girl	Protector; Strength; Adventurous spirit
Grigor	Boy	Watchful; Alert

Auriana	Girl	Golden; Noble beauty
Hatch	Unisex	Shelter or small opening in a surface
Hakob	Boy	Supplanter; Armenian variant form of the Hebrew name Jacob
Jivan	Boy	Life; Existence; Giving life
Liston	Unisex	One who is determined or resolute
Nishan	Boy	A sign or a mark
Arpi	Unisex	Sunlight; Golden light
Albi	Unisex	White, bright, noble
Bam	Unisex	Slam, energetic, unconventional
Ivianna	Girl	God is gracious

Lilit	Girl	Spirit of the night; Ghost
Garo	Boy	One who is appreciative and sensitive
Azena	Unisex	Obedient; Righteous; One who is in charge; Ruler
Vahe	Boy	One who is unique; One who is noble
Rondo	Unisex	Round; Musical; Vibrant
Zerina	Unisex	Princess or noblewoman
Zylar	Unisex	Lucky; Beautiful
Avedis	Boy	Brings good news
Anush	Boy	Sweet; Lovely; Nice; Pleasant morning; Star
Aricin	Boy	Lion; Eagle; Brave; Diamond

Janaiah	Unisex	God has answered
Eann	Unisex	God is gracious
Haig	Boy	From the enclosed field
Kristo	Unisex	Christ or follower of Christ
Kristelle	Girl	Unique; Strong; Graceful
Megaa	Unisex	Strong and mighty
Nareh	Girl	Pomegranate flower
Shant	Boy	He who is like lightning
Esmie	Unisex	Esteemed; Noble
Taline	Girl	Monastery; Name of a town in Armenia

Sharav	Unisex	Radiant, bright
Alin	Boy	Noble; Bright; To soothe; Mountain; Bearer of light
Alaki	Unisex	Strong warrior
Aisel	Unisex	Noble; Gentle; Radiant
Davita	Girl	Beloved; Uncle
Emar	Unisex	Brave; Strong warrior
Bianey	Girl	Unique; Feminine
Xayah	Unisex	Bird of prey
Harutyun	Boy	Resurrection; Variant names are Haroutioun and Harutiun
Divan	Unisex	Royal; Council

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Armenian baby names represent the people’s cultural heritage, customs, language, and beliefs. Apart from being an alluring choice of names, they also have intriguing histories, unique pronunciations, and styles. These names are inspired by various sources, including nature, culture, and spirituality, evoking a sense of sophistication, grace, and charm. From classic names to traditional ones, each name here has a story to tell, offering exquisite identities for your baby. They radiate the country’s beauty and are wonderful for parents who aspire to choose names across borders.

Infographic: Fascinating Armenian Baby Names

Armenian baby names represent the rich cultural heritage and influences of the country. These names are usually gender-specific and have melodious tones. The meanings of these names are often connected to historical events and traditions. Check out the infographic below for amazing Armenian names, and bless your little one with your best-loved title!

Spectacular Armenian Names For Your Baby (infographic)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the impact of globalization on Armenian baby names?

International cultural exchange has opened a world of new names in Armenia. Names like Eduard (rich guard), Daniel (God is my judge), Artur (bear), Henrik (home ruler), Mark (male), and Leo (lion) from other languages like English, French, and German have found a way into Armenian culture.

2. What are the current trends in Armenian baby boy names?

Baby boy names with shorter syllables have found a modern appeal in recent years. Names like Aram (name of an ancient ancestor), Alek (defending men), and Levon (lion) are easy to pronounce and spell while having significant meanings as well. Moreover, biblical names like Samvel(name of God) and Davit (beloved) are popular. Other names like Arax (the name of an Armenian river), Arev (sun), and Ashot (world, universe) refer to nature and are appealing because they are short. New parents also find international names or names rooted in historical traditions apt for their babies. However, such trends keep changing, and each family may have different reasons to choose a particular name.

3. Are there any concerns about cultural appropriation or misrepresentation when non-Armenian parents choose Armenian baby names for their children?

It is always a good practice to talk with Armenian people if you are non-Armenian and planning to give your baby an Armenian name. Some names might be sacred or intrinsically connected to their culture, which could hurt sentiments.

4. How do Armenian baby names intersect with identity issues, including ethnicity and religion?

Armenian baby names can give your child their ethnic identity and mark them as a part of Armenian culture and community. Moreover, you can instill cultural values in your baby by giving them names culturally connected to their country. Besides these, your baby's name will also establish their religious identity and create a sense of community and belonging.

5. What is the process for changing a child's name in Armenia?

If you wish to change a child's name, you have to apply for the same. The Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for this process. Once you submit your application, the name change process may take around 15 days. Please visit https://www.moj.am/en/services/civil_registry/item/522 for more information and detailed instructions (1).

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

The Early Christianization of Armenia;
https://www.worldhistory.org/article/801/the-early-christianization-of-armenia/

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.