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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 Tha |  |  Unisex | Strong; Powerful |
| Tigran | | Unisex | Shooting or fighting with arrows |
| Timar | | Unisex | Unique and precious gift |
| Trea | | Unisex | Trinity or threefold |
| Vahan | |  Boy | Shield or defender |
| Vahe | | Boy | One who is unique; One who is noble |
| Vardan | |  Girl | Gifted or bestowed with blessings and abundance |
| Vartan | | Boy | Brave, strong, victorious |
| Varujan | | Boy | Bird of prey |
| Wojciech | | Boy | He who is happy in battle |
| Xandria | | Girl | Protector; Strength; Adventurous spirit |
| Xayah | | Unisex | Bird of prey |
| Yamila | | Boy | Beautiful and strong |
| Yania | | Unisex | Unique, feminine, strong |
| Yasma | | Unisex | Supreme or exalted |
| Zabelle | | Girl | God's promise |
| Zalena | | Girl | Sunshine; Bright light |
| Zalina | | Unisex | Graceful or noble |
| Zalyn | | Unisex | Positive |
| Zaneta | | Girl | Graceful, intelligent, and strong |
| Zanthia | | Unisex | Vibrant; Exotic; Mysterious |
| Zareh | | Boy | Radiant or shining |
| Zariana | | Girl | Sacred |
| Zariyan | | Unisex | Strength, uniqueness, powerful |
| Zaryn | | Unisex | Strong; Courageous; Leader |
| Zaven | | Boy | God is gracious |
| Zeline | | Unisex | Creative; Intuitive; Nature-loving |
| Zemi | | Unisex | A deity; Ancestral spirit |
| Zerina | | Unisex | Princess or noblewoman |
| Ziara | | Unisex | Visit; Pilgrimage |
| Zildjian | | Unisex | Turkish origin, associated with music |
| Zylan | | Unisex | Land of Stones |
| Zylar | | Unisex | Lucky; Beautiful |
| Zylen | | Boy | Modern and unique |
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!
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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
- The Early Christianization of Armenia;
https://www.worldhistory.org/article/801/the-early-christianization-of-armenia/
