Selecting the most-suited baby names is often a source of debate among parents. Some want a simple and classic name, while others want a unique name. However, parents worldwide, especially Americans, are highly intrigued by Hungarian baby names since they have the best of both worlds while retaining their meaning and sounds. Joseph turns into Jozsef, and Anastasia becomes Anasztaisia. These appealing twists have led to large usage of Hungarian names in recent years. A typical Hungarian name includes a given name, surname, and middle name (or two given names), which is optional. The names are followed in the Eastern name order, in which a given name follows a family name. Traditionally, children inherit their father's surname, although hyphenated names are becoming increasingly popular.
Some Hungarian names could also be used in shorter forms, such as Zoli for Zoltan for boys and Zsofi for Zsofia for girls. It is essential to note these shorter forms are only used if the person is comfortable with them and usually taken as a formal name in official settings or with unknown individuals, while their shorter versions are used by family and friends only. Just like most of the cultures in Europe and Asia, the religion and dynastic history of the country are the primary sources of the given names. A common practice in Hungary is having names inspired by saints. Each of these names has a specific day dedicated to celebrating the saint associated with it. These days, the people with the saint's primary name and those with related names celebrate the occasion. Royal and Saint names with English equivalents are also widely used in Hungary. The surnames are derived from trade, profession, and ethnicity. Some people also use given names as family names. Skim through our collection of Hungarian baby names with meanings below to uncover the perfect fit for your little munchkin.
Name | Gender | Meaning | |
---|---|---|---|
Marishka | Girl | A sea of melancholy; Sorrow | |
Mariska | Girl | A sea of heartbreak and bitterness | |
Marton | Boy | A battling, fighting, warring individual | |
Mate | Boy | One who is like the gift of God | |
Matyas | Boy | A gift from the God | |
Mihaly | Boy | Hungarian form of Michael, meaning the angel of God | |
Miklo | Boy | Who is like God | |
Nemet | Boy | One who does not speak bad | |
Nikolasz | Boy | Voice of winning people | |
Nikolett | Girl | The person who is ingenuous | |
Nora | Girl | Light; Bright; Honorable | |
Nusa | Girl | The merciful lady; Graceful woman | |
Nyari | Unisex | Delight; Happiness | |
Odon | Boy | Person of enduring fame, not subject to death, and who is the personification of force | |
Oleda | Girl | The special skill for the most high almighty God | |
Orban | Boy | Hungarian variation of urban | |
Orsolya | Girl | Young tiny female bear. | |
Patakin | Boy | Creek or brook | |
Rebeka | Girl | A trapping, baiting woman | |
Remeny | Unisex | Hope | |
Rendor | Boy | Police officer; Peacemaker | |
Res | Girl | A red-headed woman | |
Rheanna | Girl | Queen; Royal | |
Ria | Girl | Mouth of River; A variant of name Rhea; A short form of name Maria | |
Roland | Boy | Famous land; Glorious territory; From the famous land | |
Rozsika | Girl | She who is pretty and gorgeous as a rose | |
Rudolfa | Girl | A legendary female wolf | |
Salamon | Boy | One who brings peace | |
Samu | Boy | The name of God | |
Sebo | Boy | Hungarian short version of Sebastian; Revered | |
Sza | Unisex | Acronym derived from the supreme alphabet | |
Szebasztian | Boy | He who is an emperor | |
Szonja | Girl | A woman who is wise | |
Taksony | Boy | One who is well content | |
Tass | Boy | Hungarian mythological name | |
Tibor | Boy | He who comes from Tivoli | |
Tica | Girl | Harvester | |
Timea | Girl | Cheerfulness; The good spirits | |
Tivadar | Boy | God's gift; Gift from God | |
Tizane | Girl | A gypsy | |
Tunde | Girl | A small being or human in form | |
Tunder | Girl | Pixy; ELF | |
Vilma | Girl | Protector; Resolute protector | |
Zajzon | Boy | A surname | |
Zene | Unisex | Empress; Noble woman | |
Zoe | Girl | Life | |
Zolie | Unisex | Life | |
Zsazsa | Girl | God is my oath | |
Zsofia | Girl | Wisdom | |
Zsusanna | Girl | Rose, Lilly; A variant of Susanna | |
Names from specific regions are often obtained from stories, myths, and customs tied to that location. Hungarian baby names mostly come from the Hungarian language reflecting the country's rich traditions and history. The meanings of these names might mirror what parents wish for their little ones. These names offer an individual identity that catches attention and carry an elegant sound and appeal. We hope you arrive at the right name by the end of this post.
Infographic: Distinguished Hungarian Baby Names
Hungarian baby names represent a unique charm intertwined with the threads of cultural heritage and linguistic grace. These names reflect the country's history, carrying meanings that mirror cherished hopes and values. From softly melodious choices to those rich with whispers of folklore, Hungarian names stand out uniquely worldwide. As you explore this infographic, you will discover names that honor tradition while adding a modern touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some popular Hungarian baby names based on historical figures?
István, or King Stephen I of Hungary, the first King of Hungary, was the founder of the Hungarian state and played a significant role in promoting Christianity (1). Another historically significant name is László, associated with King László or Ladislaus I of Hungary, who was a powerful monarch in the 11th century and was revered as a saint (2).
2. What are some Hungarian baby names that have a royal connection?
A few Hungarian baby names with royal connections are Erzsébet meaning God is my oath, inspired by Princess Saint Elizabeth of Hungary during the 13th century, known for her graciousness (3). Zoltán is a Hungarian name derived from the Turkish language and was the name of a prince of Hungary during the 10th century (4). Additionally, Levente is an ancient Hungarian royal name that is associated with the Árpád royal family (5).
References:
- Saint Stephen, First King of Hungary;
https://hungariancleveland.org/saint-stephen-first-king-of-hungary/ - Sir Lancelot May Have Been Inspired by Hungary’s King Laszlo. Pow Says;
https://www.ceu.edu/article/2017-11-21/sir-lancelot-may-have-been-inspired-hungarys-king-laszlo-pow-says - St. Elizabeth of Hungary;
https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05389a.htm - Duke Zoltan Of Hungary;
https://gw.geneanet.org/comrade28?lang=en&n=hungary&oc=0&p=duke+zoltan+of - King Andrew I Of Hungary;
https://gw.geneanet.org/comrade28?lang=en&n=hungary&oc=0&p=king+andrew+i+of