Hungarian Names

A name that's unknown in the US and Britain but is popular as a nature name in Finland. May also be known as a Hungarian variation of Amelia and a Spanish form of Wilhelmina.

English speaking countries may only associate this with the fifth-century Hun, but the name is still well-used in contemporary Hungary, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.

As a diminutive name, Riza is used predominantly in the Philippines, though it also has its roots in Hungarian, and in Arabic. Spirited yet familiar, Riza could be related to the surname Rizal meaning "rice field", to the names Tereza and Clarissa, or to the Arabic masculine name Rida, meaning "contentment".

To some, may have the same warm feeling of Russian nicknames like Sasha and Misha.

Ferko is a masculine name with Slovak and Hungarian origins, functioning as an affectionate diminutive form of Ferenc, the Hungarian version of Francis. The name ultimately derives from Latin 'Franciscus,' meaning 'Frenchman' or 'free one.' Common in Slovakia and among Hungarian-speaking communities, Ferko carries the warmth of a familiar nickname with the legitimacy of a given name. While relatively unknown in English-speaking countries, it maintains cultural significance in Central Europe. The name combines brevity with a distinctive sound, making it both accessible and unique outside its regions of origin. For families with Slovak or Hungarian heritage, Ferko offers a way to honor cultural roots while giving a child a name that's concise and memorable.

Edina is an infectious-sounding Minnesota place-name, featured in the British cult hit TV show "Absolutely Fabulous." Edina is also a poetic name for Edinburgh and is a common name in contemporary Hungary. Though some sources list its origins as Hungarian, more peg it as a variation of Edwina, the feminine form of Edwin, an English name.

Even more Olde World, especially with that accent.

Ildikó is a variation of the German Hilda — itself short for Brunhilda.

Damek, which you might think of as Adam with a Slavic accent, considerably freshens up the original.

Juli is a masculine name with varied cultural origins, though it's also used for girls in some regions. In Hungarian and Germanic contexts, Juli serves as a masculine diminutive of Julius, derived from Roman family name Iulius, possibly meaning 'downy-bearded' or connected to Jupiter. In Indonesian and Scandinavian countries, it's used as a male name while in Spanish and English contexts, it's often a feminine diminutive of Julia. The name's simplicity and international character make it versatile across cultures. While relatively uncommon as a formal masculine name in English-speaking countries, it enjoys greater popularity in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. Its brevity, historical connections, and cross-cultural appeal make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a concise name with international flair.

Timot is a masculine name that appears to be a shortened form of Timothy, which derives from the Greek 'Timotheos' meaning 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' This truncated variation maintains the first portion of the name while creating a more abrupt, modern-feeling conclusion. Timot is extremely rare in English-speaking countries, though similar short forms may appear in various European languages. The name has a contemporary, minimalist quality that contrasts with the more traditional Timothy. Pronunciation would likely follow as 'TEE-mot' or 'TIM-ot,' though this could vary by region and language. The simplicity of Timot gives it a distinctive quality while still maintaining a connection to its biblical roots through its parent name Timothy.

Arpad is a hero name in Hungary, belonging to the Second Grand Prince of the Maygars, who established a dynasty that ruled for four centuries. Not heard often here, but is associated with the French-born financier who got his name from an earlier Hungarian banker and who's been involved with two of the world's most beautiful women — he is, in fact the father of Rosalind Arusha Arkadina Altalune Florence Thurman-Busson.

Rezi is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive form of Teresa or Theresa, which comes from Greek meaning 'harvester' or 'summer.' In Georgian culture, Rezi functions as a nickname for Rezo or Revaz. It could also be a shortened form of the Hebrew name Rezin. The name has a contemporary, international feel with its short, punchy sound and uncommon status. Rezi remains rare in English-speaking countries but may appeal to parents seeking a concise, modern-sounding name with multicultural connections. Its brevity and ending with an 'i' gives it a playful, youthful quality that could grow well with a person through all stages of life.

Lenci is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived as a diminutive of Lorenzo (the Italian form of Lawrence) meaning 'from Laurentum' or 'crowned with laurel.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Hungarian name Lőrinc or serve as a nickname for Leonard in some cultures. The name has a bright, compact sound that makes it distinctive yet approachable. Lenci gained some recognition through the famous Italian doll company of the same name, founded in 1918, which produced distinctive felt dolls. The name remains uncommon in most countries, giving it a unique quality while still being relatively easy to pronounce. Its brevity and ending with an 'i' gives it a friendly, approachable character while maintaining masculine attributes.

Zippy and multicultural, Sarika can be considered a pretty nature name, referring to a myna bird in Hindi and Sanskrit and to a blackbird in Khmer (or Cambodian). In these contexts, it would be pronounced as SAHR-ka (Sanskrit) and saw-ree-GAW (Khmer).

Hungarian form of Stephen, and the name of the first king and patron saint of Hungary.

One of a number of similar forms of the "violet" name family used throughout Europe — others include Yolanda, Violante and Iolanthe.

Soundalike cousin of Sammy, cute but slight on its own.

Would make an interesting, cinema-related choice: King Vidor is in the Guinness Book of Records as the film director with the longest career, beginning in the silent era..