Awesome Hungarian Names
- Katarina
Origin:
Slovak; Swedish; Serbian; Croatian; Slovenian, variation of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
The Russian version of Katherine is usually Ekaterina, but this form is used throughout Eastern Europe and may be more friendly to the American ear.
- Marianna
Origin:
Italian, Polish, EnglishMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + grace"Description:
While Marianna looks like a spelling variation of Mariana, the two names have different etymologies. While the one-N spelling derives from the Roman name Marianus, Marianna is a combination of two classics, Maria and Anna, used in many European languages.
- Erika
Origin:
Spelling variation of EricaDescription:
This is a more spunky and Nordic looking variant of Erica, but the k also makes the connection to the beautiful flower less apparent.
- Kinga
Origin:
Hungarian, PolishMeaning:
"brave"Description:
Though the name Kinga has penetrated the international consciousness via the Slovakian model Kinga Rajzak, it's a rare choice for American baby girls: Only six were named Kinga last year. Is that because Kinga sounds like pseudo-royalty, ala Princessa? Though with names such as Reign and Royal rising through the ranks, the time-honored Kinga may see more widespread usage.
- Alida
Origin:
Diminutive of AdelaideDescription:
Alida had a brief flurry of popularity a hundred years ago but is rarely used today. But given the rise of so many names related to Adelaide and Adeline, Alida might be rediscovered.
- Marika
Origin:
Dutch variation of MaryDescription:
Foreign variations of Mary are definitely the way to go; this one has a nice Dutch-girl feel. It also works as a cultural crossover name, e.g. between European languages and Japanese.
- Péter
Description:
Péter is the Hungarian form of Peter, derived from the Greek name Petros meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' This name carries significant historical and cultural importance in Hungary, where it has consistently remained popular throughout the centuries. The accented 'é' creates a slightly different pronunciation from the English Peter, with the first syllable emphasized (PAY-ter). Péter appears frequently in Hungarian history, literature, and contemporary culture. Many notable Hungarian scientists, athletes, musicians, and political figures have borne this name. While primarily used in Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora communities, Péter maintains its classical origins while offering a distinctive European variation on the more widely known Peter. The name projects strength, stability, and cultural heritage.
- Rudi
Description:
Rudi is a masculine name commonly used as a diminutive of Rudolf, Rudolph, or Rudiger in German-speaking regions. The name derives from Germanic elements meaning 'fame' and 'wolf'. Rudi offers a friendlier, more approachable alternative to the formal Rudolf, maintaining the name's strength while adding an endearing quality. In popular culture, it gained some recognition through figures like Rudi Völler, the German footballer. The name has a pleasant, accessible sound that works well cross-culturally. While not extremely common in English-speaking countries, Rudi enjoys consistent usage in Germanic countries and has seen occasional interest elsewhere for its distinctive yet straightforward character. The name's compact, two-syllable structure gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.
- Karolina
Description:
Karolina is a feminine name of Germanic origin, being a variant of Caroline or Carolina, ultimately derived from the masculine name Karl or Charles, meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' This elegant name is particularly popular in Eastern European countries including Poland, Croatia, Slovakia, and Lithuania, as well as in Scandinavian nations. Karolina has a melodic quality with its four syllables and soft ending. The name carries an international appeal while maintaining connections to traditional naming practices. Throughout history, various royal figures have borne related forms of this name. Karolina projects an image of feminine strength combined with grace. The name allows for multiple nickname options including Kara, Lina, or Karo. Its classic roots give it enduring appeal while its specific spelling offers a distinctive touch.
- Dominik
Origin:
Variation of DominicDescription:
The K makes this slightly more modern than its more traditional original
- Rudolf
Origin:
Spelling variation of Rudolph, GermanMeaning:
"famous wolf"Description:
You've got the red-nosed reindeer to transcend, but there are other distinguished personages named Rudolph, Rudolf, and Rudy.
- Brigitta
Description:
Brigitta is a feminine name with rich historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess.' It's the Central European form of Bridget, particularly popular in Hungarian, German, and Scandinavian cultures. The name is associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints known for her generosity and compassion. Brigitta gained international recognition through characters in literature and film, including Maria's friend in 'The Sound of Music.' While maintaining its classic origins, Brigitta offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Bridget or Brigitte, combining ancient Celtic heritage with continental European elegance.
- Tomi
Origin:
Japanese; Nigerian; Welsh variation of ThomasMeaning:
"wealth; twin"Description:
A Welsh diminutive of Tomos/Thomas, or just a simplified spelling of Tommy.
- Éva
Origin:
Hungarian, variant of EveMeaning:
"life"
- Gabi
Origin:
Short form of GabriellaMeaning:
"God is my strength"Description:
Cute nickname but the "gabby" synonym might prove problematic, especially is your daughter is chatty....or not.
- Andor
Origin:
Norwegian; Swedish; HungarianMeaning:
"eagle; manly"Description:
Unusual but accessible multi-cultural choice.
- Vilhelm
Origin:
German variation of WilliamDescription:
The way Wilhelm is pronounced anyway, so a pointless spelling variation.
- Izabella
Origin:
Variation of Isabella, Hungarian, Polish, and EnglishMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
While this might look like a modern spelling of the classic Isabella, it is also the Hungarian and Polish form, pronounced with an EE sound at the beginning. A Top 50 name in Hungary and a Top 200 name in Poland, this form is also popular in Latvia.
- Veronika
Origin:
Czech variation of VeronicaDescription:
This spelling adds a touch of the unusual to Veronica.
- Blanka
Origin:
Czech, Slovak, Polish, Hungarian, Croatian, and Slovene form of Blanche, FrenchMeaning:
"white, fair-skinned"Description:
A Top 50 choice in Poland and Hungary, but familiar in the Czech Republic and the UK, Blanka is a bright and spiky form of the French Blanche. Derived from the word blanc meaning "white, fair", it was originally used as a nickname for someone blonde and pale, before shifting into a given name, sometimes associated with purity, thanks to its white hues.