Polish Names
- Inka
Origin:
Norse, diminutive of Ingrid or IngaMeaning:
"guarded by Ing or Ing is beautiful"Description:
Inka is a feminine name with rich multicultural origins. Most prominently, it references the Inca civilization of South America, lending the name historical and cultural significance. In Finnish and other Baltic languages, Inka serves as a diminutive form of names containing 'Ing' such as Ingrid or Inge.
- Daniella
Origin:
Italian, Polish, Czech, feminine variation of DanielDescription:
Daniella, Daniela, and Danielle were among the hottest names for twenty years, but now, though still popular, they can no longer be considered stylish options, lagging behind the newer Ella, Stella, Bella, Gabriella, and Isabella.
- Melchior
Origin:
Dutch from HebrewMeaning:
"city of the king; king of light"Description:
The least used of the Three Wise Men's names, but a strong option for bold namers to consider.
- Edda
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"poetry"Description:
This Old Norse girl name has a lovely meaning and a familiar yet distinctive sound.
- Eda
Origin:
English, TurkishMeaning:
"wealthy, well-mannered"Description:
An medieval English diminutive of Edith, which could make an unusual addition to simple vintage revivals like Eva, Ada and Ida. In Turkish, it means "well mannered".
- Ola
Origin:
Norwegian and Swedish form of OlafMeaning:
"ancestor's relic"Description:
Simple, friendly, distinctive name heard in several cultures. The a ending may feel more feminine in the US than Ole, though both variations are acceptable in Scandinavia.
- Milla
Origin:
Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Finnish, HungarianMeaning:
"young ceremonial attendant, gracious people"Description:
Milla originated as a diminutive of names like Camilla and Ludmilla, but has since become well established as a name in its own right in several European countries. Milla Jovovich is a Ukrainian-born actress and supermodel, while Milla is also used for a character in the novel and musical adaptation, Wicked.
- 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.
- Teodora
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Bulgarian, Macedonian, Slovene and Serbian form of TheodoraMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Teodora is an extremely attractive and international choice, with several equally attractive, user-friendly nicknames. Appealing short forms might include Tea, Dora, or Dory for English speakers, however, classic diminutives include the Spanish, Italian, Serbian and Portuguese Dora, the Bulgarian Todorka, and the Swedish Thea.
- Gustave
Description:
Gustave is a masculine name of Swedish and French origin, derived from the Old Norse elements 'Gautr' (referring to the Geats people of southern Sweden) and 'stafr' meaning 'staff' or 'support.' The name gained prominence through Swedish royalty, including several kings named Gustav. In French-speaking regions, Gustave has been used since medieval times, made notable by figures like French artist Gustave Doré and writer Gustave Flaubert. While the more anglicized 'Gustav' appears in Scandinavian countries, the form 'Gustave' is distinctly French in character. Though never extremely common in English-speaking countries, the name carries an air of classic sophistication and European elegance that appeals to parents seeking a distinguished yet approachable traditional name.
- Walenty
Description:
Walenty is a masculine name of Polish origin, serving as the Polish form of Valentine. Derived from the Latin 'valens' meaning 'strong, vigorous, healthy,' the name carries connotations of strength and vitality. Historically popular in Poland, Walenty celebrates the same saint honored in Valentine's Day traditions. The name has a distinctive Slavic character while maintaining its connection to broader European naming traditions. While more common among older generations in Poland, Walenty occasionally experiences renewed interest as parents explore heritage names. The pronunciation (vah-LEN-tee) features the characteristic Polish softening of consonants. For families of Polish descent, Walenty offers a way to honor cultural roots while using a name with recognizable European parallels.
- Zana
Origin:
Polish, Croatian, Bosnian, Serbian, Latvian, AlbanianMeaning:
"God is Gracious; lily; voice, fairy"Description:
An international possibility, heard from England and Israel to Poland, Latvia, and Albania. It is a name with a vast range of possible meanings and origins, including: a Polish variation of Jane, meaning "God is Gracious"; a Croatian, Bosnian, and Serbian short form of Susanna, meaning "lily"; a Persian name meaning "woman"; a Mongolian name meaning "bullfinch"; and a Shona name from Zimbabwe meaning "a hundred".
- Michal
Origin:
Czech, Slavic, and Polish variation of MichaelMeaning:
"who is like God?"Description:
Michal may be one of several Eastern European forms of Michael, though there is a biblical Michal who is female, the daughter of Saul and wife of David.
- Zenon
Origin:
Ancient Greek and Polish form of Zeno and ZeusMeaning:
"sky, shine; gift of Zeus"Description:
Zenon is a relative of Zeno, which is a form of Zeus, used in both ancient Greece and modern Poland. With the new rise of all names mythological, this one may deserve a fresh look.
- Demeter
Description:
Demeter, while historically a feminine name from Greek mythology, has occasionally been used as a masculine name in some contexts. In Greek mythology, Demeter was the powerful goddess of agriculture, grain, and fertility who controlled the seasons and harvest. The name derives from the Greek elements 'de' (possibly meaning earth) and 'meter' (mother). As a masculine name, Demeter is extremely rare and represents a bold, unconventional choice. It carries strong associations with nature, abundance, and life-giving power. The name has a distinguished, classical quality with its mythological heritage. For parents drawn to Greek naming traditions who appreciate its unique sound and powerful connotations, Demeter offers a distinctive option that bridges ancient tradition with contemporary uniqueness.
- Janek
Origin:
PolishMeaning:
"god is gracious"Description:
A short form of the very popular Polish name Jan, which is the equivalent of John in English. Short forms ending in -ek are very widespread in Poland, but it is rare that one is given as the official birth certificate name.
- Kristi
Description:
Kristi is a feminine name primarily used as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, derived from the Greek word 'Christos,' meaning 'anointed one.' This short, sweet variation gained particular popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The name carries Christian religious connotations while maintaining a contemporary feel. Kristi strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, as it's widely recognized but not overly common. The spelling with 'K' rather than 'C' gives it a slightly Nordic flair, reflecting its popularity in Scandinavian countries. Notable bearers include several athletes and performers, adding to its dynamic, spirited associations.
- Kristina
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of ChristinaMeaning:
"annointed, a Christian"Description:
This streamlined form of a pretty and feminine classic may not be as popular as it once was, but it's never out of style. A royal name best used now in its full glory rather than as nicknames Kris or Kristy.
- Tymon
Origin:
Polish variation of Timon, GreekMeaning:
"reward, honor"Description:
Timon has strong associations with The Lion King, making it a tough sell for American parents. Attractive Polish variation Tymon, with the emphasis on the first syllable, preserves the strength of the original while eliminating the meerkat connection.
- Basia
Origin:
Polish and Slavic diminutive of Barbara, GreekMeaning:
"foreign woman"Description:
Basia functions as a diminutive or nickname for Barbara, though many people now use it as a standalone name. The name derives from the Greek word 'barbaros,' originally referring to non-Greek speakers, but later evolving to mean 'foreign' or 'stranger.'