Romanian Names

Piper is a bright, musical name that entered the list in 1999, one year after the debut of the TV series Charmed, which featured a Piper, and it's been a consistent riser since. Piper Kerman is the memoirist whose prison experiences provided the basis for the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black.

Florin is one of the legion of names derived from the root word for flower, most of them like Flora and Florence used for girls. But the boys' form Florin is among the popular French names for boys, along with sister name Fleur for girls. There was a ninth century Swiss St. Florin. The related Florian was the name of a second century Roman saint.

Dacia was an ancient region comprised of what is modern Romania and Moldova and smaller parts of other Eastern European countries. Its inhabitants were called the Dacians, and the Dacian Kingdom flourished around the time of Christ until it was toppled by the Romans. Daciana is the female version sometimes used in Romania.

With the new trend of boys' names rising on the heels of their popular sisters, the unusual-yet-familiar-feeling Emilian might become better known thanks to its relationship to Emily and Emilia/Amelia. Rather than being two branches of the same tree, Emilian and Emily are actually one tree while Emmett and Emma hang on a whole separate tree. But all have a lot of modern appeal, and Emilian may be a more attractive and intriguing male form than Emil. There was a St. Emilian.

A floral name, used in Romania and popular in Moldova too. Camellia is the English form, while Camélia is used in France. The flower itself is named after botanist George Josef Kamel.

A cross between Ian and a group of atomic particles.

In Shakespeare's The Tempest, Caliban is the name of the deformed son of a witch: not the greatest literary reference for a child. But Caliban does have an appealing international-yet-accessible feel and a rhythmic sound. As long as nobody knows its origin, it might make a great name for a boy or even a girl.

Cristina is one case where the streamlined version feels more alluring. Cristina is found more often than Christina in many European countries and cultures, including Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking Latin and South America.

A simple and appealing multi-cultural form of John, but Americans will be baffled by all those vowels.

Despite its varied cultural ties, Zizi still sounds like a cancan dancer or a fluffy lapdog.

Alexandru is the Romanian form of Alexander, derived from the Greek name Alexandros, meaning "defender of men" or "protector of mankind." This masculine name has ancient roots and has been borne by numerous historical figures, including Alexander the Great, the Macedonian conqueror. In Romania and Moldova, Alexandru is consistently popular, often shortened to the affectionate forms Alex, Sandu, or Alecu. The name carries a sense of strength and leadership across many cultures. Its international variants include Alexander (English), Alejandro (Spanish), and Alessandro (Italian), making Alexandru part of a globally recognized family of names with classical origins.

Nandru is a masculine name with roots in Romanian and Indian cultures. In Romanian, it's a variation of 'Nandru' or 'Neandru,' potentially derived from Alexander or other traditional names. In Indian contexts, particularly Tamil, it can mean 'gratitude' or 'thankfulness,' embodying an attitude of appreciation. The name has a strong, distinctive sound with its two syllables and ending vowel, giving it a melodic quality when spoken. Though uncommon in Western countries, Nandru offers multicultural appeal with its positive connotations and straightforward pronunciation. For parents seeking a distinctive name with international flavor and spiritual or emotional significance, Nandru presents an uncommon option that connects to values of thankfulness and appreciation across cultures.

Common form of Emma found in the Baltic and Slavic states.

Jenica might work if you can't decide between Jennifer and Jessica. It's certainly a more distinctive option.

Simion is a masculine name that represents a variation of the Hebrew name Simon, meaning 'he has heard' or 'listening.' This spelling variant adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's biblical connections. Simon was one of Jesus's twelve apostles in the New Testament, giving the name significant religious heritage. Simion appears across various cultures, particularly in Eastern European countries like Romania and Moldova, where it has maintained steady popularity. The spelling with an 'i' instead of 'o' creates a subtle difference in pronunciation in some languages. While less common than Simon in English-speaking countries, Simion offers families an opportunity to honor traditional naming practices while giving their child a slightly more distinctive version of this classic name.

Dumitru is a traditional Romanian masculine name derived from the Greek Dimitrios, which connects to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility. Common throughout Romania and Moldova, Dumitru is the Romanian equivalent of Demetrius or Dmitri. The name has deep historical roots in Eastern European and Orthodox Christian traditions. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, it remains an important cultural name in Romanian communities worldwide. Dumitru features a distinctive sound pattern with its three syllables and unique combination of consonants and vowels. The name offers a strong connection to Romanian heritage while providing an uncommon option with historical depth.

Enric is a masculine name of Catalan origin, equivalent to Henry in English. Derived from Germanic elements meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household,' it combines strength and leadership qualities. This name has been particularly popular in Catalonia and other Catalan-speaking regions of Spain, carried by numerous notable figures including artists, politicians, and athletes. While maintaining a strong regional identity, Enric has a sophisticated European flair that travels well across borders. The name blends historical depth with a contemporary sound, making it both traditional and accessible. Though less familiar internationally than its equivalents Henry or Enrique, Enric offers distinction while remaining connected to a widespread naming tradition.

Used in Moldova and Romania.

Has never left its native milieu.