Hungarian Names for Boys
Here are some of our favorite Hungarian names for boys. The top names below rank among the current US Top 1000 Baby Names and are ordered by popularity. Unique names rank below the Top 1000 and are listed alphabetically.
- Laszlo
Origin:
HungarianMeaning:
"glorious ruler"Description:
The Hungarian classic Laszlo, with its zippy 'z' middle and energetic 'o' ending, has become something of a hipster option, beginning to be considered by cutting-edge parents.
- Ember
Description:
Ember is traditionally a unisex name that has been increasingly used for both boys and girls, though it's somewhat more common for females. Derived from the English word for a small, glowing piece of coal or wood in a dying fire, Ember evokes warmth, light, and enduring energy. The name gained popularity in the early 21st century as part of the trend toward nature-inspired names. For boys, it carries connotations of strength and subtle power. Ember also has connections to the ancient calendar month name 'September' (though etymologically distinct). Its short, two-syllable structure makes it straightforward yet distinctive, with a contemporary feel despite its ancient word origins.
- Henrik
Origin:
Danish and Hungarian variation of Henry, GermanMeaning:
"estate ruler"Description:
The long history and solid usage of Henry has infiltrated other cultures, where a number of variations experience the same degree of popularity. In the US, Henrik first entered the Top 1000 in 2014. In Norway, Henrik is a mega popular choice.
- Adrien
Origin:
French variation of Adrian, LatinMeaning:
"man of Adria"Description:
This spelling variation of Adrian was popular in France and Belgium during the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, peaking in 1991 when it reached the Top 20 in France. While it has since declined in use, it remains a familiar choice in French speaking countries.
- Bodi
Origin:
Hungarian, Slavic diminutive; variant of Bodhi "God protect the king; divine gift; enlightenment"Meaning:
"God protect the king; divine gift; enlightenment"Description:
Bodi is a succinct and friendly looking name, with a number of possible origins. One one hand, it could be a diminutive of the Hungarian Boldizsár, which ultimately derives from the Babylonian Belshazzar or Balthazar, in turn lending it a regal quality.
- Andor
Origin:
Norwegian; Swedish; HungarianMeaning:
"eagle; manly"Description:
Unusual but accessible multi-cultural choice.
- 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.
- Zoltan
Origin:
HungarianMeaning:
"sultan"Description:
Though a common name in Hungary, with the spelling Zoltán, the relatively rare Z sound is striking to English speakers. Penn Gillette used the Zolten spelling for his son; it was also the name of Dracula's dog, and was also a robotic character in Dude, Where's My Car?.
- Imre
Origin:
Hungarian, from GermanMeaning:
"strength"Description:
Commonly heard in its native country, and might get a boost here too, now that Alanis Morrissette has used it for her son Ever's middle name.
- Attila
Origin:
HungarianMeaning:
"little father"Description:
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.
- Orban
Description:
Orban is a masculine name with Hungarian origins, functioning both as a surname and occasionally as a given name. It derives from the Latin 'Urbanus,' meaning 'city dweller' or 'refined and elegant.' The name has historical significance in Hungarian culture and has been carried by notable political figures. Outside of Hungary and neighboring regions, Orban remains quite rare as a first name, giving it a distinctive quality in international contexts. The name has a strong, concise sound with its two syllables and firm ending. Orban carries connotations of strength and dignity, with its ancient roots giving it a timeless quality despite its relative obscurity in many parts of the world.
- Kari
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"curly hair"Description:
In Norse mythology, the son of the giant who ruled the wind and air; in modern America, recalls a 1970s girl's nickname name, à la Carrie and Keri.
- Gaspar
Origin:
Spanish variation of Casper, Dutch form of Jasper, PersianMeaning:
"bringer of treasure"Description:
The name of one of the Three Wise Men from the East is heard in several European countries, but rarely in the US. Last year about 50 baby boys were named Gaspar in the US vs. about 200 named Casper, still haunted for some by the cartoon ghost. Root name Jasper is by far the most popular of the group.
- Vinci
Description:
Vinci is a masculine name most notably associated with Leonardo da Vinci, the renowned Italian Renaissance polymath. As a first name, Vinci is derived from the Italian town where Leonardo was born, literally meaning 'willow trees' or 'conquering' in Italian. This short, distinctive name carries powerful associations with creativity, genius, and artistic innovation due to its famous connection. While uncommon as a given name, it appeals to parents drawn to its Italian heritage, compact elegance, and cultural significance. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its historical roots, and its clear connection to one of history's greatest minds imbues it with intellectual associations. Vinci offers a unique choice that balances cultural depth with contemporary style.
- Karcsi
Description:
Karcsi is a masculine Hungarian name that functions as a diminutive form of Károly (the Hungarian equivalent of Charles). This affectionate nickname carries the warm, familiar quality typical of Hungarian diminutives, with the '-csi' suffix adding a sense of endearment. The original name Károly derives from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'manly.' Karcsi is used commonly in Hungary and among Hungarian-speaking communities, representing both a formal nickname and sometimes a standalone given name. While unfamiliar in most English-speaking regions, the name maintains popularity in its native culture. Karcsi carries the strong historical associations of Charles/Károly while adding a distinctive cultural identity and friendly approachability.
- Damek
Origin:
Slavic variation of AdamMeaning:
"son of the red earth"Description:
Damek, which you might think of as Adam with a Slavic accent, considerably freshens up the original.
- Ballas
Description:
Ballas is a masculine name with possible Greek origins, potentially derived from surnames or place names. It bears phonetic similarity to the Greek surname 'Ballis' or could relate to geographic locations like Ballas, Egypt. The name has a strong, distinctive sound with its two syllables and prominent 's' ending. As a first name, Ballas remains extremely uncommon, making it a rare choice that stands out. It carries an inherent strength and uniqueness that might appeal to parents seeking an unconventional name with a bold character. The name's rarity means it comes with few preconceptions, allowing the individual to define its meaning through their own personality and accomplishments.
- 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.
- Bence
Origin:
Hungarian variation of Vincent, LatinMeaning:
"conquering"Description:
Bence has been the most popular boy name in Hungary for over a decade — it’s held the top spot since 2003, the year Hungary began releasing its baby name data. Bence is the Hungarian translation of Vincent and is also occasionally used as a nickname for Benedek.
- Agoston
Description:
Agoston is a masculine name of Hungarian origin, essentially the Magyar form of Augustine or Augustus. Derived from Latin 'augustus' meaning 'great,' 'venerable,' or 'majestic,' it carries noble connotations. In Hungary, the name has historical significance and has been borne by various notable figures including scholars, artists, and political leaders. The pronunciation typically emphasizes the first syllable (AH-gosh-ton). While common in Hungary, Agoston remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic yet distinguished quality for international use. The name combines strength and dignity with a unique cultural heritage, making it appealing for parents seeking a name with European roots and historical depth.
