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Hungarian Names for Boys

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Jun 09 2020
Hungarian names for boys can look intimidating, with lots of consonants, including plenty of the letter "Z." But Hungarian names for boys include some real winners, like Ervin and Laszlo, that could be on any parent's shortlist. Many Hungarian boys' names still feel very unusual, but you can rest assured knowing that they have deep cultural roots.

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.
  1. Laszlo

    • Origin:

      Hungarian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

  4. Henrik

    • Origin:

      Danish and Hungarian variation of Henry

    • 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.
  5. Imre

    • Origin:

      Hungarian, from German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Adrien

    • Origin:

      French variation of Adrian, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Kari

    • Origin:

      Norse

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  8. 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.
  9. Sami

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Samuel, and Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "exalted"

    • Description:

      Soundalike cousin of Sammy, cute but slight on its own.
  10. 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.
  11. Andor

    • Origin:

      Norwegian; Swedish; Hungarian

    • Meaning:

      "eagle; manly"

    • Description:

      Unusual but accessible multi-cultural choice.
  12. Zoltan

    • Origin:

      Hungarian

    • Meaning:

      "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?.
  13. Samu

    • Origin:

      Finnish, Spanish, and Hungarian diminutive of Samuel, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "told by God"

    • Description:

      A multicultural nickname for Samuel. The Spanish and Finnish variation is pronounced SAH-moo, while the Hungarian version is SHAW-moo.
  14. 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.

  15. Vidor

    • Origin:

      Hungarian variation of Hilary

    • Description:

      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..
  16. Tabor

    • Origin:

      Hebrew; Hungarian

    • Meaning:

      "a height; encampment"

    • Description:

      In the Bible, Tabor is the name of the mountain that stood on the border between northern and southern Israel. This biblical place name is similar to the Hungarian name Tibor.
  17. Attila

    • Origin:

      Hungarian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  18. Dénes

    • Description:

      Dénes is a Hungarian masculine name derived from the Greek name Dionysius, which refers to the devotee of Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine, fertility, and festivity. This elegant name has been used in Hungary since medieval times and remains a classic choice there. Dénes has historical significance as it was borne by several Hungarian nobles and leaders throughout history. The pronunciation (DAY-nesh) gives it a distinctive sound that maintains its cultural roots. While common in Hungary, Dénes remains relatively rare in international contexts, making it an intriguing choice for families with Hungarian heritage or those seeking a name with European flair. The name combines classical origins with a strong cultural identity and concise, modern sound.
  19. Timot

    • Description:

      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.
  20. Sandor

    • Origin:

      Hungarian diminutive of Alexander

    • Description:

      Despite a possible pronunciation problem, a pleasant, unusual choice. Sandor Clegane (nicknamed The Hound) is a major character on Game of Thrones. In Hungary, the name is spelt with an accent - Sándor.