Zaven

An ancient Armenian name with contemporary appeal. Zaven is a rare choice with the stylish Z initial and -n ending. The exact etymology of the name is unknown, though theories are that it borrows from Persian and Arabic, offering the meanings "hidden, concealed, secluded", "bronze or copper smith", or "to flow".

Another possibility is that it stems from the Armenian word for solider or warrior (zinvor), though it may also be used in English speaking countries as respelling of Zavion or Zayven, both contemporary spins on Xavier, or of Zeven, a trendy respelling of Seven.

There have been two historic church leaders by the name, one from the 4th century AD and one from the early 20th century. Other notable bearers include Turkish writer Zaven Biberyan, Lebanese talk show host Zaven Kouyoumdjian, and chess Grandmaster Zaven Andriasian.

Given to 24 boys in the US in a recent year, it remains a unique option.

Pronounced ZAY-vun.

As of October 2026, Zaven ranked #3845 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #3013 in 1922.