Awesome Hungarian Names
- 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.
- Vince
Origin:
Short form of Vincent, LatinMeaning:
"conquering"Description:
Vince is not a short form that often stands alone on the birth certificate, the way Jack or even Joe does, but it has certain credibility as the name always used for football great Vince Lombardi. And as a diminutive for Vincent, it's a far sight better than Vinnie or Vinny or even Vin.
- 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.
- Katarina
Origin:
Slovak; Swedish; Serbian; Croatian; Slovenian, variation of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
The Russian version of Katherine is usually Ekaterina, but this form is used throughout Eastern Europe and may be more friendly to the American ear.
- Brigitta
Description:
Brigitta is a feminine name with rich historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess.' It's the Central European form of Bridget, particularly popular in Hungarian, German, and Scandinavian cultures. The name is associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints known for her generosity and compassion. Brigitta gained international recognition through characters in literature and film, including Maria's friend in 'The Sound of Music.' While maintaining its classic origins, Brigitta offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Bridget or Brigitte, combining ancient Celtic heritage with continental European elegance.
- Mariska
Origin:
Hungarian and Dutch diminutive of MariaMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
Robust and energetic with an even blend of spikiness and elegance, Mariska is a diminutive of Maria, notably used in Hungary and The Netherlands. Internationally, it was brought into the spotlight by Law & Order actress, Mariska Hargitay.
- Karolina
Description:
Karolina is a feminine name of Germanic origin, being a variant of Caroline or Carolina, ultimately derived from the masculine name Karl or Charles, meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' This elegant name is particularly popular in Eastern European countries including Poland, Croatia, Slovakia, and Lithuania, as well as in Scandinavian nations. Karolina has a melodic quality with its four syllables and soft ending. The name carries an international appeal while maintaining connections to traditional naming practices. Throughout history, various royal figures have borne related forms of this name. Karolina projects an image of feminine strength combined with grace. The name allows for multiple nickname options including Kara, Lina, or Karo. Its classic roots give it enduring appeal while its specific spelling offers a distinctive touch.
- Alida
Origin:
Diminutive of AdelaideDescription:
Alida had a brief flurry of popularity a hundred years ago but is rarely used today. But given the rise of so many names related to Adelaide and Adeline, Alida might be rediscovered.
- Izabella
Origin:
Variation of Isabella, Hungarian, Polish, and EnglishMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
While this might look like a modern spelling of the classic Isabella, it is also the Hungarian and Polish form, pronounced with an EE sound at the beginning. A Top 50 name in Hungary and a Top 200 name in Poland, this form is also popular in Latvia.
- Vilhelm
Origin:
German variation of WilliamDescription:
The way Wilhelm is pronounced anyway, so a pointless spelling variation.
- Dominik
Origin:
Variation of DominicDescription:
The K makes this slightly more modern than its more traditional original
- Marika
Origin:
Dutch variation of MaryDescription:
Foreign variations of Mary are definitely the way to go; this one has a nice Dutch-girl feel. It also works as a cultural crossover name, e.g. between European languages and Japanese.
- Sándor
Origin:
Hungarian, variant of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
Despite a possible pronunciation problem, a pleasant, unusual choice. Sandor Clegane (nicknamed The Hound) is a major character on Game of Thrones.
- Katalin
Origin:
Hungarian variation of Katherine, English from GreekMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Hungarian form of Katherine.
- Rebeka
Description:
Rebeka is a feminine name representing an Eastern European or Hebrew variant of Rebecca. The biblical Rebecca was the wife of Isaac and mother of Jacob and Esau. The name derives from Hebrew origins, meaning 'to bind,' 'to tie,' or 'captivating.' This spelling variation with a 'k' instead of two 'c's is common in Hungarian, Slovak, Polish, and some other European languages. Rebeka offers a slightly exotic alternative to the more common Rebecca while maintaining the same historical and biblical significance. The name has remained consistently recognized but not overly popular, giving it a balance of familiarity and distinctiveness.
- Dorina
Description:
Dorina is a feminine name with multicultural roots, appearing across several European traditions. It originated as a diminutive form of names like Dora, Doris, or Theodora, all connecting to the Greek word "doron" meaning "gift." In Italian and Romanian usage, Dorina serves as an affectionate form of "golden one" or "gift," while in Hungarian contexts, it's a beloved traditional name. The name gained moderate popularity in Eastern and Southern European countries throughout the 20th century, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. Dorina possesses a melodic quality with its soft consonants and flowing vowels, giving it a timeless elegance that works well across generations. The name balances classic origins with a distinctive sound that isn't overly common, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something traditional yet not overused.
- Kamilla
Origin:
Scandinavian; Hungarian; Russian, variation of CamillaDescription:
Kamilla is the usual spelling of Camilla throughout Scandinavia and in Finland, Hungary, Iceland, and Greenland. Kamma is an appealing short form.
- Rudolf
Origin:
Spelling variation of Rudolph, GermanMeaning:
"famous wolf"Description:
You've got the red-nosed reindeer to transcend, but there are other distinguished personages named Rudolph, Rudolf, and Rudy.
- Annuska
Description:
Annuska is a feminine name with Eastern European roots, primarily used in Hungarian, Czech, and Slovak cultures. It functions as a diminutive or endearing form of Anna, which derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The suffix '-uska' adds a sense of affection and sweetness to the traditional name. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Annuska carries a distinctive European charm that sets it apart from more common Anna derivatives. The name has a melodic quality with its three-syllable rhythm and soft ending. Annuska projects an image of delicacy and refinement while maintaining connections to the timeless classic Anna, offering parents a unique option with established historical roots and cross-cultural appeal.
