Awesome Bulgarian Names

Aleksandra is the preferred spelling in many Eastern European languages and cultures, but for English-speakers it's ironically more confusing if also perfectly phonetically clear.

Aleksandrina is a feminine name of Slavic origin, representing the female form of Aleksandr (Alexander). Derived from the Greek name Alexandros, combining "alexein" (to defend) and "andros" (man), it means "defender of mankind" or "protector of men." Popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Bulgaria, and Macedonia, Aleksandrina carries a regal quality, as it was borne by several royal figures throughout history. The name offers various diminutive forms like Sasha, Aleks, or Rina. While less common in Western countries, its international character and classic origins make it an elegant choice with cross-cultural appeal. The name combines traditional heritage with a melodious, feminine quality.

Confident and compact, Ana is a widely used variation of the Biblical Hannah. Favored in Spain, Slovenia, Bosnia, Portugal, and Croatia, this shorter spelling has the same substance and versatility of its longer counterparts.

Anastasiya is a feminine name of Greek origin meaning 'resurrection' or 'she who will rise again.' This Slavic variation of Anastasia is particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other Eastern European countries. The name carries profound Christian significance, associated with the concept of resurrection and renewal. Historically, it was given to girls born around Easter or Christmas in Orthodox Christian families. Anastasiya projects elegance with its flowing syllables while maintaining a sense of strength and resilience through its meaning. While the Western spelling Anastasia has broader international usage, Anastasiya maintains cultural authenticity in Slavic communities. The name offers versatile nickname options including Nastya, Stasya, or Tasia, adding to its practical appeal alongside its beautiful formal presentation.

Andon is a masculine name with Bulgarian, Macedonian, and Greek origins. It derives from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "man" or "warrior." In Bulgarian traditions, it's associated with Saint Anthony, rendered as Anton or Andon in Slavic languages. The name has been used throughout the Balkan region for centuries, often appearing in historical records and literature. While not extremely common internationally, Andon remains in use in Eastern European communities and diaspora populations. It offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Anthony or Andrew while maintaining similar roots. The name typically conveys strength and masculinity in its cultural contexts.

Russian, Belarusian, Romanian and Bulgarian form of Andrew

As a boys' name, Angel has two distinct name personalities. One is as a perennial favorite Hispanic boys’ name, popular in the US along with Spain, Mexico, and South America.

Slavic diminutive of Anna

Damyan is a masculine name of Slavic origin, specifically popular in Bulgaria, Russia, and other Eastern European countries. It's a variant of Damian, which derives from the Greek name Damianos, meaning 'to tame' or 'subdue'. The name carries historical significance as it was borne by Saint Damian, a physician who, with his brother Cosmas, provided medical services without charge. Damyan combines strength with compassion in its cultural associations. While not among the most common names in Western countries, Damyan has maintained steady popularity in Slavic regions, appreciated for its traditional roots and distinctive yet accessible sound.

This name found in both Celtic and Scandinavian mythology has gone from all-boy to almost all-girl, retaining a strong, unisex quality. However, it has dropped following its three-decade heyday from the 1960s to the 1990s.

Though Dara was an (extremely wise) male figure in the Bible, this name feels mostly feminine to modern Americans. The Irish Gaelic version, Darragh, is well-used in contemporary times for boys.

Darina comes from the Slavic element "dar" which means gift; the name is found in Czech, Bulgarian, and Slovak cultures and translates easily for English speakers. Darina may also be an Anglicization of the Irish Dairine, which means "fruitful."

This international variation was publicized by Olympic skater Ekaterina Gordeeva.

Elena is at its most popular point ever in the US, thanks to its cross-cultural appeal and the overall popularity of El- names. It's more international than Ellen or Eleanor, but still accessible.

Eva is a simple, classic Hebrew name for girls that recently slipped out of the US Top 100 for the first time in more than a decade. Pronounced either like her more popular sister Ava or less popular sister Eve, Eva is one of the elite group of girl names that mean life.