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Albania, located in Southeastern Europe, has a rich heritage, which is reflected in Albanian names that carry deep cultural and historical significance. The country’s culture and traditions are often influenced by the religions, languages, and cultures of its neighboring countries. Albanian names are apt for those parents who seek novelty. Read on to learn about some popular Albanian names we have gathered after exploring multiple trusted websites, social media forums, and baby name databases.
Key Pointers
- Albania is a country of archaeological marvels and rich history.
- Adorning your child with a name from a different culture is a great way of inspiring them to learn more about it.
- Adorable Albanian names you must consider are Bardhana, meaning ‘white moon,’ Luljeta, meaning ‘flower of life,’ and Jetmir, meaning ‘good life.’
- Make sure to research well about the history and origins of the name to make sure that they fit your beliefs and requirements.
Albanian Baby Names For Girls
From the short and sweet Aria to the powerful name Ajkuna, Albanian baby names for girls symbolize Albanian tradition, culture, and natural elements. Unique, sophisticated, and powerful, these names are ideal for little princesses.
1. Afrodita
Afrodita is an Albanian variation of the Greek name Aphrodite. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite was the goddess of love, beauty, and desire (1). This name is also used in Slavic, Spanish, and Portuguese languages.
2. Agnesa
Agnesa, meaning ‘pure’, is the Albanian version of the name Agnes, meaning ‘chaste.’ After being in obscurity for ages, this name is ready for a comeback.
3. Albana
This name is inspired by the place name Albania and means ‘white, blonde, fair’. It’ll go well with the current trend of names starting and ending with vowels.
4. Ajkuna
Ajkuna is an Albanian name, meaning ‘great mother’. This name is derived from the Proto-Indo-European element akkā, which means ‘mother’.
5. Ajola
Ajola, the Albanian form of the Illyrian name Aiola, is a super popular name in this country. It has slowly but steadily begun to catch up with the Americans.
6. Amelia
Amelia is the variant of Amalia, which has German roots and means ‘unceasing, vigorous, brave.’
7. Antigona
Antigona is the Albanian variation of the Greek name Antigone. In Greek mythology, Antigone is the oldest daughter of Oedipus and Jocasta. The name means ‘one who is of the opposite opinion’ (2). Antigona has been around for decades but has seen a meteoric rise in the last few years.
8. Aria
Although a name with English roots, it has been topping the popularity charts in Albania (3). It means ‘song’ or ‘solo’ and refers to an elaborate vocal solo performed in operas.
9. Besjana
The name Besjana derives from Besiana, the Albanian name of Podujeva, a city in northeastern Kosovo. The name also comes from the Albanian word ‘bese’, which means ‘faith, believe, and promise’.
10. Blerta
Blerta, a feminine version of the Albanian male name ‘Blerma’, is back in the top 100 Albanian baby names after nearly a decade. It means ‘green, meadow’.
11. Blinera
This name comes from the Albanian word Bli or Blri, which is English for linden tree. Era means ‘smell’. Therefore, Blinera means ‘smell of linden tree’.
12. Bukuroshe
Here is a beautiful name for your beautiful daughter. The name is the female version of Bukurosh, which means ‘good-looking or handsome.’ It is one of the few Albanian baby girl names to boast of a refreshing and lively ‘e’ ending.
13. Debora
Debora is the Albanian version of the name Deborah, which has Hebrew roots and means ‘bee.’ Debora Rodrigues, the participant of “Real Housewives” of Brazil, is its namesake.
14. Diellza
This lovely and refined name, meaning ‘sun’ conjures up the image of the royal women of Albania. You have to pronounce the name as ‘Di-Yeh-Zah’.
15. Doruntina
Doruntina was the name of a character in ‘Konstandini dhe Doruntina’, an Albanian ballad. Since it’s an uncommon name, it is unlikely that your daughter will share it with any of her schoolmates.
16. Drita
Drita comes from the Albanian word drite, which means ‘light’. The most famous bearer of this name is Drita D’Avanzo, the participant of the American reality series Mob Wives.
17. Elira
Elira is a sweet name, ripe with vowel sounds. It is used quite often in Albania, primarily because of its meaning ‘the free one’.
18. Erblina
This ultra-feminine Albanian name comes from the element ‘er’, which means ‘scent’ and bli, which means ‘lime tree’.
19. Emina
This name of the Albanian supermodel (Emina Cunmulaj) is considered a short form of many Slavic names. But we think it originated as a variation of Amina.
20. Enkeleida
This joyful-sounding name would make an original option for your daughter. Derived from the Greek term Enchelei, meaning ‘eel-people,’ it refers to an Illyrian tribe.
21. Fatmire
Fatmire is a lovely baby name that is currently on the rise. It sounds more refreshing than its variation Fatma. The name means ‘good fortune’.
22. Flutura
If you are looking for a nature inspired name for your baby, then go for Flutura. Flutura is a famous Albanian name, coming from the word ‘flutter’. This name means ‘butterfly’.
23. Klea
This short and sweet name is used in Albania. It is probably a short form of Kleopatra, the Albanian way of spelling of Cleopatra.
24. Leandra
The feminine form of Leander, Leandra has a musical touch to it and would make an ideal name for a little princess.
25. Lendina
This name is taken directly from the Albanian word lendina, which means ‘meadow’. So you have an uncommon nature inspired name for your daughter.
26. Luljeta
We love this Albanian name, meaning ‘flower of life’. The correct pronunciation of this name is either loo-lee-yeta or loo-lyeta.
27. Majlinda
This one’s for baby girls born in the month of May. Maj, the first element of the name Majlinda, means ‘May’ and the second element, lind, means ‘give birth to.’
28. Manjola
Don’t you think Manjola sounds melodic? It is a quintessential Albanian name coming from the word ‘manjolia’ and means the flower ‘magnolia’.
29. Marsela
If your due date is the month of March, pick Marsela for your daughter, which is the feminine form of Marsel and means ‘the month of March.’ Yes, you guessed that right! Mars means ‘March’ in Albania.
30. Melisa
Another feminine name that has been gaining popularity among the Albanians is Melisa (3). It is derived from the name Melissa, which means ‘bee.’
Did you know?31. Nora
This refined and elegant name brings to mind Nora Istrefi, the Albanian Kosovar singer. Nora is a diminutive of the Greek name Honora, but it’s used widely in Albania as a standalone name.
32. Rovena
Rovena is the Albanian form of Rowena. This name has an old-fashioned charm, which might appeal to traditional parents.
33. Roze
Your daughter will love you for this name. Roze means pink in the Albanian language. And it looks and sounds very different from the traditional Rose.
34. Ruensa
Ruensa is the birth name of the renowned Albanian singer, Enca Haxhia. This name has a quiet and subtle appeal, which makes it extremely popular with the Albanians.
35. Saemira
Saemira is an intriguing Albanian name meaning ‘good’. This name is much more distinctive than its cousins Samira and Samara.
36. Saranda
Here is an interesting Albanian name for girls derived from the name of a city. Saranda comes from the Greek word ‘Agioi Saranda’, which means ‘Forty Saints’. The name honors the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste—the 40 Roman soldiers who chose to freeze to death rather than abandon their belief in Christ (4).
37. Sihana
Sihana is a beautiful Albanian name and means ‘like moon’.
38. Sindi
Sindi is the Albanian spelling for the popular name Cindy. So if you like the name Cindy, but don’t want to keep it because it is too common, then you can go for Sindi.
39. Sumejja
Sumejja is the Bosnian and Albanian form of the famous Turkish name Sumeyya. It means ‘high above or exalted’. Sumeyya was the name of the first martyr in Islam (5). So it will make a perfect pick for parents looking for a traditional name.
40. Tirana
The name Tirana, derived from the capital of Albania, is originally Greek or Latin in origin. Obtained from the word Theranda, this name denotes stability, strength, and vastness.
41. Valbona
Volbona, the name of a river in Albania, would sound great on a baby girl. With this name, your wee one will feel closer to Mother Nature.
42. Valmira
Valmira is lighter and more usable than most of the Albanian names. It is derived from the Albanian term vale, which means ‘wave’ and mire, which means ‘good’.
43. Vetone
Vetone is a strong and powerful Albanian name to consider for your little angel. It means ‘an ancient warrior’. We’re sure you would want your daughter to become as strong as a warrior when she grows up.
44. Vlora
Names inspired by countries and regions are making a strong comeback. So if you are intrigued by the same, pick Vlora, a city in Albania. This name has been used by the royals since the 11th century.
45. Xevahire
Xevahire derives from the Turkish word ‘cevahir’, which means ‘gem’. This soft and sweet name will sound great on your darling daughter.
46. Xhesika
Are you looking for an uncommon variation of the name Jessica? Then you can go for Xhesika. It means ‘to behold’.
47. Xhuljeta
Xhuljeta is the Albanian form of Juliette. The name has been common since the early 20th century, and we do not see its popularity fading anytime soon.
48. Ylbere
The meaning of Ylbere is as beautiful as its name. It means ‘rainbow’. It has a delicate and distinctive appeal to it, just like your little daughter.
49. Zerina
This Albanian name will fit very well on your little czarina. It probably originates from the Persian name Zarina, meaning ‘golden.’
50. Zjarrta
Zjarrta is a long-running favorite Albanian name. It comes from the adjective zjarrtë, which means ‘fiery’.
Albanian Baby Names For Boys
51. Abdyl
Abdyl is the modern form of Abdullah. As per A Dictionary of Muslim Names, edited by S.A Rahman, Abdullah means ‘servant of Allah’ (6). Its newfound popularity stems from its association with Albanian politician Abdyl Kellezi.
52. Agron
This name of the Illyrian king and the husband of Tueta is used extensively for boys in Albania.
53. Altin
Altin is a strong and friendly name that is very popular with the Albanians. It comes from the Old Turkish word ‘altun’, which means ‘gold’.
54. Afrim
The honest and sincere name Afrim is on the rise as a male Albanian name. The name derives from the word afrim, which means ‘approach’. It is a common Albanian name and is shared by countless entertainers and writers.
55. Arber
The name Arber represents the demonym of Albania. It is also the toponym of the Illyrian tribe of ‘Abri’. The Abri people inhabited a part of modern-day Albania. The name Arber means ‘field, cropland’.
56. Arben
Arben, the collective name of the citizens of the Illyrian principality, is quite popular in Albania. The name means ‘brave’, a virtue to bestow on your little boy.
57. Arbnor
Arber is one of the highly recommended Albanian baby boy names on our list. It is inspired by the tribal name Arber or Arbereshe.
Did you know?58. Ardian
This name originates from the name of an Illyrian tribe of Ardiaei. This name is used by the modern Albanians as they consider themselves to be the descendants of the ancient Illyrians.
59. Arlind
Arlind is a perfect option if you are looking for a formal name starting with ‘A’. This lovely name means ‘born from gold’ in the Albanian language.
60. Armend
Armend is a masculine Albanian name meaning ‘golden mind’. The name comes from the elements ar, which means ‘golden’, and mend, which means ‘mind’. Parents choose this name for its statesmanlike appeal.
61. Asti
Asti was an Illyrian saint and a Christian martyr. Albanian christians commemorate him on the 6th of July every year (7).
62. Bardhyll
Bardhyll is a legendary name to consider for your kid. It comes from the name Bardyllis, which belonged to the ancient Illyrian king. The name means ‘white star’.
63. Besart
This name is probably derived from the elements bes, which means ‘faith,’ and arte, which means ‘golden’.
64. Bujar
Bujar means ‘generosity’.
65. Burim
This name got its oomph factor from Murim Myftiu, the Albanian-American photographer. It means ‘spring, well, or water source’ in Albanian.
66. Dalmat
This name is inspired by Dalmatae, the ancient Illyrian tribe residing in Dalmatia. Dalmat is enjoying a comeback, thanks to its cultural overtones.
67. Driton
Driton is a variant of Dritan. Driton Tony Dovolani, an Albanian professional ballroom dancer, is a popular bearer of this name. Driton is derived from Drita, meaning ‘light.’ This trendy name will go well with the current generation.
68. Dren
Dren, meaning ‘deer’ in the Albanian language, is essentially a unisex name, but we’ve included this in the baby boy name list, as it’s a male name in Serbia and Croatia.
69. Edon
Edon is both saucy and robust, a rare combination in Albanian names. It is derived from the word dua, and means ‘he loves’ in the Albanian language.
70. Elseid
The super-talented Albanian footballer Elseid Hysaj has given star power to his name.
71. En
This ancient Illyrian is used in Albania as a short form for Enied. It would be quite risky to use En as a given name, unless you want your child’s name to look and even sound like an acronym.
72. Engjell
If you are looking for an unusual name for your son, then you must go for ‘Engjell’. The name Engjell comes from the Albanian word engell, meaning ‘angel’. The name has seen a significant surge in popularity, partly because of its association with an Albanian physicist Engjell Licaj.
73. Erag
Erag, meaning ‘dawn wind’ or ‘scent’, is one of the most easily pronounced Albanian names. You can use Erag as a nickname for Eragim.
74. Erlblin
Erlblin would make one of the most fashionable Albanian choices. It means ‘scent of linden tree’.
75. Erjon
Smooth and sophisticated Erjon, meaning ‘our wind’, is also used as a surname in some parts of Albania.
76. Esad
Esad is the Albanian form of the Arabic name Asad, meaning ‘lion’ (6).
77. Fatbardh
Want to send some luck your child’s way? Then name him Fatbardh, which means ‘fortunate’ in Albanian language.
78. Fatos
This name would ring with familiarity amongst our Albanian readers. It has several notable bearers, including Fatos Arapi, the Albanian poet Fatos Daja, the Albanian footballer and Fatos Nano, the Albanian politician. Fatos means ‘brave’ or ‘valiant.’
79. Fisnik
The name Fisnik, meaning ‘noble or gallant’, got a boost as a prominent name over the years.
80. Flamur
Flamur is an attractive name meaning ‘flag’. The name is symbolic of patriotism among the Albanians. Flamur is also the name of a famous Albanian footballer Flamur Kastrati.
81. Frenk
Frenk is the Albanian variation of the good old English name Frank.
82. Genti
Gentis is derived from the name Gentis. Gentis is the name of the last Illyrian king of the Ardiaen kingdom and means ‘class’ or ‘kin’ (8).
83. Getoar
The first two letters of this name refer to the clan groups of Albania. Ge is short for Gheg living on the north side of the Albanian Islands. To is for the Tosk living on the south, and ar is for Arberesh, the Albanians residing in Greece and Italy. So your son will have the entire (well, almost) Albania in his name.
84. Gezim
Gezim, meaning ‘happiness,’ is one of the most recommended Albanian names for baby boys.
85. Ilir
Ilir is a charming Albanian name inspired by a tribe in southwestern Europe. The name means ‘freedom or free’. Ilir was also the son of Harmony and Cadmus in Albanian mythology.
86. Jetmir
Jetmir is one of the few names that sound classic yet modern. It means ‘good life’.
87. Kejsi
Kejsi is the Albanian adopted form of the name Casey. One famous bearer of this name is Albanian singer Kejsi Tola.
88. Kreshnik
Kreshnik is a rising star in the world of Albanian names. It comes from the Albanian word ‘kreshnik’, meaning ‘knight’. It is also the Albanian form of Serbo-Croatian Krajisnik. It means ‘man from Krajina’.
89. Lefter
Lefter is probably derived from the Greek name Lefteris. Its famous bearers include Albanian footballer Lefter Millo and politician Lefter Koka.
90. Liridon
The name Liridon means ‘desire for freedom’. The people of Albania regard it as a patriotic name.
91. Mateo
The name Mateo is most popular in the Triane province of Albania (3). It is derived from the Hebrew term Mattithiah, meaning ‘gift of Yahweh.’
92. Mergim
The name Mergim has its origin in the Albanian language. It means ‘foreign’ or ‘departure’. Don’t you think Mergim has an old-world charm to it?
93. Meriton
Meriton, meaning ‘deserve,’ has a relaxed and friendly feel to it. The name also has references to Albanian history and culture. The correct pronunciation of this name is Meh-ri-ton.
94. Mirlind
Mirlind comes from the elements mire, which means ‘good, well’ and lind, which means ‘bring forth’. The name Mirlind means ‘well born’.
95. Nderim
Nderim means ‘honor’, a virtue that every parent would want their child to have.
96. Noel
Noel is the English form of the French word Noel, meaning ‘Christmas.’
97. Qendrim
Qendrim is hugely popular with Albanians living outside the country. This name is derived from the word qendrim, which means ‘stay’.
98. Saban
Saban is an Albanian name of Arabic origin. It comes from the element sabban, which means ‘soap merchant’. The name sounds conventionally masculine, probably because it’s an occupational name.
99. Vjosa
Your boy could be as powerful and strong as a gushing river. The name refers to one of the last wild rivers of Europe (9).
100. Zamir
If you are looking for an interesting Albanian name with Arabic roots for your son, pick Zamir, which means ‘conscience’ (6).
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Illustration: Albanian Baby Names For Girls And Boys
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any traditional Albanian naming conventions for babies?
Yes, traditional Albanian names generally include a personal name and family name. These names for the baby can be derived from the family, traditional Albanian names, and names with a religious aspect of the individual. Some Albanian regions also have the tradition of having baby names derived from tribe or clan names (10).
2. How have Albanian baby names changed over time?
Over the years, Albanian baby names have been influenced by various factors, including social and political changes in the region, the influence of other cultures and neighboring countries, exposure to foreigners, and significant historical changes. Eniana Mustafaraj, an assistant professor of computer science, says, “So, I’ll tell you the story of my name, which also tells the story of my native country, Albania. Eniana is an Illyrian name. Illyria, the place that Shakespeare chose as the location for his “Twelve Night” play, was a region in the Balkans, along the Adriatic Sea coast. Not much has survived of the Illyrians’ history and language, except for the names of their tribes and their kings. Their existence as a people is remembered in the first names that hundreds of thousands of people born in modern day Albania share: Ardiana, Genti, Teuta, Eniana, and the list goes on (i).”
3. How have political and social changes in Albania influenced the names given to babies in recent decades?
Political and social changes in Albania have also influenced babies’ names in recent years. For example, the replacement of personal Muslim names for babies has been observed in accordance with the socio-political changes. Also, under Roman rule, Albanians started adopting Christian names with different origins (11).
4. What role does gender play in choosing Albanian baby names?
Gender plays a significant role in choosing Albanian baby names. Traditional Albanian names are gender-specific, with girl names usually ending with -a or -e (10). However, in recent years, there has been a trend toward gender-neutral names in Albania.
Albanian names for babies have rich historical origins. Our list consists of various novel and unique baby names inspired by the country’s religion, culture, and languages. These names sound incredible and have meanings more profound than what has been mentioned. Such names will add a solid character to your child’s personality and make it sound impressionable. However, try to opt for a name that you think will be liked by the child. At times, children dislike their names as they are either too grand or funky. So hit a balance between elegance and substance to make a perfect choice.
Infographic: Albanian Names For Babies And What Do They Mean?
Situated in Southeastern Europe, Albania is a small country with beautiful landscapes. Their scenic beauty, architecture, culture, and tradition make the place unique and attractive, which can also be seen in their names. So, if you’re looking for distinctive names with beautiful meanings, check out the infographic below. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Albanian baby boy names are as cute as those of girls. Watch this entire video to gain inspiration from some of the most adorable, popular, and traditional names for boys.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. The Spoke / The Stories that our Names Tellhttps://www1.wellesley.edu/albright/albright/about/blog/3326-stories-our-names-tell
References
- Aphrodite
https://www.worldhistory.org/Aphrodite/ - Antigone the Tragedy
https://www.uvm.edu/~jbailly/courses/tragedy/student%20second%20documents/oakes2.htm - Top 10 names used in the last year
https://www.instat.gov.al/en/search-the-name/top-10-names-used-in-the-last-year/ - Forty Martyrs of Sebaste
https://cnewa.org/magazine/forty-martyrs-of-sebaste-30021/ - Sumayyah Bint Khabbat
https://f.hubspotusercontent10.net/hubfs/4713562/The%20Firsts/The%20Firsts%20%E2%80%A2%20Lecture%2013%20%E2%80%A2%20Sumayyah.pdf - A Dictionary of Muslim Names
https://ia600204.us.archive.org/20/items/ADictionaryOfMuslimNamesByProfessorAbdurRahman/A-Dictionary-of-Muslim-Names_by_Professor-Abdur-Rahman.pdf - The Christian Saints of Albania
https://home.olemiss.edu/~mldyer/balk/article2.html - The Illyrians
https://www.ancientportsantiques.com/wp-content/uploads/Documents/PLACES/Adriatic/Illyrians-Wilkes1996.pdf - Vjosa
https://iucn.org/blog/202303/vjosa-one-our-last-wild-rivers-becomes-europes-first-wild-river-national-park - A Guide to Names and Naming Practices.
https://www.fbiic.gov/public/2008/nov/Naming_practice_guide_UK_2006.pdf - Akshija Ilir; (2018); Use of personal Muslim names in Albania: Comparison of three historical periods.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324721481_Use_of_personal_Muslim_names_in_Albania_Comparison_of_three_historical_periods
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