207 Meaningful Armenian Baby Names With Historical Roots

A timeless collection of echoes of the ancient highland heritage.

Written by Kavita Kankani, MBA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 7 years

Kavita has a diverse background in finance, human resources, and teaching. She did her MBA in Finance and HR at Solapur University, and bachelor in Education at Pune University. After working for three years in the banking industry, Kavita took up teaching before moving to writing.

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Last Updated on Nov 13, 2024

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Are you looking for names that reflect your heritage? Or do you want a distinctive and unusual name from a different culture, something as diverse as a country’s landscape? Then you should look at our list of Armenian baby names. The Armenian baby names bring to mind the ancient nation whose vigor and strength overcame tyranny, genocide, terror, and Stalin’s Great Purge. Being a nation with a history dating back to 2000 B.C., Armenians have a rich list of personal names. While most of these names are borrowed from the Bible and other cultures and civilizations, many others are names of elements found in nature. Armenian names consist of first names and a surname, and patronymics are used in between the first name and surname. According to tradition, Biblical names are used as first names, which could be Hebrew, Greek, or Latin in origin. Besides their cultural and religious significance, Armenian baby names’ uniqueness also arises from their phonetic characteristics derived from the Armenian language. Nature is also thought to play a significant role in Armenian values and beliefs as many of their titles are inspired by it, thus expanding the diversity of their names. Some beloved and common choices include Hovan, meaning ‘God’s gift,’ which signifies the people’s devotion and the Almighty’s promise of endless blessings and grace. Another example is the name, Artur, meaning ‘bear,’ which is derived from the majestic and one of the strongest creatures found in nature, emphasizing bravery and strength. Additionally, the language also boasts classic and timeless choices like Alex, meaning ‘to defend.’ Here the name signifies a regal connection due to its association with Alexander and symbolizes courage and greatness. We do agree that most of these names are best confined to the Armenian community, but some deserve wider circulation. Below, we have compiled a list of popular and traditional Armenian baby names with meanings to assist you. Have a look!

Name	Gender	Meaning
Mark	Boy	Mars; God of war; Male; Warlike; Hammer; Defender
Ari	Boy	Lion; Eagle; Brave; Most holy; Sun-like; Visible; Generous; Chief; Superior
Ruben	Boy	Behold, a son
Henrik	Boy	Lord of the house; Estate ruler 80
Monte	Boy	A steep mountain; Gumarich's mountain; Mountain
Arman	Boy	Desire; Hope; Wish; From Armenia; Roman
Susanna	Girl	Lily; Rose; Lotus
Mari	Girl	Donation; Mother; Genuine; Village; Reason; Logi
Alek	Boy	Defender of men; Black and white cow
Aram	Boy	Calm; Fortress; Elevated place; Glittering; Lustrous; Splendid

Aren	Boy	Eagle; Eagle ruler; Mountain of strength
Taleen	Unisex	Advice; An Armenian town
Aleksandr	Boy	Defender of mankind
Alen	Boy	Little rock; Handsome
Narek	Boy	Name of an Armenian saint; A city in Ancient Armenia
Armen	Boy	From Armenia
Kamyla	Girl	Helper to the priest
Kami	Boy	Lord; Loving; Divine; A youth employed in religious services; God
Atom	Boy	Indivisible; Uncut
Avik	Boy	Brave; Might; Powerful; One with Strength of a Diamond; Good news

Eduard	Boy	Rich guard
Zori	Unisex	Mighty; Beautiful; Morning star
Eleen	Unisex	Torch; Corposant; Moon; Desire; Hazelnut
Nazar	Boy	From Nazareth; Vision; To look
Nare	Girl	Pomegranate; Fire
Davit	Boy	Beloved; Uncle
Sofi	Unisex	Wisdom
Artin	Boy	Resurrection; Righteous; Pure; Holy
Arsema	Girl	Myrtle
Zaven	Boy	God is gracious

Caliah	Unisex	Beautiful; Graceful; Strong
Svetlana	Girl	Light; World
Kamber	Unisex	The people
Garen	Boy	Pure; Each of the two; My consecration of your name
Aleks	Boy	Defender of men
Raffi	Boy	God heals; Noble; Exalter
Sarkis	Boy	A shepherd; Servant
Zylen	Boy	Modern and unique
Miray	Girl	Commander; Moon; Month; Glowing like a moon
Amalya	Girl	Labour of Yahweh; Vigorous; Brave

Ohanna	Girl	God's gracious gift
Vardan	Girl	Boon; Rose
Arka	Boy	King of kings; Of Arcadia; Sun; Fire; Copper
Anahit	Girl	Goddess of fertility, wisdom, water, and healing
Kevork	Boy	Farmer
Anaid	Unisex	Undefiled; Pure
Vardaan	Unisex	Gift; Blessing; Rose
Gor	Boy	Fierce; Brave; Proud
Zalena	Girl	Sunshine; Bright light
Zariana	Girl	Sacred

Petros	Boy	One who is like a stone
Nikol	Unisex	Victorious; People's victory
Zorian	Boy	Star; Dawn
Zoravar	Unisex	Commander; General; Powerful warrior
Arch	Boy	Holy and brave; Bold master; Bear
Grigor	Boy	Watchful; Alert
Hakob	Boy	Supplanter; Holder of the heel; May God protect
Jivan	Boy	Life; Existence; Giving life
Minas	Boy	The moon; Will helmet; Sensitivity; Bright; Established one
Liston	Unisex	One who is determined or resolute

Nishan	Boy	A sign; Remarkable; Marked man; Distinct; Fluttering of flag; Romantic; Coral
Arpi	Unisex	Sun; Ether
Eliz	Unisex	My God is an oath; Hand
Suren	Boy	Lord Indra; Strong; Warrior
Andranik	Boy	Senior; Older
Maneh	Unisex	Semolina
Lilit	Girl	Of the night
Nene	Girl	Lady of the heavens; Tranquil; Little girl; Grace; Pure
Garo	Boy	Blessed; Happy; Man;
Azena	Unisex	Obedient; Righteous; One who is in charge; Ruler

Vahe	Boy	Good
Zylar	Unisex	Lucky; Beautiful
Avedis	Boy	Good news
Anush	Boy	Sweet; Lovely; Nice; Pleasant morning; Star
Aricin	Boy	Lion; Eagle; Brave; Diamond
Gevorg	Boy	Farmer; Earthworker
Avett	Girl	Good news
Haig	Boy	One from Armenia
Nareh	Girl	Pomegranate; Fire
Stepan	Boy	One who is crowned with a crown

Shant	Boy	Lightning
Taline	Girl	Name of a town in Armenia
Alin	Boy	Noble; Bright; To soothe; Mountain; Bearer of light
Baize	Unisex	Flacon; Hawk
Davita	Girl	Beloved; Uncle
Emar	Unisex	Brave; Strong warrior
Harutyun	Boy	Resurrection
Narine	Girl	Pomegranate; Fire; Protector of all men
Garrik	Boy	Spear king; Oak tree grove
Hagop	Boy	Holder of the heel; Supplanter

Surena	Girl	The heroic woman
Lusine	Girl	Moon
Saraiah	Girl	My princess; God is ruler; The Pleiades; Fair-head nobleman; To be ready; Orderly
Nuno	Boy	Grandfather; Squire; Fish
Izela	Unisex	A princess; A devoted woman
Korian	Boy	Name of a historian
Mher	Boy	Oath; Covenant; Agreement
Nareg	Unisex	Book of Lamentations; A low cry of pain
Rudolf	Boy	Famous wolf
Arinna	Girl	Messenger of joy; Happiness

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Armenian baby names represent the people’s cultural heritage, customs, language, and beliefs. Apart from being an alluring choice of names, they also have intriguing histories, unique pronunciations, and styles. These names are inspired by various sources, including nature, culture, and spirituality, evoking a sense of sophistication, grace, and charm. From classic names to traditional ones, each name here has a story to tell, offering exquisite identities for your baby. They radiate the country’s beauty and are wonderful for parents who aspire to choose names across borders.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the impact of globalization on Armenian baby names?

International cultural exchange has opened a world of new names in Armenia. Names like Eduard (rich guard), Daniel (God is my judge), Artur (bear), Henrik (home ruler), Mark (male), and Leo (lion) from other languages like English, French, and German have found a way into Armenian culture.

2. What are the current trends in Armenian baby boy names?

Baby boy names with shorter syllables have found a modern appeal in recent years. Names like Aram (name of an ancient ancestor), Alek (defending men), and Levon (lion) are easy to pronounce and spell while having significant meanings as well. Moreover, biblical names like Samvel(name of God) and Davit (beloved) are popular. Other names like Arax (the name of an Armenian river), Arev (sun), and Ashot (world, universe) refer to nature and are appealing because they are short. New parents also find international names or names rooted in historical traditions apt for their babies. However, such trends keep changing, and each family may have different reasons to choose a particular name.

3. Are there any concerns about cultural appropriation or misrepresentation when non-Armenian parents choose Armenian baby names for their children?

It is always a good practice to talk with Armenian people if you are non-Armenian and planning to give your baby an Armenian name. Some names might be sacred or intrinsically connected to their culture, which could hurt sentiments.

4. How do Armenian baby names intersect with identity issues, including ethnicity and religion?

Armenian baby names can give your child their ethnic identity and mark them as a part of Armenian culture and community. Moreover, you can instill cultural values in your baby by giving them names culturally connected to their country. Besides these, your baby's name will also establish their religious identity and create a sense of community and belonging.

5. What is the process for changing a child's name in Armenia?

If you wish to change a child's name, you have to apply for the same. The Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for this process. Once you submit your application, the name change process may take around 15 days. Please visit https://www.moj.am/en/services/civil_registry/item/522 for more information and detailed instructions (1).

Infographic: Fascinating Armenian Baby Names

Armenian baby names represent the rich cultural heritage and influences of the country. These names are usually gender-specific and have melodious tones. The meanings of these names are often connected to historical events and traditions. Check out the infographic below for amazing Armenian names, and bless your little one with your best-loved title!

Spectacular Armenian Names For Your Baby (infographic)

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

The Early Christianization of Armenia;
https://www.worldhistory.org/article/801/the-early-christianization-of-armenia/

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.