Why do Bulgarians have three names?

Bulgarian names typically include a given name, which is placed first, a patronymic placed second, and a family name placed last. However, the patronymic name is typically left out when speaking about the individual.

Are Bulgarian last names gendered?

Yes, Bulgarian last names are gendered. In Bulgarian culture, most last names have distinct male and female variants. The suffixes -ov and -ski are frequently used for male last names, but for female last names, the suffixes -ova and -ska are used. If a man had the last name Ivanov, the female equivalent would have the last name Ivanova.

Are there any Bulgarian baby boy names that are also popular in other countries?

Some Bulgarian baby boy names popular in other countries include Ivan, Dimitar, Georgi, Nikola, and Stefan.

What is the significance of middle names in Bulgarian culture?

In the Bulgarian naming convention, a persons middle name, second name, or patronymic/fathers name is special. They indicate the individuals genealogy and are taken from the given name of the individuals father.

Home • Baby Names

6 Bulgarian Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With P

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

Read full bio of Siddharth Kesiraju

Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

Read full bio of Praggya Joshi

Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Pavel	Boy	Small; Humble
Plamen	Boy	Flame; Fire
Parvan	Boy	First
Penka	Boy	The one from an enclosed meadow
Penko	Boy	Bulgarian diminutive of Peter; Rock
Prodan	Boy	Sold or pledged to a monastery