Iranian boy names are rich in history, culture, and meaning. These names, which are deeply rooted in Persian and Islamic traditions, represent the hopes and dreams that parents have for their children. In this article, we will explore the significance of Iranian boy names, their origins, and some popular choices for parents seeking to honor their heritage.

Origins of Iranian Boy Names

Iranian boy names are predominantly influenced by two major sources: ancient Persian culture and the Islamic religion. Many names have their roots in the pre-Islamic Zoroastrian era, while others are derived from the Arabic language and the teachings of the Quran. As a result, Iranian boy names are a beautiful blend of both ancient and contemporary influences.

Meaning and Significance

Iranian boy names often carry deep meanings that reflect the aspirations and values of the parents. These meanings are usually derived from the name's etymology or spiritual significance. Names can represent qualities such as strength, wisdom, beauty, and courage, or they can be inspired by historical figures, religious concepts, or natural elements. The choice of a name is an important decision, as it is believed to have an impact on the child's character and destiny.

Popular Iranian Boy Names and Their Meanings

Here is a list of some popular Iranian boy names along with their meanings:

  1. Ahmad: This name means "highly praised" or "commendable." It is a popular name among Muslims, as it is one of the names of the Prophet Muhammad.
  2. Arash: This name is derived from the Persian word "arashk," which means "bright" or "shining." In Persian mythology, Arash was the legendary archer who shot an arrow to determine the border between Iran and Turan.
  3. Behnam: This name means "good name" or "good reputation" in Persian. It is often given to boys in the hope that they will grow up to be well-respected members of society.
  4. Cyrus: This name has its origins in the ancient Persian name "Kourosh," which means "far-sighted" or "young." Cyrus the Great was a famous Persian king who founded the Achaemenid Empire.
  5. Dara: This name means "wealthy" or "prosperous" in Persian. Dara was the name of a prince in the Persian epic poem, Shahnameh.
  6. Farhad: This name means "happiness" or "joy" in Persian. Farhad is a character in the Persian love story of Khosrow and Shirin, where he is a talented stonecutter who falls in love with Shirin.
  7. Hossein: This name is derived from the Arabic name "Husayn," which means "good" or "handsome." Hossein is a significant name for Shia Muslims, as it is the name of the third Imam, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
  8. Javad: This name means "generous" or "gracious" in Arabic. Javad is a popular name among Iranian families, as it signifies kindness and benevolence.
  9. Kaveh: This name means "royal" or "noble" in Persian. Kaveh is a legendary blacksmith in the Persian epic poem, Shahnameh, who leads a rebellion against an oppressive ruler.
  10. Mehdi: This name means "guided one" in Arabic. Mehdi is an important figure in Islamic eschatology, as he is believed to be the prophesied redeemer who will bring peace and justice to the world.

In conclusion, Iranian boy names are deeply rooted in the country's rich history and cultural heritage. They carry significant meanings that reflect the aspirations of the parents and the broader Iranian community. Choosing an Iranian boy name is an important decision, as it is a way of honoring one's heritage and imparting meaningful qualities to a child as they grow and develop their own identity.






NameOriginsGenderCelebrity Name?Celebrity Baby Name?
AftabPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
AghaArabic, Middle Eastern, Iranian, TurkishboyNNShortlist
Ahura MazdaIranianboyNNShortlist
ArdeshirPersian, Iranian, ZoroastrianboyNNShortlist
ArsalanPersian, Iranian, PakistaniboyNNShortlist
ArvenazPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
AzarPersian, Iranian, Turkish, AzerbaijaniunisexNNShortlist
BabakPersian, Iranian, AzerbaijaniboyNNShortlist
BamHebrew, Indonesian, IranianunisexYNShortlist
BirjisPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
BurakArabic, Muslim, Turkish, Iranian, PakistaniboyNNShortlist
CananTurkish, Azerbaijani, IranianunisexNNShortlist
DaryosPersian, Greek, Latin, English, IranianboyNNShortlist
DilshadPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
ErsinTurkish, Azerbaijani, IranianunisexNNShortlist
FairozePersian, Iranian, Indian, PakistaniunisexNNShortlist
FardeenPersian, Iranian, Indian, PakistaniunisexNNShortlist
FaridArabic, Muslim, Iranian, PakistaniunisexNNShortlist
FarmanPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianboyNNShortlist
FarrokhPersian, Iranian, ZoroastrianunisexNNShortlist
FerdousPersian, Iranian, BangladeshiunisexNNShortlist
FirozaPersian, Muslim, Iranian, IndianunisexNNShortlist
JamsheedPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
KhurshidPersian, Iranian, IndianunisexNNShortlist
KokabArabic, Muslim, Iranian, PakistaniunisexNNShortlist
LetifArabic, Muslim, Turkish, Azerbaijani, IranianunisexNNShortlist
MantoGreek, IranianunisexNNShortlist
MehrdadPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
NavidPersian, Iranian, Mythology, LiteratureunisexNNShortlist
OsyanPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
ParvinPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
ParvizPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
PezhmanPersian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
PiroozIranian, PersianboyNNShortlist
RafeyArabic, Pakistani, Iranian, Saudi ArabianunisexNNShortlist
RanaaArabic, Middle Eastern, IranianunisexNNShortlist
RoshanPersian, Iranian, IndianunisexNNShortlist
SaffiArabic, Muslim, Jewish, Christian, IranianunisexNYShortlist
SaideArabic, Turkish, Iranian, AzerbaijaniunisexNNShortlist
SaiedArabic, Middle Eastern, North African, Iranian, EgyptianunisexNNShortlist
SanamPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexYNShortlist
SattarArabic, Muslim, Iranian, PersianboyNNShortlist
ShabnumPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
ShahbazPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianboyNNShortlist
ShahnaazPersian, Muslim, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
ShahnazPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
ShakibArabic, Lebanese, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, IranianboyNNShortlist
SharinPersian, Iranian, PakistaniunisexNNShortlist
ShemsArabic, Turkish, IranianunisexNNShortlist
ShidehPersian, Iranian, ZoroastrianunisexNNShortlist
TabariArabic, Persian, IranianunisexNNShortlist
TaranaPersian, Iranian, Pakistani, IndianunisexNNShortlist
WirinTurkish, Kurdish, Iranian, AzerbaijaniunisexNNShortlist
ZarinePersian, Iranian, Indian, RussianunisexNNShortlist

Iranian boys names FAQs

What is the origin of Iranian boy names?

Iranian boy names often originate from Persian, the official language of Iran. These names can be inspired by historical figures, nature, Persian literature, and ancient Persian mythology. They often carry deep meanings and reflect the cultural heritage of the country.

How are Iranian boy names chosen?

Iranian boy names are typically chosen for their meanings and the virtues they represent. Parents may select a name that conveys qualities they wish for their child, such as bravery or wisdom. Religious and familial traditions can also play a significant role in the naming process.

Do Iranian boy names have specific meanings?

Yes, Iranian boy names usually have specific meanings. These meanings are derived from Persian language and culture, often relating to positive attributes, nature, or historical significance. Understanding the meaning is important in Iranian culture as it reflects on the individual's identity.

Can Iranian boy names be found in religious texts?

Many Iranian boy names can be found in Islamic religious texts, as Iran is predominantly Muslim. Names of prophets, saints, and historical religious figures are common sources of inspiration. However, there are also names that predate Islam and have Zoroastrian origins or are influenced by other historical periods.

Are Iranian boy names unique to Iran?

While many Iranian boy names are unique to Iran, some are shared with other cultures, especially within the Persian-speaking world. Countries like Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and regions within Pakistan may share similar naming conventions. The Persian diaspora has also spread these names to various countries around the globe.

Is there a common structure to Iranian boy names?

Iranian boy names do not follow a strict structure, but many have prefixes or suffixes that are common in Persian. For example, the suffix '-zad' means 'born of' or 'descendant', and the prefix 'Reza-' is a common theophoric prefix meaning 'contentment'. These elements can be combined with other words to create meaningful names.

How do Iranian naming conventions differ from Western ones?

Iranian naming conventions often place a strong emphasis on the meaning and the historical or cultural significance of a name. Unlike in many Western cultures, Iranian names are less likely to be chosen based on trends or popularity. Additionally, surnames in Iran often denote family lineage or occupation, which is less common in the West.

Are there any taboos or restrictions in naming a boy in Iran?

In Iran, certain names may be avoided due to historical, political, or cultural reasons. Names that are considered non-Islamic or associated with former regimes may be discouraged. It is also common to avoid names that could be the source of teasing or have negative connotations.

How has the trend in Iranian boy names changed over time?

Trends in Iranian boy names have evolved with changes in society, culture, and politics. While traditional and religious names remain popular, there has been a resurgence of interest in pre-Islamic and Persian mythology names. Globalization has also introduced a wider variety of names into the Iranian naming pool.

Can Iranian boy names be legally changed or modified?

In Iran, it is legally possible to change or modify one's name, though the process requires a formal application and justification. The reasons for name changes can include personal preference, numerological beliefs, or the desire for a name that is easier to pronounce internationally. The approval of the name change is subject to legal and bureaucratic processes.