Time represents how we order our lives and structure the natural world. Names that mean time include so many options that you might need help to beat the clock. The perfect name for your baby boy or girl could disappear like the sands through the hourglass.
Well, there’s no need for a time machine since our entertaining list of names meaning time has it all right here! From origins and meanings to variations and pronunciations, there are plenty of time names available for your junior time traveler to enjoy.
100 Beautiful Names Meaning Time
Head to the past (and present) of awesome time names that your adventurous little one will love.
Afanasy
Afanasy is the Russian form of the Greek Athanasius. It also means “undying,” “immortal,” and “deathless” for your everlasting baby boy to enjoy.
- Origin: Russian
- Meaning: Immortal
- Pronunciation: Aef-ah-NAYS-iy
- Variations: Afanasi, Afanasiy
- Namesakes: Afanasy Razmaritsyn, a Russian-Ukrainian painter who participated in the Exposition Universelle (1900). Afanasy Fet, a Russian poet and translator known for lyric poetry in 19th-century Russian literature.
- Popularity: Afanasy is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Russia, and ranked 726th in Transnistria in 2014.
Aikaterine
Aikaterine is made up of the Greek “aion,” meaning “time,” and “katharos,” meaning “pure.” It’s an ancient form of Katherine and the first name for Hecate. She was the Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft who likely got what she wanted “each time.”
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Each time
- Pronunciation: Eh-Kaat-ah-RIYN-ee
- Variations: Ekaterine
- Popularity: Aikaterine is extremely rare worldwide, with 19 known occurrences in 2014, mainly in the U.S.
Ajax
Ajax originally appeared as the Greek Aias, meaning “born during a festival.” Like many names that mean time, it’s rooted in Greek mythology. Ajax Telamon led the Greeks in the Trojan War and is famous for his bravery.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: EY-Jhaeks
- Variations: Ajaks, Ajaxe, Ajaxx
- Namesakes: Sidney William Jackson (pen name Ajax), an Australian naturalist whose name was used for Eucalyptus jacksonii, an Australian eucalyptus.
- Popularity: Ajax is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Brazil.
Aksha
Aksha means “time” in Sanskrit and also means “soul” and “God’s blessing.” Aksha is both the name for an Egyptian temple in Sudan and a town in Russia.
- Origin: Indian, Sanskrit
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: AHK-Shaa
- Popularity: Aksha is very rare worldwide and mostly used in India.
Almita
Almita is one of a few female variations of the Latin Almeda. It also means “ambitious” and means “kind” for Indian girls.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: For few time
- Pronunciation: Ahl-MIY-tah
- Variations: Almida, Almetta
- Namesakes: Almita Vamos, an American violinist appearing on Sunday Morning CBS.
- Popularity: Almita is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Brazil.
Alula
Alula takes inspiration from the Ararib Al-‘Ula, an ancient city in Saudi Arabia. It means “the first leap” as the first double star. In Hawaii, Alula is an endangered species of Hawaiian bellflower.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: The first leap
- Pronunciation: Aeh-LUW-lah
- Namesakes: Ras Alula, an Ethiopian general who led Abyssinian battles against Ottoman Egypt in the 19th-century.
- Popularity: Alula is rare worldwide and primarily used in Ethiopia, where it ranked 415th in 2014.
Amaogechukwu
Amaogechukwu is one of the rarest (and longest) names meaning time not used outside of Nigeria. It’s taken from the Igbo language in Southern Nigeria and also means “no one knows God’s timing.”
- Origin: Igbo
- Meaning: All in God’s time
- Pronunciation: Ah-Mow-geh-CHUWK-woo
- Popularity: Amaogechukwu is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Nigeria.
Amarantha
Amarantha’s full meaning is “the unfading or undying,” based on the Greek “amarantos.” It’s inspired by the amaranth flower, which was thought never to fade away.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Unfading
- Pronunciation: Ah-maa-RAAN-thah
- Variations: Amaranta
- Popularity: Amarantha is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Mexico.
Amargo
Amargo is a version of the Latin Amara, from “amārus,” meaning “everlasting.” Though similar, Amargo is unrelated to Margo, meaning “pearl.”
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Everlasting
- Pronunciation: Aeh-MAAR-gow
- Popularity: Amargo is extremely rare worldwide, with 31 known occurrences in 2014, mainly in Indonesia.
Ambrose
Ambrose originated with the Greek “ambrosios,” which means “pertaining to the immortals.” It also means “god-like” when referring to “ambrosia,” the “food of gods.” In Greek mythology, Ambrosios was a title for Zeus, who enjoyed ambrosia most of all.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Immortal
- Pronunciation: AEM-Browz
- Variations: Ambrós
- Namesakes: Ambrose Gaines, an American swimmer and a three-time Olympic gold medalist. Ambrose Bierce, an American short story writer known for The Devil’s Dictionary.
- Popularity: Ambrose is rare worldwide and primarily used in Uganda, ranking 157th in 2014.
Amser
Amser is the Old Welsh word for “time” associated with the Celtic “amsterā,” meaning “time” or “moment.” Amser Te is a Welsh TV magazine program whose title translates to “tea time” in English.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: AEMZ-er
- Popularity: Amser is very rare worldwide and mainly used in India.
Antonella
Antonella is the Italian variation of the Greek Antonia, meaning “firstborn.” It also means “praiseworthy” and “priceless one” when referring to the Roman Antonius family. Timing comes into play here since it’s ideal for the baby girl you first give birth to.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: First-born
- Pronunciation: Aen-tah-NEHL-aa
- Variations: Antonia
- Namesakes: Antonella Rebuzzi, an Italian senator from 2006 to 2008. Antonella Scanavino, a Uruguayan swimmer and silver medalist at the 1987 Pan American Games.
- Popularity: Antonella is rare worldwide and mostly used in Italy, ranking 52nd in 2014.
Aron
Though meaning “time” in Hebrew, Aron also means “teaching” and “singing.” It comes from Aaron, a biblical figure who helped lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: AA-Raon
- Variations: Aaron
- Namesakes: Aron Anderson, a Swedish adventurer and the first wheelchair user to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Aron da Silva, a Brazilian footballer for Chula United F.C.
- Popularity: Aron is rare worldwide, primarily used in Kenya, and ranked 77th in Eritrea in 2014.
Aurelia
Aurelia refers to “the golden one” and is the female form of the male Aurelius in Latin. It uses the root “aurum,” meaning “gold,” to represent “sunrise,” that all-important start to the day.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Sunrise
- Pronunciation: Aw-REHL-Yaa
- Variations: Aurelea, Aurellia
- Namesakes: Aurelia Pentón, a Cuban track and field athlete and gold medalist at the 1978 Central American and Caribbean Games. Aurelia Gabriela Tizón de Perón, an Argentine educator and the first wife of Argentine President Juan Perón.
- Popularity: Aurelia is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 158th in Romania in 2014.
Aurora
Aurora is the Roman goddess of the dawn. She timed the coming of the day by transforming her tears into morning dew. The Aurora Borealis is another term for the northern lights, the timing of which has to be exact to catch them.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: Ah-ROWR-ah
- Variations: Aurorah
- Namesakes: Aurora Nilsson, a Swedish writer known for the autobiography Flykten från harem. Aurora Chamorro, a Spanish swimmer who, competed at the 1972 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Aurora ranked 1,712th worldwide and is mainly used in Mexico, where it ranked 166th in 2014.
Bahar
Bahar is a Turkish girl’s name also used in Iran and Afghanistan. It derives from the Middle Persian “wahār,” meaning “spring.” Bahar also means “youth” for young girls like yours.
- Origin: Turkish, Persian
- Meaning: Youth, spring
- Pronunciation: BAA-HHaar
- Variations: Bahaar, Baharre
- Namesakes: Bahar Güvenç, a Turkish women’s footballer for the Turkey national women’s team. Bahar Soomekh, an Iranian-American actress known for Crash.
- Popularity: Bahar is rare worldwide, primarily used in Turkey, and ranked 143rd in Azerbaijan in 2014.
Baki
Baki is a Turkish and Arabic name meaning “enduring,” symbolizing the “eternal.” It’s associated with the Arabic “bāqī,” meaning “everlasting,” and is a Hungarian surname for someone from places called Bak or Baka.
- Origin: Turkish, Arabic
- Meaning: Lasting
- Pronunciation: BAA-kiy
- Namesakes: Baki İlkin, the Turkish ambassador to the U.S. from 1998 to 2001. Baki Davrak, a Turkish-German actor known for The Edge of Heaven (2007).
- Popularity: Baki is rare worldwide, mostly used in Turkey, and ranked 463rd in Kosovo in 2014.
Baldur
In addition to “time,” Baldur means “strong” and “bold” and comes from the Old Norse “baldr.” It also means “prince,” for a god in Norse mythology associated with beauty and love. When Baldor, it means “courageous army” in English, so your baby boy can time travel to win every battle.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Bold, time
- Pronunciation: BAAL-Duwr
- Variations: Baldor, Baldour
- Namesakes: Baldur Preiml, an Austrian former ski jumper and bronze medalist at the 1968 Winter Olympics. Baldur Brönnimann, a Swiss conductor who performed at the English National Opera.
- Popularity: Baldur is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Germany, and ranked 98th in Iceland in 2014.
Baqa
Baqa means everything from “duration” and “permanence” to “eternity.” It’s based on the Arabic Baqaa, a Sufi idea describing a timeless state with God.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Immortality
- Pronunciation: BAA-kah
- Variations: Baqaa
- Popularity: Baqa is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Pakistan.
Bashiri
Whether in Arabic or Persian, Bashiri means “prophet.” Another term for a “fortune-teller,” it’s also linked to the Arabic Bachir. It means “the one who brings good news” from the past to the present about a hopeful future.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: One who can tell the future
- Pronunciation: Bah-SHEER-riy
- Variations: Bashiree, Bashirey, Bashiry
- Popularity: Bashiri is rare worldwide and mainly used in Uganda, ranking 774th in 2014.
Cerelia
Cerelia comes from Ceres, the Roman goddess of grain and harvests. Ceres’ feast day was celebrated with flowers and food on April 10. It also means “of the spring,” “fertile,” and “mistress” as the female form of Cyril.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Related to springtime
- Pronunciation: Seh-REHL-iy-Ah
- Variations: Cerealla
- Popularity: Cerelia is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Chirat
Chirat also means “at last” and “after a long time.” In India, Chirat is a plant called Swertia, known for its purple and blue flowers that probably last a long time.
- Origin: Hindi
- Meaning: For a long time
- Pronunciation: SHIH-raat
- Popularity: Chirat is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Thailand.
Chronos
Chronos means “time” and “crow,” deriving from the Greek “kroúō,” meaning “to strike.” It’s also related to “kairos,” another Greek word meaning “deep time.” In Greek mythology, Chronos represents the Greek personification of time.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: KROW-nohs
- Variations: Kronos, Chronus
- Popularity: Chronos is extremely rare worldwide, with just 13 known occurrences in 2014, mostly in DR Congo.
Dante
Dante means “everlasting” as the medieval diminutive for the Italian Durante. It’s most famous for Dante Alighieri, who wrote The Divine Comedy. Dante also means “steadfast” for the baby boy in your life who won’t quit.
- Origin: Italian, Latin
- Meaning: Enduring
- Pronunciation: DAAN-Tey
- Variations: Dantae, Dantay, Daunte
- Namesakes: Dante Spinotti, an Italian cinematographer and two-time Academy Award nominee. Dante Rossi, an Italian water polo player and gold medalist at the 1960 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Dante is rare worldwide and mainly used in the Philippines, where it ranked 157th in 2014.
Dari
In the ancient Sumerian language, Dari means “enduring” or “one who keeps things well.” It’s better known as a nickname for Daria, a Persian girl’s name meaning “maintains possessions well.”
- Origin: Sumerian
- Meaning: Enduring
- Pronunciation: DAAR-iy
- Namesakes: Dari Nowkhah, an American lead sports anchor at SEC Network. Dari Taylor, an English member of Parliament from 1997 to 2010.
- Popularity: Dari is rare worldwide, primarily used in Indonesia, and ranked 393rd in Niger in 2014.
Day
Taken literally, Day is the English word for the 24-hour period we call a “day.” Days were named after the planets in Greek astrology, and we have the Romans to thank for the seven-day week. It’s the perfect way to thank the gods for the time you have with your precious one each day.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: 24-hour unit of time
- Pronunciation: DEY
- Variations: Dae, Daye, Dai
- Popularity: Day is rare worldwide and mostly used in Vietnam, ranking 402nd in 2014.
Deepakala
Deepakala’s meaning of “evening time” relates to its other meaning of “time to light lamps.” In Hinduism, there is a tradition of lighting a Diya oil lamp at dusk to bring positivity into the home.
- Origin: Indian, Hindi
- Meaning: Evening time
- Pronunciation: Dee-PAAK-ah-Laa
- Variations: Deepak
- Popularity: Deepakala is extremely rare worldwide, with just three known occurrences in 2014, in India.
Delano
Delano derives from the Latin “delaneum,” meaning “nighttime.” An example of time names which are also surnames, it points to a southwestern France called De la Noye.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Nighttime
- Pronunciation: Deh-LAA-nouw
- Variations: Dellano
- Namesakes: Delano Ladan, a Dutch footballer for TOP Oss. Delano Williamson, the seventh Indiana Attorney General from 1864 to 1870.
- Popularity: Delano is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 275th in Suriname in 2014.
Edeosa
Edeosa is one of the rarest names related to time for girls with African origins. It’s used in Benin but is also a boy’s name meaning “God’s day” in Nigeria.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: God’s time
- Pronunciation: Eh-diy-OW-saa
Eiran
Eiran is composed of the Hebrew “eir,” meaning “awakening,” and “an,” meaning “time.” It also means “watchful” and “vigilant” in Hebrew and was the name of one of Ephraim’s grandsons in the Bible.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Awakening time
- Pronunciation: AEY-raan
- Variations: Eran
- Namesakes: Eiran Cashin, an Irish footballer for Derby County.
- Popularity: Eiran is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Venezuela.
Elam
Elam means “eternal” and is the name for many characters in the Old Testament, including the grandson of Noah. Elam was an ancient civilization in modern-day Iran and Iraq, causing the name to stand the test of time.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Forever
- Pronunciation: EE-laam
- Variations: Elamin
- Popularity: Elam is rare worldwide and mostly used in India.
Eliad
Somewhat connected to Elijah, Eliad comes from the Hebrew Eliyahu, meaning “my God is Yahweh.” For names associated with time, the meaning of “my God is eternal” fits perfectly.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: My God is eternal
- Pronunciation: EH-liy-Ahd
- Variations: Elad
- Namesakes: Eliad Nachum, an Israeli musician nominated for the 2016 Breakout of The Year awards by the radio station Galgalatz. Eliad Moreh-Rosenberg, an art curator and recipient of the European Cultural Brands’ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
- Popularity: Eliad is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Israel, where it ranked 1,296th in 2014.
Eon
Eon is more of a concept than an example of time-related names. It stems from the Latin “aeon” and Greek “aiōn” to describe an “age” or “period of existence.” Eon is also a Korean name meaning “talented” and “excellent.” An eon is associated with a long life and eternity – perfect for the baby you wish to cherish forever.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Long space of time
- Pronunciation: EE-ohn
- Popularity: Eon is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Guyana, ranking 145th in 2014.
Eric
Eric originated as the Old Norse Eiríkr, made up of “ei,” meaning “ever” or “always,” and “ríkr,” meaning “ruler” or “king.” Whether an “eternal king” or an “ever ruler,” it’s one of the most powerful of male names for your little royal.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Eternal ruler
- Pronunciation: EH-rik
- Variations: Erik, Erick
- Namesakes: Eric Clapton, an English rock guitarist ranked second in Rolling Stone’s list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.” Eric Idle, an English actor and member of the comedy troupe Monty Python.
- Popularity: Eric ranked 112th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 267th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Eternity
Eternity is the ultimate idea of “time without end.” It dates back to the Latin “aeternalis,” from “aeternus,” meaning “of an age,” “permanent,” and “endless.” Where time, space, and names are concerned, Eternity is one your little girl’s memory will cherish.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Time without end
- Pronunciation: Ee-TURN-ah-Tiy
- Variations: Eternitee, Eternitey, Eterniti, Eternyty
- Popularity: Eternity is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Eukot
Eukot is one of the names that mean time that’s almost void of information, including popularity statistics. It’s also a Ugandan surname that likely still means “long time.”
- Origin: Ugandan
- Meaning: Long time
- Pronunciation: Unknown
- Popularity: Eukot is extremely rare worldwide, with just one known occurrence in 2014 in Thailand.
Eva
Eva comes from the Hebrew Chavva, meaning “life-giving” or “living one.” It’s the Latin form of Eve, the name of the first woman in the Bible. Eva represents a woman who helped launch the beginning of time for Christians and Jews.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: First woman
- Pronunciation: EE-vah
- Variations: Evah, Eve
- Namesakes: Eva Mendes, an American actress appearing in Training Day (2001). Eva Adamová, a Czech professional volleyball player.
- Popularity: Eva ranked 167th worldwide, is primarily used in Germany, and ranked 97th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Gaius
Gaius means both “time” and “to rejoice” from the Latin “gaudere.” It’s better known as the full name of Julius Caesar, which also means “lord” and “an earthly man” in the Bible.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: GAEY-ahs
- Namesakes: Gaius Caesar Augustus (known as Caligula), the third Roman emperor, ruling from 37 to 41 CE. Gaius the Platonist, a 2nd-century Roman philosopher whose teachings helped develop Neoplatonism.
- Popularity: Gaius is rare worldwide and mostly used in Nigeria.
Hakidonmuya
Hakidonmuya is a Native American female name from the Hopi tribe in northeastern Arizona. It officially means “time of the waiting moon,” which is a poetic way to look at the night sky.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Time of waiting
- Pronunciation: HAH-kih-Dohn-MUW-yah
- Popularity: Hakidonmuya is extremely rare worldwide, with just one known occurrence in 2014 in the U.S.
Hamza
Hamza is best known for meaning “lion,” but also means “steadfast,” as in “unwavering over time.” Its other meanings of “strong” and “brave” are inspired by one of the Prophet Muhammad’s uncles, Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Steadfast
- Pronunciation: HHAEM-Zah
- Variations: Hammza, Hammzah, Hamzah
- Namesakes: Hamza ibn ‘Alī, an 11th-century Ismaili missionary and founding leader of the Druze.
- Popularity: Hamza ranked 745th worldwide, is mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 27th in Morocco in 2014.
Haya
Haya means “life” and “time,” based on the Hebrew root “hayim.” It’s the feminine form of Hyam and means “good-looking.” Haya was a Mesopotamian god associated with scribes or the written word.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: HHAA-Yaa
- Variations: Haia, Hayah
- Namesakes: Haya Harareet, an Israeli actress appearing in Ben-Hur (1959). Haya bint Saad Al Sudairi, the wife of Ibn Saud, the king of Saudi Arabia, from 1932 to 1953.
- Popularity: Haya is rare worldwide, primarily used in Saudi Arabia, and ranked 70th in Kuwait in 2014.
Hisako
Hisako derives from the Japanese “hisa,” meaning “long time ago” or “long lifespan.” It also uses “ko,” meaning “child,” to bless your baby girl with longevity and a life full of love.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Permanence, long life
- Pronunciation: HHIY-saa-Kow
- Variations: Hisa
- Namesakes: Hisako Manda, a Japanese actress representing Japan at the 1978 Miss Universe competition. Hisako Higuchi, a Japanese golfer who won the 1977 LPGA Championship.
- Popularity: Hisako ranked 1,305th worldwide and is mostly used in Japan, ranking 17th in 2014.
Horace
Horace originated with the Roman family name Horatius, from the Latin “hora,” meaning “timekeeper,” “hour,” or “season.” Horace also means “keeper of the hours,” which influenced the art of making clocks and watches, called Horology.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Man of time
- Pronunciation: HHOWR-ahs
- Variations: Horus
- Namesakes: Horace Mann Towner, the appointed the governor of Puerto Rico from 1923 to 1929. Horace Reid, a Jamaican cricketer for the Jamaican cricket team from 1961 to 1964.
- Popularity: Horace is rare worldwide and mainly used in Jamaica, where it ranked 141st in 2014.
Hours
Hours is the plural of a word that indicates a unit of 60 minutes. It’s based on the Middle English “ure,” which replaced “tide,” meaning “time,” in the 13th century. There are 60 minutes in an hour and 24 hours in a day, plus a lifetime to cherish your young timekeeper.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Unit of time (60 minutes)
- Pronunciation: AOW-uhrs
- Popularity: Hours is extremely rare worldwide, with 25 known occurrences in 2014, primarily in the U.S.
Kairos
Kairo is an ancient Greek concept meaning “the right time” and an “opportune presentation.” It’s inspired by the moment in archery when the archer finds the ideal moment to shoot.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: The right time
- Pronunciation: KEAY-Rows
- Variations: Kairo
- Popularity: Kairos is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Brazil.
Kala
Kala means “death” or “time” in India and personifies time in Sanskrit mythology. Kala is considered the god of death and another title for the Hindu god Shiva. It’s also the Hawaiian form of Sarah.
- Origin: Indian, Sanskrit
- Meaning: Time, death
- Pronunciation: Kaa-LAA
- Variations: Kalah, Kalla, Kallah
- Namesakes: Kala Alexander, a Hawaiian surfer who has acted in the series Hawaii Five-0. Kala Savage, an American actress known for the soap opera Santa Barbara.
- Popularity: Kala ranked 1,707th worldwide, is mainly used in India, and ranked 251st in Nepal in 2014.
Kemila
Kemila is composed of the Arabic “kamil,” meaning “perfect,” and “la,” meaning “time.” The same root is used for Kamila, meaning “perfect,” while the similarly spelled Kamala means “lotus flower.”
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Perfect timing
- Pronunciation: KEH-mih-Laa
- Variations: Kamala
- Popularity: Kemila is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Brazil.
Khalid
Khalid comes from the Arabic “khalada,” meaning “to last forever,” but also means “immortal” and “everlasting.” It’s widely used for boys in the Muslim world because of a 7th-century commander, Khalid ibn al-Walid.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Immortal
- Pronunciation: KAA-Liyd
- Variations: Khaled, Khaleed, Khaleid
- Namesakes: Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2020. Khalid Skah, a Moroccan track and field athlete and gold medalist at the 1992 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Khalid ranked 254th worldwide, is mostly used in Pakistan, and ranked 4th in Sudan in 2014.
Kye
Kye specifically means “time” in Korean, but is also a Gaelic diminutive for Kyle. The original Coal means “narrow” as a surname for someone living “near a strait.” In Hawaiian, Kye is also a variation of the name Kai.
- Origin: Korean, Gaelic
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: KAEY
- Variations: Kai
- Namesakes: Kye Whyte, an English BMX racer and silver medalist at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Kye Palmer, an American trumpet player and member of The Tonight Show Band from 2006 to 2009.
- Popularity: Kye is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Lambegus
Lambegus is practically bereft of origin and meaning other than referring to a “land that promises a bright future.” There are no popularity statistics for Lambegus, so you might have the only boy around with this curious name.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Land that promises a bright future
- Pronunciation: Laam-BEY-guhs
Lucas
Lucas is the Latin spelling for the Greek Loukas, meaning “bringer of light,” which infers a “light that shines throughout time.” Lucas also means “sacred wood” from the Latin “lucere” and “from Lucania” in Italy.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Light shining through time
- Pronunciation: LUW-Kahs
- Variations: Lucius, Luca
- Namesakes: Lucas Hartong, a Dutch politician and member of the European Parliament from 2010 to 2014. Lucas Dias, a Brazilian basketball player for Franca.
- Popularity: Lucas ranked 391st worldwide, is primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 19th for boys in the U.S. in 2018.
Mandana
Mandana means “she who is everlasting” but also “princess” and “cheerful.” Mandana’s meanings are inspired by the 6th-century princess of Medea and Persia, so it’s perfect for your princess in training.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Everlasting
- Pronunciation: Maen-DAAN-aa
- Variations: Mandanah, Mandanna
- Namesakes: Mandana Karimi, an Iranian actress appearing in the film Bhaag Johnny (2015). Mandana Dayani, the Iranian president of Archewell, the media company founded by Prince Harry.
- Popularity: Mandana is rare worldwide and mostly used in Iran, ranking 423rd in 2014.
Mara
Mara is lesser-known among names meaning time as a Kiswahili word meaning “a time.” Kiswahili is a language used in Kenya and Tanzania, where a river running through may have influenced Mara.
- Origin: Kiswahili, Hebrew
- Meaning: A time
- Pronunciation: MAAR-Ah
- Variations: Marra, Marah
- Namesakes: Mara Hvistendahl, an American writer whose book Unnatural Selection was a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction. Mara Navarria, an Italian fencer and the 2018 individual world champion.
- Popularity: Mara is rare worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 606th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Marise
Marise is a Japanese name for girls meaning “endless,” but also a French diminutive for Marie spelled Maryse. Some view Mara as a modern invention that combines the Spanish Maria, meaning “beloved,” and “sol,” meaning sun.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Infinite
- Pronunciation: MAA-rihs
- Variations: Maryse
- Namesakes: Marise Payne, the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2022.
- Popularity: Marise is rare worldwide, primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 353rd in Haiti in 2014.
Maya
In Hindu culture, Maya means “illusion over time.” It’s made up of the Sanskrit “ma,” meaning “illusion,” and “aya,” meaning “time.” Maya also means “water” in Hebrew and “golden curl” in Japanese.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
- Meaning: Ever-changing time
- Pronunciation: MAEY-ah
- Variations: Maiah, Myah, Maia, Maja
- Namesakes: Maya Angelou, an American poet known for I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969). Maya Deren, a Ukrainian-American filmmaker known for Meshes of the Afternoon (1943).
- Popularity: Maya ranked 372nd worldwide, is primarily used in India, and ranked 72nd in Nepal in 2014.
Minos
Minos originated as an ancient Greek word meaning moon, suggesting a moon that cycles through time. It’s best known as the Cretan word for “king,” for the first king of Crete. The Minotaur was born in Greek mythology once King Minos wouldn’t sacrifice his bull to Poseidon.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Moon through time
- Pronunciation: MIY-Nows
- Variations: Mynos
- Namesakes: Minos Kokkinakis, a Greek member of Jehovah’s Witnesses known for fighting Greece’s ban on influencing religious beliefs. Choi Min-ho (known as Minos), a South Korean rapper and actor.
- Popularity: Minos is very rare worldwide, mainly used in the DR Congo, and ranked 1,236th in Cyprus in 2014.
Minute
The word “minute” comes from the Latin “pars minuta prima,” meaning “first small part.” This eventually was joined by “pars minuta secunda,” for the “second small part.” This history is why clocks have a first and second hand to tell time.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Unit of time (60 seconds)
- Pronunciation: MIH-nut
- Popularity: Minute is very rare worldwide and ranked 1,322nd in American Samoa in 2014.
Mirai
Mirai means “future” in Japanese, where it’s unisex but leans more towards a girl’s name. Mirai comes from the Sino-Japanese vocabulary, including Mandarin Chinese “weilai” and Korean “mirae.” It also means “wait” in the Bantu language of the Shona people of Zimbabwe.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Future
- Pronunciation: MIY-Raey
- Variations: Mirae
- Namesakes: Mirai Nagasu, an American figure skater and bronze medalist at the 2018 Olympic Games. Mirai Shida, a Japanese actress known for the series 14-year-old Mother (2006).
- Popularity: Mirai is rare worldwide and mostly used in Lebanon, where it ranked 146th in 2014.
Neander
Neander is based on the Greek Neandros, meaning “new human.” It’s also associated with the German Neander Valley near Düsseldorf, named after the 17th-century theologian Joachim Neander.
- Origin: German, Greek
- Meaning: New man
- Pronunciation: Niy-AEN-Der
- Variations: Neandar, Neandur, Neandyr
- Popularity: Neander is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Brazil.
Neon
Neon derives from the Greek “nέον,” meaning “new” and “strong.” We all love neon lights, which emerged in 1898 as a “new” invention. Neon the Unknown is a fictional superhero from Quality Comics in the 1940s and 1950s.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: New
- Pronunciation: NEE-Ahn
- Variations: Neone, Neyon
- Popularity: Neon is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Bangladesh.
Nina
Nina is super popular among Russian time names for girls, meaning “grace” and “time.” It also means “God is gracious” in Hebrew, while the Spanish Niña means “little girl.”
- Origin: Russian, Hebrew
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: NEE-Nah
- Variations: Neena, Neenah, Ninah
- Namesakes: Nina Blackwood, an American disc jockey among the original five video jockeys at MTV. Nina Hoss, a German actress known for the film Phoenix (2014).
- Popularity: Nina ranked 515th worldwide, is mostly used in Russia, and ranked 328th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Nye
Nye is a unique English surname meaning “new start in time.” It’s an antiquated Welsh boy’s name meaning “honor” and “golden,” that’s a diminutive for Aneirin. Nye is also a county in Nevada and is best known by the surname for Bill Nye the Science Guy.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: New start
- Pronunciation: NAEY
- Variations: Nie
- Popularity: Nye is very rare worldwide and mainly used in China.
Omer
Omer is traditionally Arabic, where it means “long-lived,” “thriving,” and “flourishing.” It’s composed of “umr,” meaning “lifetime,” and “amara,” meaning “to flourish.” Omer is associated with the male Umar and is perfect for a little boy wise beyond his years.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Long-lived
- Pronunciation: OW-Mer
- Variations: Omar
- Namesakes: Omer Elmas, a Turkish wrestler who competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics. Omer Meir Wellber, an Israeli conductor and music director of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia from 2011 to 2014.
- Popularity: Omer ranked 1,292nd worldwide and is primarily used in Sudan, ranking 6th in 2014.
Oriana
Oriana is a beautiful way to represent the “dawn” of a new day and is the female variant of Orion. It also means “daughter of the light” and “heavenly” when based on Urania. In Italian and Spanish, Oriana is taken from the Latin “aurum,” meaning “gold,” to symbolize sunrise for your baby girl.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Sunrise
- Pronunciation: Aor-iy-AEN-Naa
- Variations: Orianna, Oriane
- Namesakes: Oriana Fallaci, an Italian journalist known for Interview with History (1973). Oriana Scheuss, a Swiss sport shooter who competed at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Oriana is rare worldwide, primarily used in Venezuela, and ranked 323rd in Chile in 2014.
Oron
Oron is another version of Aron, meaning “time” in Hebrew. It’s one of the many names related to time with many meanings, including “little green one.” The Oron people are also a tribe located in southern Nigeria.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: Ow-RAHN
- Variations: Oren
- Namesakes: Oron Kahlon, an Israeli MMA fighter and the #4th ranked men’s Lightweight in the Middle East.
- Popularity: Oron is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Israel, where it ranked 1,163rd in 2014.
Pandora
Pandora is made up of the Greek “pān,” meaning “all,” and “dōron,” meaning “gift.” It means “all-giving” but belongs to time-related names because of the Greek myth of Pandora. Pandora’s box is another matter for this bohemian-friendly name for girls!
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: First mortal woman
- Pronunciation: Paan-DOWR-ah
- Variations: Pandorra, Pandorah
- Namesakes: Pandora Clifford, an English actress appearing in Agatha Christie’s Poirot. Pandora Gibson-Gomez, a Bahamian comedian whose name inspired the Pandora Gibson-Gomez Award for Excellence in Drama.
- Popularity: Pandora is rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 361st in the Bahamas in 2014.
Perez
Though a Spanish surname meaning “son of Pedro,” Perez is also a Hebrew boy’s name that means “breach.” It also refers to “bursting forth” and “breaking through time.” In the Bible, Perez is one of the many sons of Judah that came through history to remain well-known by many.
- Origin: Hebrew, Spanish
- Meaning: Breakthrough
- Pronunciation: Peh-REHZ
- Variations: Peretz
- Namesakes: Perez Ahabwe, the State Minister for Local Government in Uganda from 2009 to 2011. Pérez Prado, a Cuban bandleader known for Mambo No. 5.
- Popularity: Perez is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 564th in Myanmar in 2014.
Perpetua
Perpetua comes from the Latin “perpetuus,” meaning “uninterrupted,” “perpetual,” and “long-lasting,” i.e., “eternal.” It’s a venerated name for Catholics because of St. Perpetua, a 3rd-century martyr and the patron saint of mothers.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Forever
- Pronunciation: Pehr-PEH-tuw-Ah
- Namesakes: Perpetua Nkwocha, a Nigerian footballer with the Nigeria women’s national team. Perpétua Almeida, a representative for Acre since 2019.
- Popularity: Perpetua is rare worldwide, mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 664th in Zimbabwe in 2014.
Persephone
Persephone is a major statement for girls with names that mean time. It means “bringer of death and destruction.” It’s composed of the Greek “perse,” meaning “destroy,” and “phone,” meaning “time.” In Greek mythology, Persephone is kidnapped by Hades and must remain in the underworld for six months of the year.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Time destroyer
- Pronunciation: Pehr-SEHF-ah-Niy
- Variations: Persefone, Persefony, Persephonie
- Namesakes: Persephone Borrow, an English immunologist specializing in T-cell responses during HIV-1 infections. Persephone Swales-Dawson, a British actress known for the soap opera Hollyoaks.
- Popularity: Persephone is very rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 1,019th in Cyprus in 2014.
Phoenix
Phoenix is associated with the ancient Greek mythological bird who rose from the ashes. The original Greek “phoinix” means “crimson” for the bird’s wings and symbolizes renewal and the passing of time.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Symbol of cyclical time
- Pronunciation: FIY-Nihks
- Variations: Phenix, Pheonix
- Namesakes: Phoenix Sanders, an American baseball player for the Tampa Bay Rays. David Farrell (known as Phoenix), an American musician and member of the rock band Linkin Park.
- Popularity: Phoenix is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 309th for boys and 317th for girls in 2023.
Réka
Réka is a traditional Hungarian girl’s name deriving from the Slavic word for flow, suggesting energy that flows with time. It began as the Hun Kreka, taken from the Turkish Arikan.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Flow (through time)
- Pronunciation: REH-Kah
- Variations: Rekha
- Namesakes: Réka Nagy, a Hungarian swimmer who competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Réka Albert, a Romanian-Hungarian scientist inducted into the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 2016.
- Popularity: Réka is rare worldwide, mainly used in Indonesia, and ranked 303rd in Romania in 2014.
Renee
Renee is based on the Latin “renatus,” meaning “renewed” or “born again.” It’s the female counterpart to the French René, both of which first alluded to the Christian idea of being born again.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Reborn
- Pronunciation: Reh-NAEY
- Variations: Rene
- Namesakes: Renée Zellweger, an American actress known for the Bridget Jones’s Diary film series. Renee Schulte, an American member of the Iowa House of Representatives from 2008 to 2013.
- Popularity: Renee is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,672nd for girls in 2023.
Rhea
Rhea comes from the Greek “rheo,” meaning “to flow” or “stream.” In Greek mythology, Rhea was the Titan mother to all the gods and goddesses. She was known for easing the pain of childbirth, which makes Rhea a welcome addition to your family.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Flowing (in time)
- Pronunciation: RIY-ah
- Variations: Rheia
- Namesakes: Rhea Perlman, an American actress known for the Cheers (1982 to 1993). Rhea Dimaculangan, a Filipino volleyball player with the Philippines national volleyball team.
- Popularity: Rhea is rare worldwide and mostly used in the Philippines, ranking 295th in 2014.
Rochester
Rochester means “time” in English but is more known as a surname for those from Rochester in Kent, England. It’s composed of the Old English “cæster,” meaning “Roman fortress,” and “hrōf,” meaning “roof.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: RAH-ches-Tehr
- Popularity: Rochester is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Samson
Samson means “like the sun” in Hebrew, associated with the biblical figure with great strength. Samson is represented by “a sun and shield” and famously uttered the prayer, “God, please strengthen me just one more time.”
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: There the second time
- Pronunciation: SAEM-Sahn
- Variations: Sampson
- Namesakes: Samson Ebukam, a Nigerian–American football player for the Indianapolis Colts. Samson Mwita Marwa, a politician in the National Assembly of Kenya from 1969 to 1974.
- Popularity: Samson ranked 1,173rd worldwide, is primarily used in Nigeria, and ranked 51st in Eritrea in 2014.
San
San is the Chinese word meaning “moment” – for each moment that passes with time. It’s also a Burmese surname meaning “spring,” “moon,” and “good luck.” In England, Samson is a girl’s name meaning “the sandpiper bird” and is the Italian and Spanish word for “saint.”
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Moment
- Pronunciation: SAEN
- Popularity: San ranked 1,066th worldwide, is mostly used in Myanmar, and ranked 9th in Cambodia in 2014.
Shahla
Shahla means “eye of the night” when made up of the Persian “shah,” meaning “king,” and “la,” meaning “time.” It dates back to Arabic, where Shahla indicates “a bluish hue” for girls with eyes as dark as the night.
- Origin: Arabic, Persian
- Meaning: Eye of the night
- Pronunciation: SHAA-Laa
- Variations: Shahlaa, Shahlah
- Namesakes: Shahla Ujayli, a Syrian writer whose book A Sky Close to Our House was nominated for the 2016 Arabic Booker Prize. Shahla Riahi, an Iranian actress and the first Iranian woman to direct a feature film with Marjan (1956).
- Popularity: Shahla is rare worldwide and mainly used in Iran, where it ranked 111th in 2014.
Shi
Shi also means “truthful” and “honest” in Chinese but is utilized to mark both “time” and “seasons.” It also means “stone” and was used by Shenshu Shi, a Chu minister in the ancient Zhou dynasty.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: SHIY
- Namesakes: Shi Lemeng, a Chinese composer known for the opera Two Women of the Red Army. Shi Jian, a Chinese footballer for Qingdao West Coast.
- Popularity: Shi is rare worldwide, primarily used in Japan, and ranked 536th in Malaysia in 2014.
Signe
Signe first appeared as the Old Norse Signý, meaning “new victory.” It’s made up of “sigr,” meaning “victory,” and “nýr,” meaning “new.” In Norse mythology, Signý is the twin sister of Sigmund and the wife of Siggeir. For names meaning time, Signe offers your little one a victorious chance to celebrate.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: New victory
- Pronunciation: SIHG-Niy
- Variations: Signey, Signi, Signy
- Namesakes: Signe Baumane, a Latvian fine artist and a 2005 Fellow in Film of the New York Foundation for the Arts. Signe Relander, the First Lady of Finland from 1925 to 1931.
- Popularity: Signe is rare worldwide and mostly used in Denmark, ranking 129th in 2014.
Sybil
Sibyl derives from the Greek “sibylla,” meaning “prophetess” or “oracle.” Ancient Greek sibyls were female oracles who could break through time and tell the future (with help from the gods).
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Prophetess
- Pronunciation: SIHB-Ahl
- Variations: Sibyl, Sibylle
- Namesakes: Sybil Ruscoe, an English TV presenter for Top of the Pops. Sybil Bennett, a member of the Canadian House of Commons from 1953 to 1956.
- Popularity: Sybil is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 287th in Canada in 2014.
Taimi
In Finnish, Taimi refers to both “time” and, specifically, a “young tree or sapling.” When it comes to time names rooted in nature, Taimi has everyone beat (plus it’s super cute)!
- Origin: Finnish
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: TAEY-Miy
- Variations: Taemey, Taemi, Taemie
- Popularity: Taimi is rare worldwide and primarily used in Namibia, where it ranked 84th in 2014.
Talia
Talia is composed of the Hebrew “tal,” meaning “dew,” and “ia,” meaning “time.” This becomes the “dew of heaven” with associations like “flourishing” and “abundance” for baby girls who bloom like flowers.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Dew of heaven
- Pronunciation: TAAL-Yaa
- Variations: Taliah, Taliya, Tahlia
- Namesakes: Talia Shire, an American actress known for the Rocky film franchise. Talia Chiarelli, a Canadian artistic gymnast and silver medalist at the 2011 Pan American Games.
- Popularity: Talia is rare worldwide, mostly used in Algeria, and ranked 107th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Tancy
Tancy dates back to a Greek word meaning “eternal life” or “flower.” In Greek mythology, tansy flowers were linked with immortality and were given to Ganymede by Zeus so he could live forever.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Immortal
- Pronunciation: TAEN-Siy
- Variations: Tansy, Tansi, Tansie
- Namesakes: James “Tancy” Lee, a Scottish boxer and the National Sporting Club’s British flyweight champion in 1915.
- Popularity: Tancy is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Tanek
Tanek specifically means “he who is immortal” and originally appeared as the Greek Athanasios. It’s also found in Germany and is more common as the girl’s name Taneka in the modern world.
- Origin: Polish
- Meaning: Immortal
- Pronunciation: TAE-Nihk
- Popularity: Tanek is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Indonesia.
Tick
Tick is the English spelling of the Hebrew Tyk, an occupational name symbolizing the “ticking of a clock.” It was given to clockmakers and is quite different from the tick we try to avoid in the woods.
- Origin: Hebrew, Slavic
- Meaning: Ticking (of a clock)
- Pronunciation: TIHK
- Popularity: Tick is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Malaysia, and ranked 1,552nd in Hong Kong in 2014.
Time
As a name, Time is the most obvious and literal of names related to time. It comes from the Old English Tima and Old German Thiemmo. As a concept, time is defined as “the continued progress of existence,” which sounds pretty mysterious and trendy for a name!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: TAEYM
- Popularity: Time is rare worldwide, mainly used in Tanzania, and ranked 802nd in Kosovo in 2014.
Urbain
In addition to “time,” Urbain means “from the city” in Latin. It’s based on the Urbanus, which eventually led to the word “urban” being used to describe that “of a city.” Urbain isn’t around much anymore but was once used for eight popes.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: Uhr-BAEN
- Variations: Urban
- Namesakes: Urbain Braems, a Belgian footballer for K.S.V. Sottegem. Urbain Dubois, a French chef known for coining the term chef.
- Popularity: Urbain is rare worldwide, primarily used in DR Congo, and ranked 180th in the Central African Republic in 2014.
Uriah
Uriah means “my light is Yahweh” or “flame of God” in Hebrew. It belonged to more than one figure in the Bible, including Hebrew prophets. Uriah is composed of the Hebrew “uri,” meaning “light,” and “ah,” meaning “time,” so it may mean “light of time.”
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: My light is Yahweh
- Pronunciation: Yuw-RAEY-ah
- Variations: Uri
- Namesakes: Uriah Duffy, an American musician and bassist for Whitesnake. Uriah Tracy, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1793 to 1796.
- Popularity: Uriah is rare worldwide and mostly used in Jamaica, where it ranked 146th in 2014.
Vasilis
Vasilis means “royal” and “kingly” in connection with time spent as king. It comes from Vassilios, the original Greek form of Basil. Vasilis is also common in Russia as Vasily and is ideal for your little king.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: King of time
- Pronunciation: Vaa-SIY-Liyz
- Variations: Vasili, Vassilis
- Namesakes: Vasilis Michaelides, the national poet of Cyprus. Vasilis Dimitriadis, a Greek footballer for AEK Athens.
- Popularity: Vasilis is rare worldwide and mainly used in Greece, ranking 176th in 2014.
Vernette
Vernette derives from the French “verna,” meaning “spring.” It’s a pretty example of time-related names to celebrate the coming of spring. Vernette also means “little flourishing one” and “green.”
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Spring
- Pronunciation: Ver-NEHT
- Variations: Verna, Vernetta
- Popularity: Vernette is rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 492nd in 2014.
Vjekoslav
Vjekoslav is made up of the Slavic “vyeku,” meaning “age,” and “slava,” meaning “glory.” It also means “eternally famous,” though the idea of your little boy finding glory at every age is a wonderful thought.
- Origin: Croatian, Slavic
- Meaning: Glorious through the ages
- Pronunciation: Viy-EHK-kah-Slaav
- Variations: Vekoslav
- Namesakes: Vjekoslav Bevanda, the acting Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2009. Vjekoslav Tomić, a Croatian footballer for Şanlıurfaspor.
- Popularity: Vjekoslav is rare worldwide and mostly used in Croatia, where it ranked 136th in 2014.
Wynona
Wynona originally appeared as the Native American Winúŋna, meaning “firstborn daughter.” Winúŋna was a daughter of a Dakota chief who died tragically rather than marry a man she didn’t love. Many locations across the U.S. are named Wynona using various spellings.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Firstborn
- Pronunciation: Weh-NOW-naa
- Variations: Wynonna, Winona
- Namesakes: Wynona Lipman, the first African-American woman elected to the U.S. Senate in 1971. Wynona Carr, an American R&B singer-songwriter known for her duets with Brother Joe May.
- Popularity: Wynona is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Xiao
Xiao focuses on the time of morning called “dawn.” It also means “respectful” and “reverent” and is used as a Chinese nickname meaning “junior” or “little.” In Chinese mythology, “xiao” represents beings from “a long-armed ape” to “a four-winged bird.”
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: Zhy-AW
- Variations: Xián
- Popularity: Xiao is rare worldwide and primarily used in Hong Kong, ranking 47th in 2014.
Xiomara
Xiomara not only means “time” in Spanish but is also associated with the Latin “ximena,” meaning “battle ready” and “battle famous” for the warrior girl you love.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: Siy-ow-MAAR-aa
- Namesakes: Xiomara Castro, the 56th president of Honduras since 2022. Xiomara Larios, a Nicaraguan sprinter who competed at the 1980 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Xiomara is rare worldwide and mostly used in Cuba, where it ranked 50th in 2014.
Yad
Yad means “time” in Hebrew and “remembrance” in Turkish. It’s also a Lebanese boy’s name meaning “jade,” and is the term for a Jewish pointer for following along during a Torah reading.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: YAED
- Popularity: Yad is rare worldwide, mainly used in India, and ranked 606th in Bhutan in 2014.
Yong
Yong means “perpetual” or “eternal” in Chinese. It may be based on the Chinese “yǒng,” meaning “brave” and “courageous,” for timeless boys and girls with courage.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Perpetual
- Pronunciation: YAONG
- Variations: Yonge
- Namesakes: Kang Yong, a South Korean footballer for Chunnam Dragons. Jim Yong Kim, the 12th president of the World Bank from 2012 to 2019.
- Popularity: Yong ranked 55th worldwide, is primarily used in China, and ranked 4th in Singapore in 2014.
Zanna
Zanna has many meanings in Hebrew, including “time” and “lily.” Like many Hebrew names, it also means “Yahweh is gracious” and “God’s gift.” Zanna is a variation of Jane and Zana and is sometimes a diminutive of Susanna.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Time
- Pronunciation: ZAA-Naa
- Variations: Zana
- Namesakes: Zanna Proniadou, a Greek professional volleyball player. Zanna Słoniowska, a Polish novelist who won the Znak literary prize.
- Popularity: Zanna is rare worldwide, mostly used in Nigeria, and ranked 128th in Armenia in 2014.
Zarvan
Zarvan is often linked with the Zoroastrian faith, where the Zurvan is the god of infinite time and space. Zurvan appears as Zarvān in Persian and is the name of a village in the Kurdistan Province of Iran.
- Origin: Parsi
- Meaning: God of time
- Pronunciation: ZAAR-Vahn
- Variations: Zaravan, Zarwan
- Popularity: Zarvan is extremely rare worldwide, with 28 known occurrences in 2014, mainly in India.
Zarya
Zarya is Russian for “sunrise,” yet also means “morning star,” representing the earliest time of day. It means “gold” in Persian and is a variant of Zara. In Slavic folklore, the similarly spelled Zorya is the goddess of the dawn, also called “the red maiden.”
- Origin: Russian, Persian
- Meaning: Sunrise
- Pronunciation: ZAAR-Yaa
- Variations: Zara
- Popularity: Zarya is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Russia.
Zyanya
Zyanya means “forever” and “always” in the ancient Zapotec civilization. The Zapotecs were a pre-Columbian civilization located near modern-day Oaxaca. Zyanya is also the name of a character in the book Aztec by Gary Jennings.
- Origin: Aztec
- Meaning: Forever
- Pronunciation: Zih-AHN-Yah
- Popularity: Zyanya is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Mexico.
