THE 2026 FIELD GUIDE IS HERERead the trend report

Amharic baby names

628 verified Amharic names from Ethiopia — each with its meaning, how to say it, and its traditional spelling.

A

Abatboy

A direct, affectionate tribute to one’s father and family roots.

/ah-BAHT/

Abayboy

A strong, enduring name inspired by Ethiopia’s great river

/ah-BY/

Abdullahboy

Servant (or worshipper) of God.

/ab-DOOL-lah/

Abebagirl

Blossom—a cheerful name suggesting a child who brings beauty and new happiness into the family.

/ah-BEH-bah/

Abebeboy

He blossomed

/ah-BEH-beh/

Abebechgirl

She blossomed

/ah-BEH-bech/

Abenetboy

Example; model; exemplar.

/ah-beh-NET/

Abiyboy

Great or distinguished

/ah-BEEY/

Adaneboy

He saved or rescued

/ah-DAH-neh/

Adanechgirl

She saved or rescued

/ah-DAH-nech/

Addisboy or girl

New; fresh beginnings

/AH-dis/

Addisuboy

The new one; a child who brings a fresh beginning

/ah-DI-soo/

Adilboy

A fair-minded and upright man

/ah-DEEL/

Adilagirl

A fair-minded and upright woman

/ah-DEE-lah/

Admasuboy

Strong, precious, and resilient like a diamond

/ad-MAH-soo/

Adugnaboy

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/ah-DOOG-nah/

Adunyagirl

The world; worldly life.

/ah-DOON-ya/

Afeworkboy

A golden voice or a person whose words are precious

/ah-feh-WORK/

Afeworkiboy

A person whose words are golden and precious

/ah-feh-WOR-kee/

Ahmedboy

Most praised; highly commendable.

/AH-med/

Aishagirl

Alive, vibrant, and full of life

/EYE-shah/

Akaluboy

His very being or embodied presence

/ah-KAH-loo/

Aklilegirl

My crown.

/ahk-LEE-leh/

Akliluboy

His crown; a child held in honor

/ahk-LEE-loo/

Aklogboy

A name associated with wisdom and learning

/ah-KLOG/

Alazarboy

Eleazar; God has helped

/ah-lah-ZAR/

Alemboy or girl

The world; a name expressing wide hopes and possibility

/AH-lem/

Alemayehuboy

One who has seen the world

/ah-lem-ah-YEH-hoo/

Alemneshgirl

You are my world

/ah-lem-NESH/

Alemtsahaygirl

Sun of the world

/ah-lem-tsah-HIGH/

Alemuboy

Of the world; belonging to the world

/ah-LEH-moo/

Aleneboy or girl

We have.

/ah-LEH-neh/

Alganeshgirl

Your bed.

/al-gah-NESH/

Almazgirl

A precious and wonderfully strong spirit

/ahl-MAHZ/

Altayegirl

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/al-TAH-yeh/

Alulaboy

Wing.

/ah-LOO-lah/

Amanboy or girl

Peace and security

/AH-mahn/

Amanuelboy

God is with us

/ah-mahn-oo-EL/

Amareboy

He became beautiful

/ah-MAH-reh/

Amarechgirl

She is beautiful

/ah-MAH-rech/

Ameleworkgirl

Golden character; character/nature of gold.

/ah-meh-leh-WORK/

Amhaboy

Strength and power

/AHM-hah/

Aminboy

A trustworthy and dependable man

/ah-MEEN/

Aminagirl

A trustworthy and faithful woman

/ah-MEE-nah/

Amiragirl

Princess; female commander or leader.

/ah-MEE-rah/

Amlesetgirl

God has restored/returned her.

/am-leh-SET/

Amsalegirl

My likeness; my image; example.

/am-SAH-leh/

Amsaluboy

His image or likeness

/ahm-SAH-loo/

Anbesawboy

The lion; brave and strong-hearted

/ahm-beh-SAW/

Anbessaboy

Lion; a bold and courageous child

/ahm-BESS-ah/

Andualemboy

One world; a name expressing unity and wholeness

/ahn-doo-AH-lem/

Anisagirl

Friendly and companionable

/ah-NEE-sah/

Aregashgirl

You have made things firm and secure

/ah-reh-GASH/

Aregawiboy

Steadfast and firm

/ah-reh-GAH-wee/

Aronboy

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/ah-RON/

Arsemagirl

A revered Christian saint’s name

/ar-SEH-mah/

Asefaboy

One who grows in strength and achievement

/ah-SEH-fah/

Asegedboy

One who inspires reverence

/ah-SEH-ged/

Asfawboy

He expanded or increased

/ahs-FAW/

Ashenafiboy

Victorious; a winner

/ah-sheh-NAH-fee/

Asnakeboy

A name associated with making beautiful or bringing beauty into the world

/ahs-NAH-keh/

Asnakechgirl

She made [it/someone] beautiful.

/ah-snah-KECH/

Asratboy

A sacred offering or tenth portion

/ahs-RAT/

Assefaboy

He made greater or more abundant

/ah-SSEH-fah/

Astergirl

Star

/AH-stehr/

Atsedegirl

Flower or blossom

/ah-TSEH-deh/

Awekeboy

He knows or he understands—a thoughtful and perceptive name

/ah-WEH-keh/

Ayalewboy

One who sees clearly and attentively

/ah-yah-LEW/

Ayeleboy

He saw or has seen

/ah-YEH-leh/

Ayelechgirl

She saw or has seen

/ah-YEH-lech/

Ayenewboy

We saw him / we have seen him.

/ah-yeh-NEW/

Aynadisgirl

New eye; new vision.

/eye-NAH-dis/

Aynalemboy

The eye of the world; one who sees widely and wisely

/eye-nah-LEM/

Ayneshgirl

You are my eye; a precious one to cherish

/eye-NESH/

Azebgirl

The south; traditionally associated with the Queen of Sheba

/AH-zeb/

Azmeragirl

Harvest and seasonal abundance

/az-MEH-rah/

B

Bahirboy

Sea; vast and enduring

/BAH-heer/

Balchaboy

A historic Ethiopian name associated with strength and distinction

/BAHL-chah/

Bamlakboy

By God’s grace

/BAHM-lahk/

Banchiamlakgirl

God is with you

/ban-chee-AM-lak/

Bantayehuboy

Likely “let it be yours,” if representing the Amharic expression ባንተ ይሁን (Banteyhun).

/ban-tah-YEH-hoo/

Barnabasboy

A source of encouragement and comfort to others

/BAR-na-bas/

Bayushgirl

A joyful name expressing that life has been seen and experienced

/bah-YOOSH/

Befekaduboy

By his will or according to his purpose

/beh-feh-KAH-doo/

Bekeleboy

He has blossomed and flourished

/beh-KEH-leh/

Bekelechgirl

She has blossomed and flourished

/beh-KEH-lech/

Belachewboy

He ate them.

/be-LA-chew/

Belayboy

Above; outstanding and elevated

/beh-LIE/

Belaynehboy

You are elevated and exceptional

/beh-LIE-neh/

Belayneshgirl

You are elevated and exceptional

/beh-LIE-nesh/

Beleteboy

He has excelled and gone beyond

/beh-LEH-teh/

Beletechgirl

She has excelled and gone beyond

/beh-LEH-tech/

Bereketboy or girl

A blessing and gift from God

/beh-reh-KET/

Berhanboy or girl

A bright light bringing hope and warmth

/behr-HAHN/

Berhaneboy

My light, with the warm sense of divine guidance

/ber-HAH-neh/

Berhanuboy

May God’s light shine through him

/ber-HAH-noo/

Betelhemgirl

Bethlehem; a name rich with Christian heritage

/beh-tehl-HEHM/

Betelihemgirl

Bethlehem, traditionally understood as the house of bread—a warm symbol of home and belonging.

/beh-teh-lee-HEM/

Bethelgirl

House of God.

/BEH-thel/

Betigirl

Betty, an English diminutive of Elizabeth.

/BEH-tee/

Betselotboy or girl

Surrounded by prayer and loving hope

/beh-tseh-LOHT/

Beyeneboy

A name associated with strength and dignity

/beh-YEH-neh/

Bezagirl

Redemption; a precious source of saving grace

/BEH-zah/

Binyamboy

Benjamin; a cherished son

/bin-YAHM/

Birhaneboy

My light; a bright blessing in the family

/beer-HAH-neh/

Birhanuboy

His light; radiant and full of hope

/beer-HAH-noo/

Birtukangirl

Orange; bright, joyful, and sweet

/beer-too-KAHN/

Biruboy

Bright; shining.

/BI-roo/

Birukboy

Blessed and fortunate

/bee-ROOK/

Biruktgirl

A blessed and fortunate woman

/bee-ROOKT/

Biruktawitgirl

Blessed and beautiful, a loving name for a daughter whose birth is treasured.

/bee-rook-TAH-wit/

Bisratboy

Good news; glad tidings.

/BIS-raht/

Bitewboy

A traditional name apparently based on ቢተው, “if he leaves it/him” or “let it be left”; the supplied relief gloss is not a reliable literal meaning.

/bee-TEW/

Bizuneshgirl

Abundant, cherished, and richly blessed

/bee-zoo-NESH/

Blengirl

A radiant, glowing presence

/BLEHN/

Bogaleboy

A strong and victorious person

/boh-GAH-leh/

C

D

Dagimboy

Again; a joyful new beginning

/DAH-gim/

Dagmawiboy

The second-born; a treasured second child

/dag-MAH-wee/

Dagmawitgirl

The second-born; a treasured second child

/dag-MAH-wit/

Dagnewboy

A name associated with seeing and understanding

/DAHG-nyew/

Damtewboy

“Listen to him.”

/DAHM-tew/

Dawitboy

Beloved

/DAH-wit/

Debebeboy

He has blossomed and flourished

/deh-BEH-beh/

Debritugirl

Meaning uncertain; do not assign “a strong and resilient woman” as a literal meaning.

/deh-BREE-too/

Degefuboy

“They supported him” or “they upheld him.”

/deh-GEH-foo/

Deguboy

The good and kind one

/DEH-goo/

Dejeneboy

My support; a dependable and cherished child

/deh-JEH-neh/

Delneshgirl

A cherished traditional name associated with happiness and well-being

/del-NESH/

Demekeboy

He has brightened; a radiant and uplifting presence

/deh-MEH-keh/

Demelashboy

“His replacement/substitute,” or “one who replaces him.”

/deh-meh-LAHSH/

Derartugirl

A traditional Ethiopian woman’s name, warmly associated with strength and achievement

/deh-RAHR-too/

Derejeboy

He has grown in wisdom and maturity

/deh-REH-jeh/

Desalechgirl

You have brought joy, a tender celebration of a much-loved daughter.

/deh-sah-LECH/

Desalegnboy

I am happy; a child who brings joy

/deh-SAH-legn/

Desetgirl

Happiness and delight—a warm name for a much-loved daughter.

/DEH-set/

Destaboy or girl

Joy; happiness

/DES-tah/

Dinkineshgirl

You are wonderful; a truly remarkable girl

/din-ki-NESH/

Dinkuboy

A remarkable and wonderful child

/DIN-koo/

E

Edenboy or girl

Eden; a place of delight and paradise

/EE-den/

Edjigayehugirl

“I saw much/a great deal.”

/eh-jee-gah-YEH-hoo/

Egziabherboy

God; a name expressing reverence for the Lord

/eg-zee-AH-bher/

Elenigirl

A form of Helen, traditionally associated with light and radiance

/eh-LEH-nee/

Elizabetgirl

Elizabeth; “God is my oath”

/eh-lee-za-BET/

Elshadaiboy

El Shaddai; God Almighty, expressing divine protection and strength

/el-sha-DYE/

Emanuelboy

God is with us; a name expressing divine closeness

/eh-man-oo-EL/

Embetgirl

Lady or noblewoman, warmly honoring her dignity

/EM-bet/

Emebetgirl

Lady or noblewoman; a dignified and cherished daughter

/eh-meh-BET/

Emiruboy

A traditional Ethiopian name associated with princely dignity and honor

/eh-MEE-roo/

Emnetgirl

Faith; a name expressing trust, hope, and spiritual strength

/EM-net/

Enatgirl

Mother; a warm name honoring nurture, love, and family

/EH-nat/

Endaleboy

A traditional Ethiopian name expressing continuity with a family or community

/en-DAH-leh/

Endalewboy

A traditional Ethiopian name expressing steadfast presence and belonging

/en-da-LEW/

Endeshawboy

“As he wishes” or “according to his desire.”

/en-deh-SHAW/

Enkugirl

A precious jewel; someone treasured dearly

/EN-koo/

Ephremboy

A form of Ephraim, traditionally associated with fruitfulness and flourishing

/EH-frem/

Ermiasboy

Jeremiah; traditionally understood as “the Lord exalts”

/er-mee-AS/

Esayasboy

Isaiah; “the Lord is salvation”

/eh-SAH-yas/

Eshetuboy

A traditional Ethiopian name associated with newness, freshness, and renewal

/eh-sheh-TOO/

Eskedargirl

A feminine Ethiopian form of Alexander, associated with protecting and defending

/es-keh-DAR/

Eskinderboy

A form of Alexander, associated with strength and protection

/es-KIN-der/

Estifanosboy

Stephen; a name associated with honor and a crown

/es-tee-FAH-nos/

Esubalewboy

He is there for me; a name conveying dependable support

/eh-soo-ba-LEW/

Eteneshgirl

You are my lady; a tender expression of honor and affection

/eh-teh-NESH/

Etsegenetgirl

Tree of paradise; a name suggesting beauty, blessing, and flourishing

/et-seh-geh-NET/

Etsehiwotgirl

Tree of life; a beautiful wish for vitality and a long, flourishing life

/et-seh-hee-WOT/

Ewketuboy

Knowledge; a child valued for wisdom and understanding

/ew-keh-TOO/

Ewnetuboy

Truth; an honest and sincere person

/ew-neh-TOO/

Eyasuboy

Joshua; the Lord is salvation

/eh-YAH-soo/

Eyerusalemgirl

Jerusalem, a name recalling the holy city and its spiritual heritage

/eh-yeh-roo-sa-LEM/

Eyoelboy

Joel; “the Lord is God”

/eh-YOH-el/

F

Fanagirl

Light that brightens the way

/FAH-nah/

Fanayegirl

My light and source of brightness

/fah-nah-YEH/

Fantaboy

A replacement or substitute; often a child regarded as coming “in place of” someone or something lost.

/FAN-ta/

Fasikaboy or girl

Easter, the season of renewal and joyful hope

/fah-SEE-kah/

Fasilboy

A historic Ethiopian Christian name, associated with strength and joyful celebration

/FAH-seel/

Fekaduboy

His will, purpose, or good intention

/feh-KAH-doo/

Felekeboy

One who flourishes and grows beautifully

/feh-LEH-keh/

Felekechgirl

A girl who flourishes and blossoms

/feh-LEH-kech/

Fetleworkgirl

Golden thread; a precious and beautiful child

/FET-leh-work/

Fevengirl

February.

/FEH-ven/

Fikaduboy

May his wishes and purpose be fulfilled

/fi-KAH-doo/

Fikirboy or girl

Love and affection

/fi-KEER/

Fikirtegirl

A beloved child, cherished with love

/fi-KEER-teh/

Fikreboy

My love; a heartfelt expression of affection

/FIK-reh/

Fikreabboy

Love of the Father; a name expressing devotion and faith

/FIK-reh-ahb/

Fikremariamboy

Love of Mary

/FIK-reh-mah-ree-AHM/

Fikreselassieboy

Love of the Holy Trinity

/FIK-reh-seh-LAHS-see/

Fikretgirl

Love, tenderness and affection

/FIK-ret/

Fikreyesusboy

Love of Jesus

/FIK-reh-YEH-soos/

Filimonboy

Affectionate and loving

/fi-lee-MON/

Firdawsigirl

Paradise; a life filled with beauty and peace

/feer-DAW-see/

Fissehaboy

Joy and gladness

/fi-SEH-hah/

Fitsumboy

Wholeness, excellence and perfection

/FIT-soom/

Fitwiboy

Just, fair, or upright

/FIT-wee/

Fiyorigirl

Flower.

/fee-YOR-ee/

Foziagirl

Successful and victorious

/FOH-zee-ah/

Frehiwotboy or girl

Fruit of life; a child who brings life and blessing

/freh-hee-WOT/

Frewboy

His fruit; the cherished result of blessing and growth

/FREH-oo/

Freweinigirl

Fruit of the vine; a symbol of abundance and blessing

/freh-WAY-nee/

Frezergirl

Fruit and seed; by extension, offspring or fruitfulness.

/FREH-zer/

G

Gashawboy

His shield—a name expressing protection and strength

/GAH-shaw/

Gebreboy

A devoted servant; often used as a shortened traditional name

/GEH-breh/

Gebregziabherboy

A devoted servant of God

/geh-breh-gzee-AHB-her/

Gebrehiwotboy

A servant of life

/geh-breh-HEE-wot/

Gebrekidanboy

Servant of the covenant

/geh-breh-ki-DAHN/

Gebrekristosboy

Servant of Christ

/geh-breh-KRIS-tos/

Gebremariamboy

A devoted servant of Mary

/geh-breh-mah-ree-AHM/

Gebremedhinboy

A devoted servant of the Saviour

/geh-breh-MED-hin/

Gebremichaelboy

A devoted servant of Michael

/geh-breh-mee-kah-EL/

Gebreselassieboy

A devoted servant of the Holy Trinity

/geh-breh-seh-LAHS-see/

Gebretensaeboy

A servant of the Resurrection

/geh-breh-ten-SAH-eh/

Gebreyesusboy

A devoted servant of Jesus

/geh-breh-YEH-soos/

Gebrielboy

God is my strength

/geh-bree-EL/

Gebruboy

A devoted servant of God; often used as a shortened traditional name

/GEH-broo/

Genetgirl

Paradise—a joyful name for a beloved child

/geh-NET/

Genzebegirl

My wealth; my money or treasure.

/gen-zeh-BEH/

Getachewboy

Their lord or master

/geh-TAH-chew/

Getahunboy

May he become a lord—a name of dignity and aspiration

/geh-TAH-hoon/

Getuboy

His lord or master

/GEH-too/

Gezahegnboy

He subdued me; he conquered me (also interpretable as “he bought me,” depending on context).

/geh-zah-HEGN/

Girmaboy

Majesty, dignity, and greatness

/GEER-mah/

Girmayboy

My majesty—a name carrying hopes of greatness

/geer-MY/

Giyorgisboy

George, traditionally associated with courage and steadfastness

/gee-YOR-gees/

Gizachewboy

One who rules or leads them

/gee-ZAH-chew/

Gizawboy

One who rules or leads

/gee-ZOW/

H

Habibagirl

Beloved and dearly cherished

/ha-BEE-bah/

Habtamuboy

His wealth or the wealthy one

/hab-TAH-moo/

Habteboy

Wealth or prosperity

/HAB-teh/

Habtemariamboy

The wealth or blessing of Mary

/hab-teh-mah-REE-am/

Habtemichaelboy

The wealth or blessing of Michael

/hab-teh-mee-KAH-el/

Habtewoldboy

A child who is a blessing or treasure

/hab-teh-WOLD/

Hadasgirl

New or fresh

/HAH-dahs/

Hagerboy or girl

Country, homeland, or nation

/HAH-ger/

Hagosboy

Joy or happiness

/HAH-gos/

Haileboy

My strength or his strength

/HAH-lee/

Hailemariamboy

The strength of Mary

/high-leh-mah-REE-am/

Hailemichaelboy

The strength of Michael

/high-leh-mee-KAH-el/

Haileselassieboy

The strength of the Holy Trinity

/high-leh-seh-LAHS-see/

Haileyesusboy

The strength of Jesus

/high-leh-YEH-soos/

Hailuboy

His strength

/HAH-loo/

Haimanotboy or girl

Faith or religious devotion

/high-mah-NOHT/

Hakimboy

A wise and thoughtful man

/hah-KEEM/

Hakimagirl

A wise and thoughtful woman

/hah-KEE-mah/

Halimagirl

Gentle, patient, and kind-hearted

/ha-LEE-mah/

Hamleboy or girl

A warm-season name evoking summer skies and flourishing nature

/HAM-leh/

Hamzaboy

Strong, steadfast, or lion-like; an Arabic name used among Ethiopian Muslims

/HAM-zah/

Hanagirl

Grace or favor

/HAH-nah/

Hanangirl

Mercy, compassion, or kindness

/HAH-nahn/

Hannagirl

Grace, kindness, and a gentle spirit

/HAN-nah/

Haregewoyingirl

Grapevine; vine of wine.

/ha-reh-geh-WOY-in/

Hassanboy

Good, handsome, or admirable; an Arabic name used among Ethiopian Muslims

/HAS-san/

Hawagirl

Eve; the first woman

/HAH-wah/

Haymanotgirl

Faith and a life devoted to God

/high-mah-NOT/

Hewangirl

Eve; the mother of humanity

/HEH-wahn/

Hidarboy or girl

Hidar, marking the month in which the child was born.

/HEE-dahr/

Hikmatboy or girl

A child blessed with wisdom and good judgment

/HIK-maht/

Hirutgirl

Liberated or free-spirited

/hee-ROOT/

Hiwotboy or girl

Life

/hee-WOHT/

Husseinboy

Good or beautiful; an Arabic name used among Ethiopian Muslims

/hoo-SAYN/

I

Ibrahimboy

Father of multitudes, a hopeful name for a child surrounded by love

/ib-rah-HEEM/

Ibtisamgirl

Smile, celebrating the happiness and warmth a child brings

/ib-ti-SAHM/

Idrisboy

The prophet Idris, remembered in Islamic tradition for wisdom and devotion

/ID-ris/

Ihsanboy or girl

Goodness and excellence, wishing a child a generous and noble character

/ih-SAHN/

Ikramboy or girl

Honor, generosity, and graciousness toward others

/ik-RAHM/

Ilhamgirl

Inspiration, a beautiful wish for a child who brings fresh ideas and hope

/il-HAHM/

Iliasboy

My God is the Lord, expressing deep faith and devotion

/il-YAHS/

Imanboy or girl

Faith, trust, and a heart grounded in belief

/ee-MAHN/

Immanuelboy

God is with us, a reassuring and deeply cherished blessing

/im-MAN-yoo-el/

Intisargirl

Victory and triumph, celebrating a child who brings strength and joy

/in-ti-SAHR/

Iqragirl

Read or recite, associated with learning, wisdom, and a love of knowledge

/IK-rah/

Isaboy

Jesus, the beloved name of the central figure of Christianity

/EE-sah/

Isaiasboy

The Lord is salvation, a name filled with hope and protection

/eye-ZAY-as/

Islamboy

Devotion and submission to God, with associations of peace and wholeness

/iss-LAHM/

Ismailboy

God hears, offering comfort and confidence that prayers are received

/iss-mah-EEL/

Isragirl

Night journey, a name associated with a wondrous spiritual journey

/ISS-rah/

Israelboy

One who strives with God, suggesting courage, perseverance, and spiritual strength

/IZ-rah-el/

Iyasuboy

The Lord is salvation, a traditional Ethiopian Christian name rich in faith

/ee-YAH-soo/

Iyesusboy

Jesus, or salvation, a profoundly cherished Christian name

/ee-YEH-soos/

J

K

Kalkidangirl

A child of promise and faithful love

/kahl-kee-DAHN/

Kassaboy

A treasured blessing and recompense

/KAH-sah/

Kassahunboy

A precious blessing and source of comfort

/kah-sah-HOON/

Kassayeboy

My treasured reward and blessing

/kah-sah-YEH/

Kassuboy

A cherished blessing and reward

/KAH-soo/

Kebebushgirl

You are held in love and protection

/keh-beh-BOOSH/

Kebedeboy

He has grown in greatness and strength

/keh-BEH-deh/

Kebedechgirl

She has grown in greatness and strength

/keh-BEH-dech/

Kebourboy

Honored, respected, or held in high esteem

/keh-BOOR/

Kefyalewboy

He is lifted up and honored

/keh-fyah-LEW/

Ketemaboy

A child whose presence brings life and community

/keh-TEH-mah/

Kidanboy

A child of promise and faithful bonds

/kee-DAHN/

Kidaneboy

A sign of a cherished covenant

/kee-DAH-neh/

Kidanemariamboy

A child entrusted to the covenant of Mary

/kee-dah-neh-mah-ree-AHM/

Kidanemihretboy

A child embraced by a covenant of mercy

/kee-dah-neh-mih-HRET/

Kidistgirl

Holy, pure, and deeply cherished

/kee-DIST/

Kidusboy

Holy and blessed

/kee-DOOS/

Kidusanboy or girl

One among the holy and blessed

/kee-doo-SAHN/

Kifleboy

My cherished portion and blessing

/KIF-leh/

Kiremtboy or girl

A life-giving name evoking rain, renewal, and green growing things

/kee-REHMT/

Kirosboy

Cyrus, a historic royal name carried with dignity

/kee-ROHS/

Kokebboy or girl

A shining star in the family

/koh-KEB/

Konjitgirl

Beautiful and lovely

/kohn-JEET/

Konjoboy or girl

Beautiful, lovely, and pleasing

/KON-jo/

Kristosboy

A name honoring Christ and Christian faith

/kris-TOHS/

Kumelachewboy or girl

One who brings people together in harmony

/koo-meh-LAH-chew/

L

M

Magdalenagirl

Woman from Magdala.

/mag-dah-LEH-nah/

Mahletgirl

A joyful hymn of praise

/MAH-let/

Mamoboy

A traditional Ethiopian given name whose exact original sense is not certain, but which is warmly established in use

/MAH-moh/

Maryamgirl

Mary, the revered mother of Jesus

/mah-ree-AHM/

Mastewalgirl

Wisdom, understanding, and good judgment

/mas-teh-WAL/

Matewosboy

Matthew, traditionally understood as “gift of God”

/mah-TEH-woss/

Matheosboy

A gift from God

/mah-teh-OS/

Mathewosboy

Gift from God

/mat-TEH-wos/

Matiasboy

Matthias, traditionally understood as “gift of God”

/mah-TEE-ass/

Meazagirl

A sweet fragrance or pleasing aroma

/meh-AH-zah/

Mebratgirl

Light and brightness

/MEH-brat/

Mebrategirl

My light, a tender name for a beloved daughter

/meh-BRAH-teh/

Mebratuboy

His light; a child who brings brightness to the family

/meh-BRAH-too/

Medhaneboy

Savior; redeemer.

/med-HAH-neh/

Medhanialemboy

The Savior of the world

/med-hah-nee-AH-lem/

Medhanitgirl

Healing, rescue, and salvation

/med-hah-NEET/

Medhinboy

A saving and healing presence

/MEHD-hin/

Mehariboy

Merciful and compassionate

/meh-HAH-ree/

Meheretgirl

A compassionate woman with a merciful heart

/meh-HEH-ret/

Mekdelawitgirl

A woman of Magdala; a name evoking dignity and strength

/mek-deh-LAH-wit/

Mekdesgirl

A sacred place; a name with a feeling of holiness and dignity

/MEK-dess/

Meklitgirl

A precious gift or special talent

/MEK-lit/

Mekonnenboy

A respected leader or noble official

/meh-KON-nen/

Mekuriaboy

Honor, glory, or dignity

/meh-KOO-ree-ah/

Melakuboy

My angel, a cherished child and blessing

/meh-LAH-koo/

Melesboy

One who has returned, or a long-awaited child

/MEH-less/

Menassieboy

A name associated with leaving past troubles behind and beginning anew

/me-NAS-see/

Menelikboy

Menelik, the historic Ethiopian royal name associated with strength and heritage

/meh-neh-LEEK/

Menengirl

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/meh-NEN/

Mentewabgirl

How beautiful!; what beauty!

/men-teh-WAB/

Meronboy or girl

Joy—a bright name celebrating the happiness of a new child.

/MEH-ron/

Mesayboy

One who resembles or takes after someone beloved

/meh-SIGH/

Meselugirl

Likeness; resemblance.

/meh-SEH-loo/

Meseretgirl

A strong foundation for life

/meh-SEH-ret/

Mesfinboy

A noble and dignified son

/MES-feen/

Meskelboy

The cross, a strong Christian symbol of faith

/MES-kel/

Meskeremgirl

Named for Meskerem, the first month of the Ethiopian calendar and a season of new beginnings

/mes-keh-REM/

Mestawetgirl

A shining mirror, reflecting beauty and character

/mes-tah-WET/

Mezmurboy

A sacred song of praise—a celebratory name for a child welcomed with gratitude.

/MEZ-moor/

Mihretboy or girl

Mercy, compassion, and loving-kindness

/MIH-ret/

Mihretuboy

A child surrounded by mercy and compassion

/mih-REH-too/

Mikaelboy

Michael, traditionally understood as “Who is like God?”

/mee-kah-EL/

Milkigirl

Success, achievement, or good fortune (an Oromo/Afaan Oromo term, rather than Amharic).

/MIL-kee/

Millionboy

A child of immense worth and abundance

/MIL-yohn/

Minasboy

Minas, the name of a revered Christian saint

/MEE-nass/

Mintesnotboy

A child understood as coming from God

/min-tes-NOOT/

Mirtgirl

Produce, yield, or harvest.

/MEERT/

Misganaboy or girl

Thanksgiving and grateful praise to God

/mis-GAH-nah/

Misganawboy

A thankful and appreciative heart

/mis-gah-NAW/

Mitikuboy

A beloved child who fills a precious place in the family

/mih-TEE-koo/

Mogesboy

Grace, favor, and goodwill

/MOH-gess/

Mollaboy

Filled, complete, or fulfilled

/MOL-lah/

Mulatuboy

His fullness; his abundance.

/moo-LA-too/

Muluboy or girl

Whole, complete, and fulfilled

/MOO-loo/

Mulualemboy

A child precious to the whole world

/moo-loo-ah-LEM/

Muluemebetgirl

A complete or whole lady/woman.

/moo-loo-eh-meh-BET/

Mulugetaboy

Complete victory and success

/moo-loo-GEH-tah/

Muluneshgirl

You are complete and whole

/moo-loo-NESH/

Muluworkgirl

Pure gold; a precious and deeply treasured child

/moo-loo-WORK/

N

O

P

Q

R

S

Sabirboy

A patient and resilient man

/sah-BEER/

Sabiragirl

A patient and resilient woman

/sah-BEE-rah/

Safiyagirl

Pure-hearted and sincere

/sah-FEE-yah/

Sahleboy

Mercy or compassion

/SAH-leh/

Sahleworkgirl

Gold of mercy, suggesting preciousness and blessing

/SAH-leh-work/

Salimboy

A man who brings peace and security

/sah-LEEM/

Salimagirl

A peaceful and protected woman

/sah-LEE-mah/

Samrawitgirl

She has prospered and flourished

/sam-rah-WEET/

Saragirl

Princess; noblewoman

/SAH-rah/

Sebhatboy

Praise or praise to God

/SEB-hat/

Seblegirl

Ear of grain; a name associated with abundance and growth

/SEB-leh/

Sebleworkgirl

Golden grain; a warm name for abundance and preciousness

/SEB-leh-work/

Segenetgirl

Veranda, balcony, or porch.

/seh-geh-NET/

Seifuboy

His sword; a strong and protective name

/SAY-foo/

Selamboy or girl

Peace

/seh-LAHM/

Selamawiboy

A peaceful and calm person

/seh-lah-MAH-wee/

Selamawitgirl

Peaceful; full of peace

/seh-lah-MAH-wit/

Selamneshgirl

You are peace

/seh-lahm-NESH/

Semiragirl

An evening companion or one who engages in evening conversation.

/seh-MEE-rah/

Senaitgirl

Goodness; a lovely and good person

/seh-NIGHT/

Senberegirl

Sabbath; Sunday.

/sen-beh-REH/

Senegirl

A bright early-summer name, associated with warmth and growth

/SEH-neh/

Sewitgirl

Woman; female person.

/seh-WEET/

Sewnetboy or girl

Humanity or human nature

/SEW-net/

Seyoumboy

An appointed or chosen person

/say-OOM/

Shambelboy

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/SHAM-bel/

Shewitgirl

Beautiful and graceful

/SHEH-weet/

Shiferawboy

One who spreads or expands; traditionally associated with growth and reach

/shih-feh-RAW/

Shimelisboy

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/shih-MEH-lis/

Shukriboy or girl

Thanks or gratitude

/SHOOK-ree/

Shumetboy

Appointment, rank, or honor

/SHOO-met/

Sileshiboy

A traditional Amharic name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story

/sih-LEH-shee/

Simegngirl

“Hear/listen to me” (Amharic ስማኝ), not “remember me.”

/see-MEGN/

Sintayehuboy

A name expressing wonder: “what have I seen?”

/sin-tah-YEH-hoo/

Sisayboy

Blessing or good fortune

/sih-SIGH/

Sitotawboy

The gift

/sih-toh-TAW/

Sofiagirl

Wisdom

/soh-FEE-ah/

Soliyanagirl

Commonly glossed as “sunshine” or “sunlight”; it is not an established Amharic expression for peace and grace.

/soh-lee-YAH-nah/

Stefanosboy

Crown or wreath of honor

/steh-FAH-nos/

Suadgirl

Happiness, good fortune, and joy

/soo-AHD/

Surafelboy

A seraph or heavenly angel

/soo-rah-FEL/

T

Tabithagirl

A graceful gazelle, suggesting beauty and liveliness

/TAB-ih-tha/

Tadeleboy

Fortunate and blessed with good fortune

/tah-DEH-leh/

Tadesseboy

He has been renewed and blessed with fresh hope.

/tah-DESS-eh/

Tafariboy

One who inspires awe; a dignified and remarkable child

/tah-FAH-ree/

Tafesseboy

“He overflowed” or “he became abundant,” from Amharic ተፈሰ.

/tah-FESS-eh/

Taitugirl

Traditionally associated with the sun; often glossed simply as “sun.”

/TAI-too/

Tameneboy

A dependable child who inspires trust.

/tah-MEH-neh/

Tamiratboy

Miracle—a joyful name for a child whose arrival feels wonderfully blessed.

/tah-mee-RAHT/

Tamiruboy

A child who brings wonder and triumph

/tah-MEE-roo/

Tayeboy

A child whose presence is precious and dearly cherished.

/TAH-yeh/

Tedrosboy

A gift from God.

/TED-ross/

Teferaboy

A respected and honorable person.

/teh-FEH-rah/

Teferiboy

Revered and held in awe

/teh-FEH-ree/

Tegegneboy

A precious child who has been found and welcomed with joy.

/teh-GEH-nyeh/

Tekalignboy

“Replace me” or “substitute for me” (Amharic ተካልኝ).

/teh-kah-LYIN/

Tekesteboy

A long-awaited child whose arrival brings joy.

/teh-KESS-teh/

Tekleboy

A child who grows strong and rooted, like a flourishing plant.

/TEK-leh/

Teklehaymanotboy

A child rooted in faith and spiritual strength.

/TEK-leh-high-mah-NOT/

Temesgenboy

May his life be filled with praise and gratitude.

/teh-MESS-gen/

Tenagneworkgirl

“He found gold” (ተናኘ ወርቅ).

/teh-nag-neh-WORK/

Tesemaboy

A child whose arrival feels like an answered prayer.

/teh-SEH-mah/

Tesfaboy or girl

Hope, optimism, and trust in God

/TES-fah/

Tesfahunboy

A child who brings hope and encouragement.

/tes-FAH-hoon/

Tesfayeboy

My hope and the promise of a bright future.

/tes-FAH-yeh/

Teshaleboy

A child associated with growth, healing, and improvement.

/teh-SHAH-leh/

Teshomeboy

A child destined for purpose and responsibility.

/teh-SHOH-meh/

Tewabeboy

A beautiful and graceful child.

/teh-WAH-beh/

Tewabechgirl

She is beautiful and lovely

/teh-wah-BECH/

Tewabewboy

He is handsome and lovely

/teh-wah-BEH-woo/

Tewodajboy

Beloved, cherished, or widely loved

/teh-woh-DAJ/

Tewodrosboy

A gift from God

/teh-woh-DROS/

Tibebuboy

A wise and thoughtful child.

/tih-BEH-boo/

Tigabuboy or girl

A diligent person who keeps going with patience

/tee-GAH-boo/

Tigistgirl

A patient, steady, and resilient woman.

/tee-GIST/

Tilahunboy

A child who offers shelter, protection, and support.

/tee-LAH-hoon/

Tilayeboy

A beloved child who is a source of comfort and protection.

/tee-LAH-yeh/

Tiruboy or girl

A good-hearted and kind person.

/TEE-roo/

Tirunehboy

A son praised for his goodness and kind character.

/tee-roo-NEH/

Tiruneshgirl

A daughter celebrated for her goodness and kind character.

/tee-roo-NESH/

Tiruworkgirl

A precious person with a good heart

/ti-roo-WORK/

Tiruyegirl

My good one; a tender name expressing affection and appreciation

/tee-ROO-yeh/

Tizitagirl

A cherished memory and treasured remembrance.

/tee-ZEE-tah/

Tomasboy

The Amharic form of Thomas, traditionally associated with a twin

/toh-MAHS/

Tsedalgirl

A bright, radiant presence

/tseh-DAHL/

Tsedeyboy or girl

The freshness, renewal, and promise of spring

/tseh-DAY/

Tsegaboy or girl

Grace, blessing, and goodness.

/TSEH-gah/

Tsegahunboy

A child surrounded by grace and blessing.

/tseh-GAH-hoon/

Tsegayeboy

A child seen as a personal blessing and gift of grace.

/tseh-GAH-yeh/

Tsegeredagirl

A graceful Ethiopian name associated with the rose and its beauty

/tseh-geh-REH-dah/

Tsehayboy or girl

A radiant child who brings warmth and light.

/tseh-HIGH/

Tsehayneshgirl

A daughter who is the light and warmth of her family.

/tseh-high-NESH/

Tsigegirl

Flower or blossom

/TSEE-geh/

U

W

Wegeneboy or girl

My kinsman or my beloved relative

/weh-GEH-neh/

Wogayehuboy

A traditional Ethiopian personal name associated with heritage and identity

/woh-gah-YEH-hoo/

Woineshetgirl

Grape-like and graceful, evoking sweetness and abundance

/woy-neh-SHET/

Woldegebrielboy

Son of Gabriel, a name with a treasured Christian heritage

/wol-deh-geh-bree-EL/

Woldemariamboy

Son of Mary, expressing a cherished Christian heritage

/wol-deh-mah-ree-AHM/

Woldemichaelboy

Son of Michael, carrying the protection and strength associated with the archangel

/wol-deh-mee-kah-EL/

Woldeselassieboy

Son of the Trinity, a name rooted in Christian faith

/wol-deh-seh-LAH-see/

Woldetensaeboy

Son of the Resurrection, a name of hope and renewed life

/wol-deh-ten-SAH-eh/

Woldeyohannesboy

Son of John, expressing a cherished family and Christian connection

/wol-deh-yoh-HAH-nes/

Wondafrashboy

Man-breaker/destroyer; a forceful name built from “man” and “breaker/destroyer.”

/won-dah-FRASH/

Wondimuboy

His brother—a name celebrating the blessing of family

/wun-dee-MOO/

Wondmagegnboy

One who has found a brother—a joyful name of kinship

/wund-mah-GEHN/

Wondwossenboy

A man of firm character and resolve

/wun-dwoh-SUN/

Workneshgirl

You are gold, precious and deeply valued

/wor-KNESH/

Worqboy or girl

Gold, expressing preciousness, prosperity, and lasting worth

/work/

Worqitugirl

Her gold, a precious and treasured daughter

/wor-KEE-too/

Woseneboy

He has decided—a name expressing determination

/woh-SEH-neh/

Wossenboy

Boundary or limit—a name suggesting strength, steadiness, and purpose

/woh-SUN/

Wubetgirl

Beauty, grace, and charm

/woo-BET/

Wubetuboy

His beauty—a lovely name celebrating grace

/woo-beh-TOO/

Wubitgirl

Beauty and loveliness

/WOO-bit/

Wubnehboy

You are beautiful—a warm blessing of admiration

/woob-NEH/

Wubneshgirl

You are beautiful and beloved

/woob-NESH/

Wubshetboy

Beautiful and radiant

/woob-SHET/

Wudasegirl

Praise—a name expressing gratitude and admiration

/woo-DAH-seh/

Wuditugirl

Beloved and cherished

/woo-DEE-too/

Wudnehboy

You are dear and precious

/wood-NEH/

Wudneshgirl

You are dear and precious

/wood-NESH/

Y

Yacobboy

May God protect and strengthen him, the Ethiopian form of Jacob

/YAH-kob/

Yalemzerfgirl

Literally “branch/sector of the world” (or “the world’s branch”); its intended personal-name sense may vary.

/yah-lem-ZERF/

Yasinboy

A name associated with the Qur’anic prophet Jonah and traditionally linked with devotion

/YAH-seen/

Yeabsiragirl

“Her good news,” from Amharic bəsra/bisra, “good news.”

/yeh-ab-SEE-rah/

Yekunoamlakboy

May God establish him; also remembered as the name of an Ethiopian emperor

/yeh-koo-noh AM-lak/

Yemaneboy

A name associated with the right hand, traditionally symbolizing strength and favor

/yeh-MAH-neh/

Yemanechgirl

“Right-hand/right side,” a feminine form associated with Amharic yäman (“right side”).

/yeh-MAH-nehch/

Yemisrachgirl

Of the dawn—the first warm light of a new day

/yeh-mis-RAHK/

Yenealemboy or girl

My world—a loving name for a much-cherished child

/yeh-neh-AH-lem/

Yeneneshgirl

You are mine—a tender expression of love and belonging

/yeh-neh-NESH/

Yeshimebetgirl

A beloved daughter associated with a home and family

/yeh-shim-eh-BET/

Yetnayetgirl

A traditional name expressing wonder and admiration

/yet-nah-YET/

Yetnebershgirl

A daughter cherished for her goodness and kind spirit

/yet-neh-BERSH/

Yewubdargirl

A beautiful and radiant woman

/yeh-WOOB-dar/

Yewubneshgirl

You are beautiful

/yeh-WOOB-nesh/

Yilmaboy

May he grow and flourish

/YIL-mah/

Yimamboy

A respected name meaning imam or religious guide

/yee-MAHM/

Yimerboy

May he grow strong and bring continued flourishing to his family.

/YEE-mer/

Yirgalemgirl

“May the world be calm/at peace.”

/yeer-gah-LEM/

Yisakboy

He will laugh, a joyful name connected with Isaac

/yee-SAHK/

Yitagesuboy

May he be patient, strong, and steadfast

/yit-ah-GEH-soo/

Yitayihboy

A name expressing the hope that he will be seen and recognized

/yit-EYE-ih/

Yitbarekboy

May he be blessed by God

/yit-bah-REK/

Yoditgirl

Judith, traditionally associated with praise and a strong, courageous woman

/YO-dit/

Yohannesboy

God is gracious

/yo-HAH-nes/

Yonasboy

Dove—a gentle symbol of peace

/YO-nas/

Yosefboy

God will add or increase blessings

/yo-SEF/

Yusufboy

God increases or gives abundantly

/YOO-soof/

Z