When it comes to naming your child, there are a million different paths you can take. But if you’re drawn to the name Ivan, you might be looking for a name with a classic feel that still feels fresh. Here are some options to consider for boys, girls, and anyone in between.
Boy Names Like Ivan
There’s something undeniably strong and masculine about the name Ivan. If you’re looking for other names that exude that same energy, you might consider:
- Alexander: This name has ancient roots and feels just as powerful as Ivan.
- Dmitri: A Slavic name that means “earth-lover,” Dmitri shares some qualities with Ivan while still feeling unique.
- Nikolai: Another great Russian name, Nikolai has a similar rhythm to Ivan while still standing out on its own.
Of course, these are just a few suggestions! You could also look into names like Maximilian, Leopold, or even something like Thor or Apollo if you’re looking for a really bold option.
If you’re looking for a name that has a similar meaning to Ivan, you might consider the name Ethan. Ethan means “strong” or “firm,” and has been a popular name for boys in recent years.
Another option to consider is the name Roman. This name has a strong, classic feel to it and is also of Slavic origin, like Ivan.
Girl Names Like Ivan
If you love the name Ivan but want something a little more feminine, there are plenty of options to consider:
- Ivana: This name is obviously very similar to Ivan, but with a bit of a softer edge.
- Aleksandra: Another Slavic name, Aleksandra is unique and distinctive while still feeling classic.
- Natasha: While it doesn’t have the same hard “V” sound as Ivan, Natasha still has a lot of the same appeal, with a vintage feel that’s hard to resist.
If those don’t quite hit the mark, you might also consider names like Zara, Greta, or even something like Scarlett or Raven for a more dramatic feel.
It’s important to keep in mind that the meaning and origin of a name can also play a role in finding the perfect alternative to Ivan. For example, if you love the Russian origin of Ivan, you might consider names like Anastasia, Daria, or Katerina. Alternatively, if you’re drawn to the meaning of Ivan, which translates to “God is gracious,” you might like names like Hannah, Grace, or Naomi.
Unisex Names Like Ivan
If you’re looking for a name that works well for any gender, you might consider starting with names that have a similar sound to Ivan:
- Evan: While technically a boy’s name, Evan is often used for girls as well.
- Ivo: This name is gender-neutral and has some of the same sounds as Ivan, but with a bit of a twist.
- Aviva: This Hebrew name has a similar rhythm to Ivan, but feels much more modern.
There are also plenty of unisex names that don’t necessarily sound like Ivan, but still have the same timeless quality. Options like Rowan, Sage, and Jordan are all great places to start.
It’s important to note that while unisex names are becoming more popular, they may not be for everyone. Some parents prefer more traditional gender-specific names, while others embrace the idea of a name that can work for any child. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels right for your family.
Unique Names Like Ivan
If you’re drawn to Ivan because it’s distinctive and uncommon, here are a few other names to consider:
- Balthazar: This name has a really unique, almost regal quality to it that sets it apart.
- Osiris: While perhaps a bit unusual for a baby name, Osiris has a lot of panache and is definitely one-of-a-kind.
- Thorin: A name that’s clearly inspired by the legendary hero Thor, Thorin feels strong and adventurous.
For a more whimsical feel, you might also consider names like Caspian, Ophelia, or even something like Lyra or Aurora.
If you’re looking for a name that has a unique meaning, you might consider the name Eudora, which means “good gift” in Greek. Another option is the name Zephyr, which means “west wind” and has a cool, breezy feel to it.
If you’re drawn to names with a historical or cultural significance, you might consider the name Galileo, after the famous Italian astronomer, or the name Saffron, which has roots in both Persian and Indian cultures.
Long Names Like Ivan
If you’re looking for a name with two or more syllables like Ivan, you might consider some of these longer options:
- Alexei: This Russian name has a lot of the same charm as Ivan, but with an extra syllable to make it feel more substantial.
- Sebastian: This name has been a popular one for centuries, and with good reason – it sounds elegant and timeless all at once.
- Nathaniel: With four syllables and a lot of history behind it, Nathaniel is a name that feels both classic and sophisticated.
Of course, there are plenty of other long names to choose from as well – you might like something even more elaborate, like Maximilian or Alexandrine.
It’s important to consider the meaning and origin of a name when choosing a longer option. For example, the name Leonardo has Italian roots and means “brave lion,” while the name Anastasia has Greek origins and means “resurrection.” These meanings can add depth and significance to a name, making it even more special.
Short Names Like Ivan
If you prefer names that are a bit more succinct, here are some great one- and two-syllable options to consider:
- Axel: This name feels short and sweet, but still strong and assertive.
- Kai: With just one syllable, Kai has a lot of punch – and it’s also easy to spell and pronounce.
- Liv: A name you might not have considered before, Liv means “life” and is short and sweet.
You could also consider names like Beau, Eve, or even something like Gia or Lux for a shorter option with a bit of flair.
Short names can be a great option for parents who want something simple and easy to remember. They can also be a good choice for children who may struggle with longer names or have difficulty spelling or pronouncing them. However, it’s important to keep in mind that short names can sometimes be perceived as less formal or serious than longer names. If you’re looking for a name that will work well in professional settings or convey a sense of gravitas, you may want to consider a longer option.
Ivan in Other Languages
If you’re interested in variations on the name Ivan from other parts of the world, there are a few to consider:
- Ioannis (Greek): This name is the Greek equivalent of John, and is pronounced ee-oh-AHN-nis.
- Juan (Spanish): Juan is the Spanish form of John, and is pronounced similarly to “one” in English.
- Yehuda (Hebrew): Meaning “praise,” Yehuda is a Hebrew name that has a bit of a different feel than Ivan, but still shares some of the same sounds.
There are also plenty of other variations on the name John, which Ivan is a variation of, depending on the country you’re looking at – options like Giovanni (Italian) or Sean (Irish) are all worth considering.
Interestingly, the name Ivan has different meanings in different languages. In Russian, Ivan means “God is gracious,” while in Bulgarian it means “John.” In Czech and Slovak, it means “John” as well, but it is pronounced slightly differently – ee-VAHN. In Serbian and Croatian, Ivan means “John” too, but it is also a popular name for boys.
Where did the Name Ivan Come From?
Finally, if you’re curious about the origin and meaning of the name Ivan, here’s a little background:
Ivan is a Slavic variation of the name John, which means “God is gracious.” The name has been used for centuries throughout Eastern Europe, and was particularly popular among Russian royalty. Some of the most famous Ivans include Ivan the Terrible, the first Tsar of Russia, as well as Ivan Pavlov, the pioneer of classical conditioning. Today, Ivan remains a popular name choice in countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Serbia, as well as in other parts of the world.
Whether you choose Ivan or one of the many other names on this list, remember that the most important thing is finding a name that suits your child and feels just right for your family.
Interestingly, the name Ivan has also been used in literature and pop culture. In Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel “The Brothers Karamazov,” one of the main characters is named Ivan. Additionally, in the popular video game series “Assassin’s Creed,” the main character is a member of the Ivanov family, a nod to the name’s Slavic roots.