Unique gypsy baby names with interesting backgrounds for your special baby.
The term Gypsy or Gipsy usually describes Romani people of Indo-Aryan descent. In this article, we have compiled Romany Gypsy baby names that reflect the traditions, heritage, and history of this ethnic group. According to the Oxford Dictionary, Gypsy refers to a group of wanderers and nomads from Asia who travel and live in caravans. Most Roma Gypsies can trace their roots back to the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, while some also have Irish heritage. Because of this, their names may follow the customs of the countries they settled in rather than their original ancestry. Although Romani Gypsies have diverse backgrounds, many now live in the United States and Europe.
If you want to pick a unique baby name, these Gypsy baby names all have a background story. In this article, we are exploring the culture, traditions, and history of the Romani people, taking into account their nomadic lifestyle. It’s worth noting that many Gypsy names are commonly used and draw inspiration from various cultures worldwide.
Romany Gypsy Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
1. Vadoma
Vadoma is likely the Romany version of the Russian name Vadim. Experts think the name comes from the Slavic word vadic, which means ‘to know’. This is because pagan magicians were called veduny, which means ‘the knowing ones’.
2. Roma
This gypsy baby name comes from the Romany language. The most well-known person with this name is Dame Roma Mitchell, who was the first woman to serve as Governor of an Australian state. It is also another name for the Goddess Lakshmi, meaning ‘one with shiny hair’. Additionally, it is the name of a location in Italy. There are various connections to this gypsy baby name.
3. Charity
Charity is considered one of the three virtue names, along with Faith and Hope, but it is not as commonly used. It was a popular gypsy baby name in the 1880s and 1950s, being among the top 500 names. However, it dropped off the top 1000 list in 1927 and became less popular. This gypsy baby name made a comeback in 1968 and was ranked among the top 300 names in the 1970s and 1980s. Many people like this name for its unique sound and the way it ends with a rhythmic ‘y’.
4. Florence
After years of being ignored, Florence is now receiving attention again, possibly due to its flowery atmosphere and its association with the city in Italy. Florence Nightingale was actually named after the city she was born in. The red-haired singer Florence Welch has also helped to bring new life to Florence’s reputation. Some good nicknames for Florence could be Flora, Flossie, Flo, or Florrie.
5. Lavinia
The gypsy baby name Lavinia has a traditional and elegant feel, with roots in classical mythology as the name of Aeneas’ wife. It has appeared in works by George Bernard Shaw, William Shakespeare, and Henry James. The name also offers the vintage nickname Vinnie as an option.
6. Ethelinda
The gypsy baby name Ethelinda is a variation of the name Aethelind, which means ‘noble maiden’ and is associated with the gypsy community. Parents who like names that sound gentle and have a positive meaning may be attracted to this name. Although Ethelinda is not currently popular, many great names come back into fashion over time, so Ethelinda may also become popular again. Additionally, this name has a connection to Ethelinda Vanderbilt Allen, who was the daughter of US industrialist Cornelius Vanderbilt.
7. Kezia
The name Kezia, from the Old Testament, is popular among the Romany gypsies. In the Bible, Kezia was one of Job’s daughters. This name was previously linked to slavery but is still popular in the African-American community. With a lovely sound and meaning, ‘cassia tree,’ Kezia deserves to be celebrated.
8. Gypsy
Is this one easy to understand? This gypsy baby name is connected to the burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee and the musical based on her life. In addition, Shooter Jennings and Drea de Matteo gave their daughter the middle name Alabama using this moniker.
9. Hester
The medieval version of the name Esther was used in ‘The Scarlet Letter’. Although it is not very popular now, it could make a comeback, especially since its original form, Esther, is popular. This name has been mentioned in literature in works like Oscar Wilde’s play ‘A Woman of No Importance’, Theodore Dreiser’s novel ‘An American Tragedy’, and John Irving’s novel ‘A Prayer for Owen Meaney’. Hetty can be a shorter version of Hester’s name.
10. Mercy
This charming Puritan virtue name is not appreciated enough in modern times. It stands out as both unique and fashionable, a rare and lovely combination. While it was very common in the late 1800s, it is currently making a comeback. Between 2012 and 2013, it jumped up over 140 spots in popularity, showing it is one of the fastest rising names.
11. Naomie
This unique version of the name Naomi, called Naomie, is becoming popular among parents who want a gentle, biblical name that sounds melodic and has a positive meaning (pleasantness). Actress Naomie Harris played a role in making this name more modern.
12. Mahala
This unique and catchy gypsy baby name is not only popular among the Romany people but also within the Native American community. During the Gold Rush in Nevada and California, it became a common term for a Native American woman. The famous gospel singer Mahalia Jackson’s original name was Mahala.
13. Leonora
Leonora is a feminine given name which means ‘light’ or ‘bright’ in Italian and Spanish. This sweet-sounding gypsy baby name has a story behind it. It is linked to three opera roles, used by Elizabeth Taylor in two characters, and also shared by the well-known British artist and writer, Leonora Carrington.
14. Theodosia
This nickname is not commonly used in the Western world, but it is very popular among the gypsies. It could be a good choice for parents who think Theodora is too sweet and girly. Additionally, she can share her name with Theodosia Burr Goodman, an American actress from silent films. The name means ‘giving to God.’
15. Selina
The name Selina is not widely used outside the gypsy community. It is not among the top 1000 popular names, and only 20 babies were named Selina last year. The name can be pronounced as either sel-ee-na or sel-eye-na.
16. Queenie
Originally, Queenie was a nickname for girls with the name Regina, but the gypsies now use it as a complete name. It might be better suited as a nickname or middle name. Samuel Johnson gave Hester Maria Thrale the nickname Queenie. The name means ‘queen.’
17. Sabina
This stylish and gypsy baby name is worth thinking about. It has been used in different books and plays like Milan Kudera’s ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ and Thornton Wilder’s ‘The Skin of Our Teeth’. The name is inspired by Sabina Guzzanti, who is an Italian satirist, actress, writer, and producer.
18. Penelope
Penelope is a Greek name that is popular among the gypsies. The name has become more popular recently, partly due to actress Penelope Cruz. It is linked to the loyal wife of Odysseus in the ancient Greek story ‘Odyssey.’ Many writers, such as Penelope Gilliatt, Fitzgerald, Mortimer, and Lively, have also shared the name. Instead of using Penny as a nickname, consider using Poppy or Nell.
19. Patience
This popular name, commonly used by Romany gypsies, has a modern sound compared to names like Charity, Faith, and Hope. The name gained more attention after being featured in the movie ‘Catwoman’ with the character Patience Philips. It can also be found in works like Shakespeare’s ‘Henry VIII’, a Gilbert & Sullivan operetta, and a novel by Anthony Trollope.
20. Rhoda
Many people may recognize this name as a character from a popular 1970s TV show called ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ and its spin-off, Rhoda. However, the name actually has a longer history, appearing in the New Testament as the mother of John. It first appeared on the list of popular names at position #161 and has remained in that spot ever since.
21. Rosella
This modern gypsy baby name is stylish, charming, and bold. Rosella can be viewed as a shorter version of the name Rose or as a nature-inspired name because it is the name of an Australian flower and a type of Australian cockatoos. The name is inspired by Rosella Falk, the Italian actress, although her first name is typically spelled as Rossella.
22. Clementina
Clementina is the Spanish version of the name Clementine, which means ‘mild and merciful’. This gypsy baby name is unique because of its ‘eena’ ending. The ending is a reference to the popular song ‘Oh my darling, Clementine’. There are famous people with the name Clementina including Lady Clementina Villiers, a British beauty from the 19th century; Sofia Clementina Handler, the daughter of American actor Evan Handler; and Clementina Black, a British writer known for her work on trade unions and feminism.
23. Esmeralda
Esmeralda is a character in The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo. She is a gypsy girl who Quasimodo, the hunchback, falls in love with. Originally named Agnes, she got the name Esmeralda because of the green jewel she wore around her neck. The name Esmeralda, a Portuguese version of Emerald, has been popular among Hispanic parents for a while and is currently ranked at #369 in popularity.
24. Tillie
The shorter version of the name Matilda is unexpectedly popular with parents in Malibu, Tribeca, and Britain. It is currently ranked 90th on the list of popular names in Wales and England. It has also become one of the top 100 nicknames along with Maisie, Milly, Lottie, and Kitty. The well-known feminist Tillie Olsen is the most notable person with this name.
25. Masilda
The gypsy baby name Masilda likely comes from the name Mathilda and it means ‘battle-mighty’. If you like the name Matilda and its meaning but are worried about your child meeting another Matilda at school, you can choose Masilda. It is highly unlikely that anyone else will have the same name at her school.
26. Liberty
If you are looking for a Romani gypsy name with ties to America, consider choosing Liberty. This gypsy baby name became popular after the American War of Independence and was embraced in both America and some Puritan colonies. Its popularity is now on the rise again, similar to after World War I.
Romany Gypsy Baby Names For Boys With Meanings
27. Freedom
This Romany gypsy baby boy name has a deep meaning, but it could also be a burden for your son. Ving Rhames named his baby boy this. The name is also found in the book ‘The Host’ by Stephanie Meyer, where it belonged to a boy born in caves during an alien invasion.
28. Danior
This name is thought to be a Romany name that means ‘born with teeth’. It’s unclear if this is accurate, but there is a Romani word ‘danior’ that means ‘teeth’. ‘Danior’ is actually the plural form of ‘daand,’ which means ‘tooth’, stemming from the Sanskrit word ‘danta’. This name would align well with the popular trend of names ending in ‘or’.
29. Manfri
Manfri is a Romany version of the popular name Manfred. If Manfri sounds too informal to use as a first name, you could use it as a nickname for Manfred instead. The name means ‘man of peace’. We hope your child values peace, as it is disappearing more each day.
30. Duke
We’re actually quite surprised by how popular the English noble name is among gypsies. The name’s resurgence in popularity may be due to its connection with famous jazz musician Edward Duke Ellington. TV personalities Giuliana and Bill Rancic also chose this name for their son.
31. Django
Django is a traditional language of the gypsies, with the D being silent in its name. The language became well-known thanks to Reinhardt, a jazz guitarist from Belgium. Reinhardt’s nickname, Django, means ‘I awake’ in Romany. The language gained even more popularity after Quentin Tarantino’s movie ‘Django Unchained’ was released. It could be a great musical choice for jazz fans.
32. Motshan
The Romany baby name Motshan is thought to come from the Russian and Yiddish name Movcha, and the Hebrew name Moses. Motshan has a unique and interesting quality to it. It may sound exotic to people from the Western world without being linked to any specific ethnicity or background. The name means ‘son’.
33. Vano
Vano is a Romany name derived from the name Ivan, meaning ‘god is gracious’. It’s slowly becoming more common in European and American names. Some people think that the name Vano sounds a bit strong. Vano Bamberger is a well-known gypsy guitarist.
34. Ocean
This name, which was popular in the 70s, is becoming more popular again among parents who love nature. Another option is Oceanus, which was often given to babies born during the Mayflower voyage. A famous person with this name is the American singer Frank Ocean.
35. Timbo
Timbo is a Romany twist on the French name Etienne, which means ‘crown’ and has a sophisticated feel. This name is popular among Romany gypsies but not well-known among English speakers. It is inspired by Timbo Mehrstein, a modern Gypsy Jazz violinist. While it doesn’t necessarily need a nickname, you can shorten it to Tim if you prefer.
36. Patrin
Patrin is a Romany name that means ‘leaf trail’. This gypsy baby name comes from the Sanskrit word Patta, which means ‘leaf’. The name is rhythmic, unique, and easy to understand. For a nickname, you can use Pattin.
37. Menowin
Menowin is very common in the Romany gypsy culture. The name is thought to come from the German words megin, meaning ‘strength,’ and win, meaning ‘friend.’ However, for Menowin Froehlich, the well-known bearer of this name, his father created it to sound like Menuhin, the last name of the violinist Yehudi Menuhin.
38. Leander
A popular gypsy name is linked to a Greek figure who swam to meet his love across a body of water daily. This name is trendy in Norway and there is also a Spanish version called Leandro that you may like.
39. Silvanus
Romany gypsies like to use mythological names, such as Silvanus, which comes from the Roman Tree God. People think Silvanus is a cute, lively, and elegant name. Classical gypsy baby names like Silvanus are becoming more popular in the Western world again. Silvanus Trevail, a well-known Cornish architect, bears this name.
40. Pyramus
Pyramus and Thisbe were young lovers from Babylon who couldn’t be together due to their families’ feud, and the name Pyramus originates from the river Pyramos, meaning ‘fire’, commonly used by Romany gypsies and still sounds modern despite its ancient roots.
41. Lash
Lash is a Romani version of the name Louis and it means ‘famous warrior’. This name was popular among Romani boys in the 19th century, especially in America. One famous person with this name is Lash Rushay Hoffman, a wrestler known as Stevie Ray.
42. Bohemia
The Romany people who came to France from Bohemia were called the Bohemians, which is a direct reference to the gypsies. This name also reflects the poor and creative way of life of the gypsies.
43. Llewellyn
Selecting the name Llewellyn, with two ‘ll’s, could be a unique choice for your son. This gypsy baby name is associated with notable figures like Llewellyn Fawr, known as Llewellyn the Great, and Llewellyn Olaf, also known as Llewellyn the Last. Furthermore, it is the name of a significant character in the book ‘No Country for Old Men’ by McCarthy. Some cute nicknames for Llewellyn could be Llelo, Lleu, or Llew.
44. Nehemiah
For centuries, the name Nehemiah from the Old Testament wasn’t popular but is now seeing a resurgence, likely due to the Romany gypsies. It peaked in popularity at #362 in 1998 and has been fluctuating slightly since. In the Bible, Nehemiah was a prophet who was responsible for rebuilding Jerusalem after the Babylonians held it captive.
Irish Gypsy Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
45. Margaret
Margaret Barry, an Irish Traveler, was a famous banjo player and singer. The name Margaret is associated with saints and queens, and was popular in the early 1900s. We suggest considering this classic and strong-sounding gypsy baby name for your child.
46. Nan
This nickname is used for Nan Joyce, who was an activist for the rights of Irish Travellers. She dedicated herself to making the living conditions better for travelers in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Nan is a short form of Nancy, which means ‘grace’. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries through the character Nan in the book ‘The Nanny Diaries’.
47. Shelta
Shelta is a hidden language used by Irish Travellers, and its name means a voice that is loving, emotional, and charming. Experts in Celtic languages think it originated from the Gaelic term siulta, which means walking. The term was documented by Charles Leland in 1876, an American researcher who was the first outsider to encounter the language of Irish Travellers.
Irish Gypsy Baby Names For Boys With Meanings
48. Patrick
This name is owned by Patrick Dune, an Irish musician and storyteller. The name comes from a family of Irish Travellers. Patrick’s popularity is increasing in England, as well as with George and Charles. It is also linked to Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Currently, this name is ranked at #164.
49. Paddy
Paddy Keenan is the son of the well-known Irish Traveller, John Keenan. Many people think of Paddy as a common term for Irishmen, but not everyone realizes it comes from the name Patrick. Mare Winningham recently gave it to her son. We recommend using Patrick as your son’s official name and Paddy as his nickname.
50. Bartley
Bartley Gorman V, also known as the King of the Gypsies, was an Irish traveler who was never defeated in knuckle-boxing matches in Ireland. The name means ‘birch tree meadow’. The last name, Bartley, comes from the Bartley Redis in Hampshire and was first mentioned in the 16th century.
We hope you enjoy our list of gypsy baby names. Which name do you like best for your child? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
This collection of Irish and Roman Gypsy baby names can assist you in choosing a name that your child will love as they grow older. Irish and Roman Gypsy baby names are varied, appealing, and one-of-a-kind. These significant baby names can showcase the child’s heritage and traditions. Take the time to understand each name and its significance before deciding on a name that matches your child’s character. Keep in mind that your child’s name represents who they are, so opt for a charming, cute, and meaningful name that can enhance your little one’s identity.
