Names That Mean Bright

Burak is derived from al-Burāq, the Arabic name for the mythical winged creature that carried Islamic prophets. In particular, the Buraq is known for flying the Prophet Muhammed from Mecca to Jerusalem and into the Heavens in the span of a single night. The name was derived from the Arabic word for "lightning."

One of the rarest Bert names, Engelbert has been used at least since the time of Charlemagne and is the name of several saints. But mostly, it's impossible not to associate it with Engelbert Humperdinck, both the German composer and the British pop singer (born Arnold Dorsey) who borrowed his name.

A common Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean unisex name, and the name of a culturally rich Chinese Dynastic period. Yao Ming is the seven and a half foot Shanghai-born basketball star. Trivia tidbit: His parents were the tallest couple in China at the time of his birth.

The name of medieval French saint, similar to Sally Field's name, Bertrille, on the old The Flying Nun sitcom, leading some to expect the word "Sister" in front of it.

A well-used name in China that has some potential for assimilation.

Modern feminine form of Xavier

All varieties of Hob are antiquated nicknames for Robert, though this one is saddled with the "Calvin and Hobbes" cartoon association.

Tico is a diminutive of Alberto, but on the soap opera One Life to Live, Tico Santi's full name was Augustico.

One bright spot: famous namesake Threepenny Opera playwright Berthold (later known as Bertolt) Brecht.

This English word name meaning bright, clever, talented, and radiant, may be a lot to live up to. Brilliant would make a unique and offbeat virtue name for a parent with big dreams for their little one.

Rare word name that works for either gender.

Bright is a rare yet intriguing word name used for a female character in Ann Patchett's novel The Dutch House.

Roberta and Robert may be so far out they're...still out, but Robbie might make one of the trendy new boyish nicknames for girls a la Scottie and Charlie. Actress Margot Robbie gave it a surname spin.

This spelling of Electra makes this vibrant name less electric and more kinetic.

Positive meaning -- and a choice of spelling variations.

All names bella have been popular in recent years, and though Clarabella suffers from its association with Clarabelle clown and cow, it may rise as those negative images fade.

Rob has claimed Bob's turf.

A very rare Cas name with that cool and cozy -wyn ending.

Associated with comedian Stephen Colbert, who uses the French pronunciation of his name as a bit (the rest of his family of origin use the English pronunciation).