Names That Mean Strong

This strong (literally) African name comes from the Chewa language of southern Africa.

Zuberi has separate origins as a Swahili given name meaning "strong," and an Arabic surname — primarily among Sunni Muslims in Pakistan — meaning "superior."

András is the form of Andrew used in Hungary, where it is a Top 50 boy name.

French given and surname.

Pleasingly quaint and dainty New Testament possibility; the nickname Dru modernizes it.

One of the more unusual word names used by Plymouth pilgrims for their children. Fear Brewster is an example of the usage of this name. Definitely one of the historic pilgrim names best left in the past.

Romary is most commonly seen as a surname, although it would make a charming first name for a boy or girl. It has French and Scottish origins — the French form is a variation of the given name Romaric and has also been adopted as a surname. The meaning of the Scottish surname is unknown.

In the Bible, Elim is an oasis where the Israelites stopped during their Exodus from Egypt. It is a place of plenty representing the natural blessings of God, with twelve springs of fresh water and seventy date palm trees to provide food and shade.

Variously spelled Swithun or Swithin, and associated with St. Swithin's day, July 15th, which is famous as a weather predictor a la Groundhog's Day: supposedly, the weather on his feast day will continue for forty days. This would certainly make a unique choice.

Romy lovers, here's a new one for you! Romary is a surname with French and Scottish roots and has historically been a masculine given name in France. It would be a great choice on either sex, but feels slightly more feminine with the -mary ending and Romy nickname.

Sometimes heard in the Latino community, has not crossed over into others.

The strong sounds in this energetic Hawaiian name mirror its meaning.

Now that Courtney is becoming more unisex for babies, surname Fortney also seems like a viable name for a boy. It fits the trend for names with an -ey ending like Huxley and Finley, with an added dash of fortitude.

The names from which Meja derived, including Meinhild and Magnhild, are long gone, but a Swedish singer called Meja (born Anna Pernilla Torndahl) has piqued interest in this modern derivative. Meja is now a Top 100 name in Sweden.

An ancient saint's name (St Frideswide was an 8th-century English princess who founded a convent in Oxford, which later became Christ Church cathedral). St Frideswide was adopted as patron of Oxford University in the early 15th century and later as the patron of the whole city of Oxford. Her popularity as a historical figure explains why her name – unlike most Old English names – survived the Norman invasion and remained in use until the 15th century, although rare and in various variant forms.

This name has considerable meaning in the Islamic world, as Hamzah the brave was the uncle and protector of the Prophet of Islam. A more contemporary Hamzah is the eldest son of the late King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan. More commonly encountered in English-speaking countries as Hamza.

Variant of Walburga or Walpurga. In German and Nordic folklore, Walpurgisnacht (St Walpurgis' Night) is when witches and devils meet for revelry.

Cornish form of Griffin

Variant of Walburga or Walpurgis. In German and Nordic folklore, Walpurgisnacht (St Walpurga's Night) is when witches and devils meet for revelry.

A powerful Igbo name with spiritual meaning.