Names That Mean Friend

The Polish form of Ruth has mostly been lost outside of Poland, but though rare, it can still be heard in Polish and Eastern European communities. Ruta has only ever appeared on Illinois' state data, due to Chicago's large Polish population. With Ruth now on the ascent, Ruta may be worth rediscovering.

This name of a subtribe in the Great Sioux Nation could make an inventive twist on the overused Dakota.

The name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.

A dapper English surname derived from the Old English personal name Hunwine "bear friend", which comes with winning nickname Win.

Friendly option: has also been defined as "drinking companion".

This name of one of the three tribes in the Great Sioux Nation could provide an interesting alternative to Dakota.

Derived from the Greek name Pamphilos, this Spanish name has an amicable meaning.

A modern (and very rare) form of Jedidah, the mother of the biblical king Josiah.

Writer James Baldwin could make this an inspirational choice for a child of either sex.

Alternative spelling of Lakota, the name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation. Has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.

Pronounced ROOT in its native land, but in a rut here.

A less-simple spelling of Raya, inspired by the popularity of Reina and Reign.

An English surname and occasional first name deriving from the same root as Baldwin, "bold or brave friend".

In Greek Mythology, Herophile was Aphrodite and Poseidon's daughter and a sibyl who predicted the fall of Troy.

An unusual route to the winning nickname Win.

In Norse mythology, Sigyn was the wife of Loki known for helping him escape multiple captures. Sigyn rhymes with Teagan and may appeal to parents looking for an ancient name with modern style.

Frequently found in all three forms: Sadik, Sadiki, and Sadiq.

Feminine form of Theophilus

A relatively common double-barreled pairing for Turkish boys.