Origin and meaning of the name Vartan

Learn more about the origin of the name Vartan

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Vartan

The name Vartan is of Armenian origin, derived from the Middle Persian term "Bahrām" which means 'victorious.' In Armenian, it's translated as "Վարդան" (Vardan). This name has historical significance in Armenia, where Saint Vartan and his 45 companions, known as the Martyrs of Sasun, are revered for their bravery and resistance against Persian persecution during the Sassanid Empire. The name continues to be popular among Armenians as a symbol of courage, victory, and devotion.

The name Vartan has also been used in various forms across different cultures, such as "Bahram" in Persian and "Bardhan" in Bengali. However, its most recognized usage remains within the Armenian community.

Character traits associated with the name Vartan

The name Vartan is commonly associated with individuals possessing strong leadership qualities and a persistent spirit. Originating from Armenian roots, this name often signifies an individual who is courageous, determined, and committed. People named Vartan are often characterized by their ambition and drive for success, demonstrating a resilient nature that allows them to overcome challenges with tenacity. They are also known for being loyal friends and family members, cherishing the bonds they form throughout life. Additionally, individuals with this name tend to be independent thinkers, not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom when they believe it's necessary. Overall, Vartan is a name that represents strength, determination, and loyalty in those who bear it.

Popularity of the name Vartan

The first name Vartan, originating from Armenian culture, is moderately popular among Armenians and those with Armenian ancestry. It is less common in other parts of the world. In the United States, according to data from the Social Security Administration, Vartan ranked 9,258th in popularity for boys' names in 2020, with only 37 babies given the name that year. However, within Armenian communities, Vartan is more commonly used and holds a significant cultural value, being the name of several historical figures and religious leaders in Armenia. The name also appears in various Armenian folktales and mythology.

Famous people with the name Vartan

Vartan, a name of Armenian origin, has been borne by several notable individuals across various fields. One prominent figure is Vartan Gregorian, an educator and philanthropist who served as the President of Brown University from 1989 to 1997. Another notable individual is Vartan Kupelian, a renowned Armenian-American mathematician known for his work on number theory and representation theory. In the realm of sports, Vartan Maroukhian, also known as Arman, is a professional footballer who has played for clubs such as Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund. Lastly, Vartan Antreassian was an American sociologist and political scientist, best known for his research on immigration and ethnicity. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements and contributions made by those bearing the name Vartan.

Variations of the name Vartan

The name Vartan has various spellings and pronunciations across different cultures. Here are some common variations:

1. Variants: Varten, Varteen, Vardeen, Varteeny, Varjane, and Vorjan are a few phonetic variations of the name. These slight modifications aim to maintain the original pronunciation while making it easier for non-Armenian speakers to spell.

2. Regional Differences: In Armenia, Vartan is a popular given name, often associated with the 4th-century Saint Vartan, who was martyred during the Roman Empire's persecution of Christians. Variations in other parts of the world might be influenced by local phonetic rules and cultural contexts.

3. Nicknames: Shortened forms or affectionate nicknames for Vartan include Var, Varo, Tanny, or Tan. These variations can serve as informal alternatives to the full name.

4. Combined Forms: Compound names that incorporate Vartan as a first or middle name are not uncommon. Examples include Vartan Gregorian, an Armenian-American philanthropist and writer, whose full name is Mardiros Vartan Gregorian.

5. Feminine Variations: While traditionally a masculine name in the Armenian culture, some adopt Vartan as a feminine given name or nickname, such as the Armenian singer Vartan Melikyan, who goes by the stage name Varta Melikyan.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "vartan"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025