Because what’s old is beautifully new again. Exploring Croatian names offers a fascinating glimpse into this timeless trend.
Because what’s old is beautifully new again.
Just like high-waisted jeans, record players, and baking bread from scratch, traditional Croatian names are back in fashion—and we couldn’t be happier. As modern parents seek names with depth, heritage, and a touch of vintage charm, many are turning to old Croatian classics that once belonged to their grandparents.
These names carry stories, meanings, and a sense of identity rooted in history. They’re melodic, strong, and proudly Croatian—and now, they’re finding their way onto birth certificates once again.
Expert Insights on Croatian Names
Onomastics expert Domagoj Vidović discusses popular, traditional, and unusual names and how they have changed throughout history in our region: “Croatia has about 5,560 personal names, but it is assumed that there are at least several thousand more unrecorded personal names in Croatia. The most common names for newborn girls last year in Croatia were Mia, Lucija, Ema, Sara, Nika, Ana, Lana, Marta, Elena, and Rita, while for boys they were Luka, David, Jakov, Petar, Ivan, Mihael, Filip, Marko, Matej, and Fran.” (Source: Tportal https://www.tportal.hr/))
Here’s a look at Croatian names making a stylish and sentimental comeback, along with what they mean.
For Girls
Mara
Meaning: Mara is a female name of Hebrew origin. The meaning of the name comes from the Hebrew Marah which means bitterness, embitterment.
Why it’s back: It’s short, elegant, and timeless—perfect for modern minimalist parents.
Kata / Katica
Meaning: It is a shortened form of the name Katarina, which originated from the Greek form Aikatheríne. In Ancient Greek (Aeolic dialect), ‘ái’ means ‘always,’ and ‘kathará’ means ‘clean/pure,’ so the meaning would be ‘always clean/pure,’ making the meaning of the name Kata ‘pure.’ Other forms of this name are Kate and Kat
Comeback factor: Charming and vintage, Katica is the name of the kind neighbour who always had a full cookie tin—and now, of cool baby girls everywhere.
Anka
Meaning: A variant of the name Ana. The name originates from ancient Hebrew “Hannah,” i.e., “hanna” from the root h-n-n, meaning “grace, gratitude,” which later passed into Latin and was pronounced “Anna.” It is the name of the mother of the Virgin Mary, so in various variants it became popular throughout the Christian world from the earliest times to today.
Vibe: Traditional yet strong, Anka is regal without being frilly.
Ljubica
Meaning: The name Ljubica is a female name of Old Slavonic origin. Its meaning is connected to concepts of love, tenderness, and beauty. It is derived from the word “ljubav” (love) and is often interpreted as “beloved,” “loved one,” or as a derivative from the name of the violet flower.
Trend alert: With names like Ivy and Rose gaining popularity worldwide, Ljubica fits right in—and sounds beautifully lyrical.
Zorka
Meaning: The name Zorka is connected to nature, specifically to its awakening, so this name hides a deeper meaning within itself. Some sources connect it to the beginning of new life and positive life changes, and parents usually chose it for girls who were born in the early morning hours.
Why it’s rising again: With celestial names trending globally, Zorka feels both grounded in Slavic tradition and cosmically cool.
Milka
Meaning: Our native, Slavic name derived from the word “mila,” “mio” which is very prevalent in many Slavic names with the meaning “dear and beloved.
Back in style: Thanks to its simplicity and old-world charm, this sweet name is capturing hearts once again.
For Boys
Stjepan
Meaning: Croatian form of Stephen, meaning crown or garland.
Revival power: Strong, stately, and deeply historical—Stjepan has a kingly ring to it (literally, with King Stjepan I of Croatia!).
Ante
Meaning: A Croatian classic and form of Anthony, meaning priceless or of inestimable worth.
Why it’s cool again: It’s short, punchy, and unmistakably Croatian. Bonus: you’ll find at least one in every extended family.
Ivan
Meaning: Slavic form of John, meaning God is gracious.
Timelessness: Ivan never truly left, but it’s gaining more traction as young parents appreciate its strength and simplicity.
Franjo
Meaning: Croatian form of Francis, meaning free man.
Why it’s back: It carries vintage vibes with a hint of nobility—plus, Pope John Paul II called it a favourite Croatian name!
Božo
Meaning: From Bog, meaning God—a name often interpreted as God’s gift or divine.
Comeback status: Božo has a bold sound and a deeply spiritual meaning—perfect for families embracing their roots.
Nikola
Meaning: Victory of the people (from Greek origins).
Legacy: Thanks to Nikola Tesla, this name has always had genius-level energy. Now, it’s stylish across Europe.
Why the Comeback?
Cultural Pride: As younger generations rediscover their heritage, traditional names feel meaningful and grounding.
Unique but Familiar: Names like Zora or Stjepan aren’t everywhere, but they still feel accessible.
Honouring Family: Many parents are naming children after beloved grandparents, keeping family history alive.
Global Appeal: Slavic names are starting to get international recognition, thanks to TV, sports, and celebrity culture.
Trendy names may come and go, but Croatian names carry the weight of history, the warmth of tradition, and the strength of identity. Whether you’re naming your child, writing a character, or just curious about your own name’s origin, exploring these names is a beautiful reminder of where we come from.
So here’s to Mila, Zvonko, Kata, Franjo, Anka, and Stjepan—may their names echo proudly through future generations.
Is your name on this list? Or your grandmother’s? Let us know which Croatian name you’d love to see come back next!
