Zoltan is a unique and distinctive given name of Hungarian origin. It is derived from the Magyar (Hungarian) word "zold," which means "green." The name Zoltan is often associated with strength, courage, and leadership, as it was traditionally given to warriors and chiefs in ancient Hungary.
The earliest known use of the name Zoltan dates back to the 13th century, when it was borne by several notable figures in Hungarian history. One such figure was Zoltan Keresztury, who served as a palatine (a high-ranking noble) during the reign of King Andrew III. Another famous bearer of the name was Zoltan Harsanyi, a renowned composer and musician from the 19th century.
Over time, the name Zoltan has become increasingly popular not only in Hungary but also around the world. It is often chosen by parents who wish to give their children a unique and memorable name with a rich history and cultural significance.
In literature and media, Zoltan has been used as a character name in various works, including the fantasy novel "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss and the video game series "Final Fantasy." These appearances have further contributed to the popularity and recognition of this distinctive given name.
The name Zoltan has seen a varied pattern of popularity over the years, with several peaks and valleys in its annual birth count. The highest number of births recorded was 25 in 1967, while some years saw as few as 5 births (in 1981). The total number of births from 1912 to 2023 is 1007.