Arya

Arya is a given name of Sanskrit origin, derived from ārya, meaning noble, honorable, or respected. In ancient Indian literature, Ārya referred to a person of noble status, and the term later circulated in other Indo-European languages. In modern usage, Arya is used as a given name across South Asia and in the diaspora, and it is often employed for different genders in various regions. The spelling variants Aria, Ariah, or Arya may occur in different languages and communities.

Arya appears in cultural and religious contexts beyond naming. Arya Samaj, founded in 1875 by Dayananda Saraswati, uses the term to denote noble living and a return to Vedic values. In historical studies, Ārya is used to denote a broad ethno-linguistic group associated with early Indo-Iranian peoples. In contemporary usage, Arya is a common given name in Iran, Afghanistan, India, and among diaspora communities.

In popular culture, Arya Stark is a central figure in George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels and the television series Game of Thrones. The character's fame has contributed to the name's recognition in many countries and sometimes influenced baby-name choices.

Notable people bearing the name include artists, athletes, and professionals in various fields, reflecting Arya's cross-cultural appeal. The name's simplicity and positive connotations have contributed to its global usage.