Miklós

Miklós is a masculine given name used primarily in Hungary and among Hungarian-speaking communities. The name is the Hungarian variant of the Latin name Michael, which originates from the Hebrew מִיכָאֵל (Mikha'el) meaning “Who is like God?” The use of Miklós dates back to the Middle Ages when Christian influence spread throughout Europe, and it has remained popular in Hungary ever since. In other languages the name appears as Michael (English), Mihael (Slovak), Mihael (Polish), and Meister (German) among others.

In Hungarian culture, the name is often associated with several historical figures, including Miklós Zrínyi (1589–1645), a celebrated renaissance knight and poet who fought against the Ottoman Empire, and Miklós Horthy (1868–1957), a naval commander who later served as regent of Hungary during the interwar period. The name also appears in literature: Miklós, a character in Zsigmond Móricz’s novel “The Savages” reflects the conflicts of early 20th‑century rural Hungary.

The name’s popularity has varied over time. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Miklós ranked among the most common male names in Hungary. From the post‑war socialist era onward, its usage declined somewhat, yet it remains a respected and frequent choice for parents seeking a name rooted in national tradition and biblical heritage. The name continues to be used widely in Hungary, on national registers, and in Hungarian diaspora communities around the world.