Zoltán

Zoltán is a masculine given name of Hungarian origin. It is widely used in Hungary and among Hungarian communities, and is usually written with the acute accent as Zoltán.

Etymology and history: The origin of the name is uncertain. The most commonly cited explanation links Zoltán to the Turkic title sultan (sultán), reflecting historical contact between Hungarians and Turkic-speaking peoples. The form Zoltán is attested in medieval Hungarian records and later became an established personal name in the region. Some scholars propose alternative or additional Turkic or Slavic roots, but a single definitive derivation is not established.

Usage and cultural significance: Zoltán has been one of the enduring Hungarian names, with notable popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries and continued use in contemporary times. The name is also found among the Hungarian diaspora in neighboring countries such as Romania, Slovakia, and Serbia, where Hungarian communities maintain the tradition of naming.

Notable people: The name is associated with several prominent figures in culture and sport, including Zoltán Kodály, the composer and ethnomusicologist; Zoltán Czibor and Zoltán Gera, professional footballers; Zoltán Dzsudzsák, a Hungarian footballer; and Zoltán Korda, a film director and producer. The name has appeared across various domains, contributing to its recognizability within Hungarian-speaking communities.