névutózó

Névutózó is a Hungarian term that translates roughly to "name follower" or "name repeater." It describes a cultural practice where a child is given a name that is either identical to or very similar to the name of a deceased relative. This is often done to honor the memory of the departed individual and to symbolically continue their lineage or spirit within the family.

The tradition of névtutózó is rooted in a desire to maintain a connection with ancestors and to ensure that their legacy is not forgotten. It is believed that by naming a child after a deceased family member, some of the deceased's positive qualities or even their soul might be passed on to the new generation. This practice can be particularly prevalent in families that have experienced a significant loss and wish to keep the memory of that person alive.

While the practice is primarily seen as a tribute, it can sometimes carry a degree of expectation for the child to embody certain characteristics of the person they are named after. However, the primary motivation is usually one of love, remembrance, and a continuation of family history. The specific customs and the prevalence of névtutózó can vary within different regions and families in Hungary.