What does Arjun mean and where does it come from?
Arjun (अर्जुन) is a prominent and traditional name in India and Nepal, originating from the ancient Sanskrit language. The name means 'bright' or 'shining' and is most famously associated with Arjuna, the legendary hero of the Indian epic Mahabharata. His narrative exemplifies bravery, righteousness
Cultural significance
Arjun has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, shining.
Peak popularity
Reached #454 in 2014 — currently #490 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Arjun?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Arjun?
Arjun works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Arjun Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Arjun John
One syllable · timeless choice
Arjun Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Arjun Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Arjun Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Arjun Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Arjun right now?
Rising fast — up 90 spots — currently #490 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #490 | 615 | ▲ up 90 · +25% births |
| 2024 | #580 | 491 | ▲ up 22 · +4% births |
| 2023 | #602 | 470 | ▼ down 24 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #578 | 506 | ▲ up 10 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #588 | 475 | ▼ down 29 · -5% births |
| 2020 | #559 | 498 | ▼ down 55 · -13% births |
| 2015 | #504 | 575 | ▲ up 137 · +53% births |
| 2010 | #641 | 377 | ▲ up 70 · +31% births |
| 2005 | #711 | 287 | ▲ up 421 · +133% births |
| 2000 | #1132 | 123 | ▲ up 104 · +38% births |
| 1995 | #1236 | 89 | ▲ up 170 · +39% births |
| 1990 | #1406 | 64 | ▲ up 802 · +156% births |
| 1985 | #2208 | 25 | ▲ up 1160 · +92% births |
| 1980 | #3368 | 13 | ▲ up 799 · +86% births |
| 1970 | #4167 | 7 | — |
The story of Arjun
Arjun is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1967. With 9,617 total births recorded, Arjun remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4167 in 1970 to #602 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Arjun in 2014:
Arjun by decade
Arjun peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 12 | |
| 1970s | 35 | |
| 1980s | 245 | |
| 1990s | 908 | |
| 2000s | 2,433 | |
| 2010s ★ | 5,486 | |
| 2020s | 1,604 | |
💎With 9,617 total births, Arjun is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Arjun?
What names sound and feel like Arjun?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Arjun also consider these
How is Arjun written in other languages?
Nepali), ಅರ್ಜುನ್
Kannada), అర్జున్ (Telugu), அர்ஜுன் (Tamil), അർജുൻ (Malayalam), અર્જુન (Gujarati), অর্জুন (Bengali
Common questions about the name Arjun
What does the name Arjun mean?
Arjun means "Bright, shining" — a name rooted in India tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Arjun?
Arjun is currently ranked #602 as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Arjun?
Arjun originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Arjun?
Arjun is a two-syllable name pronounced AH-rjun. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What are good nicknames for Arjun?
Arjun naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.