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Vietnamese Names

An adoptee writes about her name, Vietnamese naming traditions, plus listings of Vietnamese names for girls, boys, and Vietnamese family names.

Have you received your referral and wonder about your children's name? Or perhaps you are in the wonderfully delicate process of choosing a name for your child? Or just curious about Vietnamese names? This resource is for you.

Many adoptive parents wish to gift their child with a Vietnamese child a first or middle name, reflecting their Vietnamese heritage. Vietnamese names usually have a meaning that evokes an image or attribute, unlike many American names. These Vietnamese name pages will help you learn more about Vietnamese naming conventions and Vietnamese names.

Names are Important in Vietnam
The importance of Vietnamese names and their meanings. (Dana Sachs)

My Name That Makes Me, Me
Poem about the importance of all the parts of his name, by a young Vietnamese adoptee poet. (Paul Thuyen Sangree)

Vietnamese Boys Names
Many Vietnamese boys names, including English translations.

Vietnamese Girls Names
Many Vietnamese girls names, including English translations.

Vietnamese Family Names
Listing of some common Vietnamese family names.