Réka: a female name of Turkish origin meaning "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”".It derives from the Turkish word "ARIKAN".
Réka is a feminine name that means "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”". Its Turkish origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Réka
Quick facts about Réka
Origin
Turkish
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”
Etymology & Details
Name Root
ARIKAN
How to Pronounce Réka
Réka is pronounced /ˈreɪkə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Rék-a
Say it like: "REEEHKOOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Réka is predominantly used in hungarian (magyar) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
hungarian (magyar)
Frequently Asked Questions About Réka
What does the name Réka mean?
Réka means "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”". The name comes from ARIKAN. This turkish name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Réka for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Réka's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Réka?
Réka is a turkish name. The name traces back to ARIKAN. The name remains closely tied to hungarian (magyar) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The turkish meaning "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Réka a boy or girl name?
Réka is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In turkish tradition, Réka has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Réka?
Réka is pronounced "/ˈreɪkə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Réka is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with turkish names, listening to a native speaker say Réka can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Réka?
Réka is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Réka offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Réka's popularity may vary between turkish communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Réka holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Réka commonly used?
Réka is used primarily in hungarian (magyar) naming traditions. Though turkish in origin, Réka found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This is an old Hungarian female given name from the 10th century and derives from the Turkic “Arikan”. Over time it changed into forms like Kreka or Rekam and eventually into Réka. Although it is challenging to find an affectionate form, there are some which are commonly used, such as Rékuci, Réki, and Rékus. Reka is the name of Attila’s wife, ruler of the Huns. Its Finnish cognate is Riikka. Reka is also the Slovenian word for “river.” Reka is also a Sanskrit name and a Maori name. In Maori, Reka means “sweet.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Réka into their naming traditions. A child named Réka will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Réka is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.