Armenians - Name

Name

Historically, the name Armenian has come to internationally designate this group of people. It was first used by neighbouring countries of ancient Armenia. Traditionally, it was derived from Armenak or Aram (the great-grandson of Hayk's great-grandson, and another leader who is, according to Armenian tradition, the ancestor of all Armenians). Armenians call themselves Hye (Հայ, pronounced Háï; plural: Հայեր, Haïer). The word has traditionally been linked to the name of the legendary founder of the Armenian nation, Hayk, which is also a popular Armenian name. It is also further postulated that the name Hay comes from the name of an Armenian tribe, the Hayasa.