Tarkan (name)

Tarkan is a Turkish masculine given name. It is also used as a surname. The name is of uncertain origin, but several theories exist.

One popular theory connects the name to ancient Turkic titles and military ranks, suggesting a meaning related to "chieftain" or "leader." The name may have been revived or popularized in more recent times through historical or literary figures.

Another, less common, etymology associates the name with a Turkic word meaning "brave" or "courageous."

The name gained significant international recognition due to Tarkan Tevetoğlu, a globally successful Turkish pop singer.