Krishna

What does Krishna mean?

Krishna has the Sanskrit color meaning ‘dark’, ‘black’ or ‘dark blue’, alongside its identity as the Hindu deity. Wiktionary records the adjective in Sanskrit and the deity and given name in Hindi. These are distinct but connected aspects of the name: the color is a literal meaning, while the god supplies the devotional association. The shorter form Krishn and names such as Madhav and Mohan offer related naming connections through the same deity.

Source: Wiktionary, कृष्ण. How we use sources.

Spelling and pronunciation

कृष्ण is often read krish-na in two syllables; Krishn reflects a Hindi reading without the final vowel. The sh and n are made with the tongue curled back in Sanskrit pronunciation. Kishan is a related regional form, while Krish is a shortening rather than the complete name.

Also spelled Krishn.

Krishna in tradition and story

Krishna is identified as an avatar of Vishnu and is central to Vaishnava devotion. He speaks the Bhagavad Gita and is addressed by names including Madhav and Mohan, which also function as given names in their own right.