The name originates from Akkadian and Jewish mythology, essentially translating to “night monster” or “of the night.” However, do not let the literal translation scare you off. For many, Lilith represents the ultimate feminist icon, the first woman who demanded equality.
Verdict: Lilith is the perfect choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers a sophisticated alternative to the ultra-popular Lily or Layla, appealing to parents who want a name that is widely recognized but retains a rebellious, cool-girl edge.
Lilith Overview
- Meaning: The name Lilith means “night monster,” “storm monster,” or some variation of “female demon” when translated from the Akaddian word “lilitu.”
- Gender: Lilith is usually a girl’s name
- Origin: Lilith’s first well-known use was as the alternate first wife of Adam in Jewish folklore, but could also refer to storm goddesses, disease-bearing wind spirits, or a general female demon.
- Pronunciation: You pronounce the nameLilith as “LIL-lith”
- Popularity: The name Lilith has seen steady popularity across the US
- Nicknames: Lilly, Lily, Lil, Lia, Lithie, Lulu, Tilly
- Variations: Lilis, Lilit, Lilithe, Lilythe, Lillyth, Lilyth, Lylith, Lyllyth, Lylyth
- Namesakes: Lilith Sternin from Cheers
What Does Lilith Mean?
To understand Lilith, we must look into ancient Mesopotamia. The name is derived from the Akkadian word “lilitu,” which translates to “of the night.” While dictionaries often define it bluntly as “night monster,” “night demon,” or “storm goddess,” the historical context is far richer. In ancient Semitic languages, the root “L-Y-L” literally means “night,” imbuing the name with a nocturnal, mysterious beauty rather than just malice.
In modern times, the meaning has shifted from “female demon” to a symbol of autonomy. While some Mesopotamian texts link “lilith” to wind spirits that bring disease, contemporary naming culture views Lilith as a “night owl”, a spirit of wisdom and independence that refuses to be tamed.
Where Does the Name Lilith Come From?
The origin of Lilith is deeply entrenched in Jewish folklore and Midrashic texts, specifically the Alphabet of Sirach. Here, Lilith is depicted as the first wife of Adam, created from the same earth as him, rather than from his rib like Eve.
Because she was created as Adam’s equal, she refused to be subservient to him. According to the legend, she was banished from the Garden of Eden for her defiance and subsequently demonized in history (1). Today, this origin story is celebrated by many who view her not as a villain, but as the original feminist figure who chose exile over subjugation.
How Popular is the Name Lilith?
Lilith is a “Rising Star” in the world of baby names. For decades, it was virtually unheard of in American nurseries, considered too dark or taboo for mainstream use. However, the tide turned significantly in the early 2000s.
According to Social Security Administration data, the name has been on a steep upward trajectory. It broke into the top 1,000 in 2010 and has been climbing rapidly ever since. It is no longer a rare oddity; it is now a comfortable, stylish choice that sits well within the top 300 names. It appeals to parents who want the popularity of “L” names (like Liam, Lucas, and Luna) but want something with more grit and history (2).
Is Lilith a Boy or Girl Name?
Lilith is traditionally and overwhelmingly a girl’s name. In every iteration of history, from Sumerian demonology to Jewish folklore, the figure of Lilith is distinctly female. While modern naming trends are increasingly unisex, Lilith retains a strong feminine identity connected to the “Divine Feminine” and female power.
How Do I Pronounce Lilith?
The most common English pronunciation is LIL-ith.
- The first syllable rhymes with “hill.”
- The second syllable is a soft “ith” sound, like in “with.”
It is rarely mispronounced, making it an accessible choice for a unique name.
Best Middle Names for Lilith
Lilith is a strong, two-syllable name that pairs beautifully with a variety of styles. Here are curated lists to help you find the right “vibe.”
Soft & Floral
To balance the “night” meaning, these names add a touch of softness.
Classic & Timeless
These names ground Lilith, giving it a sophisticated, noble feel.
Moody & Romantic
Lean into the gothic charm with these melodic choices.
- Lilith Delilah
- Lilith Simone
- Lilith Bliss
- Lilith Blythe
- Lilith Maeve
Sibling Names for Lilith
If you have a Lilith, you likely appreciate names that are slightly offbeat, vintage, or literary.
For a Brother
You want a name that is strong but not aggressive. Biblical or “soft vintage” boy names work best here.
- Silas (Perfectly matches the soft-but-spooky vibe)
- Jasper
- Levi
- Arthur
- Gabriel
- Oliver
- Alexander
- Liam
- Jalon
- Adam (Though perhaps ironic given the history!)
For a Sister
Look for names that feel magical, old-world, or slightly witchy.
Variations of Lilith
If Lilith feels slightly too intense, or you want a unique spelling to honor heritage, consider these variations:
- Lilit: The Armenian and Hebrew version, which feels sleeker.
- Lilis: A softer ending variation.
- Lillith: The most common alternative spelling, utilizing the double ‘L’.
- Lylith: A modern twist replacing the ‘i’ with ‘y’.
- Lilyth: Emphasizes the connection to the flower name.
Nicknames for Lilith
One of the best parts of this name is its versatility. You can use a sweet nickname to hide the “darker” full name.
- Lily / Lilly: The most obvious and friendly option.
- Lil: Short, punchy, and retro.
- Lia: A lovely, standalone-sounding nickname.
- Lithie: A rare, affectionate diminutive.
- Lita: A spunky, vintage-style nickname.
- Thea: A creative stretch from the end of the name.
- Lulu: Playful and energetic.
- Tilly: A cute rhyming option.
Names Similar to Lilith
If you love the sound or the “dark feminine” aesthetic of Lilith but aren’t quite ready to commit to the history, try these alternatives.
Sound-Alikes (The “L” Trend):
- Lillian (The safer, classic cousin)
- Lila
- Lydia
- Layla
- Lorelei
- Laleeta
- Leta
- Letitia
- Lidia
- Lotte
- Lottie
Vibe-Alikes (Dark & Moody):
- Raven
- Maeve
- Lyric
- Lyrica
- Winter
- Zelda
Famous People Named Lilith
While not as common as “Sarah” or “Jessica,” there are notable figures who bear this powerful name.
- Lilith Nagar: A prominent Israeli singer known for her television appearances in the 1970s.
- Lilith Saintcrow: An American author known for urban fantasy novels, fitting the name’s vibe perfectly.
- Lilith Stangenberg: An award-winning German stage and film actress.
- Lilith Fair: While not a person, this famous 1990s music festival founded by Sarah McLachlan was named after the legend of Lilith to celebrate women in music.
Lilith in Pop Culture
Pop culture has done a lot of heavy lifting to rehabilitate Lilith from “monster” to “cool, powerful woman.”
- Dr. Lilith Sternin: The most famous pop-culture example; the dry-witted, fiercely intelligent psychiatrist on Cheers and Frasier.
- Lilith: The mother of demons and a major antagonist in the hit series Supernatural.
- Lilith / Madam Satan: A central, powerful character in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.
- Lilith: A primary antagonist in the video game Diablo IV, which significantly boosted the name’s visibility among gamers.
- Lilith Clay: A superheroine (Omen) in the DC Comics universe / Teen Titans.
- Lilith: A major character in The Owl House, portrayed as a powerful witch.
- Lilith: The vampire Goddess in HBO’s True Blood.
- Lilith Weatherwax: A character in Terry Pratchett’s Witches Abroad.
- Lilith: A character in the Lilith’s Brood science fiction series by Octavia E. Butler.
FAQs About the Name Lilith
Here are the most common questions we receive about this fascinating name.
What is Lilith In Astrology?
This question refers to the “Black Moon Lilith” or the dark moon. This is not a physical planet, but a geometric point in the moon’s orbit when it is furthest from Earth (apogee).
In a birth chart, your Lilith placement represents your repressed anger, your raw power, your sexuality, and where you refuse to compromise. It refers to your inner authority and how much you defy societal norms.
What Is the Biblical Meaning of Lilith?
The name Lilith appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Isaiah 34:14. The King James Version translates it as “screech owl,” while other translations use “night monster” or “night hag.”
In this context, it describes a desolate creature inhabiting ruins. The more detailed stories of Lilith as Adam’s wife come from later Jewish mysticism (the Zohar and Ben Sira) rather than the standard Bible.
Is It a Bad Idea to Name a Girl Lilith?
Not at all. While the name has “dark” associations with demons in ancient folklore, modern culture has largely reclaimed it. Today, it is associated with strength, equality, and independence.
However, you should be prepared for the occasional question from older generations. If you want a name with zero controversy, this might not be it. But if you want a name with character and grit, it is an excellent choice.
Is the Name Lilith Banned in Any Countries?
Generally, no. Lilith is not on the list of banned names in major English-speaking countries like the US, UK, or Canada. However, some countries with stricter naming laws (like Iceland or previously in France) often review names to ensure they don’t harm the child’s interest. Because of its “demonic” history, it might face scrutiny in highly religious regions, but it is legally widely accepted.
What is the Difference Between Lilith and Lillian?
While they sound similar and share the nickname “Lily,” they have totally different roots. Lilith is Akkadian/Hebrew for “of the night.” Lillian is derived from the Latin “lilium” (the lily flower) or a diminutive of Elizabeth. Lillian is the “safe,” classic choice, while Lilith is the “edgy,” modern alternative.
Does Lilith Have a Name Day?
Lilith does not have a traditional Christian Saint’s day because the figure of Lilith is generally antagonistic in Christian theology. However, in modern pagan or secular celebrations, some may choose to celebrate it around Halloween or the Winter Solstice, aligning with the “night” theme.
Is Lilith Considered a Goth Name?
Yes, Lilith is a staple in the “Goth” and “Dark Romantic” naming aesthetic. Alongside names like Raven, Bellatrix, and Morticia, Lilith is beloved by subcultures that appreciate the darker, more mysterious side of beauty. It fits perfectly for parents who love Tim Burton movies or Victorian horror literature.
Why is Lilith a Feminist Icon?
Lilith is considered a feminist icon because, in the folklore of the Alphabet of Ben Sira, she was the first woman to say “no.” She demanded to be treated as Adam’s equal because they were made from the same earth. When her request for equality was denied, she chose to leave paradise rather than submit. This narrative of choosing self-respect over comfort resonates deeply with modern feminism.
