Do you ever feel like the power and splendor of natural phenomena call to you? For new parents who need a flash of inspiration, we’ve got the forecast on the most awe-inspiring names that mean thunder or lightning.
We’ve compiled all the data into a convenient list to help you channel your inner weatherperson. From tempests to squalls, these names that mean lightning will likely strike a primordial chord.
Give your baby girl or boy a commanding presence with one of our thunder names, and watch them conquer the world. Now let’s grab our raincoats and read on!
100 Electrifying Names That Mean Lightning or Thunder
Here are 100 striking names that mean lightning or thunder.
Adad
Adad is a cognate (having the same linguistic root) of Hadad. Besides “thunder,” Adad may also mean “victory.” To the ancient Assyrian and Babylonian civilizations, Adad was a weather god, specifically of storms and thunder. Depending on how you say it, Adad can sound pleasingly exotic or like you’re talking about random fathers!
- Origin: Akkadian, Semitic
- Meaning: Power, thunder
- Pronunciation: AD-ad, uh-DAD
- Popularity: Adad has about 1,852 worldwide bearers.
Adhira
Adhira is an Indian Sanskrit option with a more symbolic meaning. Names that mean lightning can sound sunny if they have an upbeat sound. Nicknames like Addy or Ira (EE-rah) are equally lively and help simplify Adhira for some English speakers. Snap up this unique storm-themed pick while it’s still relatively rare.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Impulsive, quick, like lightning
- Pronunciation: uh-DEE-rah
- Variations: Athira
- Namesakes: Adhira Swamy, the daughter of Indian actor and model Arvind Swamy.
- Popularity: Adhira is most common in India and Indonesia, with about 725 international bearers.
Aella
Aella is short but might garner some mispronunciation in the West. It’s not commonly used, so expect both compliments and questions. Captivate your curious friends and family with the Greek myth of Aella, one of Hippolyte’s Amazonian warriors. She fought and was ultimately defeated by Herakles (Hercules) in his pursuit to acquire Hippolyte’s girdle.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Whirlwind
- Pronunciation: A-eh-la, EYE-eh-lah
- Variations: Aela, Aëlla, Aëla
- Popularity: Aella is most popular in Russia and India but is extremely rare worldwide, with about 112 bearers.
Aellopous
Aellopous was a harpy sister in Greek myths. It’s among the rarer epithets associated with storms and is more common in its Latinized form, Aellopus, or the variant form, Aellopos. Due to its length and complex appearance, it has potential as a sophisticated-sounding middle name for girls. Maybe your young Aellopous will be as quick on her feet as her name implies.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Whirlwood-footed, swift as a whirlwind
- Pronunciation: A-eh-LOH-pohs
- Variations: Aellopos, Aellopus
- Popularity: Aellopous does not appear on popularity charts.
Alizeh
As an alternate spelling of the French feminine name Alizée, from alizé (trade winds), Alizeh is more bluster than sonic power. In Persian Farsi, Alizeh is a variant of the male moniker Alyas(a), ultimately derived from Elisha. Strong winds often accompany storms, so Alizeh is a perfect companion for other names that mean thunder and lightning.
- Origin: French, Persian, Hebrew
- Meaning: Trade wind, my God is salvation
- Pronunciation: a-LEE-zeh, a-LEE-zay
- Namesakes: Alizeh Davis Jarrahy, daughter of American actress and producer Virginia Elizabeth “Geena” Davis.
- Popularity: Alizeh is rare worldwide but most prevalent in Pakistan.
Amihan
Amihan brings snow, wind, and rain to this stormy forecast. It’s ideal for babies born in the rainy season or in winter. The obvious choice for a nickname is Ami, pronounced a-MEE or AY-mee, depending on your preference. The other option is Miha (MEE-ha) which sounds like the Spanish “mi hija,” meaning “my daughter.” Pretty clever, right?
- Origin: Filipino, Tagalog
- Meaning: North wind/monsoon, winter storm
- Pronunciation: a-MEE-han
- Popularity: Amihan is most prevalent in the Philippines, with about 1,195 bearers globally.
Ancalagon
Ancalagon is a fire dragon in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion. This intense epithet is Sindarin (a fictional Elven language) and means “biting storm.” There are unlikely as many commanding and unique as Ancalagon among names that mean storm. Those unfamiliar with Ancalagon the Black might not get the reference and could bite their tongues trying to say it.
- Origin: Sindarin
- Meaning: Biting storm, rushing jaws
- Pronunciation: ang-KA-luh-gon
- Variations: Ankalagon
- Popularity: Ancalagon is very rare, with one known bearer in Canada.
Anil
Anil comes from the Hindu Sanskrit word “anila” (air/wind). The Hindu wind god Vayu is called Anil or Anila when counted among the Vasus (deities of the elements). Regarding Anil’s popularity, its reach has extended beyond its home country. It last ranked in England and Wales at 947th in 2001 and 96th in Turkey in 2012.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Wind, air
- Pronunciation: A-nihl, uh-NEEL
- Variations: Anila
- Namesakes: Anil Kapoor, an Indian actor and film and TV producer. Anil Roberts, a Trinidadian politician. Anil Thadani, an Indian film distributor.
- Popularity: Anil is highly popular worldwide and most prevalent in India.
Animikii
Animikii is the thunderbird of Ojibwe and Shawnee mythology. In this myth, thunder is created by beating the thunderbird’s enormous wings. Its rarity and intriguing look make this one a head-turner, so why not make some noise for Animikii?
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Thunderer
- Pronunciation: ah-nih-mih-key
- Variations: Animkii
- Popularity: Animikii has one known bearer in the U.S.
Arashi
Arashi is much more popular as a family name in its homeland, Japan. Although it means “storm” or “strong gale,” it can also refer to “mountain air” or a “clear gentle breeze.” Additionally, in Japanese, the “R” in Arashi is tapped with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth. This isn’t a necessity, but it does add authenticity.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Storm, tempest, strong wind
- Pronunciation: A-ra-shee
- Namesakes: Arashi Fujihara, a Japanese kickboxer and Muay Thai fighter.
- Popularity: With about 1,983 international bearers, Arashi is the most popular in India and Japan.
Aratiri
Aratiri comes from the Guarani language of Paraguay. Both “R”s are tapped, but it’s unnecessary for those in the West. This flashy pick is already unique enough to get attention. Lightning names like Aratiri embody a deep reverence for nature found in many Native American cultures.
- Origin: South American
- Meaning: Bolt of lightning
- Pronunciation: ARA-TEE-ree
- Popularity: Aratiri is extremely rare worldwide, with about 12 known bearers.
Asterope
In Greek mythology, Asterope was a Hesperid — a nymph of the evening. Asterope is a combination of the Greek “aster” (star) and “ops” (eye/ face). Its idiomatic meaning is “lightning” due to a possible connection to the Greek “sterope” (flash of lightning). Although Asterope is more prevalent as a surname, it’s still an elegant epithet for your little nature maiden.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Starry-faced, lightning
- Pronunciation: a-STEH-roh-pee, uh-STEH-ruh-pee
- Variations: Sterope
- Popularity: Asterope has one known bearer in South Africa.
Astrape
Astrape is a name that comes from Greek mythology. Astrape and her twin sister Bronte were attendants and shieldbearers of the god Zeus who would carry his thunderbolts. The sisters represented lightning and thunder, respectively. If you have girls, this name pairing is stunning. Just remember that the “E” in Astrape isn’t silent!
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: a-STRA-pay, uh-STRA-pay
- Popularity: Astrape does not show up on popularity charts.
Audra
Audra can be found beyond the United States in territories like Canada and Lithuania. In English, Audra is a variant of Audrey which ultimately stems from the Old English elements “æðele,” meaning “noble,” and “þryþ,” meaning “strength.” However, in Lithuanian, Audra (OW-druh) means “storm.” Audra has a classy old-school vibe but keeps it fresh as the air after a thunderstorm.
- Origin: Lithuanian, English
- Meaning: Storm, noble strength
- Pronunciation: OW-druh, AH-druh, AW-druh
- Namesakes: Audra Mari, an American model, TV host, and beauty pageant titleholder. Audra Dagelytė, a Lithuanian sprinter and politician. Audra Thomas, née Cunningham, a Northern Irish TV presenter.
- Popularity: Audra last ranked on U.S. charts in 2001 at 984th.
Barachiel
Barachiel is the Greek form of the Hebrew Baraḵʾēl meaning “lightning of God,” derived from the root “bārāq.” However, it can also be interpreted using the Arabic “barak,” which means “blessings.” If you’ve been blessed with a gift from the heavens, Barachiel could be the right choice for your ethereal angel.
- Origin: Hebrew, Greek
- Meaning: Lightning of God, blessings of God
- Pronunciation: buh-RA-kee-el
- Variations: Bārkiēl, Barakhiel, Barakiel, Baraqiel
- Popularity: Barachiel has about 19 global bearers.
Barak
In Hebrew, Barak, written as “bārāq,” means “lightning.” Taken from this celestial root, it means “blessings” in Arabic. In the Bible, Barak was a God-appointed Israelite leader and military commander. Let your little one take charge with a supercharged name like Barak.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Lighting, blessings
- Pronunciation: buh-REKH, buh-RAK
- Variations: Barack
- Namesakes: Barak Norman, an English string instrument maker. Barak Eilam, an American-Israeli business executive. Barak Lufan, an Israeli kayaker, canoe coach, and Paralympic trainer.
- Popularity: Barak is most prevalent in India and Kuwait.
Baran
Baran is a diverse weather name with origins in several cultures. In Slavic languages, it means “sheep” or “ram.” Meanwhile, Baran means “rain” in Islamic territories. Although in Turkish and Kurdish, it’s usually masculine, it’s feminine in Persian. Baran symbolizes the mercy of God, as rain is uncommon in Iran (historically Persia) and Afghanistan.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Rain
- Pronunciation: buh-RAAN, buh-RUN
- Namesakes: Baran bo Odara, a German film director, screenwriter, and co-creator of Dark and 1899. Baran Kosari, an Iranian actress. Baran Mogultay, a German professional footballer.
- Popularity: Baran is most popular in Turkey, where it ranked 70th in 2021.
Bijuli
Bijuli sounds like a soft and chewy snack, but it’s one of the few names that means electric. Bijuli isn’t well-known in the West, but it’s fairly popular in its region of origin. In fact, there’s a town in Nepal called Bijuli. For English speakers wanting to give this option some familiarity, try the nickname Juli (JOO-lee).
- Origin: Nepali
- Meaning: Electricity, lightning
- Pronunciation: BEE-joo-lee
- Popularity: Bijuli is most common in Nepal and India, with about 24,043 bearers worldwide.
Bolt
Punchy and powerful Bolt has the most kinetic energy on our list of names that mean lightning. It comes from the English word “thunderbolt.” Bolt also derives from the Anglo-Saxon surname Bolton, meaning “from the manor farm,” and the Middle English “bolt/bote” (crossbow/arrow/cloth/lightning). Bolt comes courtesy of the heroic dog in the identically-titled 2008 animated movie.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the manor, lightning flash, thunderbolt
- Pronunciation: BOHLT
- Namesakes: Usain Bolt, a Jamaican record-holding sprinter.
- Popularity: Bolt has about 318 bearers internationally.
Bora
With four letters, Bora is deceptively simple but actually has several origins. In Turkish, Bora means “hurricane,” “squall,” or “strong winds,” and in Albanian, it means “ snow.” Both etymologies ultimately stem from the Greek god of the north wind and winter storms, Boreas. Meanwhile, in indigenous Korean, Bora means “ purple.” In a strange coincidence, Boreas was described as having purple wings.
- Origin: Turkish, Albanian
- Meaning: Squall, hurricane, snow
- Pronunciation: BOH-RA, POH-RA
- Variations: Bo-ra
- Namesakes: Bora Laskin, a Canadian jurist. Bora Aksu, a Turkish fashion designer based in London. Bora Dağtekin, a German screenwriter and film director.
- Popularity: Bora is common in Turkey, Cambodia, and Korea.
Brekhna
Brekhna is eye-catchingly rare, especially in the West, and is of Eastern Iranian Pashto origin. Pashto is more widely spoken in Afghanistan than in Pakistan, where it’s used by only about 15% of the population. Despite this, Brekhna appears to be more popular in the latter country.
- Origin: Pashto
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: BREKH-nah
- Popularity: Brekhna is most popular in Pakistan and Afghanistan but is rare worldwide.
Bronte
Bronte comes from Greek mythology, where she was an attendant of Zeus, the sister of Astrape, and the goddess of thunder. From this origin, Bronte is pronounced “BRON-tay.” The “BRON-teh” pronunciation originated from the spelling Brontë which uses diaeresis (two dots). But if referring to Brontë as a respelling of Brunty, it is pronounced: “BRON-tee.” Bronte is a strong option.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: BRON-tay, BRON-teh, BRON-tee
- Variations: Brontë, Brønte
- Namesakes: Bronte Barratt, an Australian female competitive swimmer, and Olympic gold medallist. Bronte Law, an English professional female golfer. Bronte Woodard, an American writer known for the film Grease.
- Popularity: Bronte ranked for a final time in 2003 at 95th in Australia; in England and Wales, it was last seen in 2017 at 814th.
Capala
Capala is a Hindu name used primarily for boys in India. Capala is a moniker associated with movement. If you have a particularly active baby, whether in or out of the womb, Capala could be a good choice. Since there are no expectations for this exotic pick in the West, it’s fortunate that it’s considered gender-neutral.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Swift, lightning
- Pronunciation: ka-PA-la, kuu-PA-luh
- Popularity: Capala has about 410 bearers worldwide, mainly concentrated in India.
Chaqmoq
Chaqmoq is extremely rare and certainly looks the part! This electric epithet is the Uzbek word for “lightning” and comes from a root meaning “flint” or “firestone.” This gives it an association with igniting a spark. One of its variants might be for you if you prefer a more simplified look. Whichever you choose, you certainly won’t be sacrificing scarcity.
- Origin: Uzbek
- Meaning: Lightning, flame, spark
- Pronunciation: CHAK-MOK
- Variations: Chakmak, Chakmok
- Popularity: Chaqmoq is so rare that it doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Corentin
Corentin most likely stems from the Breton word “korventenn” and the Old French “coruentenn” (hurricane/storm/vortex). The pronunciation of this moniker includes two nasalizations, but this may sound strange to Anglophones. In English, Corentin might conjure similarities with the word quarantine. Beyond that, consider that Corentin and Coraline make a cute combo for a boy and girl sibling pair.
- Origin: French, Breton
- Meaning: Hurricane, tempest, friend
- Pronunciation: ko-REHN-teen
- Namesakes: Corentin Kervran, a French scientist. Corentin Rahier, a French male competitive ice dancer. Saint Corentin of Quimper, a 5th-century Breton (French) bishop.
- Popularity: Corentin placed 260th in France in 2021 but fell off the charts in Belgium after placing 191st in 2011.
Denji
Denji is Japanese and is related to electricity and transmission. It’s a rising star due to the main character of the manga and anime Chainsaw Man. Depending on the kanji reading, Denji can mean “lightning son/child of lightning” or “electric child.” If you have a baby with a magnetic personality or high energy levels, Denji is the ideal descriptor.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Electromagnetic
- Pronunciation: DEHN-jee
- Variations: Denjiro
- Namesakes: Denji Kuroshima, a Japanese author. Denjirō Ōkōchi, a Japanese film actor.
- Popularity: Denji is most popular in Japan, with about 3,631 worldwide bearers.
Dima
As a diminutive of the Russian Dmitriy from the Latinized Greek Dimitrius, Dima means “of Demeter.” In Arabic, Dima is used for girls and means “downpour.” This pretty little ditty is a refreshing take on lightning and thunder names. Because of its brevity, it works best as a forename and pairs well with longer titles.
- Origin: Arabic, Russian
- Meaning: Downpour, rain cloud, of Demeter
- Pronunciation: DEE-ma, DEE-muh
- Variations: Dimah, Dema
- Namesakes: Dima Hani Al Kasti, a Lebanese football player. Dima Kandalaft, a Syrian actress and singer. Dima Wannous, a Syrian writer and translator.
- Popularity: Dima is fairly popular worldwide and is common in Ethiopia and Syria.
Druk
From the mountainous Kingdom of Bhutan, Druk means “thunder dragon” — as if dragons weren’t awesome enough! The obsession with dragons runs deep, as Bhutan is known as “Druk Yul” (Land of the thunder dragon) in the country’s national language. Even their kings are styled “Druk Gyalpo” (Dragon king). Based on meaning alone, Druk is one of the cooler thunder names.
- Origin: Tibetan, Bhutanese
- Meaning: Thunder dragon
- Pronunciation: DROOK
Dustin
Dustin seems mundane compared to other thunder names on our list. Don’t be fooled, though. Derived from Turstin or Torstein, from the Old Norse Torsten, Dustin means “Thor’s stone” or “thunder stone.” It combines Thor, the hammer-wielding Norse god of thunder and lightning, and “steinn/sten” (stone). With this powerful etymology, Dustin is fit for the mightiest of sons.
- Origin: English, Old Norse
- Meaning: Thor’s stone, thunderstone
- Pronunciation: DUSS-tin
- Variations: Torsten, Tustin, Turstin
- Namesakes: Dustin Johnson, an American professional golfer. Dustin Clare, an Australian actor. Dustin Neil Diamond, an American actor and stand-up comedian.
- Popularity: Dustin ranked for the last time in 1996 at 92nd in Canada but continued ranking on U.S. charts, where it placed 632nd in 2022.
Dusty
Dusty is a diminutive of the Anglicized Dustin. Ultimately, this comes from the Old Norse Torsten, meaning “thunderstone,” from Thor (thunder) and “steinn/sten” (stone). It might seem far removed from its source, but Dusty still counts as a thunder name. Due to its highly modern feel, Dusty could potentially become more popular than Dustin.
- Origin: English, Old Norse
- Meaning: Thor’s stone, thunderstone
- Pronunciation: DUH-stee
- Namesakes: Dusty Rychart, an Australian-American professional basketball player. Dusty Jonas, an American high jumper. Dusty Bonner, a former American football (gridiron) player.
- Popularity: Dusty last ranked in the U.S. in 1997 at 819th and for the first time in England and Wales at 860th in 2021 for girls.
Ekaitz
Ekaitz is a highly localized option from Basque Country. This stormy choice has an upbeat feel due to its resemblance to the English word “kite.” Give your baby boy this zippy epithet and watch him dance through the sky. Or, for parents of a little girl, try the feminine version, Ekaitza.
- Origin: Basque
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: eh-KEYETS
- Variations: Ekaitza
- Namesakes: Ekaitz Goikoetxea, a Basque Bertsolaritza (improvised Basque verse) singer.
- Popularity: In 2020, Ekaitz placed 55th in Basque Country and was last seen in 2010 at 302nd in Spain.
Elektra
Elektra has the same root as the English word “electricity” — Greek “elektron” or “ilektor,” meaning “amber.” This implies shining incandescence. Not only does Elektra sound simply stunning, but it’s got a sense of strength to it. The Latinized variant Electra is much more popular, but that means your Elektra will be extra special.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Amber, shining, incandescent
- Pronunciation: eh-LEHK-trah, ee-LEHK-truh
- Variations: Electra, Ilektra
- Popularity: Elektra is rare, with about 587 bearers worldwide.
Esen
Esen is found in countries where Turkish or Russian is primarily spoken, leaving space for new Anglophone audiences. Historically, it has been mainly used for males but started seeing more use for girls after the ’80s. This epithet refers to a wind that blows at a specific time but also derives the meaning “healthy” or “well” from the Turkish word “esenlik.”
- Origin: Turkish, Mongolian
- Meaning: The wind, good health
- Pronunciation: EH-san, EH-sehn
- Namesakes: Esen, a 15th-century Oirat Taishi of the Northern Yuan dynasty. Esen Buqa I, a Khan of the Chagatai Khanate. Nilay Esen Ersun, a Turkish female long-distance and marathon runner.
- Popularity: Esen is most popular in Turkey and Kazakhstan.
Foudre
Foudre is an unusual but romantic-sounding French pick. Beyond the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it also shows up in Algeria and Rwanda, though it’s even more rare in these territories. If you’re looking for something adventurous but don’t want to stray too far into the unknown, Foudre might be for you. It might prompt some comparisons to “food,” though.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: FOO-druh
- Popularity: Foudre has about 2,282 global bearers concentrated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Fulgora
Fulgora is the Roman equivalent to Astrape, the Greek goddess, and personification of lighting. It comes from the Latin root “fulgur” (lightning) from “fulgeo” (to flash/shine). Nicknames for Fulgora are hard to come by, so it’s better suited to the middle name slot. Let your daughter shine her light for the world to see with this pleasantly mature option.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: FOOL-goh-ra
- Popularity: Fulgora does not appear on popularity charts.
Hadad
Hadad was an ancient western Semitic god of storms and rain from the Levant. Adopted by the Akkadians as Adad, he was often depicted holding a thunderbolt in one hand. In the Bible, one of Ishmael’s 12 sons and two Edomite kings were called Hadad. Since Hadad is highly descriptive, it’s perfect for a child with boisterous and unrestrained energy.
- Origin: Semitic, Syrian
- Meaning: Thunder, maker of noise, clamor
- Pronunciation: ha-DAD, hah-daad
- Variations: Adad
- Popularity: Hadad has about 1,283 international bearers.
Indra
Indra is Hindu Sanskrit and consists of the elements “indu” (a drop) and “ra” (possessing). In Hinduism, Indra is the king of the devas (divine beings). Perhaps because of this, Indra is viewed as primarily male, despite equal usage for girls worldwide. It was adopted cross-culturally in Latvia or may originate from Indriķis, the Latvian Heinrich, and is solely feminine.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Possessing drops of rain
- Pronunciation: IN-druh
- Namesakes: Indra Irani known as Indra Kumar, an Indian film director and producer. Indra Sahdan bin Daud, a Singaporean international football player.
- Popularity: Indra is most common in India, Nepal, and Indonesia.
Ino
Ino is a musical epithet with an appearance of sweetness but is actually quite intense. In Japan, it means “wild boar” and is most famously associated with the character Ino Yamanaka from the Naruto anime and manga. In Hawaii, Ino is masculine and means “storm.” And although Ino appears in Greek myths as a Theban princess, its meaning is uncertain.
- Origin: Hawaiian, Japanese, Greek
- Meaning: Storm, wild boar
- Pronunciation: EE-NOH, EYE-noh
- Popularity: Ino is fairly popular worldwide, with over 11,000 bearers.
Kallik
Kallik comes from the Inuit Inuktitut language. It’s common as a surname among the Inuit peoples of Greenland and Canada, though the variant Kalik is more popular as a forename. In the Erin Hunter Seekers novels, there is a polar bear called Kallik. This provided the literary background that helped to make this epithet more mainstream.
- Origin: Inuit
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: KA-leek, KA-lick
- Variations: Kalik
- Popularity: Kallik is extremely rare, with about 229 people worldwide.
Kaminari
Kaminari is Japanese, and though it’s sometimes used as a surname, it’s still extremely rare. Kaminari-sama is another name for the Japanese thunder deity Raijin. The character for “kaminari” (thunder) can be read as “rai,” and the character for “kami” (god) as “jin/shin.” Kaminari is also the family name of an electric-type superhero in the My Hero Academia anime.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: KAH-MEE-NAH-REE
- Popularity: Kaminari is mostly found in Japan but is extremely rare worldwide, with about 41 bearers.
Kapheira
Kapheira consists of the elements “eir” and “kaphos,” meaning “stormy breath.” In Greek mythology, this was an Oceanid nymph of Rhodes who nursed and protected the god Poseidon when he was a baby. She may also have been a minor deity of storm clouds. If the “K” spelling seems too harsh for you, try the Latinized Capheira.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Stormy breath
- Pronunciation: ka-FEE-ruh
- Variations: Capheira, Caphira
- Popularity: Kapheira doesn’t show up on popularity charts, so it might be extremely rare.
Kidlat
Kidlat originates with the Tagalog language of the Philippines. It’s more commonly used as a surname, but even then is quite rare. If you call your son Kidlat, you could use a vintage nickname like Kid. Admittedly though, that’s the only option.
- Origin: Filipino
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: keed-LAT, kid-LAT
- Namesakes: Eric de Guia, known as Kidlat Tahimik (Silent Lightning), a Filipino film director, writer, and actor. Kidlat de Guia, a Filipino artist, photographer, filmmaker, and son of Kidlat Tahimik.
- Popularity: Kidlat is limited to the Philippines, where less than ten bearers are recorded.
Kohara
Koraha is a Polynesian deity and the goddess of tuna. Since Kohara means “to throw a flash of lightning,” in Māori mythology, tuna was created by lightning. In Japanese, Kohara can mean “old,” “meadow,” or “field,” while in Hindu Sanskrit, it may mean “mist” or “fog.” Kohara is an epithet that evokes nature themes at every turn.
- Origin: Polynesian, Japanese
- Meaning: To throw a flash of lightning, meadow, old
- Pronunciation: koh-HAA-ruh, KOH-HA-RA
- Namesakes: Kazuno Kohara, an Japanese children’s book author, and illustrator. Haruka Kohara, a Japanese idol group singer.
- Popularity: Kohara is most common in India, Indonesia, and Japan but doesn’t make the charts in these territories.
Kutsa
Kutsa is of Indian Sanskrit and Georgian origin. It’s a fairly common surname in Ukraine but remains uncommon internationally. Kutsa is a Rishi in Hinduism who assisted the god Indra in a battle against the demon Śuṣṇa. The Hindu Vajra, a legendary ritual weapon symbolizing a diamond and a thunderbolt, was also originally called Kutsa (thunderbolt).
- Origin: Indian, Georgian, Ukrainian
- Meaning: Lightning, thunderbolt, short
- Pronunciation: KOOT-sah
- Popularity: Kutsa is most popular in Ukraine, with about 403 bearers worldwide.
Lei Gong
Lei Gong combines the elements “léi,” meaning “thunder,” and “gong” (lord, prince, duke). Lei Gong is the Chinese god of thunder, who also goes by Lei Shen, meaning “thunder god.” For some in the West, a two-part forename might be unusual, so consider writing it as one word or hyphenating it. Either way, Lei Gong is ideal for your little prince.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Lord of thunder, prince of thunder
- Pronunciation: LAY-GONG, LAY-KUUNG
- Variations: Léi Kung
- Popularity: Lei Gong is limited to China, where its use is still extremely rare.
Lightning
Lightning comes from the English word that describes a sudden discharge of electrical energy from clouds. It stems from the Old English “lightnen” (to make bright/give light). If you worry Lightning might be over-the-top, take a page from Pixar’s Cars franchise. The protagonist Lightning McQueen is a talking racecar, but he makes this moniker sound smooth and chic.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Lightning, a flash of lightning
- Pronunciation: LEYET-ning
- Popularity: Lightning is rare internationally but is most prevalent in the U.S.
Llipya
Llipya doesn’t look like how it’s pronounced, so prepare to do a lot of explaining. This unique option comes from the Quechua language of the Inca Empire. Llipya provides an opportunity for a history lesson about Inca culture. And for those with Inca ancestry, Llipya can help your baby feel connected to their roots.
- Origin: Quechua
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: YIP-ya
- Popularity: Llipya does not appear on popularity charts.
Maloney
Maloney means “descendant of the devotee of the church” when taken from the Irish surname Ó Maoldhomhnaigh. However, Maloney is also believed to be Romani for “lightning.” Even if this claim isn’t confirmed, it gets points for the association.
- Origin: Romani, Irish
- Meaning: Lightning, a devotee of the church
- Pronunciation: muh-LOH-nee, muh-LOHW-nee
- Variations: Malony, Molony, Moloney
- Namesakes: Michael Maloney, an English actor, and voice talent.
- Popularity: Maloney is fairly popular as a surname, but it has about 280 bearers worldwide as a forename.
Munja
Munja is the Serbo-Croatian word for “lightning,” but it’s also Indian Sanskrit for a type of grass used to make slippers. This highly unique epithet doesn’t get much use, so this could be your chance to snatch it up. Only, you’ll be stuck reminding people that the “J” sounds like a “Y!”
- Origin: Croatian
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: MOON-ya
- Namesakes: Munja, also known as Vakpati II, was an Indian ruler of the Malwa region.
- Popularity: Munja has about 4,424 global bearers.
Nariko
Nariko is a Japanese girl’s name that means “thunder child,” “hard-working child,” or “gentle child.” Though there are other kanji interpretations for Nariko, the “ko” ending is always “child.” A fictional namesake fitting with the thunder theme is the main protagonist of the Heavenly Sword video game. Nariko’s air of strength is well-balanced by its bell-like sound and beauty.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Thunder child
- Pronunciation: NA-REE-KOH
- Popularity: Nariko is most popular in Japan, though it doesn’t crack the top 1,000 names there.
Neil
Neil, the Anglicized form of the Irish name Niall, is a classic. It’s possibly derived from the Celtic “nītu” (fury/passion), the Old Irish “nia” (hero/champion), or the Old Irish “nél” (cloud). Neil remains fairly popular in the U.S. and placed 974th in England and Wales in 2019. But in Ireland, it fell off the charts after ranking 97th in 1999.
- Origin: Irish, English
- Meaning: Cloud, fury, champion
- Pronunciation: NEEL
- Variations: Neal, Niall
- Namesakes: Neil Armstrong, an American astronaut, engineer, and the first man on the moon. Neil Diamond, a best-selling American singer-songwriter. Neil Patrick Harris, an American actor, producer, and TV host.
- Popularity: Neil peaked on the U.S. charts in 1953 at 146th place and was 765th in 2022.
Notus
Notus is a Latinization of the Greek Notos, meaning “south wind.” Notus was one of the wind gods of the Greek pantheon, specifically of the south wind. This contender brings an atmosphere of refined elegance to names that mean storm. Take note of Notus.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: South wind
- Pronunciation: NOH-toos, NOH-tus
- Variations: Notos
- Popularity: There are less than ten known bearers of Notus worldwide, making it quite rare.
Pailan
Pailan is a common surname in India and the name of an Indian village. It’s unlikely that many in the West would have heard of it, far less have it on a birth certificate. If you like uncommon lightning names, put Pailan in your pocket.
- Origin: Armenian
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: peye-LAN
- Popularity: As a forename, Pailan has about 943 bearers globally.
Perun
Perun was the highest of the Slavic gods, with dominion over lightning, thunder, storms, rain, and oak trees. Perun stems from the Proto-Indo-European Perkwunos via the root “perkwu” (oak). However, this evolved into the Proto-Slavic “per-” (to strike/slay). So synonymous was Perun with lightning and thunder that this remains the word for these natural phenomena in many Slavic languages.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: PEH-run, peh-ROON
- Popularity: Perun has about 146 international bearers.
Phirun
Phirun is the Khmer form of the Hindu Varuna. In Hindu Vedic mythology, Varuna is a god of water, oceans and the creator and ruler of the sky. Although it evokes stormy weather, Phirun is gentler than others on our list. For those globetrotting parents unafraid to try something different, Phirun could be your connection to Cambodia.
- Origin: Cambodian
- Meaning: Rain, drizzle
- Pronunciation: pee-RON
- Variations: Varuna
- Popularity: Phirun is most popular in Cambodia and Thailand.
Raamiah
Raamiah may appear to have one “A” too many, but it only gives it a lovely, melodic tone. In the Bible, Raamiah was a man who returned to Jerusalem from exile with Zerubbabel. Not much else is known about him, but this allows your boy to forge a name for himself. Send him off with a cool and simple nickname like Ray.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Jehovah has thundered, an uproar of Jehovah
- Pronunciation: ray-uh-MEYE-uh
- Variations: Raamyah, Reelaiah
- Popularity: Raamiah has under ten bearers worldwide.
Ra’d
If you’re interested in Ra’d, you should go all the way and keep the original Arabic spelling and pronunciation. The “R” in Ra’d is slightly rolled, and the apostrophe indicates a slight throaty undulation or fricative (breath passing through a narrow opening). Ra’d gets its radical meaning from the 13th chapter of the Quran, which is called the Ar-Ra’d (the thunder).
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: RAD
- Variations: Rad
- Popularity: Ra’d is most common in Jordan and Saudi Arabia, but it’s still extremely rare there.
Radi
Radi is from the East African Swahili language. However, it’s also Arabic and means “content” or “satisfied.” If you aren’t satisfied with the lengthy names that mean lightning on our list, then Radi should win you over. It’s short, cute, and easy to say. Not to mention, you can’t spell “radical” without Radi.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: Thunder, lightning
- Pronunciation: RA-dee
- Namesakes: Husain Ar-Radi, an Iraqi politician, poet, and painter.
- Popularity: Radi doesn’t show up on U.S. popularity charts.
Rai
Rai is the Chinese reading of the kanji for thunder, making it the pinnacle of Japanese thunder names. The Japanese god of thunder is called Raijin, and his companion is Raijū (thunder animal/thunder beast). In Hindi, Rai means “king” from “raja” (king/prince/chief). It’s also used as a Spanish diminutive of Israel, meaning “contender with god/god contends.”
- Origin: Japanese, Indian
- Meaning: Thunder, trust, king
- Pronunciation: REYE
- Namesakes: Rai Purdy, a Canadian TV director, and producer. Rai Benjamin, an American professional hurdler and sprinter. Rai Thistlethwayte, an Australian multi-genre singer-songwriter, and musician.
- Popularity: Rai ranked 166th in Brazil for the final time in 2000 and hasn’t made the top 1,000 names in Japan.
Raiden
Raiden or Raiden-sama (Lord Raiden), is another title for Raijin, the Japanese god of thunder. Although Raiden is primarily a surname in Japan, it can also be used as a masculine forename. It has found a greater audience in Western Anglophone territories as a first name. In England and Wales, it ranked for the first time in 2017 at 996th.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Thunder and lightning
- Pronunciation: REYE-DEHN, RA-EE-DEHN
- Namesakes: Raiden Tameemon, born Seki Tarōkichi, an 18th-century Japanese sumo wrestler. Seok-hyun Han, stagename Raiden, a South Korean DJ and record producer.
- Popularity: Raiden ranked for the first time in the U.S. at 944th in 2007 and landed the 352nd spot in 2022.
Raijin
In Japanese mythology, Raijin (thunder god) is the deity that presides over thunder, lightning, and storms. The title stems from the On-reading, or On-yomi (Chinese reading) of the kanji for “rai,” meaning “thunder,” and “jin,” meaning “god/spirit.” This is a culturally significant epithet, so treat it with care just like you would with your baby.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Thunder spirit, thunder god
- Pronunciation: REYE-JIN
- Popularity: Raijin is extremely rare worldwide.
Rain
Rain is straightforward and to the point. It refers to condensed drops of moisture from the sky and comes from the Old English word “regn.” In Estonian, it’s an alternate form of Rein, a diminutive of Germanic names starting with “regin.” This version usually means something along the lines of “counsel” or “advice.”
- Origin: English, Estonian
- Meaning: Rainfall, advice, counsel
- Pronunciation: RAYN
- Variations: Raine, Rainn
- Namesakes: Rain Chudori-Soerjoatmodjo, an Indonesian author, curator, artist, and actress. Rain Tolk, an Estonian actor, screenwriter, and director. Rain Lee Choi-wah, a Hong Kong actress and singer.
- Popularity: Rain falls shy of the U.S. top 1,000 names.
Ramiel
Ramiel is one angelic and awe-inspiring option. But Ramiel is not to be confused with the apocryphal archangel Remiel. It’s a combination of the Hebrew elements “ra’am” (to thunder/cause thunder) and “El,” the Hebrew name for God. In the Japanese anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, Ramiel is the Fifth Angel.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God has thundered
- Pronunciation: RAY-mee-el
- Variations: Ra’amel, Rami’el
- Popularity: Ramiel is very rare, with about 1,141 bearers worldwide.
Ranto
Ranto is a combination of the Japanese kanji for “ran” (storm/tempest/gale) and “to” (person). The characters can also mean “orchid,” “constellation,” or “star,” respectively. Though numerous other meanings exist, you ultimately decide which suits your baby best. But for a little wild child, the stormy Ranto is ideal.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Storm, tempest
- Pronunciation: RAN-TOH
- Namesakes: Ranto Edi Gudel, an Indonesian comedian and father of singer Didi Kempot.
- Popularity: Ranto is more popular in Madagascar than in Japan.
Rhiainfellt
Some parents will dodge Rhiainfellt before giving it a fair shot. For those who stick around, this Welsh moniker doesn’t disappoint. It uses the Welsh elements “rhiain,” meaning “maiden,” and “mellt,” meaning “lightning.” Rhiainfellt’s first element originally meant “queen” from the Celtic element “r-gan-.” With a little practice, Rhiainfellt will be rolling off your tongue as easily as Jane.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Lightning maiden, lightning queen
- Pronunciation: REE-eyen-full
- Variations: Rhieinfellt, Rieinmelth, Rieinmelt
- Namesakes: Rhiainfellt, the British wife of Oswiu, a 6th-century king of Northumbria.
- Popularity: Rhiainfellt doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Saar
Saar is masculine in Hebrew and fairly common in Israel, meaning “storm.” The Dutch version is a short form of Sarah, hence, meaning “princess” or “lady.” This is a stark contrast that adds interest to this short epithet. If you want to be authentic to the original Hebrew spelling, go with Sa’ar.
- Origin: Hebrew, Dutch
- Meaning: Storm, princess, lady
- Pronunciation: SAR
- Variations: Sa’ar
- Namesakes: Saar Ganor, an Israeli archaeologist and university lecturer. Saar Klein, an Israeli-American film editor and director.
- Popularity: In 2022, Saar placed 7th in the Netherlands.
Saudamini
With its lyrical feel, Saudamini is the Hindu Sanskrit for “lightning.” Its length doesn’t keep it from being quite popular, especially in its home country. Contrary to its electrifying meaning, Saudamini is considered a feminine option full of gentleness. Add the melodic Saudamini to your top ten lightning names for girls.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: sow-DA-mih-nee
- Popularity: Saudamini is borne by about 44,426 people worldwide, predominantly in India.
Sea’iqa
Sea’iqa is a dynamic Arabic moniker used in Islamic communities. It’s associated with “lightning,” “thunder,” and “swiftness.” For a little girl who is always on the go, Sea’iqa fits the bill. But if you’re hoping to avoid the struggle of misspellings and mispronunciations, Sea-iqa also works well as a middle name.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Thunderbolt, lightning
- Pronunciation: SEE-ah-EE-kah
- Popularity: Sea’iqa is extremely rare worldwide.
Shango
Although Shango feels like a festive take on Rango or Django, it has its own distinct cultural background. Shango is of West African Yoruba origin and comes from the root “shan,” “meaning “to strike.” In the Yoruba religion, Shango is an Orisha (deity spirit), whereas, in Brazil, it’s an Umbandist weather and thunder god. Don’t be shy to pick the bold Shango.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: To strike
- Pronunciation: SHANG-go
- Variations: Chango, Ṣangó
- Namesakes: Shango, or Ṣàngó, a deified Yoruban royal of the Oyo Kingdom.
- Popularity: Shango is popular in Tanzania, with about 1,116 global bearers.
Şimşek
Şimşek is primarily a Turkish surname but can also be used as a first for boys. For official purposes, Western parents may be inclined to write Şimşek without the cedilla (hooked symbol under the S). This should change the pronunciation slightly, but that part is up to you. Whichever way you write it, Şimşek will undoubtedly be unique.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Lightning, flash
- Pronunciation: SHIM-SHEK
- Namesakes: Sibel Şimşek, a champion Turkish weightlifter. Emre Şimşek, a Turkish Olympic alpine skier.
- Popularity: There are about 381 bearers of Şimşek limited to Turkey.
Storm
Storm gets full marks for saying what it means. It stems from Old English or Old Dutch, but when referring to the Scandinavian version, it comes from the Old Norse “stormr.” In Denmark, Storm ranked 36th in 2021 for boys. Despite the popularity of the X-men superhero Storm, this epithet has yet to make U.S. charts for girls.
- Origin: English, Dutch
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: STAWM, STAWRM
- Variations: Storme, Stormr
- Namesakes: Storm Reid, an American actress known for her role in A Wrinkle in Time. Storm Uru, a New Zealand rower from the Ngāi Tahu tribe.
- Popularity: Storm peaked on U.S. charts for boys in 1995 at 841st before ranking for the final time at 961st in 1997. In England and Wales, it placed 625th in 2021 for girls.
Stormi
Stormi is a newly popularized variant of Stormy that began gaining traction in the 1990s. Kylie Jenner’s use of this cute designation for her daughter has propelled it into stardom. For every parent that prefers an obscure name, there is another that adores a celebrity trend. If the latter parent is you, Stormi skies are ahead!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Stormy, turbulent
- Pronunciation: STAWR-mee, STAW-mee
- Variations: Stormy
- Namesakes: Stormi Webster, the daughter of celebrities Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott (Jacques Webster). Stormi Henley, an American singer, actress, model, and beauty pageant titleholder.
- Popularity: Stormi appeared in the U.S. top 1,000 names in 2020 at 956th and placed 818th in 2022.
Stormur
Stormur is the modern Icelandic form of the Old Norse word and nickname Stormr. This spelling makes it easier for English speakers to say it right on the first try. Both spellings have about the same popularity, though, so you aren’t missing out on any trends by choosing this version.
- Origin: Icelandic
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: STAWR-mur
- Variations: Stormr
- Popularity: There is one known bearer of Stormur in Sweden.
Sturm
Sturm is more common as a surname in Germany. Its association with St. Sturm, from the Latinized Sturmius, gave rise to its use as a first. Sturm sounds like the English word “stern.” That similarity seems consistent with the perception of Germans as highly practical and stoic. A serious little man deserves a serious name like Sturm.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: SHTOORM
- Namesakes: St. Sturm, also known as Sturmius, an Austrian disciple of St. Boniface and the founder and first abbot of the monastery of Fulda.
- Popularity: Sturm has about 45 bearers worldwide.
Styrmir
The Icelandic Styrmir comes from the Old Norse “styrma,” meaning “to storm” or “to blow hard.” Most fans of this moniker hail from Germany, Iceland, and other Nordic countries like Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. As interest in Norse-inspired media increases, Westerners might lump Styrmir in with Mjölnir and Heimdall. Put some wind in your son’s sails with the stormbringer, Styrmir.
- Origin: Icelandic, Old Norse
- Meaning: Storm-bringer, to storm
- Pronunciation: STIHR(h)-mir(h)
- Namesakes: Styrmir Gunnarsson, an Icelandic lawyer, and author.
- Popularity: Styrmir is most prevalent in Iceland, and in 2014 it ranked 38th there but hasn’t placed since.
Taima
Taima originates from the Native American Meskwaki tribe and the Algonquian language as a diminutive of Tewameha. Chief Taimah, or Taima/Tama, of the Meskwaki Thunder Clan, was the most notable bearer. Taima is also a feminine Estonian name meaning “sapling” or “young tree.” We think it’s the right time for Taima.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Sudden peal of thunder, one that makes the rocks tremble
- Pronunciation: TAY-ma, TEYE-ma, teye-EE-ma
- Variations: Taimah, Taiomah, Tama
- Namesakes: Taimah, historically called Chief Tama, a 19th-century Native American Meskwaki leader.
- Popularity: Taima has about 2,855 international bearers.
Tal
In Hebrew, Tal is as uncomplicated as they come. These three letters sound the way they look. Though it’s most common in Syria and Israel, it managed to make U.S. charts in the ’60s. Because of its gentler take on storm-related names, Tal has the potential to bounce back in the West again.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Rain, dew
- Pronunciation: TAL
- Namesakes: Tal Aizik, known as Fly, an Israeli professional Dota 2 gamer. Tal Flicker, an Israeli judoka (judo practitioner). Tal Friedman, an Israeli actor, comedian, and musician.
- Popularity: Tal ranked once in the U.S. at 817th in 1963 and is quite popular worldwide.
Taranis
Taranis is an unusual and rare find. It comes from an ancient Celtic root, “toranos,” meaning “thunder,” and is a cognate (from the same linguistic root) with Thor. Taranis was the Gaulish god of thunder, depicted holding a thunderbolt in one hand and a wheel in the other. The variant Taran might match modern aesthetics better, but Taranis sounds cooler.
- Origin: Gaulish, Celtic
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: TA-ruh-nuss
- Variations: Toranos, Taranus, Taran
- Popularity: Taranis has about 1,728 bearers globally, with the majority located in India.
Taron
Taron is a modern Welsh version of the better-known Taran from the Celtic root “toranos.” This makes it a cognate of Thor and Taranis. Taron is also an Armenian epithet with no clear meaning. Taron is an equally powerful alternative to Thor that won’t garner too many questions or extra attention.
- Origin: Celtic, Welsh
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: TA-rn, TA-run
- Variations: Taran
- Namesakes: Taron Johnson, an American gridiron football player. Taron Egerton, an award-winning Welsh actor. Taron Lexton, a South African film director.
- Popularity: In 2021, Taron placed 871st in England and Wales.
Tempest
Tempest is English for a violent storm or squall, and along with the Italian Tempesta, it’s sometimes a surname. Weather-related vocabulary names are becoming increasingly common, not just Sunny, Rain, or Sky. Some prefer to leave Tempest as a curiosity — but don’t let old-school conventions hinder you. Your boy or girl can ride the winds of change with Tempest.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Storm, turbulent
- Pronunciation: TEHM-puhst
- Variations: Tempesta
- Namesakes: William Tempest, a British fashion designer. Kae Tempest, formerly Kate Tempest, an English spoken word performer, poet, novelist, and playwright.
- Popularity: Tempest is most common in the U.S. but doesn’t crack the top 1,000 names.
Thor
Thor is the obvious choice on any list of names that mean thunder, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad! This well-known Norse god appears in every piece of modern Norse-inspired media, even if mentioned in passing. He’s associated with thunder, lightning, storms, sacred trees, and more. Hammer home your love for nature with Thor.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: TAWR, THAWR
- Variations: Tor
- Namesakes: Björgólfur Thor Björgólfsson, known as Thor Bjorgolfsson and Bjöggi, an Icelandic businessman and entrepreneur. Thor Mendoza, a Venezuelan human rights advocate and film producer.
- Popularity: Thor peaked on U.S. charts in 1968 at 883rd but fell off after ranking 913th in 1971. It last ranked 99th in Norway in 1980.
Thora
So you really like Thor, but you’re having a girl? Don’t despair — Thora is here! This female form of the Old Norse Thor also means “thunder.” Perhaps because it’s slightly removed from the blinding fame of the beloved thunder god, Thora is more casually accepted. Plus, Thora sounds like it belongs to a girl with wisdom and strength beyond her years.
- Origin: Old Norse, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: THAWR-uh, TAW-ruh, TOO-rah
- Variations: Tora
- Namesakes: Thora Birch, an American actress and producer. Thora Bjorg Helga, an Icelandic actress known for starring in Metalhead.
- Popularity: Thora was popular in the U.S. throughout the early 20th-century but fell off the charts after ranking 950th in 1923.
Thoryn
As it also means “daring one,” Thoryn is a thunder name for the boldest and bravest. Thoryn is a contemporary-sounding derivative of the Norse Thor. Even J. R. R. Tolkien couldn’t resist its powerful, electromagnetic allure. In The Hobbit, he used a variant of Thoryn for the dwarvish leader, Thorin Oakenshield. Try Thoryn for your baby while it’s still uncommon.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Thunder, God of thunder
- Variations: Toryn, Thorin
- Popularity: Thoryn is very rare worldwide but mostly shows up in the U.S.
Thurgood
Thurgood is as vintage as it is rare. More common as a surname, it’s a contraction of the Puritan Thoroughgood from the Middle English, Thurgod. Ultimately, this stems from the Old Norse Thorgautr, which is the Norse god of thunder combined with Gautr, an ethnic name. Thurgood could also identify someone who was a “son of Thurgod.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: God of thunder, son of Thurgod
- Variations: Thurgod, Thorogood, Thoroughgood
- Namesakes: Thurgood Marshall, an American civil rights lawyer and jurist. Thurgood Marshall Jr., an American lawyer and son of Justice Thurgood Marshall.
- Popularity: Thurgood is most common in the U.S. but doesn’t crack the top 1,000 names.
Torm
Torm looks like a “storm” without the “S,” and it might as well be. Likely a diminutive of the Old Norse Tormod(r), it combines Tórr (thunder, the Norse god of thunder) and “modr,” meaning “mind/spirit.” This is where the meaning of “Thor’s wrath” comes from. To sound like a true Norseman when using Torm, remember to roll that “R.”
- Origin: Estonian
- Meaning: Storm, thunder, Thor’s wrath
- Pronunciation: TAWRM
- Popularity: Torm is mostly used in the U.S., but with about 60 worldwide bearers, it doesn’t make the charts there.
Tormenta
Tormenta might not take off with English speakers with its similarity to the word “torment.” But keep in mind that this is simply Spanish for “storm.” Since it’s a surname with transferred usage, it works as a gender-neutral option. Anglophones might want to relegate this one to middle name status or risk inviting criticism for your “eccentric tastes.”
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: tor-MEN-ta
- Namesakes: Liliana Maturano, stage name Tormenta, an Argentine singer-songwriter. Sergio Benítez, a Mexican Catholic priest who supported an orphanage as a lucha libre wrestler under the ring name Fray Tormenta.
- Popularity: Tormenta has about 32 worldwide bearers.
Tornado
This one is wild in more ways than one. Tornado might be an English term for describing a funnel-shaped vortex of strong winds, but it stems from the Spanish “tronada.” This means “thunderstorm” and traces its roots back to the Latin verb “tonare,” meaning “to thunder.” With its linguistic backstory revealed Tornado might not seem like such an intimidating epithet.
- Origin: Latin, Spanish
- Meaning: Whirlwind, thunderstorm
- Pronunciation: taw-NAY-doh, tawr-NAY-doh
- Namesakes: Tornado Alicia Black, an American tennis player.
- Popularity: Tornado is most prevalent in Indonesia, with about 592 international carriers.
Torolf
Torolf is quite rare, with barely over 600 bearers worldwide. It combines some of Mother Nature’s most impressive creations, using the Old Norse elements “tor” (thunder) and “ulf” (wolf). Hence, it can mean “Thor’s wolf” or “thunder wolf.” That’s awesome and all, but if you say it like the Scandinavian peoples do, it will sound 100 times cooler.
- Origin: Norwegian, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Thor’s wolf
- Pronunciation: TOO-ruulf
- Variations: Torulf, Torolf, Torolv
- Namesakes: Torolf Prytz, a Norwegian architect, goldsmith, and politician. Torolf Raa, a Norwegian diplomat. Torolf Eklund, a Finnish aircraft designer.
- Popularity: Torolf is most popular in Norway, Finland, and Sweden.
Tove
Tove is the contemporary form of the Old Norse nickname Tófa. Ultimately, these stem from Tórr (Thor), meaning “thunder,” and “fríðr,” meaning “beautiful,” but originally meaning “loved.” The West isn’t familiar with Tove, but that simply reinforces its mystique. Due to a superficial resemblance to the English word “dove,” this epithet from chilly Scandinavia feels soft and sweet.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Beautiful thunder
- Pronunciation: TOH-vuh, TOO-veh
- Variations: Tuva, Tova
- Namesakes: Tove of the Obotrites, a 10th-century Wendish princess and Viking Age queen consort. Tove Ditlevsen, a Danish poet and author. Tove Jansson, a Finnish author, artist, and comic strip author.
- Popularity: Tove ranked for the final time in Norway at 95th in 1980 and 95th in Sweden in 2012.
Trovoada
Trovoada is a very rare surname and first name. The two recorded instances of its use as a forename are limited to Brazil and France. Your baby could be the one to make this moniker a hit. Start trendsetting with Trovoada.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Thundering, thunder
- Pronunciation: TROH-vwah-dah
- Namesakes: Miguel Trovoada, São Tomé and Príncipe’s first prime minister and second President. Patrice Trovoada, São Tomé and Príncipe’s 15th prime minister.
- Popularity: Trovoada is extremely rare worldwide.
Tufani
Tufani isn’t some strange spelling of Tiffany. It’s the Swahili word for “storm.” This moniker may come from a Persian root, hence its popularity in Indian and Islamic territories. Because of its association with storms, Tufani represents determination, adaptability, and resilience.
- Origin: African, Swahili
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: tuf-AH-nee
- Namesakes: Tufani Saroj, an Indian politician.
- Popularity: Tufani is most prevalent in India and Iran.
Typhon
Typhon was a giant serpentine titan in Greek mythology associated with storms and later volcanoes. The etymology is uncertain, but it may derive from the Greek “tuphon” or “tuphos,” meaning “whirlwind.” Another suggestion is that Typhon could come from “typho,” meaning “smoke,” or from an Indo-European root, meaning “abyss.” It’s also worth mentioning that Typhon resembles the word “typhoon.”
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Whirlwind, abyss, smoke
- Pronunciation: TEYE-fn, TEYE-fon
- Variations: Typhaon, Typhoeus
- Popularity: Typhon is mostly used in the Democratic Republic of the Congo but is extremely rare worldwide.
Varsha
Varsha means “rain” in Hindu Sanskrit and is a forename and the word for the monsoon season on the Hindu calendar. As many Indians work in agriculture, monsoons greatly affect their lifestyle and are known for representing hope and celebration. Varsha tends to rank in India’s top 1,000 names, demonstrating the popularity of this simple but beautiful pick.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Rain
- Pronunciation: VUR-shah, VAR-shuh
- Namesakes: Varsha Usgaonkar, an Indian actress, model, and singer. Varsha Adalja, an Indian feminist novelist, playwright, and negotiator. Varsha Gautham, an Indian competitive sailor.
- Popularity: Varsha is most common in India, England, and the U.S.
Vetra
Vetra is more often a surname and even has a French version — Vétra. There are also various ways to say it, depending on where you’re from on the Central and Eastern European continent. With so few bearers worldwide, though, there’s no pressure for your little Vetra. Go where the wind blows and pick your preferred pronunciation with Vetra.
- Origin: Latvian, Lithuanian
- Meaning: Storm, tempest, gale
- Pronunciation: VEH-tra, VAT-rh, VEE-trah
- Variations: Vėtrė, Vētra, Vėtra
- Popularity: Vetra is quite rare, with about 415 bearers globally.
Vidyut
Vidyut is a primarily male Indian Sanskrit option for you to consider. In extremely rare cases, it’s used for girls. This is one of the more direct names meaning electric. It also has other closely related luminous meanings. If you have Indian roots and want to keep it traditional, Vidyut does the job stunningly.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Electric current, lightning, shining, dawn
- Pronunciation: veed-YOOT, VID-yoot
- Namesakes: Vidyut Jammwal, an Indian actor, martial artist, and a primarily Hindi film producer. Vidyut Sivaramakrishnan, an Indian cricketer.
- Popularity: Vidyut is most prevalent in India, with about 1,336 bearers internationally.
Yıldırım
Yıldırım is tough for Westerners since it’s a Turkish moniker written with a dotless “I.” This has no true English equivalent, so you might as well pronounce it like a regular “I” and call it a day. Though Yıldırım means “lightning,” its figurative meaning is “speedy” — perfect for babies, the stork might deliver sooner than expected.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: YIHL-duh-rim, YIHL-duh-rum
- Namesakes: Yıldırım Akbulut, a Turkish politician and former Prime Minister of Turkey. Yıldırım Aktuna, a Turkish psychiatrist, politician, and mayor.
- Popularity: Yıldırım is most popular in Turkey, ranking in the top 1,000 names.
Zephyr
Zephyr comes from Zephyrus, the Greek god of the west wind. Though Zephyr is gender-neutral, it’s mostly used for boys. This blustery baby name ranked for a final time in France at 499th for boys in 1919. Meanwhile, in England and Wales, it seems to have made a comeback, placing 815th in 2021.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: West wind
- Pronunciation: ZEH-fir
- Popularity: Zephyr doesn’t appear on U.S. charts, but in 2021 it ranked 815th in England and Wales for boys.
Zeus
Zeus is the mightiest of the thunder names, even without having it in its etymology. It stems from the Proto-Indo-European “dyews,” meaning “to shine,” “day,” or “sky/heaven.” It also originates in the Latin word “deus,” meaning “god.” Though Zeus has gained its own pronunciation in English, in Greek, it may be pronounced: “ZDEHWS.”
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Sky, shine
- Pronunciation: ZOOSS, ZYOOS
- Namesakes: Zeus B. Held, born Bernd Held, a German music producer and musician. Zeus Atayza Salazar, a Filipino historian, anthropologist, and history philosopher.
- Popularity: In 2010, Zeus ranked 492nd in Spain but hasn’t appeared on the charts since.
Zilan
Zilan is a feminine Kurdish and Chinese pick, occasionally used for boys in some Indian territories. It made the top 1,000 names for girls in Turkey for three consecutive years. Despite this increased presence, Zilan is still uncommon worldwide. If you enjoy the zippy sound of this one, try the nickname, Zee.
- Origin: Kurdish, Chinese
- Meaning: Storm, wind, catalpa blue
- Pronunciation: ZEE-lan
- Namesakes: Guan Zilan, also called Violet Kwan, a Chinese avant-garde painter.
- Popularity: Zilan ranked for a final time in Turkey at 92nd in 2007.
Zryan
Add Zryan to your windy wishlist. This Kurdish pick denotes an intense and resilient spirit. Because of the geographic spread of the Kurdish population, Zryan is also considered Turkish. Give this unique moniker a home in your heart when you bring home your little lightning strike.
- Origin: Kurdish
- Meaning: Storm
- Pronunciation: zree-AN
- Popularity: Zryan is mostly used in Pakistan and Iraq but is extremely rare worldwide.
