So, you’re searching for the perfect animal-themed name for your baby. Congratulations on selecting a wolf motif! We get it— wolves are badass. These fierce hunters exude power and strength but are also capable of deep affection and loyalty.
It might be difficult to decide with so many wolfish options. We’ve handpicked this awesome list of names meaning wolf from around the world to help you tap into your untamed side.
Come with us to find the coolest baby names that mean wolf for the newest member of your pack.
100 Cool Names Meaning Wolf
Go wild with our collection of 100 names that mean wolf for your little howler.
Adalwolf
Adalwolf is an older form of Adolf that keeps the awesome meaning without carrying the same baggage. It’s a kingly moniker made up of the Germanic elements “aþalaz,” meaning “noble,” “aristocratic,” or “eminent,” and “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Adalwolf gets our list of names that mean wolf off to a sophisticated start.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Noble wolf
- Pronunciation: A-dal-wuulf
- Variations: Adolf, Adolphus
- Popularity: Adalwolf has one known bearer.
Adolf
Adolf comes from Adalwolf, composed of “athal” or “adal,” meaning “noble,” and “wolf” from “wulfaz.” Although, the first element might derive from “had(u),” meaning “battle” or “combat.” Adolf has a notorious association, but don’t let that steal your joy if you like this epithet. Adolf was once an extremely popular name, so there are many positive namesakes to aspire to.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Noble wolf
- Pronunciation: A-dolf
- Variations: Adolph, Adolpha, Adolphus
- Namesakes: Adolf Meyer, a Swiss psychiatrist operating in the U.S. Georg Adolf von Hensel, a German composer and expert pianist.
- Popularity: Adolf last ranked 951st in 1928 in the U.S. but held out until 1960 in the Czech Republic, where it placed 96th.
Adolphus
Adolphus is the Latinized form of the German Adolf. It has the air of a Roman Emperor, making it perfect for the newest royal addition. Some in the West might conjure up associations with dolphins, though. If you go with Adolphus, try out the unusual but equally sophisticated-sounding nickname Dolph. Then again, there’s that whole dolphin thing.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Noble wolf
- Pronunciation: a-DOL-fus
- Variations: Adolph, Adolpha, Adolf
- Namesakes: Adolphus “Doc” Cheatham, an American jazz trumpeter, singer, and bandleader. Adolphus Sweet, an American actor. Adolphus Green, an American businessman and founder.
- Popularity: Adolphus peaked on U.S. charts in 1905 at 525th and last ranked in 1955 at 907th.
Agwang
Agwang is of African origin and means “wolf” in Dholuo, the language of the Kenyan Luo ethnic group. In Uganda, it is a fairly common surname with over 17,000 bearers. Agwang may also mean “honorable.” Besides its exotic look and sound, this is one of the few girl names that mean wolf, making it extra unique in the West.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: OG-wan
- Popularity: Agwang doesn’t appear on U.S. popularity charts and is rare worldwide.
Aldwulf
Aldwulf is the Latinized variant of Ealdwulf — of which neither is popular in the U.S. Aldwulf stands out and suggests an atmosphere of wisdom and experience. Maybe you looked into your baby’s eyes and sensed an old soul. If so, Aldwulf is the perfect wolf-themed choice.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Old wolf
- Pronunciation: AALD-wuulf
- Variations: Ealdwulf
- Namesakes: Aldwulf, a medieval Bishop of Rochester in Great Britain.
- Popularity: Aldwulf is not on the popularity charts.
Amarok
Amarok is an Inuit option straight out of myth and legend. In Greenlandic Inuit lore, the Amaroq, or Amarok, is a giant wolf that devours anyone hunting alone at night. Other Arctic peoples use it to refer to the regular gray or Arctic wolf. If you’re searching for mythical boy names that mean wolf, Amarok can spark your wildest imaginings.
- Origin: Inuit
- Meaning: Giant wolf, gray or arctic wolf
- Pronunciation: AM-uh-rok, AMA-rok
- Variations: Amaroq
- Popularity: Amarok has about 14 known bearers worldwide.
Amwolf
Hardly anything is more majestic than combining the eagle and the wolf, and Amwolf does just that. It could also mean “laboring wolf” or “wolf of work,” from the elements “amal” meaning “work” or “labor,” and “wulf” or “ulf” meaning “wolf.” Although all versions of Amwolf are rare, the variant Amulf is more popular, with about four bearers in Germany.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Eagle wolf
- Pronunciation: AM-wuulf
- Variations: Amulf, Arnulf
- Popularity: Amwolf does not appear on popularity charts.
Ardwolf
Ardwolf’s meaning is uncertain, as “ard” is an obsolete Old English term with no modern equivalent. Some suggest “ard” could mean “home-loving” or “domesticated.” The modern “Aardwolf” is an Afrikaans word meaning “earth-wolf” and refers to an insect-eating hyena found in Africa. Make Ardwolf more approachable by shortening it to Ari, which can be rendered as “lion,” “eagle,” or “brave.”
- Origin: Dutch, Afrikaans, Old English
- Meaning: Earth wolf, home-loving wolf
- Pronunciation: AARD-vuulf, AARD-wuulf, AAD-wuulf
- Variations: Aardwolf
- Popularity: Ardwolf has about two known bearers worldwide, making it extremely rare.
Arnulf
Arnulf feels perfectly princely. It takes from both the majesty of the eagle and the prowess of the wolf by combining the elements “arn,” meaning “eagle,” and “ulf” or “olf” meaning “wolf.” Arnulf is highly uncommon, and some in the West might do a double take. Luckily, it has the benefit of looking and sounding similar to Arnold.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Eagle wolf
- Pronunciation: ar-NOOLF, AAR-nuulf, AAR-noolf
- Variations: Arnou, Arnoul, Anulv
- Namesakes: Arnulf von Arnim, a German classical pianist. Arnulf Rainer, an Austrian abstract painter. Prince Arnulf of Bavaria, a member of the Bavarian Royal House of Wittelsbach.
- Popularity: Arnulf is most prevalent in Germany and Norway
Athaulf
Athaulf was a 5th-century Visigoth king who succeeded the throne after King Alaric I. This epithet is a modern spelling of the Gothic Aþawulfs, derived from “aþals” meaning “nobility,” and “wulfs,” meaning “wolf.” In that case, Athaulf would be a cognate (words with the same linguistic origin) of Adolf. The first element could instead come from “atta,” meaning “father.”
- Origin: Gothic
- Meaning: Father wolf, noble wolf
- Pronunciation: AATH-oulf, UH-thulf
- Variations: Atawulf, Ataulf, Athavulf
- Namesakes: Athaulf, king of the Visigoths.
- Popularity: Athaulf doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Bardolph
Bardolph is a unique option that radiates strength. It comes from the Germanic Bartholf or Bardwulf, which combines the elements “bard,” meaning “ax,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” It may also be tied to the Old German Berhtolf. The first element, taken from “berhta,” would mean “bright.” Bardolph is certainly lively, regardless of the preferred etymology.
- Origin: Middle English, Old German
- Meaning: Ax wolf
- Pronunciation: BAAR-dolf, BAA-dulf
- Variations: Bardolf
- Popularity: Bardolph has about six known bearers globally.
Bardou
Bardou is a posh variant of Bardolph. It’s both a charming little village in France and a brand of wine — oh là, là! In Old English, it means “ax wolf.” But Bardou may also have roots in Old German Berhtolf, a compound of “berhta,” meaning “bright,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” Slap this fancy-pants wolf-inspired name on a birth certificate.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Ax wolf
- Pronunciation: BAR-doo
- Variations: Bardolph
- Namesakes: Denis Albert Bardou, a French optical instruments manufacturer.
- Popularity: Bardou has about 40 global bearers, with about 4,326 bearers of the surname.
Beowulf
Arm your son for any hardship with the epic Beowulf. This legendary character from the 9th-century epic poem of the same title was a slayer of monsters and dragons. Meaning “bee-wolf” or “bee-hunter,” Beowulf might have been a metaphor for a bear. Other sources claim Beowulf derives from “beadu,” meaning “battle” or “war,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.”
- Origin: Geatish, Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Bear, battle wolf
- Pronunciation: BAY-oh-wuulf
- Namesakes: Beowulf Boritt, an American set designer and the son of historian Gabor Boritt.
- Popularity: Beowulf is most prevalent in Germany, with about 63 worldwide bearers.
Bernulf
Bernulf comes from the Proto-Germanic “beran” or “bernu,” meaning “bear,” from Old High German “berô” and “bern(u).” The second element is taken from the Gothic “wulfs” meaning “wolf.” Bernulf was a moniker describing someone with the qualities of a bear and a wolf. If your baby is extra cuddly and big on family, then Bernulf is perfect.
- Origin: Old High German
- Meaning: Bear wolf
- Pronunciation: BURN-uulf
- Popularity: Bernulf is most popular in Germany and Austria.
Blaidd
Blaidd’s unusual spelling and pronunciation will surely be a conversation starter — especially in western English-speaking territories. Families with Welsh heritage might consider this badass-sounding option a way to honor their warrior spirit. In the Elden Ring video game, Blaidd is half man, half wolf NPC (non-player character).
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: BLEYE-dh
- Popularity: Blaidd has about three known bearers limited to Russia and Wales.
Bleddyn
Bleddyn isn’t just some made-up suburban name with a random “y” thrown into the mix. This unique pick combines the Welsh “Blaidd,” meaning “wolf,” and a diminutive suffix. With the word “bled” slipped in there, it might seem scary, but it’s really quite cute. Bleddyn means “wolf pup,” making it ideal for even the littlest of your litter.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Little wolf, wolf pup
- Pronunciation: BLEHDH-in
- Variations: Blevin, Blevins, Blethin, Blevyn
- Namesakes: Bleddyn Fardd, a Welsh court poet from Gwynedd. Bleddyn Taylor, a Welsh rugby union player. Bleddyn Williams, a Welsh rugby union centre.
- Popularity: Bleddyn doesn’t appear on U.S. charts but is most popular in Wales, with about 448 international bearers.
Bleiz
Bleiz is a fiery pick from Breton, meaning “wolf.” It’s closely related to the Welsh name Bleidd, which has the same meaning. In Brittonic mythology, wolves symbolize wisdom, power, and freedom. Let your baby’s wild side out with Bleiz before the trail runs cold.
- Origin: Breton
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: BLAY, BLAYZH, BLAYZ
- Popularity: Bleiz is rare worldwide, with about seven recorded bearers.
Bodolf
Bodolf is built for only the toughest Jarl in training. In the Marvel comics universe, Bodolf the Black was a Viking leader who killed a dragon and bathed in its blood to acquire strength. The dragon’s magic transformed him into a hulking man with physical strength that outmatched Thor. Conjure the strength and power of the wolf with the buff-sounding Bodolf.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Wolf leader
- Pronunciation: BOH-dolf
- Namesakes: Bodolf Hareide, a Norwegian Conservative Party politician.
- Popularity: Bodolf is most prevalent in Denmark but is extremely rare.
Boris
Boris is a relic in the U.S., but it’s still popular in the Netherlands, ranking 89th in 2022. It comes from one or several Turkic words, such as “böri” (wolf), “bars” (snow leopard), or “bogöri” (short). It’s also a diminutive of the Slavic Borislav, comprised of the elements “borti,” meaning “battle,” and “slava,” meaning “glory.” Boris is a sturdy option, for sure.
- Origin: Turkic, Slavic
- Meaning: Wolf, battle glory
- Pronunciation: BAWR-iss
- Variations: Borys
- Namesakes: Boris Johnson, a British politician and former mayor and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Boris Becker, a German tennis player. Boris Krajný, an award-winning Czech pianist.
- Popularity: Boris ranked 815th in England and Wales for 2021 and was last seen on U.S. charts at 894th in 1970.
Cathwulf
Cathwulf is one of the rare gender-neutral names meaning wolf. Since its use by the last notable namesake, a learned Anglo-Saxon man, it has fallen into obscurity. It’s composed of the Old English words “cath,” meaning “battle” or “war,” from the Proto-Germanic “khattuz” and “wulf.” Cathwulf might also mean “pure as a wolf.”
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Battle wolf, warrior wolf
- Pronunciation: KATH-wuulf
- Namesakes: Cathwulf, an Anglo-Saxon learned man active in Francia.
- Popularity: Cathwulf doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Cenwulf
Cenwulf is composed of the elements “cen” meaning “bold” or “keen,” and “wulf” meaning “wolf.” Once used by a few notable individuals in the Middle Ages, Cenwulf has strong historical and linguistic significance. Nowadays, it has become a forgotten relic and might seem unusual. Fortunately, Cenwulf sounds great as a middle name.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Bold wolf
- Pronunciation: SEN-wuulf
- Variations: Coenwulf, Kenulf, Kenwulph
- Namesakes: Coenwulf, or Cenwulf, a king of Mercia. Cenwulf, a medieval bishop and abbot.
- Popularity: Cenwulf is not on any popularity charts.
Channing
Channing fell off U.S. charts for girls in the 80s, just when it picked up steam for boys. It might stem from the Old English “caningas,” meaning “royal/kingly race” or “lineage of kings.” Another possible origin is the Old English “canning.” This was an Anglicisation of the Irish surname Ó Canain, from the Gaelic nickname “cana,” meaning “wolf pup.”
- Origin: Irish, Old English
- Meaning: Wolf pup, young wolf
- Pronunciation: CHAN-ing
- Namesakes: Channing Tatum, an American actor. Channing Frye, an American professional basketball player. Richard Channing Gibson, an American TV producer, and writer.
- Popularity: Channing peaked in the U.S. at 514th in 2012 and last ranked 917th in 2017.
Conall
In England and Wales, Conall ranked for the final time in 2002 at 993rd. Having Irish roots, it makes sense that it would see a revival in Ireland. This unassuming moniker comes from the Old Irish elements “cú,” meaning “(wolf) hound,” or “(wolf) dog,” and “fal,” meaning “rule,” “great,” or “mighty.” Hence, it can also mean “rule of a wolf.”
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Mighty wolf, strong wolf
- Pronunciation: KON-ul, KUN-all
- Variations: Connall, Conal, Connell
- Namesakes: Conall Cremthainne, an Irish king. St. Conall, or Conal, a 5th-century Irish bishop. Conall Gulban, a 5th-century Irish king and founder of the kingdom of Tír Chonaill.
- Popularity: Conall fell off the charts in Ireland after 2006 but resurfaced in 2021 at 99th.
Conan
Conan combines the Irish element “cú” meaning “(wolf) hound,” with a diminutive suffix — ultimately stemming from the almost identical Celtic Conán. Despite going out of fashion in England and Wales after ranking 996th in 2015, Conan has potential as a modern wolf name. Tap into your love of sword and sorcery with this nod to the fictional hero Conan the Barbarian.
- Origin: Irish, Celtic
- Meaning: Little wolf, little hound
- Pronunciation: KOH-nun, KOH-naan
- Variations: Conán
- Namesakes: Conan O’Brien, an American TV host and comedian. St. Conan, an Irish missionary and Bishop of the Isle of Man. Conan Gray, an American singer-songwriter and Youtuber.
- Popularity: Conan is popular in Northern Ireland, where it ranked 36th in 2021.
Cuán
Cuán is not to be confused with the Spanish unaccented “cuan” or “cuán,” meaning “how.” This is ultimately a diminutive of the Celtic Conán, which became Conan in Irish. For a male name associated with wolves, Cuán is quite cute.
- Origin: Irish, Celtic
- Meaning: Little wolf, little hound
- Pronunciation: KOH-an, KOH-n, KOH-un
- Variations: Cúan, Cúán
- Namesakes: Cúán úa Lothcháin, an Irish poet. St. Cúan, an Irish abbot and the founder of many Irish churches and monasteries.
- Popularity: Cuán and Cúán are limited to Ireland and are extremely rare.
Cynewulf
Poets, bishops, and kings alike have touted the impressive-looking Cynewulf. With such an aristocratic meaning, it’s clear to see why. Perhaps you love Old English names or enjoy the Shakespearean pronunciation? Cynewulf will transport you to the days of yore when wolves truly did rule the woods.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Royal wolf, kingly wolf
- Pronunciation: KIN-ih-wuulf, KIN-ee-wuulf
- Variations: Cynwulf, Cyniwulf, Kynewulf
- Namesakes: Cynewulf, an 8th-century Anglo-Saxon poet. Cynewulf of Lindisfarne, a bishop of Lindisfarne (Holy Island). Cynewulf, a king of Wessex.
- Popularity: Cynewulf is very rare as it doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Diab
Diab stems from the Arabic word “ḍi’b” or “ḏiʾb” meaning “wolf.” Likely originally a nickname, it eventually became a surname and given name. With over 30,000 bearers worldwide, Diab and its variants are fairly popular, though mostly in Arabic and Islamic countries. There’s definitely potential for this exotic option to flourish in the West as well.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Wolf, free and brave like a wolf
- Pronunciation: DEYE-ab
- Variations: Diyab, Dhiyab
- Namesakes: Amr Diab, an Egyptian singer, composer, and actor. Lena Diab, a Canadian politician.
- Popularity: Diab is the most popular in Syria.
Direwolf
As far as given names go, Direwolf is a new kid on the block. It comes from an extinct prehistoric canine that once lived in the Americas and East Asia. The term “dire wolf” combines the Latin word “dirus,” meaning “terrible,” “fearful,” or “dreadful,” with “wolf” from the Old English “wulf.” Channel your Game of Thrones energy with the daring Direwolf.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Terrible wolf, fearful wolf
- Pronunciation: DEYER-wuulf, DEYE-uh-wuulf
- Popularity: Direwolf is quite rare worldwide, with about one known bearer.
Eadwulf
Eadwulf is similar to epithets like Edward and Edgard, minus the modernization of the first element. It combines the Old English words “ead,” meaning “wealth” or “fortune,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” Unlike its more popular cousins, Eadwulf has long fallen out of use. It might be time for a renaissance.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Wealthy wolf
- Pronunciation: ED-wuulf
- Variations: Eadulf
- Namesakes: Eadwulf, a Northumbrian king. Eadwulf, a medieval bishop of Elmham. Eadwulf, a 10th-century ruler of Bamburgh.
- Popularity: Eadwulf doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Esau
Esau might not initially seem like a wolf-themed name, but this biblical moniker has promise. Not only does it mean “hairy,” a quality common in all wolves, but Esau was noted to be a great hunter. The book of Genesis states, “E’sau became a skilled hunter, a man of the field…” Though slightly old-fashioned, Esau remains a strong option.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Hairy
- Pronunciation: EE-saw
- Namesakes: Esau de’ Buondelmonti, the ruler of Ioannina and its environs. Esau McGraw, an American professional improv artist and a member of The Phat Comedy Players.
- Popularity: Esau ranked once on U.S. charts at 964th in 1902.
Ethelwulf
Ethelwulf is composed of the Old English element “aþalaz” meaning “noble,” “aristocratic,” “excellent,” or “eminent,” and “wulf” from the Proto-Germanic “wulfaz.” Due to the “ethel” portion, this epithet could be mistaken for a feminine option. Some names are just so old that modern parents can feel free to use them however they like.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Noble wolf
- Pronunciation: A-dhel-wuulf, EH-thel-wuulf
- Variations: Æthelwulf
- Namesakes: Æthelwulf, or Ethelwulf, a king of Wessex.
- Popularity: Ethelwulf is very rare as it doesn’t appear on any popularity charts.
Faolan
Faolan is properly spelled with a fada (acute accent) in Gaelic. It derives from the Old Irish word “fáel” meaning “wolf,” paired with a diminutive suffix. Faolan also has mythological connections. The Irish Faoladh is a kind of werewolf, but unlike other European depictions, it is a force of good. These shapeshifters were seen as guardians rather than savage monsters.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little wolf
- Pronunciation: FAY-lawn, FOW-lan
- Variations: Faolán, Felan, Phelan
- Namesakes: Faolán Mac an Ghabhann na Scéal, an Irish writer and genealogist. St. Faolán, or Fillan, an 8th-century monk from Munster.
- Popularity: Faolan is most prevalent in Ireland but is still quite rare.
Farkas
Farkas is rare in English-speaking territories but is one of the most common surnames in Hungary, reaching the top ten. Though it’s less common as a given name, Farkas has a powerful sound. Wolves were once abundant in Hungary. They were feared and respected, and their presence in the wild was a sign of a healthy ecosystem.
- Origin: Hungarian
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: FAAR-kush, FAAR-kus, FAR-kas
- Variations: Farkaš
- Namesakes: Farkas Molnár, a Hungarian architect, painter, essayist, and artist. Farkas Gatal, a 12th-century Hungarian lord. Farkas Bejc, a 13th-century Hungarian prelate and bishop.
- Popularity: About 377 people are called Farkas worldwide.
Fenrir
Fenrir is a giant wolf of Norse mythology and one of Loki’s monstrous children. In Old and Middle English, “fen” means “marsh,” and though it doesn’t outright mean “wolf,” Fenrir gets a pass by association. With about 30 worldwide bearers, Fenrir is as rare as they come. The variant Fenris is slightly more popular by comparison.
- Origin: Norse, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Fen-dweller
- Pronunciation: FEN-reer
- Variations: Fenris
- Popularity: Fenrir is most popular in Russia, Germany, and Norway but is rare in the U.S.
Freki
In Norse myth, Freki is one of two wolves accompanying the god Odin. This moniker comes from the Old Norse “frekr,” meaning “avaricious” or “greedy.” Later, “frekr” became the Proto-Germanic adjective “frekaz” and passed into Old English as “frec,” meaning “desirous” or “gluttonous.” Freki perfectly represents the idea of the ever-hungry wolf in folklore and children’s stories.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Avaricious, greedy
- Pronunciation: FREH-kee
- Popularity: There are about 156 bearers of Freki globally.
Fridolf
Fridolf is rare worldwide but is most popular in Sweden, Germany, and Finland. It’s derived from the Old High German element “fridu,” meaning “peace,” paired with the Gothic “vulfs,” meaning “wolf.” This one is great for free-spirited peace warrior types. Fridolf even sounds like the word “free.”
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Wolf of peace, peaceful wolf
- Pronunciation: FREE-dolf
- Variations: Fridulf
- Namesakes: Fridolf Heck or Höök, a Finnish naval captain, whaler, free trader, and settler. Fridolf Lundsten, a Finnish wrestler. Fridolf Rhudin, a Swedish actor and comedian.
- Popularity: There are about 72 bearers of Fridolf internationally.
Garou
Garou comes from the Middle French “garou,” from Old French “garoul.” It was used as a prefix meaning “were,” as in “werecat.” In Japanese, Garou is pronounced, “GA-ROH.” The kanji can be read as “elegant tower” but is often read as “wolf,” “fanged wolf,” “hungry wolf,” or “fierce (like a wolf).” Garou is equal parts elegant and ferocious.
- Origin: French, Japanese
- Meaning: Werewolf, hungry wolf
- Pronunciation: GA-roo, GYA-roo, GA-ROH
- Namesakes: Pierre Garand, stage name Garou, a Canadian singer, actor, and entertainer.
- Popularity: Garou is most popular in French territories, with about 771 bearers worldwide.
Gerulf
Gerulf is composed of the Old German “ger” and “wulf,” from the Old High German elements “gaizaz” meaning “spear,” or “javelin,” and “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Other versions include the German Gerolf and the Old Swedish and Old Danish Gæirulfr or Geirúlfr. Gerulf seems remarkably similar to Geralt, so perhaps it’s just right for the birth of a new legend.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Spear of the wolf, spear wolf
- Pronunciation: GEE-roolf, GEH-ruulf, JEH-ruulf
- Variations: Gerolf, Gerwulf
- Namesakes: Gerulf the Elder, the first count of Frisia. Gerolf of Holland, also Gerulf, a count of Frisia.
- Popularity: Gerulf is most prevalent in Germany and Austria, with about 112 global bearers.
Gundulf
Gundulf comes from the Old High German “gund,” meaning “war” or “battle,” and the Gothic “vulfs,” meaning “wolf.” It’s most prevalent in Germany, where it originated. A great way to make Gundulf more approachable in English-speaking countries is to use the easy-to-say nickname, Gunner.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Battle wolf, war wolf
- Pronunciation: GUN-doolf, GUN-duulf
- Variations: Gundulph, Gundulfus, Gondulf
- Namesakes: Gundulf, or Gundulph, a Norman monk operating in England after the Norman Conquest.
- Popularity: Gundulf is extremely rare, with about five known bearers worldwide.
Hardulph
Hardulph is taken from the Gothic “hardus” and Old High German “hart,” meaning “hardy” or “brave,” and Gothic “vulfs,” meaning “wolf.” Though Hardulph and its variants aren’t on any charts, Hardolf has been recorded once as a surname in Sweden. All parents want their children to be brave, and Hardulph could push them in the right direction.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon, German
- Meaning: Brave wolf
- Pronunciation: HAA-doolf, HAAR-duulf
- Variations: Hardulf, Hardolf
- Popularity: Hardulph and its variants do not show up on popularity charts.
Hariwolfar
Hariwolfar is unusual but has an epic ring to it. It’s a combination of Proto-Norse words “hariaR,” meaning “warrior,” and “wulafar,” or “wulfaR,” meaning “wolf.” In Norse culture and myth, wolves were revered. They represented chaos and destruction but symbolized good omens, loyalty, and courage. Hariwolfar is a mouthful, so shorten it to Harry or Wolf as needed.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Warrior wolf
- Pronunciation: HAA-ree-wol-faa, HAA-ree-wuul-faar, HAA-ree-vol-faa
- Variations: Hariulfr, Hariwulfar, Hariwulafar
- Popularity: Hariwolfar is extremely rare worldwide and doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Hati
In Norse mythology, Hati is a wolf who chases the moon to devour it. He has a possible alternate name, Mánagarmr, meaning “moon hound” or “moon dog.” In Hindi, Hati means “golden,” but it’s also seen as a variation of the Arabic Hadi in the Quran. There it means “someone who guides people toward the Straight Path.”
- Origin: Old Norse, Indian
- Meaning: Despiser, hater, golden
- Pronunciation: HA-tee
- Variations: Hadi
- Popularity: Hati has just over 13,000 bearers worldwide.
Hrolleif
Hrolleif certainly stands out, yet it doesn’t get much play. It has been attested as “old wolf,” possibly being connected to Hrolf, meaning “wolf.” It’s more accurately connected to “hroll,” meaning “fame” or “glory,” and “leifr,” meaning “heir” or “descendant.” For the sake of authenticity, Hrolleif is pronounced with a rolled “r” similar to the Spanish “rr.”
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Old wolf, famous descendant
- Pronunciation: HROL-eyef, HROL-eye-if, HROL-eef
Ingolf
Ingolf comes from the Old Norse Ingólfr, which pairs the Germanic god Ing (Old Norse Yngvi) with “úlfr,” meaning “wolf.” As Ing comes from the Germanic Ingwaz, possibly meaning “ancestor,” Ingolf might mean “ancestor wolf.” If you’d like to pay homage to your baby’s ancestors, Ingolf is one way to acknowledge them.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Ing’s wolf, ancestor wolf
- Pronunciation: ING-golf, ING-gulf
- Variations: Ingólfr
- Namesakes: Count Ingolf of Rosenborg, a Danish count and former prince. Ingolf Wunder, an Austrian award-winning classical pianist. Ingolf Lück, a German actor, comedian, and TV host.
- Popularity: Ingolf is most popular in Germany and Denmark.
Isolfr
Isolfr is a frosty pick that combines the Old Norse “íss,” meaning “ice,” and “úlfr,” meaning “wolf.” Isolfr is the ideal nature name for a boy born in winter. And if he has a sister, it also pairs well with the feminine Isolde, meaning “ice ruler.”
- Origin: Old Norse, Icelandic
- Meaning: Ice wolf
- Pronunciation: EE-sol-vur, EE-sohl-fur
- Variations: Ísólfr, Ísólfur
- Popularity: Isolfr does not appear on popularity charts as it’s extremely rare.
Ivaylo
Ivaylo is of uncertain meaning but may be derived from the Old Bulgar name that spawned the Bulgarian name Vŭlo. Ultimately they come from the Proto-Germanic “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wherever it originates, Ivaylo just sounds so cool!
- Origin: Bulgarian
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: eev-EYE-loh
- Variations: Ivailo
- Namesakes: Ivaylo Petkov, a Bulgarian football player. Ivaylo, or Ivailo, a rebel leader and a tsar of Bulgaria. Ivaylo Kirov, a Bulgarian basketball player who competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Ivaylo is the most popular in Bulgaria.
Kenneally
Kenneally is the Anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic Ó Cionnfhaolaidh. It derives from “ceann,” meaning “head,” and Old Irish “fáel,” which became “faol,” meaning “wolf.” As a surname, Kenneally has almost 5,000 bearers, mostly found in Ireland and the U.S. Kenneally looks a bit complex, so it’s good that it can be shortened to the much simpler Ken.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Wolf head
- Pronunciation: kuu-NEE-lee
- Variations: Kennelly, Kennealy, Keneally
- Namesakes: William Kenneally, an Irish politician. Siassie Kenneally, an Inuit artist from Cape Dorset.
- Popularity: Kenneally has less than ten known bearers worldwide.
Kiba
Kiba is a variation of the Hebrew Akiva, meaning “protection.” Opposed to this cozy etymology, it means “fang” in Japanese. Kiba is a white lone wolf and the main protagonist of Wolf’s Rain. In the Naruto anime, Kiba is a ninja from the Inuzuka (dog hill/mound) clan who have dogs for sidekicks. And yes, the dogs are ninjas too!
- Origin: Japanese, Hebrew
- Meaning: Fang, protection, shelter
- Pronunciation: KEE-buh, KEE-ba
- Variations: Akiva
- Namesakes: Masao Kiba, a Japanese football player.
- Popularity: About 1,710 people are called Kiba worldwide.
Kiyiya
Kiyiya originates from the Native American Yakima tribe. Among the Yakima people, wolves are highly respected as they symbolize strength, loyalty, and family. They believe wolves teach us significant lessons about survival and cooperation. Whether you wish to honor Native American heritage or show respect for the natural world, you can answer the call of the wild with Kiyiya.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Howling wolf
- Pronunciation: keh-YEE-yah
- Popularity: Kiyiya doesn’t appear on U.S. popularity charts.
Kveldulf
Kveldulf comes from the Old Norse “kveld,” meaning “evening” or “night,” and “úlfr,” meaning “wolf.” Kveldulf was originally the nickname of Ulf Bjalfason, also spelled Úlfr Bjálfason, a renowned 9th-century Viking commander and landowner. He was called Kveldulf because many believed he was a shapeshifter. Kveldulf is a great nod to both wolves and werewolves.
- Origin: Norwegian
- Meaning: Night wolf, evening wolf
- Pronunciation: kfel-DUULF, kfel-DOOLF
- Variations: Kveldúlfr, Kveldulv
- Namesakes: Ulf Bjalfason, better known as Kveldulf, a 9th-century Norwegian Viking military commander, landowner, and skald.
- Popularity: Kveldulf is most popular in Norway but is rare worldwide.
Lobo
Lobo is the Spanish equivalent of calling your baby “wolf,” but with an exotic twist. For fans of the grim and gritty, Lobo can also reference DC Comics’ KISS-style bounty hunter. For fans of old-school folk-rock and country-pop, it brings to mind Roland LaVoie, who chose it as his stage name.
- Origin: Spanish, Portuguese
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: LOH-boh
- Namesakes: Porfirio Lobo Sosa, a Honduran politician and former president of Honduras. Roland Kent LaVoie, stage name Lobo, an American folk-rock and country-pop singer, and lyricist.
- Popularity: There are about 6,943 bearers of the name Lobo worldwide.
Lopez
The festive-sounding Lopez is a patronymic (derived from a father’s personal name). It comes from the medieval given name Lope meaning “wolf,” which has roots in the Latin “lupus.” Lopez is one of the most common Hispanic surnames worldwide, so using it as a first would stand out.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Son of Lope, son of Wolf
- Pronunciation: LOH-pes, LOH-pez
- Variations: López
- Namesakes: Porfirio López Meza, a Costa Rican football player. Jennifer Lopez, an American singer, and actress. George Lopez, an American stand-up comedian, and actor.
- Popularity: Lopez is most prevalent in the U.S. but doesn’t make the charts.
Loup
Loup is a French derivative of the Latin word “lupus,” meaning “wolf.” In French Canadian mythology, the Loup-Garou, meaning “werewolf,” is a man cursed to become a werewolf for 101 days rather than with the moon’s cycles. A similar “loup-garou,” also spelled Lagahoo and Lugarhou, exists in the folklore of Trinidad and Tobago. Only, this one carries around a coffin!
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: LOO, LOOP
- Variations: Leloup
- Namesakes: Loup Verlet, a French physicist. Paul-Loup Chatin, a French professional racecar driver. Pierre-Loup Bouquet, a French competitive ice dancer.
- Popularity: In 2021, Loup ranked 309th in France.
Lovel
Lovel comes from an English surname that was a variant of Lowell. These stem from a Norman French nickname composed of the word “lou,” meaning “wolf,” and a diminutive suffix. Lovel also seems to have the word “love” baked in, and that’s exactly what every parent feels for their children.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Little wolf, young wolf
- Pronunciation: LUH-vul, luh-VEL
- Variations: Lovell
- Namesakes: Lovel Palmer, a Jamaican football player.
- Popularity: Lovel has about 1,098 bearers worldwide.
Lovett
Lovett comes from the Anglo-Norman French word (and nickname) “louet,” meaning “wolf pup,” a diminutive of “lou,” meaning “wolf.” Although it’s unisex, Lovett is primarily used for boys. Still, parents of little girls can rest assured that Lovett might simply appear to be a wolfish version of Cosette — another diminutive French name.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Wolf pup, young wolf
- Pronunciation: LUH-vut, LUH-vit
- Popularity: Lovett has about 856 bearers worldwide.
Ludolf
Ludolf is like an interesting cousin to Rudolph. It comes from the Old High German Hludwolf and comprises the elements “hlūdaz,” for “loud,” “sound,” “noise,” or “fame,” and “olf” from “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Another possible meaning comes from the Germanic elements “liud,” meaning “people” or “tribe,” and “olf.” Consider using a cool-sounding nickname like Ludo.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Famous wolf, the people’s wolf
- Pronunciation: LOO-dawlf, LOO-dolf
- Variations: Ludolph
- Namesakes: Ludolf Bakhuizen, a German-born Dutch painter and printmaker. Gottfried Ludolf Camphausen, a Prime Minister of Prussia. Ludolf Nielsen, a Danish composer, conductor, and musician.
- Popularity: Ludolf is most popular in Germany and the Netherlands, with about 984 bearers internationally.
Lupe
Lupe is usually a diminutive of Guadalupe, meaning “river of the wolf” or “valley of the wolf.” It’s a Spanish derivative of the Arabic “wadi,” meaning “valley” or “river,” and Latin “lupus,” meaning “wolf.” On its own, too-cool-for-school Lupe just means “wolf.”
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: LOO-pay, LOOP
- Namesakes: María Guadalupe Vélez, known professionally as Lupe Vélez, a Mexican actress, singer, and dancer. Wasalu Jaco, stage name Lupe Fiasco, an American rapper and record producer.
- Popularity: In the U.S., Lupe placed 929th for boys in 1966 and 911th for girls in 1969, but hasn’t appeared on the charts since.
Lupin
Lupin goes back to the Old French “lupin,” from the Latin “lupīnus,” meaning “pertaining to the wolf.” Gardeners will likely know this one as the flowering plant Lupinus, commonly called lupin or lupine. Perhaps more widely recognized is the Robin Hood-type gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin. Lupin is for anyone that wants their little one to adopt chivalrous qualities.
- Origin: Latin, French
- Meaning: Wolf-like, pertaining to the wolf
- Pronunciation: LOO-peh, LOO-pin
- Popularity: About 258 people are called Lupin worldwide.
Lycan
Lycan derives from the Greek word “lykos,” meaning “wolf.” In Greek myth, a fabled king of Arcadia, Lycaon, tries to test Zeus and transforms into a wolf. Besides sounding badass, this moniker is perfect for your little werewolf. After all, you can’t spell lycanthrope without Lycan.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: LEYE-kun, LEYE-kn
- Popularity: Lycan doesn’t make the U.S. top 1,000 names as it is very rare worldwide.
Lycus
Lycus is the Latinized form of the Greek word “lykos,” meaning “wolf.” Greek mythology cites many people called Lycus, including the wolf-shaped hero, Lycus of Athens, and Lycus, the son of Poseidon. If you’re into giving your kids complementary or matching names, try pairing Lycus and Lycan.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: LEYE-kus
- Variations: Lykos
- Popularity: Lycus is extremely rare worldwide, with less than five known bearers.
Madadh
Madadh is certainly unconventional. It’s of Scottish Gaelic origin but is rare even in its homeland. Wolves have been an important part of Scottish folklore for centuries, including creatures like the mythical, modern-day wolf-headed Wulver. Unfortunately, real Scottish wolves were hunted to extinction in the 18th-century. Revive a little piece of the Scottish wilderness with Madadh.
- Origin: Irish, Scottish
- Meaning: Dog, wolf
- Pronunciation: MA-dah, MA-duh
- Popularity: Madadh doesn’t make the top 1,000 on popularity charts as it’s quite rare.
Ma’iingan
Ma’iingan is Native American Chippewa or Ojibwe. It’s extremely rare and does not appear on popularity charts. Wolves are revered in Chippewa culture and considered brothers to humans, as well as spiritual guides and protectors. So important is the wolf that it features prominently in their clan systems. Ma’iingan is rich with cultural history.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: The wolf
- Pronunciation: meye-IN-gan
Maugrim
Maugrim was a talking wolf in C. S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. The epithet might have been based on the Middle English “maugre,” meaning “ill-will,” or taken from the word “maw.” The second element comes from English folklore. A Grim was either a benevolent guardian spirit or an evil supernatural entity that usually took the form of a crimson-eyed black dog.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Grim of ill-will
- Pronunciation: MAW-grim
- Popularity: Maugrim doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Miyax
Miyax derives from the Inuit word “miyaw” meaning “fox” or “little fox.” It was popularized by the main character of the book Julie and the Wolves. After losing her home, Miyax, whose English name is Julie, joins a wolf pack in the Arctic wilderness. This adorable pick invokes ideals of found family and kinship.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Fox
- Pronunciation: MEYE-aks
- Popularity: Miyax is very rare, with about one known bearer in the world.
Okami
Okami is Japanese for “wolf,” said with an extended long “OH” sound. In Shintoism, wolves are intrinsically connected to the spirit world as guides, protectors, or messengers. Okami includes the Japanese word for a deity or god — “kami.” Even the native Ainu had a wolf deity called “Horkew Kamuy,” meaning “Howling/Wolf God,” or “Horkew Retara Kamuy,” meaning “White Wolf God.”
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Wolf, great god
- Pronunciation: OH-ka-mee
- Variations: Ookami, Ōkami
- Namesakes: Kei Okami, a Japanese physician and the first Japanese woman to obtain a degree in Western medicine. Yushin Okami, a Japanese mixed martial artist.
- Popularity: Okami has about 114 worldwide bearers.
Qutuz
Qutuz was a 12th-century sultan touted for his wolf-like fierceness and courage in battle. In Arabic culture, wolves symbolize loyalty and fidelity, depicted as spiritually significant in some legends. For English-speakers, Qutuz might serve better as a middle name. Despite being a highly unusual choice, it could be a unique addition to your roster.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Vicious beast, strong as a wolf
- Pronunciation: KWOH-tuz
- Variations: Kutuz, Kotuz
- Namesakes: Saif ad-Din Qutuz, a Turkic military leader and a Mamluk Sultan of Egypt.
- Popularity: Qutuz doesn’t occur on U.S. charts.
Radulf
Radulf is perfect for a radical baby. It comes from the Proto-Germanic Rēdawulfaz, which consists of the Old High German “rat” meaning “counsel” or “advice,” and “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” The combination of these elements can also mean “wise wolf.” Wisdom comes with many advisers, so why not take ours and put Radulf on your list of names meaning wolf?
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Wolf counsel
- Pronunciation: RA-doolf
- Variations: Radolf, Ráðúlfr, Radulfus
- Popularity: There are about 47 people called Radulf globally.
Rafe
Rafe is a variant of the English Ralph. It ultimately comes from the Old Norse Raðulfr, a combination of “rað” meaning “counsel,” and “úlfr” meaning “wolf,” eventually passing into Old English as Rædwulf. The Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Hebrew Rafe is a diminutive of Rafael, usually pronounced “RA-fehy.” Jamaican footballer Rafe Wolfe likely has the coolest combination of wolfish names.
- Origin: Old Norse, Scandinavian, English
- Meaning: Wolf counsel
- Pronunciation: RAYF
- Namesakes: Rafe Wolfe, a Jamaican international football player. Rafe Spall, an English actor known for his roles in Prometheus and The Big Short. Rafe Needleman, an American editor and author.
- Popularity: In 2021, Rafe peaked at 213th on charts in England and Wales.
Ragnulf
Ragnulf derives from Old High German Raginolf. The first element, “ragn” stems from the Old Norse word “rögn,” meaning “counsel,” “decision,” or “advice.” “Ragn” could also be related to the word “ragna,” meaning “of the gods/powers.” So Ragnulf can mean “wolf of counsel” or “wolf of the gods.”
- Origin: Norwegian
- Meaning: Advisor wolf, wolf counsel
- Pronunciation: RAG-nuulf, RAG-noolf
- Variations: Ragnulv, Raginolf
- Popularity: Ragnulf is so rare it doesn’t show up on any popularity charts.
Remus
The meaning of Remus is uncertain but may be linked to the Latin word “geminus,” meaning “twin” or “double.” In Roman myth, Remus was the twin brother of Romulus, the legendary founder of Rome. As babies, they were abandoned but fed by a she-wolf. Owing to this tale, a prominent werewolf in the Harry Potter series is called Remus Lupin.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Oar, twin
- Pronunciation: REE-mus, RAY-mos
- Namesakes: Remus Cernea, a Romanian activist against faith-based discrimination. Remus Răduleț, a Romanian electrical engineer. Remus von Woyrsch, a Prussian field marshal.
- Popularity: Remus is the most popular in Romania.
Rikiwulf
In the Assassin’s Creed video game, Rikiwulf is a 9th-century Viking from the Wolf Clan. The first element, “riki,” might come from the Old Norse word “ríkr,” meaning “ruler.” It could also be a variation of the Old High German name Richi meaning “powerful ruler.” Either way, Rikiwulf is perfect for the next alpha in your pack.
- Origin: Old High German, Old Norse
- Meaning: Powerful ruler of wolves, mighty wolf
- Pronunciation: REE-kee-voolf, REE-kee-woolf, REE-kee-wuulf
- Namesakes: Rikiwulf, a member of the Scandinavian Wulfing dynasty.
- Popularity: Rikiwulf doesn’t appear on popularity charts as it is rare.
Rolf
Rolf is an Anglicization of the Old German Hrolf and its Old Norse cognate Hrólfr. These are diminutives of Hrodulf or Hrodwulf, from which the more well-known Rudolf is derived. Hrodulf consists of the words “hrod” or “hróðr,” meaning “renown” or “fame,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” At four letters and one syllable, Rolf is short but punchy.
- Origin: Scandinavian, German
- Meaning: Famous wolf
- Pronunciation: RAWLF, ROLF
- Variations: Hrolf, Rolph
- Namesakes: Rolf Harris, an Australian entertainer and artist. Rolf Lassgård, a Swedish actor. Rolf Stommelen, a German racecar driver.
- Popularity: Rolf peaked on U.S. charts at 774th in 1960 and ranked 925th for the last time in 1966.
Rudolf
Rudolf comes from the Germanic Hrodulf, composed of “hrod” or “hróðr,” meaning “fame,” “glory,” or “renown,” and “olf” or “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” Rudolf last ranked in Germany at 20th in 1936. It fared better in the Czech Republic, lasting until 2016, where it placed 90th. Rudolph is a lighthearted choice with sturdy nicknames like Rudy and Rolf.
- Origin: Scandinavian, German
- Meaning: Famous wolf
- Pronunciation: ROO-dawlf, ROO-dolf
- Variations: Rudolph, Rodolphe
- Namesakes: Rudolf Nureyev, a Soviet-born ballet dancer. Rudolf Diesel, a German inventor and engineer who created the diesel engine. Rudolph Marcus, a Canadian-born chemist and Nobel laureate.
- Popularity: Rudolf peaked in the U.S. at 720th in 1927 and fell off after 1941 at 985th.
Sceolang
Sceólang’s meaning is uncertain. Some have suggested that this name means survivor, while others claim it combines with the Old Irish words “scél,” meaning “story” or “tale,” and “cú,” meaning “hound” or “dog.” What is certain is the mythology. Sceolang was one of the giant hounds of the Irish hero Fionn mac Cumhaill, Anglicized as Finn McCool or MacCool.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Young wolf, whelp, survivor
- Pronunciation: SHKYOH-lung
- Variations: Sceolan, Sceolán, Skeolan
- Popularity: Sceolang is rare worldwide.
Shunkaha
Shunkaha is Native American Lakota in origin. In Lakota culture, the wolf is held as sacred as it is tied to both the natural and spiritual worlds. Shunkaha isn’t commonly used outside of the Lakota community and is quite rare. It could be a unique and meaningful option for parents wanting a connection to Lakota culture.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: shun-KAA-hah
- Popularity: Shunkaha doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Sigewulf
Sigewulf is composed of the Old English elements “sige,” meaning “victory,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” It’s a rare name, not found among the top 1,000 names in the U.S. or the UK. Sigewulf was more popular during the Anglo-Saxon period of English history, though it was still fairly uncommon. Prepare your child for success with Sigewulf.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Victorious wolf
- Pronunciation: SIDZH-wuulf, SEE-geh-woolf
- Variations: Siwulf, Siulfus
- Popularity: Sigewulf is extremely uncommon worldwide.
Skoll
In Norse myth, Skǫll is one of two wolf sons of Fenrir, who chases the sun. The double “L” makes a hard “T” sound in Icelandic and many Scandinavian languages. If you use the Nordic pronunciation, “SKOT,” some Icelanders will probably be impressed by your authenticity.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Mockery, treachery
- Pronunciation: SKOT, SKOL
- Variations: Sköll, Skǫll
- Namesakes: Jeffrey Skoll, a Canadian engineer, entrepreneur, and film producer.
- Popularity: Skoll is quite rare internationally but mostly found in the Netherlands.
Tala
Tala can be found in many cultures but remains a mostly female option. It has two Native American origins – in Lakota, it means “alpha she-wolf,” while in Navajo, it means “wolf princess.” Tala is also popular in India and Samoa. In Samoan, it means “story” and is used for boys and girls.
- Origin: Native American, Persian, Scandinavian, Tagalog
- Meaning: Alpha she-wolf, gold, tale, star
- Pronunciation: TA-lah
- Variations: Talah, Tara
- Namesakes: Tala Hadid, a London-born film director, producer, and photographer. Tala Madani, an Iranian-born American artist. Tala Raassi, an Iranian-American fashion designer.
- Popularity: In 2020, Tala ranked 821st in England and Wales.
Torolf
Torolf is a powerful Scandinavian pick that combines the Old Norse elements “tor,” meaning “thunder,” and “ulf” or “olf,” meaning “wolf.” It can be interpreted as either “Thor’s wolf” or “thunder wolf.” Wolves are prevalent in Norse mythology as both benevolent sidekicks and evil entities. Torolf invokes the majesty of nature and the gods.
- Origin: Norwegian, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Thor’s wolf
- Pronunciation: TOO-ruulf
- Variations: Torolv, Torulf, Torolf
- Namesakes: Torolf Eklund, a Finnish aircraft designer. Torolf Elster, a Norwegian newspaper and radio journalist, editor, and author. Torolf Nordbø, a Norwegian musician and comedian.
- Popularity: Torolf has about 612 worldwide bearers, mostly in Norway.
Udolf
Udolf might stem from the Old English elements “eád,” meaning “riches” or “prosperity,” and “olf” from “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” It could also be an Old Germanic Adolf variant, meaning “noble wolf.” To many, it may sound like an incomplete Rudolf.
- Origin: Old English, German
- Meaning: Wealthy wolf, noble wolf
- Pronunciation: OO-dolf
- Variations: Adolf
- Popularity: Udolf is mostly prevalent in Germany but is rare worldwide.
Ulf
Ulf is the cooler brother of Úlfr and Ulv. Ulf is widely used in Scandinavian languages and is popular in Sweden and Germany. It lasted in the top 1,000 names in Norway until 1965 when it placed 98th. Ulf is borne by men of greatness, like the Nobel laureate Ulf von Euler, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson — and your son!
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: OOLF, UULF
- Variations: Úlfr, Ulfr, Ulv
- Namesakes: Ulf Ekberg, a Swedish singer-songwriter, musician, TV, and film producer. Ulf Andersson, a Swedish title-winning chess player. Ulf Merbold, a German physicist and astronaut.
- Popularity: Ulf last ranked 98th in 1965 in Norway. It is also quite popular in Sweden and Germany.
Ulfhednar
Ulfhednar is for parents with a wild child. This option comes from the Norse Ulfhednar, meaning “wolf skins/shirts,” the counterpart to the Berserkir (Berserkers), meaning “bear skins/shirts.” Ulfhedinn is the singular form of the word and is just as viable as a great wolf name. Ulfhednar also shortens nicely to Ulf.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Wolf skins, wolf shirts
- Pronunciation: OOLF-hedh-nar
- Variations: Úlfhéðnar, Ulfhedinn
- Popularity: Ulfhednar has one known bearer in Russia.
Ulfric
Ulfric is a combination of the Germanic elements “ríkr,” meaning “power” or “ruler,” and “wulf,” meaning “wolf.” This is a poised option that retains a sense of Viking strength. Despite its rarity, Ulfric is popular in fiction. Ulfric Stormcloak is a major character and a Jarl in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim video game.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Wolf ruler
- Pronunciation: UUL-frik, OOL-frik
- Variations: Ulfrik, Úlfríkr
- Popularity: Ulfric is extremely rare worldwide.
Ulva
Ulva is the feminine form of the Old Norse Úlfr. It’s a cognate (from the same linguistic origin) of Ylva and may mean “she-wolf” or come from the Old Norse for “wolf isle.” Ulva is surprisingly popular, though it’s still not as well-known as its male counterpart.
- Origin: Old Norse, German
- Meaning: She wolf
- Pronunciation: OOL-vah
- Popularity: Internationally, about 2,569 people are called Ulva.
Ulvelaik
Ulvelaik is so rare almost nothing is known about it. It has Old Norse roots but seems to have been used in Old English. For only the most playful babies, Ulvelaik is worth a shot!
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Wolf sport, wolf’s play
- Pronunciation: OOL-veh-leyek
Uwais
Uwais or Owais has a unique feel. It’s an ancient Arabic pick that means “little wolf,” from the root “aws,” meaning “wolf.” Owais al-Qarani, also spelled Uwais, was a Yemenese Muslim honorarily counted among the companions of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Uwais shows that wolf names can be pious too.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Small Wolf, little wolf
- Pronunciation: oh-WEYE-az
- Variations: Owais, Ovais
- Namesakes: Uwais Qorny, known professionally as Iko Uwais, an Indonesian actor, stuntman, fight choreographer, and martial artist.
- Popularity: In England and Wales, Uwais placed 919th for a final time in 2005.
Valko
Despite sounding sinister, Valko is still great for sweet little boys. It’s derived from the Bulgarian word “valk,” meaning “wolf,” and is also a short form of the Czech and Slovak name Valentin. This would give it the meaning “strong” or “vigorous.” Valko is a perfect choice for a healthy little wolf.
- Origin: Bulgarian
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: VAL-koh
- Variations: Valcho
- Namesakes: Valko Chervenkov, a Bulgarian communist politician and prime minister.
- Popularity: Valko has about 1,878 bearers worldwide, mostly in Bulgaria.
Velvel
Velvel is a distinctive Yiddish diminutive of the Slavic name Volf meaning “wolf.” In Yiddish folklore, the wolf is often portrayed as clever and resourceful. If your family has Jewish roots, Velvel could be a way to connect with your history and culture.
- Origin: Yiddish
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: VEHL-vl, VEHL-vul
- Variations: Velvl
- Namesakes: Velvel Pasternak, a Canadian-born Polish leading expert in Jewish music. Velvel Zbarjer, born Benjamin Wolf Ehrenkrantz, a Galician Jewish Brody singer.
- Popularity: Vevel is most prevalent in the U.S. but doesn’t make the top 1,000 names.
Volkov
Volkov is a surname with first name potential, especially in the West. Bears aren’t the only wild animals Russia is known for. Russia’s wolf population is comparable to Canada’s; they are attested in Russian folklore as helpful companions or cunning villains. If you’re having a girl, consider the female form, Volkova.
- Origin: Russian
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: VOHL-koff
- Variations: Volkova
- Popularity: Volkov is very popular in Russia as a surname, with about 36 bearers of the given name worldwide.
Warg
Warg is an Anglicization of the Swedish word “varg,” meaning “wolf,” which originates with the Old Norse “vargr.” In Tolkien’s fantasy world of Middle-earth, a warg is a huge, evil wolf. In George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones, wargs are persons who can enter the mind of animals and control their actions.
- Origin: Swedish
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: WArg, wAWRg
- Variations: Varg, Vargr
- Popularity: Warg is more popular as a surname found in the U.S. and Sweden.
Waya
Waya comes from the Native American Cherokee culture, where wolves are greatly respected as teachers and pathfinders. The most famous Cherokee story of wolves goes as follows: two wolves are warring inside us all; one is evil, anger, and fear; the other is goodness, strength, and bravery; the wolf that wins is the one you feed. You could certainly win with Waya.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: WEYE-ah
- Popularity: Waya has about 3,198 international bearers.
Wolfe
Wolfe is English but has Old German roots. It’s really just the English word “wolf” with an added “e.” Does it need to be there? No. Does it make the name just a little bit cooler? Yes! Add Wolfe to your list of boy names that mean wolf, and wait for the compliments to roll in.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Wolf, wolf-like
- Pronunciation: WUULF
- Variations: Wolf, Wolffe
- Namesakes: Wolfe Glick, an American award-winning competitive Pokémon player, streamer, and YouTuber. Wolfe von Lenkiewicz, a British artist.
- Popularity: About 599 people are called Wolfe worldwide, mostly in the U.S. and Canada.
Wolfgang
Wolfgang has an air of sophistication, befitting your future prodigy. It’s been associated with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart for so long that there is no separating the man from the name. It derives from the Old German elements “wulf,” meaning “wolf,” and “gang,” meaning “path,” “way,” or “journey.” Wolfgang is practically begging its bearers to walk their own path courageously.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Path of the wolf, way of the wolf
- Pronunciation: VUHLF-gang, WUHLF-gang, WUULF-gang
- Variations: Wulfgang, Vulfgang
- Namesakes: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a prolific Salzburg-born composer. Wolfgang Joop, a German fashion designer. Wolfgang Borchert, a German author and playwright.
- Popularity: Wolfgang last ranked in Germany at 15th in 1963 and at 52nd in Austria in 1995.
Wolfhard
Wolfhard has Old High German roots. It’s composed of the elements “wulfaz” meaning “wolf,” and “harduz” or “hardu-” meaning “hard,” “strong,” or “brave.” Wolfhard might be commonly used as a surname in the modern era but was more popular as a first in the Middle Ages. Bring back Wolfhard for your brave-hearted boy.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Brave as a wolf, strong as a wolf
- Pronunciation: VOLF-haart, VUHLF-haart, WUULF-hard
- Variations: Wulfhard
- Namesakes: Finn Wolfhard, a Canadian actor, and musician. Gualfardo of Verona, or Wolfhard of Augsburg, a Swabian artisan, trader, and hermit.
- Popularity: Wolfhard has about 2,223 bearers worldwide, with the majority in Germany.
Wolfram
Wolfram is a combination of the Old Germanic elements “wulf,” meaning “wolf,” and “hraben,” “hræfn,” or “hram,” meaning “raven.” Wolfram is quite cool through its association with two awe-inspiring and noble animals. It’s even caught on in manga and anime. Wolfram von Bielefeld is the youngest son of the former Demon Queen in the Kyo Kara Maoh! light novel series.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Wolf raven
- Pronunciation: WUUL-frum, WUUL-fram
- Variations: Wulfhram, Wolfran, Wulfram
- Namesakes: Wolfram Saenger, a German biochemist, and crystallographer. Wolfram Waibel Jr., an Austrian sport shooter. Wolfram von Eschenbach, a German knight, poet, and composer.
- Popularity: Wolfram is most prevalent in Germany, with almost 40,000 global bearers.
Wulfric
Wulfric is a dignified Old English option meaning “wolf ruler.” It’s a combination of the Germanic elements “wulf” from “wulfaz,” meaning “wolf,” and “ríkr” from “rīkijaz,” meaning “king,” “ruler,” or “powerful.” Wulfric is more than suitable for your young Reik or English prince.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Wolf ruler, power of the wolf
- Pronunciation: WUUL-frik
- Variations: Wolfric
- Namesakes: Wulfric Spot or Spott, an Anglo-Saxon nobleman. Wulfric of Haselbury, an English eremite and miracle worker.
- Popularity: Wulfric is most prevalent in England but is very rare worldwide.
Wulfrun
Wulfrun is one of those rare female wolf-related names. It comes from the Old English elements “wulf,” meaning “wolf,” and “run,” meaning “secret,” “rune,” or “lore.” Other possible meanings include “wolf raven” from the elements “wulf” and “hræfn” meaning “raven.” The only notable bearer was a 10th-century noblewoman, so your baby girl could make Wulfrun her own.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Whispering wolf, secret wolf
- Pronunciation: WUUL-frun
- Variations: Wulfruna
- Namesakes: Wulfrun, a 10th-century English noblewoman and founder of Wolverhampton.
- Popularity: Wulfrun is extremely rare worldwide and doesn’t appear in the top 1,000 names on popularity charts.
Wulfstan
With bishops as namesakes and the meaning “wolf’s stone,” Wulfstan feels sturdy and pious. From the Old English “wulf,” meaning “wolf,” and “stan,” meaning “stone,” it offers several nickname opportunities. Diminutives like Wulf, Wulfy, Stan, and Stanley are all up for grabs with Wulfstan.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Wolf’s stone
- Pronunciation: WUULF-stn, WUULF-stan
- Variations: Wolfstan, Wolstan
- Namesakes: Wulfstan, or Wulfstan II, a 10th-century English bishop, and archbishop. St. Wulfstan, an English bishop and nephew of Wulfstan II.
- Popularity: There are about three known bearers of Wulfstan worldwide.
Ylva
Ylva comes from the Old Norse “úlfr,” meaning “wolf,” and is a feminine form of Ulf. Ylva is a pretty little thing, on par with other Y names like Yvette. One notable bearer, Ylva Eggehorn, is known for her poems and songs based on faith and spirituality. Bless your baby with the spirit of the wolf by choosing Ylva.
- Origin: Scandinavian, Old Norse
- Meaning: She-wolf
- Pronunciation: YIL-va, EEL-va
- Variations: Ylfa
- Namesakes: Ylva Eggehorn, a Swedish poet, writer, and hymnist. Ylva Johansson, a Swedish politician. Ylva Lööf, a Swedish actress.
- Popularity: In 2022, Ylva ranked 469th in the Netherlands and 47th in Norway.
Zev
Zev, or Ze’ev, is Hebrew for “wolf.” Biblical references to the wolf are usually illustrative, as in Jacob’s prophecy, where he likened his son Benjamin to the animal. This referred to the tribe of Benjamin’s fierce fighting abilities. Though Zev has recently been gaining popularity in the U.S., it’s still unique enough for your son to feel special.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Wolf
- Pronunciation: ZEH-ev
- Variations: Ze’ev, Zeev, Z’ev
- Namesakes: Zev Asher, a Canadian musician. Zev Siegl, an American businessman and a co-founder of Starbucks. Zev Buffman, born Ze’ev Bufman, an Israeli-American Broadway producer.
- Popularity: Zev appeared on U.S. charts in 2018 at 965th and peaked in 2020 at 903rd. In 2022, it was 383rd in the Netherlands.
