Pagan names have remained quite popular, no matter what names happen to be trending at the moment. From ancient mythology to nature-based traditions, pagan names can mean everything from a goddess to a tree or a lake. Navigating so many awesome names is tough when you don’t know where to begin!
Take a walk into the shadows to find magical Wiccan names and obscure occult names. Make way for the coolest pagan names this side of the sun and moon.
100 Cute Pagan and Wiccan Names for Boys and Girls
Look into the light to locate the coolest pagan names in this or any other universe ahead.
Achak
Achak is a Native American Algonquin name that’s very mysterious. It may be common in India because Achakari is the name of a village in Uttar Pradesh. It may also mean “star,” but it remains the most celestial of pagan boy names.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Spirit
- Pronunciation: AAH-Chak
- Popularity: Achak is very rare worldwide, mainly used in India, and has been recorded twice in North America since 1980.
Aether
Aether comes from the Greek “Aithḗr,” meaning “god of the upper air and light.” In Greek mythology, Aether is a personification of the sky. He is the son of the night and brother of the day, so your little guy can also be a friend to the heavens.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Bright upper sky
- Pronunciation: EIY-Ther
- Popularity: Aether is extremely rare worldwide and is used most in the U.S., where it has occurred seven times since 1944.
Akasha
Akasha is the Hindi word for ether, which refers to that space between what we see and cannot see. Its male equivalent is Akash, meaning “ether” in Japanese. It also means “space,” so it’s got your baby girl covered for every air element.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
- Meaning: Open air, sky
- Pronunciation: Aa-KAA-Shaa
- Variations: Akacia, Akaesha, Akasa, Akashah, Akasia
- Popularity: Akasha is rare worldwide, while it was last ranked 1,813rd in Sudan.
Albus
Albus was originally the Roman surname Albinus, then shortened to Albus. It also means “bright” and has found fame as the headmaster’s name at Hogwarts in Harry Potter, so it’s not short on magical properties.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: White
- Pronunciation: AEL-Bahs
- Variations: Albinus
- Popularity: Albus is extremely rare worldwide and is mostly used in Russia, followed by the U.S.
Alchem
Alchem is based on “alchemy” and comes from the French “alquemie.” It originated as the Greek “khymatos,” meaning “that which is poured out.” Alchem is famous as the term for mystical chemistry, the basis for all things occultist today.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Medieval chemistry
- Pronunciation: AEL-Kahm
- Variations: Alchemie, Alkemy
- Popularity: Alchem is extremely rare worldwide, last used in the Philippines and India.
Alun
Alun also means “stone” and “noble” in Gaelic. It derives from the Celtic “alouno,” meaning “nourishing” or “wandering.” As the name of a river in Wales, Alun is always nature-ready for earthy boys everywhere.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Harmony
- Pronunciation: AEL-ahn
- Variations: Alan
- Namesakes: Alun Cairns, the Secretary of State for Wales from 2016 to 2019. Alun Owen, a Welsh screenwriter, known for the screenplay of The Beatles’ film A Hard Day’s Night (1964).
- Popularity: Alun is uncommon worldwide and used most in Wales, where it last ranked 134th.
Amaya
Amaya also means “the end” and “heavenly valley.” It is the name for a Spanish village near Castile and León. Amaya means “night rain” in Japanese and is a female name covering all the natural elements.
- Origin: Spanish, Japanese
- Meaning: Mother city
- Pronunciation: Aa-MAA-Yaa
- Variations: Amaia, Amaiah, Amayah, Ammaya
- Namesakes: Amaya Álvarez, a Spanish Paralympic swimmer who competed at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Paralympics. Amaya Barry, a Chilean actress and pop singer, appearing on El Baile en TVN.
- Popularity: In 2021, 1,765 baby girls named Amaya were born in the U.S.
Angus
Angus is an English spelling of the Scottish Gaelic Aonghas, made up of “aon,” meaning “one,” and “ghus,” meaning “choice.” In Celtic mythology, Aengus was the god of love, humor, and youth, all great qualities to pass onto your young Angus.
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: One strength
- Pronunciation: AENG-Gahs
- Variations: Aengus, Anngus, Aonghas, Aonghus
- Namesakes: Angus King Jr., the 72nd governor of Maine from 1995 to 2003. Angus Young, an Australian musician and founder of the hard rock band AC/DC.
- Popularity: Angus is uncommon worldwide, used mostly in England, and ranked 61st in Scotland in 2021.
Aradia
Aradia is the daughter of the Greek Goddess Artemis. It comes from the Greek Heroides, made up of “heros,” meaning “watch over” and “protect,” and “oide,” meaning “tale” and “ode.” Aradia also means “the heroic tale” for your storied baby girl.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Goddess of witches
- Pronunciation: Ah-REY-Diy-ah
- Variations: Aradea, Aradeah, Aradiah
- Popularity: Aradia is very rare worldwide, most used in Brazil and Mexico, while less than 200 people have been named Aradia in the U.S. since 1880.
Ariadne
Ariadne is composed of the Greek “ari,” meaning “most,” and “adnós,” meaning “holy.” Ariadne was a Cretan princess who helped Theseus escape from a Minotaur, but she can also be your young goddess.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Most holy
- Pronunciation: Aer-iy-AED-Niy
- Variations: Ariadna, Ariane
- Namesakes: Ariadne Getty, an Italian-American philanthropist and CEO of her son’s fashion line August Getty Atelier. Ariadne Welter, a Mexican actress known for the Luis Buñuel film The Criminal Life of Archibaldo de la Cruz (1955).
- Popularity: Ariadne is uncommon worldwide, most used in Brazil, and last ranked 1,122nd in Panama.
Arnrun
Arnrun comes from the Norwegian “ǫrn,” meaning “eagle,” and “rún,” meaning “secret.” It also means “Iceland” and is rarely used outside Scandinavia but can soar to your young lady’s side as one of the most Norse pagan girl names.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Eagle secret
- Pronunciation: AHRN-rune
- Variations: Árún
- Popularity: Arnrun is extremely rare worldwide, last used by two people in Sweden in 2014.
Aspen
Aspen isn’t just the name of a popular ski town in Colorado. It refers to the Aspen tree with heart-shaped leaves. Aspen comes from the English “aspo,” but is a new-world nature name your little one will love.
- Origin: American, English
- Meaning: Shaking tree
- Pronunciation: AEZ-Pehn
- Variations: Aspine, Aspyn, Aspyna, Aspyne
- Namesakes: Aspen Vincent, an American voice actress in the Nickelodeon series As Told by Ginger. Aspen Ladd, an American mixed martial artist in the Bantamweight division of the UFC.
- Popularity: Aspen is very rare worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 201st in 2021.
Astral
Astral comes from the Latin “astralis,” meaning “star.” It may be related to the Scandinavian Astrid, but Astral remains one of the most mystical pagan names on the name list.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Star-like
- Pronunciation: AES-Trahl
- Variations: Astra
- Popularity: Astral is extremely rare worldwide and was ranked in the top 10,000 names in Trinidad and Tobago in 2014.
Aurora
Aurora is another way to refer to the Aurora Borealis, the dazzling display of colors in the Northern night sky. In Roman mythology, Aurora was the goddess of the sunrise, so it’s ideal for babies born during the day or night.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: Ah-ROWR-ah
- Variations: Arora, Aurorah, Aurore
- Namesakes: Aurora Galli, an Italian footballer for the Italian national team. Aurora Ljungstedt, a Swedish writer, called Sweden’s Edgar Allan Poe.
- Popularity: Aurora ranked 1,712nd worldwide and is most popular in Mexico, where it ranked 166th.
Autumn
Autumn comes from the Latin “autumnus,” meaning “of the woods.” It refers to the fall season or harvest time for little girls with a nature-loving, bohemian style.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Fall (season)
- Pronunciation: AAW-Tahm
- Variations: Autom, Autum
- Namesakes: Autumn Simunek, an American beauty contestant named Miss South Dakota 2015. Autumn Bailey, a Canadian volleyball player on the Canadian women’s national volleyball team.
- Popularity: Autumn is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 65th in 2022.
Boaz
Though Boaz is a biblical name, it also means “magic” in Hebrew, which makes it both a religious and seemingly heathen name for boys who enjoy all sides of life.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Swiftness
- Pronunciation: BOW-aez
- Variations: Boase, Boaze, Boz
- Namesakes: Boaz Ellis, an Israeli foil fencer, and a five-time Israeli national champion. Boaz Kofman, an Israeli footballer, and manager for the Israel national football team.
- Popularity: Boaz is uncommon worldwide, most used in Kenya, and ranked 338th in Israel.
Branwen
In Celtic mythology, Branwen is the Goddess of love and beauty. It’s composed of the Welsh “bron,” meaning “breast,” and “wen,” meaning “fair.” Bronwen is the more common version, but Branwen is perfect in whatever form it takes for your baby girl.
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: Blessed raven
- Pronunciation: BRAEN-Wehn
- Variations: Branwenne, Branwyn, Branwynn
- Namesakes: Branwen Gwyn, a Welsh TV presenter for the S4C children’s program Planed Plant.
- Popularity: Branwen is rare worldwide and mostly used in Wales, where it last ranked 1,162nd.
Brenin
Brenin is another version of the English and Irish Brennan. It was originally made up of the Celtic “braon,” meaning “drop of water.” It was also used as a title of royalty, meaning “prince” or “chief” – perfect for the young king you love.
- Origin: Welsh, Celtic
- Meaning: King
- Pronunciation: BREH-Nahn
- Variations: Brennan
- Popularity: Brenin is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 2,481st in Bermuda.
Cabal
Cabal means “Arthur’s dog” in Arthurian legend. It appeared as a medieval Spanish surname and is connected to Kabbalah, or Jewish mysticism, which makes it one of those last names with an occultist flair.
- Origin: French, Spanish
- Meaning: Powerful, wealthy
- Pronunciation: KAO-Bawl
- Popularity: Cabal is extremely rare worldwide, primarily used in India and the U.S., while it ranked 9,241st in Poland.
Calliope
Calliope comes from the Greek “kalos,” meaning “fair” and “ops,” meaning “voice.” It’s the name of the ancient Greek muse of poetry who inspired Homer’s works The Iliad and the Odyssey.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Beautiful voice
- Pronunciation: Kah-LAY-ah-Piy
- Variations: Caliope, Caliopi, Calliopy
- Namesakes: Calliope Tatti, a Greek revolutionary who helped organize the 19th-century Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. Calliope Thorne, an American actress known for the USA Network series Necessary Roughness.
- Popularity: Calliope is very rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 2,695th in Greece.
Castor
Castor is one of the twins who make up the Gemini constellation. Along with Pollux, Castor was known in ancient Greece as a male sea deity who sacrificed sailors in exchange for favorable winds.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Pious one
- Pronunciation: KAES-Tahr
- Variations: Castar, Caster
- Namesakes: Castor “Cass” McCord, an American jazz saxophonist who played with Louis Armstrong early in the 1930s. Castor Cantero, a Paraguayan footballer for the Paraguay national football team in the 1950 FIFA World Cup.
- Popularity: Castor is very uncommon worldwide, used most in Tanzania, and ranked 1,222nd in Paraguay.
Celeste
Celeste originated as the Latin “caelestis,” meaning “celestial.” It began as a surname but is now one of the most famous ways to name your little girl after the heavens above.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Heavenly
- Pronunciation: Sah-LEHST
- Variations: Celest, Celleste
- Namesakes: Celeste Dandeker, the British co-founder of the Candoco Dance Company featuring disabled dancers. Celeste Buckingham, a Slovak-Swiss-American singer, and finalist on the Czech reality series SuperStar (2011).
- Popularity: Celeste ranked 4,848th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 364th in 2022.
Cernunnos
Cernunnos referred to an ancient Gaelic deity called “Lord of wild things.” Though seen as male, Cernunnos was said to have masculine energy and feminine fertility powers, making it a pagan gender-neutral gem.
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: Horned one
- Pronunciation: Sir-NONNE-Ohs
- Variations: Carnonos
- Popularity: Since 1980, only one person was named Cernunnos worldwide, in England.
Chatan
Chatan is a Dakota or Lakota name for “hawk.” It was also a surname in France, but this very rare boy’s name can help your little boy find his soaring spirit animal.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Hawk
- Pronunciation: Chah-TAAN
- Popularity: Chatan is rare worldwide and used mostly in India and Pakistan, where it ranked 5,784th.
Circe
Circe is based on the Greek Kirke, meaning “bird.” Circe was a sorceress who tempted Perseus and his men in Greek mythology. She was the daughter of the sun, which gives this mythological name yet another meaning.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Bird, sorceress
- Pronunciation: SAHR-Siy
- Variations: Circee, Circey, Circi, Circie
- Popularity: Circe is rare worldwide, most used in Brazil, and ranked 2,399th in Uruguay.
Demeter
In Greek mythology, Demeter was the Greek goddess of grain, agriculture, and the harvest. She is associated with autumn and has gained popularity among Wiccan names for girls.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Earth mother
- Pronunciation: Dih-MIYT-ahr
- Variations: Demetre, Demetria
- Namesakes: Demeter Koko, an Austrian graphic artist with work in the Upper Austrian State Museum. Demeter Hunyadi, the second superintendent of the Hungarian Antitrinitarian Church in the 16th-century.
- Popularity: Demeter is very rare worldwide and is used most in Slovakia, where it ranked 378th.
Desmond
Desmond is an English version of the Irish Deas-Mhumhna, meaning “South Munster.” It’s also a name for an ancient place in Ireland that may be the most magical of all since it belongs to the land.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: From South Munster
- Pronunciation: DEHZ-Mahnd
- Variations: Desmonde, Desmund, Dezmond
- Namesakes: Desmond Kelly, a British journalist and chief interviewer for the British broadcaster BT Sport. Desmond Tutu, a famous South African Anglican bishop known as an anti-apartheid and human rights activist.
- Popularity: Desmond ranked 3,629th worldwide and was most popular in the U.S. in 1992 when it peaked at 264th.
Dragomir
Dragomir is made up of the Slavic “drag,” meaning “dear,” and “mir,” meaning “peace.” It specifically means “to whom peace is precious” or “he who is precious”- ideal for the wannabe ancient boy ruler in your life.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Old peace
- Pronunciation: DRAEG-ow-Mihr
- Variations: Drahomír, Drogomir
- Namesakes: Dragomir Jovanović, a Serbian politician and mayor of Belgrade from 1941 to 1944. Dragomir Hurmuzescu, a Romanian physicist and collaborator of Marie Curie.
- Popularity: Dragomir is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Serbia, where it ranked 105th.
Echo
In Greek mythology, Echo was cursed without a voice for being too talkative. She was still quite popular with the god Pan with Narcissus, making Echo a truly unique choice for your little one.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Reflected sound
- Variations: Ecco, Ecko, Eco
- Namesakes: Echo Chernik, an American artist known for fantastical and mythologically-inspired prints. Echo Kellum, an American actor, known for the CW drama series Arrow.
- Popularity: Echo is rare worldwide, mostly used in China, and ranked 2,526th in Hong Kong.
Erenay
Erenay is composed of the Turkish “eren,” meaning “saint” and “ay,” meaning “moon.” It also means “dervish,” who were Muslim religious practitioners known for their ecstatic dancing rituals that wowed everyone around.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Saintly like the moon
- Pronunciation: Eh-REH-nay
- Popularity: Erenay is extremely rare worldwide and is mostly used in Turkey.
Evander
Evander is an English version of the Latin Evandrus and the Gaelic Iomhar. It may have come from the Norse Ivor, meaning “bow warrior” and “strong man,” for the ancient soldier you love.
- Origin: Latin, Gaelic
- Meaning: Good man
- Pronunciation: Eh-VAEND-er
- Variations: Evandor
- Namesakes: Evander Wall, a New York City socialite and American expatriate in France during the Belle Époque period. Evander Holyfield, an American boxer and heavyweight champion in the early 1990s.
- Popularity: Evander is rare worldwide and was used in the U.S. 2,147 times since 1880.
Ezrulie
Erzulie refers to a family of loa, or spirits, in the Vodou faith. It’s also the name of a Haitian goddess of everything from love and beauty to dancing and flowers, good gifts to give any little girl.
- Origin: Haitian, African
- Meaning: Voodoo goddess
- Pronunciation: Ehz-ROOL-ee
- Variations: Erzili, Èzili
- Popularity: Erzulie is rare worldwide and is mostly used in Haiti, where it’s ranked in the top 5,000 names.
Fae
Fae comes from Middle English “faie,” meaning “fairy” and the Latin “fatum,” meaning “fate.” It also means “confidence,” “trust,” and “belief” for girls who can do anything.
- Origin: Irish, French
- Meaning: Fairy
- Pronunciation: FEY
- Variations: Faye, Faie, Fay
- Namesakes: Fae Ellington, a Jamaican host of the TV series Morning Time on JBC.
- Popularity: Fae is rare worldwide but ranks in the top 5,000 names in the U.S.
Fianait
Fianait also means “wild thing” in Gaelic. It may refer to a “baby deer,” which makes it one of the rarest pagan girl names available.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Deer
- Pronunciation: Fiy-AH-Neyt
- Variations: Feenat
- Popularity: Fianait is extremely rare worldwide, with fifteen people named Fianait in Ireland in 2014.
Forrest
Forrest comes from the Latin “foreste,” a derivative of “foris,” meaning “outside.” It became known as a Norman English surname from France. Forrest can mean “dweller near the woods” for your outdoorsy little boy.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Of the woods
- Pronunciation: FAOR-ehst
- Variations: Forreste, Forrestt, Forest
- Namesakes: Forrest Mars Sr., an American businessman who founded the Mars candy empire. Forrest Aguirre, an American fantasy author and winner of the 2003 World Fantasy Award.
- Popularity: Forrest is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it has ranked in the top 1,000 names since 2013.
Gaia
In ancient Greece, Gaia means “land” and is the personification of the Earth. Some people call her “mother earth,” but you can also call your daughter of the earth Gaia.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Earth
- Pronunciation: GEY-ah
- Variations: Gaea
- Namesakes: Gaia Gozzi, an Italian singer and winner of the talent show Amici di Maria De Filippi in 2020. Gaia Weiss is a French actress in the Vikings TV series (2014 to 2015).
- Popularity: Gaia is rare worldwide, with 189 girls named Gaia in 2021 and a rank of 593rd in Italy in 2014.
Galilahi
Galilahi is a one-in-a-million name that’s Cherokee. It means “attractive young woman” but is a mystery beyond that, so you can help your little Galilahi tell their own story.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Attractive
- Pronunciation: GAE-Lah-LAEH-hay
- Variations: Galilahee, Galilahey, Galilahie, Galilahy
- Popularity: In 2014, only one person was named Galilahi in the U.S.
Gawain
Gawain means “May hawk” and “white hawk.” It most famously belonged to one of King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. Known as the “maiden’s knight,” Gawain is a perfect example of captivating pagan boy names.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Little hawk
- Pronunciation: Gah-WEYN
- Variations: Gavin
- Namesakes: Gawain Vincent, a British handball player who competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics. Gawain Bell, the British Governor of Northern Nigeria.
- Popularity: Gawain is very rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 1,060th in Northern Ireland.
Glinda
Glinda is most famous as the Good Witch in The Wizard of Oz. It also means “fair” and “good” and is another version of the Welsh Glenda, making it the nicest Wicca name without being too witchy-sounding.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Pretty
- Pronunciation: GLIHND-ah
- Variations: Glenda
- Popularity: Glinda is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 3,937th in Peru.
Grian
Grian also means “to be hot” or “to burn.” It was the name of a pre-Christian king and is one of the more royally minded pagan names for boys.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: The sun
- Pronunciation: GREE-ahn
- Namesakes: Charles Batchelor (known as Grian), a British Minecraft YouTuber famous for instructional gaming videos.
- Popularity: Grian is extremely rare worldwide, while only one person in Germany has been named Grian since 2000.
Hecate
In Greek mythology, Hecate was the goddess of fertility and witchcraft. She was also associated with the moon and storms, giving plenty of background to these strong Wiccan names.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Far-reaching
- Pronunciation: HHEHK-ah-Tiy
- Variations: Hekate
- Popularity: Hecate is extremely rare worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S.
Herne
Herne was an Old English pagan hunter deity. It began as the Gaelic surname O’hEachthigheirn, made up of “each,” meaning “steed,” and “thighearna,” meaning “lord.” Herne also means “descendent of the horse lord” for your little lad.
- Origin: Celtic, English
- Meaning: Mythical hunter
- Pronunciation: HHERN
- Variations: Hearn
- Popularity: Herne is rare worldwide and is mainly used in Haiti, where it ranked 4,213rd.
Hestia
Hestia is the Greek goddess of the hearth, home, and chastity. She is associated with everything domestic and may be one of the warmest pagan girl names to choose from.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Hearth, fireside
- Pronunciation: HHS-Tiy-ah
- Variations: Hestea, Hesteah, Hestiah, Hestya
- Popularity: Hestia is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Indonesia, and ranked 6,549th in the Netherlands.
Isaura
In Spanish, Isaura means “from the land of Isauria,” referring to a part of modern-day Turkey. It’s used today mostly in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, but Isaura can live wherever you wish her to be.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Gentle breeze
- Pronunciation: Iy-SAWW-Raa
- Variations: Isaure, Isaurea, Isauria
- Namesakes: Isaura Espinoza, a Mexican actress who won an Ariel Award for Best Actress for the film El Tigre de Santa Julia in 2003. Isaura Santos, a Portuguese singer who wrote the song “O jardim” for the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest.
- Popularity: Isaura is uncommon worldwide, most used in Brazil, and ranked 330th in Portugal.
Janus
In Roman mythology, Janus is “the god of beginnings, gates, transitions, time, duality, doorways, passages, and endings.” It’s made up of the Latin “ianus,” meaning “archway.” Janus often appears as Jan or Johannes, especially in Denmark.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Doorway
- Pronunciation: JHAEN-ahs
- Variations: Janiusz, Jannus, Janusz, Januus
- Namesakes: Janus van de Gijp, a Dutch footballer for SC Emma. Janus Friis, the Danish co-founder of the file-sharing application Kazaa.
- Popularity: Janus is rare worldwide and primarily used in Denmark, where it ranked 456th.
Jupiter
Jupiter comes from the Latin “Iuppiter,” made up of “dyeus,” meaning “Zeus” and “pater,” meaning “father.” In Roman mythology, Jupiter is the god of heavens and light who rules over Rome, just like your little boy may rule over your home.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Father Zeus
- Pronunciation: JHUW-pih-Tahr
- Variations: Juppiter, Juppyter, Jupyter
- Namesakes: Flávio Basso (known as Jupiter Apple), a Brazilian musician and member of the band TNT. Jupiter Hammon, an American writer, considered a founder of African-American literature with a poem published in 1761.
- Popularity: Jupiter is rare worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines, and ranked 1,2087th in Uruguay.
Kaida
Kaida may also be a Japanese surname. It specifically means “resembling a small dragon” and is used all over, from various African countries to Estonia and wherever your baby dragon resides.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Little dragon
- Pronunciation: KIY-Dah
- Variations: Kaeda, Kaidah, Kayda, Kaydah
- Popularity: Kaida is rare worldwide, mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 2,108th in Estonia.
Kali
Kali also means “the divine mother.” In Hindu mythology, Kali is the goddess of time, death, and change. It also means “force of time” and is one of the most robust gender-neutral pagan names.
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: The black one
- Pronunciation: KAA-Liy
- Variations: Kaly
- Namesakes: Carlos Alonso (known as Kali), an Angolan footballer for the Angola national team. Kalidas Chattopadhyay (known as Kali Mirza), an 18th-century composer of tappā music in Bengal.
- Popularity: Kali ranked 2,416th worldwide, is most popular in India, and ranked 83rd in Nepal.
Khonsu
In ancient Egypt, Khonsu was the god of the moon. It’s made up of “kh,” meaning “placenta” and “nesu,” meaning “king.” Khonsu was also the god of time and fertility, which come together nicely once your little king is born.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: Traveler
- Pronunciation: KAHN-suw
- Variations: Khonshu
- Popularity: Khonsu is extremely rare worldwide and was used only six times in 2014, mostly in the U.S. and Spain.
Larissa
Larissa also means “citadel” in Greek and refers to the capital of the Thessaly region of Greece. It also means “cheerful” for the happiest peace-loving girl you love.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Laurel
- Pronunciation: Laa-RIHS-aa
- Variations: Larisa, Larrisa, Laryssa, Laurisa, Laurissa
- Namesakes: Larissa-Antonia Marolt, winner of the first round of Austria’s Next Topmodel. Larissa Iapichino, an Italian long jumper and gold medalist at the 2019 European Athletics U20 Championships.
- Popularity: Larissa ranked 2,290th worldwide and first appeared in the top 1,000 names in the U.S. in 1967, where it ranked 1,500th in 2018.
Leaf
Leaf is an English spelling of the nickname “lief,” made up of “lēof,” meaning “dear one” or “sweetheart.” In Scandinavian, Leaf (spelled Leif) means “heir,” but your nature boy can honor all things green as Leaf.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Beloved
- Pronunciation: LEYF
- Variations: Leef, Lief, Leif, Leiff
- Namesakes: Leaf Daniell, a British fencer and silver medalist at the 1908 Summer Olympics. Leaf Huang, an American Distinguished Professor in Biomedical Engineering known for researching gene therapy.
- Popularity: Leaf is very rare worldwide and used mostly in the U.S., where it ranked just over the top 11,000 names in 2020.
Leigh
Leigh is also an English surname and means “delicate” and “weary.” It originally meant “true love” in Greek, which makes it a sweet choice for the baby you’re expecting.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Meadow
- Pronunciation: LIY
- Variations: Lee
- Namesakes: Leigh Bardugo, an Israeli-American fantasy author known for young adult Grishaverse novels. Leigh Francis, an English comedian, and creator of Channel 4’s Bo’ Selecta! (2002 to 2009).
- Popularity: Leigh was used about 45,000 times in the U.S. from 1880 to 2018, while it ranked 155th in Australia in 2014.
Litha
Litha refers to the pagan summer solstice or midsummer festival. It comes from the Old English “Líða,” referring to the summer months of June and July. It also means “to illuminate” or “shine,” perfect for your cool, summer-loving baby.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Mid-summer
- Pronunciation: LIY-Thaa
- Variations: Letha
- Popularity: Litha is rare worldwide and most used in South Africa, where it ranked 2,627th.
Llyr
Llyr refers to the Welsh god of the sea. It may have been derived from the Irish Lir, also meaning “the sea.” Llyr appears as Lear in English, but this Welsh spelling is a more interesting nature name for your little boy of the waves.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: The sea
- Pronunciation: LIHR
- Variations: Lir
- Namesakes: Llŷr Ifans, a Welsh actor known for the film Twin Town in 1997. Llŷr Gruffydd, a Welsh politician and Member of the Senedd (MS) since 2011.
- Popularity: Llyr is uncommon worldwide but is mostly used in Wales, where it ranked 965th.
Loki
In Norse mythology, Loki is the god of mischief. As a girl’s name, Loki comes from the Old Norse “lúka,” meaning “Yahweh is gracious,” “merciful,” and “God is my light.”
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Airy
- Pronunciation: LOW-Kiy
- Variations: Lokee, Lokey, Lokie, Loky
- Namesakes: Loki Schmidt, the wife of Helmut Schmidt, the Chancellor of Germany from 1974 to 1982. Darren McGarvey (known as Loki), a Scottish rapper and activist during the Scottish independence referendum in 2014.
- Popularity: Loki ranked 1,237th for boys and 8,406th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Lumin
Lumin (spelled Lumen) is used to measure light. It was used in the ancient world since light was something just as powerful as a deity and can bring Lumin back to life today too.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Light
- Pronunciation: LUW-Miyn
- Variations: Lumen
- Popularity: Lumin is rare worldwide and is mostly used in Indonesia and Taiwan.
Luna
Luna is another name for Diana, the Roman goddess of the moon. She is often seen driving a chariot, and her name is used by both Spanish and Italian girls the most.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Moon
- Pronunciation: LUW-Naa
- Variations: Lunah, Louna
- Namesakes: Park Sun-young (known as Luna), a South Korean singer and member of the girl group f(x). Gertrude Vachon (known as Luna), an American-Canadian wrestler for the World Wrestling Federation.
- Popularity: In 2020, Luna ranked in the top 20 names for girls in the U.S. and the top 100 names worldwide.
Lysander
Lysander is made up of the Greek “lysis,” meaning “freedom,” and “andros,” meaning “man.” He’s a whimsical character in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and one of the most fanciful pagan boy names.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Liberator
- Pronunciation: Lay-SAEND-er
- Variations: Lisander
- Namesakes: Lysander Button, the American inventor of early improvements for hand and steam fire engines. Lysander Farrar, an American politician and member of the New York State Senate in 1862 and 1863.
- Popularity: Lysander is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines and the U.S.
Mabon
Mabon is the Welsh God of youth and the son of the Earth Mother Goddess. The Celtic Queen Mab may be connected to Mabon, but this pinnacle of pagan youth can belong to your baby.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Divine son
- Pronunciation: MAEB-aan
- Variations: Maban, Maben
- Namesakes: William Abraham (known as Mabon), a Welsh politician and member of parliament from 1885 to 1920.
- Popularity: Mabon is rare worldwide and primarily used in the Ivory Coast, ranking 5,468th.
Maeve
Maeve comes from the Irish Medb, meaning “the intoxicating one.” In Irish mythology, Maeve was both the Queen of Connacht and the queen of the fairies and is ready to serve as your young queen’s name.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: She who rules
- Pronunciation: MEYV
- Variations: Maive, Mave, Mayve
- Namesakes: Maeve Ingoldsby, an Irish writer on the RTÉ soap operas Glenroe and Fair City. Maeve Quinlan, an American actress, known for the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful.
- Popularity: In 2020, Maeve ranked 173rd in the U.S. and 189th in Ireland in 2014.
Mage
Mage derives from the Latin “magus,” meaning “learned magician.” It refers to the Persian “magush,” also meaning “magician.” Mage sounds like the Magi, making it one of history’s more recognizable occult names.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Magician
- Pronunciation: MAYGE
- Popularity: Mage is rare worldwide and used most in Tanzania, where it ranked 2,243rd.
Marzanna
Marzanna is based on the Indo-European “mar/mor,” meaning “death.” The Slavic goddess (also called Morana) rules over death, winter, and nature, which may inspire you to name your little girl after this moody deity.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Death
- Pronunciation: Maar-ZAENN-Ah
- Variations: Marzena, Marzannah
- Popularity: Marzanna is rare worldwide and most used in Poland, where it ranked 366th.
Medea
Medea is based on the Greek Mēdeia, meaning “cleverness.” In Greek mythology, Medea was a sorceress famous for helping Jason win the Golden Fleece. Medea also means “ruler” and “protector” for the strongest little girl you know.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Ponder, cunning
- Pronunciation: Mah-DIY-ah
- Variations: Medeah, Medeia, Mediah, Mediya
- Namesakes: Medea Amiranashvili, a Georgian opera singer and People’s Artist of USSR in 1976. Medea Benjamin (born Susan Benjamin), an American political activist who helped create the fair trade advocacy group Global Exchange.
- Popularity: Medea is uncommon worldwide and most used in Georgia, where it ranked 154th.
Moon
Moon began as a surname based on the French “moun,” meaning “monk.” It also means “skinny” in Cornish and “literate” in Korean, but the moon can be the most hippie-style of occult names for your little boy or girl to rock.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the moon
- Pronunciation: MUWN
- Variations: Moone
- Namesakes: Aubrey Mullican (known as Moon Mullican), an American country and western singer/songwriter known as “King of the Hillbilly Piano Players.” Moon Unit Zappa, an American actress, and daughter of musician Frank Zappa.
- Popularity: Moon is uncommon worldwide but ranked 4,715th in the U.S. in 2018.
Morgana
Morgana also means “sea circle” in French and “great brightness” in Welsh. It came from the Old Welsh name Morcant but is a more feminine and modern-sounding version of an ancient Welsh shapeshifting goddess.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Bright sea dweller
- Pronunciation: Maor-GAA-Naa
- Variations: Morganna
- Namesakes: Morgana Gmach, a Brazilian rhythmic gymnast and gold medalist at the 2015 Pan American Games. Morgana Robinson, an Australian-English impressionist comedian, known for her comedy sketch program The Morgana Show.
- Popularity: Morgana is uncommon worldwide, while it was used 567 times in the U.S. from 1880 to 2018.
Mystic
A mystic is someone who searches for a deeper meaning in all things, especially where spirituality is concerned. It also means “one who has been initiated,” but it is a poetic way to bring all things magical into your baby girl’s life.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Spiritually gifted
- Pronunciation: MIHS-Tihk
- Popularity: Mystic is rare worldwide and was used 79 times in the U.S. in 2014.
Neptune
Neptune is the name of the Roman god of the sea, which also names one of the planets in our solar system. His Greek counterpart is Poseidon, but Neptune can also act as one of the coolest middle names for boys.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Sea god
- Pronunciation: NEHP-Tuwn
- Variations: Neptoon, Neptoone, Neptun
- Popularity: Neptune is very rare worldwide and has been used five times between 1944 and 2019.
Nikan
Nikan means “friend” in various Native American tribes. It may refer to Nika, an ancient Greek warrior once worshiped as a sun god. Nikan is associated with “kindness” in Persian, so your little one can have this name with all its good traits.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: One who brings good things
- Pronunciation: Nih-KAHN
- Variations: Niken, Nikon, Nikun
- Popularity: Nikan was ranked 9,369th in the U.S. in 2021.
Omen
Omen also has Arabic origins, meaning “to be faithful.” It was once an English surname but is better known as something prophetic, good or bad. It doesn’t have negative connotations, but perhaps a darker flair for your little one.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Faithful
- Pronunciation: Ow-MEHN
- Namesakes: Sidney Brown (known as Omen), an American record producer for artists like Drake, Beyoncé, and Ludacris.
- Popularity: Omen is rare worldwide, is most used in Indonesia, and ranked 1,622nd in Kuwait.
Ondine
Ondine is the name of a water goddess from a French folktale tale. It’s based on the French “onde,” meaning “wave,” and is a spirited mythological name your little one can enjoy.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Little wave
- Pronunciation: OWN-Diyn
- Variations: Ondin, Ondyne
- Namesakes: Robert Olivo (known as Ondine), an American actor known for mid-1960s films by pop artist Andy Warhol. Ondine Miller, the founder of The Alchemists blog on modern-day alchemy.
- Popularity: Ondine is very rare worldwide and was given five times in the U.S. in 1961.
Ostara
In Germanic mythology, Ostara is the goddess of springtime, fertility, and dawn. She’s also known as Eostre, where the name of the modern Easter holiday comes from.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Spring, dawn
- Pronunciation: Ahs-TAA-rah
- Variations: Astra
- Popularity: Ostara is extremely rare worldwide and is mostly used in Indonesia.
Pagan
Pagan comes from the Late Latin “paganus.” The Romans originally used it for rural types who worshiped multiple deities. Pagan also means “villager” but can mean more where occult names are concerned.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Country dweller
- Pronunciation: PEY-Gaen
- Variations: Pagen, Pagin, Pagun, Pagyn
- Namesakes: Pagan Kennedy, an American journalist and design columnist for the New York Times Magazine.
- Popularity: Pagan is very rare worldwide, mostly used in India, and ranked 750th in Puerto Rico.
Pan
In Greek mythology, Pan is a god with goat legs and a man’s body who plays the flute and gets into trouble. He is also the god of shepherds, while Pan means “feather” in Hindi, “huge rock” in Chinese, and can bring some mischief to your little boy.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Shepherd, protector
- Variations: Pann
- Namesakes: Pan Cheng-tsung, a Taiwanese golfer on the PGA Tour. Pan Sutong JP, a Hong Kong billionaire founder of Matsunichi Digital Holdings Limited.
- Popularity: Pan is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in India, and is ranked 85th in Macau.
Percival
Percival famously belongs to one of King Arthur’s knights in the Arthurian legends. It originally meant “one who pierces the valley,” but it can represent the brave knighted boy you love most.
- Origin: French, Welsh
- Meaning: Pierce the veil
- Pronunciation: PEHR-Sih-Vahl
- Variations: Perceval, Percevall, Percivale
- Namesakes: Percival Baldwin, an American politician in the Illinois Senate from 1915 to 1919. Percival Lowell, an American astronomer whose efforts led to the discovery of Pluto 14.
- Popularity: Percival is uncommon worldwide and is mostly used in Brazil, where less than 1,500 babies were named Percival between 1930 and 2010.
Rain
Rain’s original meaning is “abundant blessing from above.” This represents the pagan personification of nature, including rainfall. Rain may have come from various German surnames like Ragin, but it’s mostly known as a hippie nature name for babies.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Raindrops (literal)
- Pronunciation: REYN
- Variations: Raine, Rayne, Reign, Rein, Reyne
- Namesakes: Rain Karlson, an Estonian boxer and gold medalist at the World University Championships. Rain Epler, the Estonian Minister of the Environment from 2020 to 2021.
- Popularity: Rain is uncommon worldwide yet was ranked 1,598th in the U.S. in 2018.
Raven
Raven comes from the Old English Hræfn and the Old Norse Hrafn, both referring to the notorious blackbird. It’s the name of Edgar Allan Poe’s most famous Gothic poem and is tops among popular pagan names in the U.S.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Raven (bird)
- Pronunciation: REY-Vahn
- Variations: Raeven, Ravenne, Ravin, Ravinn, Ravon
- Namesakes: David Petruschin (known as Raven), an American drag queen who appeared in RuPaul’s Drag Race. Raven-Symoné, an American actress and singer on VH1’s list of “100 Greatest Child Stars of All Time.”
- Popularity: In the U.S., Raven has ranked in the top 1,000 girls’ names since 1977, while it ranked in the top 1,000 boys’ names between 1997 and 2002. In 2009, Raven ranked highest for girls at 636th.
Rhan
Rhan also means “one’s destiny” in Welsh. As a German surname, Rhan means “thin man,” but you might prefer the Welsh meaning that inspires little boys to make their own life path.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Fate
- Pronunciation: RAEN
- Variations: Rhane, Rhann, Rhanne
- Popularity: Rhan is very rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 8,284th in Armenia.
River
River comes from the Latin “ripa,” meaning “riverbank.” It became popular in the 1960s as a bohemian nature name, like Rainbow, Summer, and Moon, but is built on the idea of water flowing “free.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Flowing body of water
- Pronunciation: RIYV-er
- Variations: Rivar, Rivor, Ryver
- Namesakes: River Cracraft, an American football player for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League. River Phoenix, an American actor, best known for 1986’s Stand by Me.
- Popularity: River is rare worldwide and primarily used in Egypt, ranking 1,031st and 110th for boys and 151st for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Roisin
Roisin started as a name in the 16th-century and is considered a term for Ireland itself. The song “Roisin Dubh” is an Irish folksong (meaning “The Black Rose”), which makes Roisin the cutest little rose in your life.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little rose
- Pronunciation: Roy-SHEEN
- Variations: Rois
- Namesakes: Roisin Conaty, an English actress known for the Channel 4 sitcom Man Down from 2013 to 2017. Roisin McAuley, an Irish radio host for BBC Radio Ulster’s Sunday Sequence.
- Popularity: Roisin is rare worldwide, is most used in Ireland, and ranked 135th in Northern Ireland.
Rowena
Rowena is composed of the Germanic “hrod,” meaning “fame” and “wynn,” meaning “joy.” She was the daughter of the Anglo-Saxon “King of the Britons,” making her the perfect name for your old-world princess.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Fame, happiness
- Pronunciation: Row-WIY-Naa
- Variations: Rhowena, Roweena, Rowenna, Rowinna, Rowynna
- Namesakes: Rowena Morrill, an American illustrator and one of the first female artists to create paperback cover illustrations. Rowena King, a British actress, known for the film Wide Sargasso Sea.
- Popularity: Rowena ranked 3,188th worldwide, was most popular in the U.S. at the turn of the 20th-century, and ranked 29th in the Philippines in 2014.
Rune
Rune comes from the Old Norse Rúni. It most famously represented the Old Norse pagan rune stones used to tell the future of cool young boys like your Rune.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Secret
- Pronunciation: RUWN
- Namesakes: Rune Ericson, a Swedish cinematographer who won the Special Achievement award at the 20th Guldbagge Awards. Rune Kölsch, a Danish electronic dance musician, and DJ who worked with artists like Coldplay.
- Popularity: Rune is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Norway, where it ranked 22nd.
Sage
Sage comes from the Latin “sagus,” meaning “prophetic.” It’s also based on the Irish Savage, meaning “untamed man of the woods,” so it can inspire the wisest Wiccan names.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Prophet
- Pronunciation: SEYJH
- Variations: Saeg, Saege, Saige, Sayge
- Namesakes: Sage Walker, an American science-fiction writer who won the Locus Award in 1997 for her novel Whiteout. Sage Watson, a Canadian athlete and reigning Pan American champion in 400-meter hurdles.
- Popularity: Sage is uncommon worldwide, ranked 223rd for girls and 442nd for boys in the U.S. in 2020.
Sahale
Sahale may be based on a Native American word meaning “high place” or “sacred.” It’s the name of a mountain in Washington State, yet it can provide a noble name for babies who live everywhere, from an island to a desert.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Like a falcon
- Pronunciation: Saa-HAA-Leh
- Variations: Sahaele
- Popularity: Sahale is extremely rare worldwide, primarily used in India, and is ranked in the top 8,000 names in Senegal.
Scryer
Scryer also means “crystal gazer.” It refers to any diviner who uses a tool to see into the future when all they need is a cool name and an awesome little boy to get it done.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Diviner, seer
- Pronunciation: SCRIY-ehr
- Popularity: Scryer is extremely rare worldwide, used only once in Russia in 2014.
Selene
In Greek mythology, Selene was a moon goddess whose Roman equivalent was Luna, also Latin for “moon.” It’s more commonly used as Selena, but Selene offers a unique perspective on your beautiful lady of the moon.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Moon goddess
- Pronunciation: Sah-LIYNE
- Variations: Selena
- Namesakes: Selene Luna, a Mexican-American actress appearing on the reality TV series The Cho Show. Selene Vigil, an American singer who co-founded the grunge band 7 Year Bitch.
- Popularity: Selene is uncommon worldwide and is mostly used in Mexico, where it ranked 458th.
Silvanus
In Roman mythology, Silvanus was the god of the woods. Called the “sylvestris deus,” meaning “protector of the forest,” Silvanus ruled over all the wild things, just like your young Silvanus can do whenever he plays outside.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Woods
- Pronunciation: Sihl-VAH-nahs
- Variations: Sylvanus, Silvanos
- Namesakes: Silvanus Bevan, an English medical professional who founded the London firm Allen & Hanburys. Silvanus Otieno, a Nairobian criminal lawyer whose death brought controversy about Nairobi law.
- Popularity: Silvanus is rare worldwide, most used in Tanzania, and ranked 210th in Namibia.
Soleil
Soleil is the Old French word for “sun” that likely derived from “Sol,” the sun god in Roman mythology. It’s a variation of the Greek Solaris and the Spanish Solara but is most French as Soleil for little girls.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Sun
- Pronunciation: Sow-LEY
- Variations: Solae, Solay, Sole
- Namesakes: Soleil Moon Frye, an American actress best known for the NBC sitcom Punky Brewster.
- Popularity: Soleil is very uncommon worldwide, ranked in the top 5,000 names in France in 2014 and 996th in the U.S. in 2021.
Solstice
Solstice consists of the Latin “sol,” meaning “sun” and “stit,” from “sistere,” meaning “to stand still.” It refers to the time twice a year when the sun is at its highest and lowest point, making it a cool nature name all year.
- Origin: Latin, French
- Meaning: When the sun stands still
- Pronunciation: SOWL-Stas
- Popularity: Solstice is extremely rare worldwide, with only 16 babies named Solstice in the U.S. in 2021.
Svarog
In Slavic mythology, Svarog is the god of fire and blacksmithing. “Svar” means “quarrel” and “dispute.” Whether he mitigates fiery disputes on Earth or reigns over the sky, Svarog is the ultimate in powerful deities to inspire boys’ names.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Bright, clear
- Pronunciation: SVAAH-Rog
- Popularity: Svarog is extremely rare worldwide and used most in Russia.
Tablita
Tablita is a Hopi Native American name that is super mysterious. It has royal connotations by meaning “a woman wearing a tiara” but may appear as a unique version of Tabitha at first glance.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Tiara
- Pronunciation: TAH-Bliy-tah
- Variations: Tableata, Tableta, Tableyta, Tablitah
- Popularity: Tablita is extremely rare worldwide and is used mainly in Brazil.
Terrwyn
Terrwyn is an obscure Welsh name that’s only been used a handful of times. It connotes a brave warrior princess writing her own story just how she likes it.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Fair, brave
- Pronunciation: TEHR-Wihn
- Variations: Terrwen, Terrwenne, Terrwin, Terrwyne
- Popularity: Terrwyn is extremely rare worldwide, occurring three times in the U.S. in 2014.
Thalia
In Greek mythology, Thalia was the muse of comedy and one of the Three Graces. She embodied beauty and charm, just like the baby girl you’re expecting can grow up to do.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: To blossom, flourish
- Pronunciation: TAAL-iy-Ah
- Variations: Thaliah, Thalya, Talia
- Namesakes: Thalia Charalambous, a Cypriot long-distance runner who competed at the 2020 World Athletics Half Marathon Championships. Thalia Pellegrini, a British TV presenter for CBBC’s Newsround.
- Popularity: Thalia is uncommon worldwide and peaked at 363rd in the U.S. in 1993.
Tyr
In addition to meaning “god” in Norse, Tyr was the name of an Old Norse god who oversaw everything from law and justice to battle victory. Tyr was the god of war who could ensure your little boy is on his best behavior.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Deity
- Pronunciation: TIHYR
- Variations: Ty
- Popularity: Tyr is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it was highest ranked in 2015 when used 19 times.
Ukko
Ukko comes from the Finnish “ukkonen,” meaning “thunder,” but also means “old man.” Don’t be alarmed by the meaning since Ukko is the god of thunder and one of the most powerful in Finnish mythology.
- Origin: Finnish
- Meaning: Old man
- Pronunciation: UKK-ow
- Variations: Ucco, Ucko, Uko
- Namesakes: Ukko Hietala, a Finnish pentathlete who competed at the 1936 Summer Olympics. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, a Finnish ice hockey player for the Rochester Americans in the American Hockey League.
- Popularity: Ukko is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Finland, where it ranked 1,525th.
Varden
Varden originated as the French surname de Verdun, which came to England from Normandy. It’s a place name for a green spot in nature with plenty of grassy mounds for boys to play upon.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: From the green hills
- Pronunciation: VAAR-Dahn
- Variations: Vardon, Verden, Verdon
- Popularity: Varden is uncommon worldwide, most used in Georgia, and ranked 407th in Abkhazia.
Vesna
While Vesna is the literal word for “spring” in many Slavic cultures, it’s the name of the Slavic goddess of springtime. She is associated with youth and fertility for little girls who crave everything green.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Spring
- Pronunciation: VESS-Nah
- Variations: Vesnaa, Vesnah, Vezna
- Namesakes: Vesna Mišanović, a Bosnian chess player with the FIDE title of Woman Grandmaster. Vesna Škare-Ožbolt, the 10th Minister of Justice of Croatia from 2003 until 2006.
- Popularity: Vesna is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in countries of the former Yugoslavia, where it ranked between 10th and 67th in 2014.
Weaver
Weaver was originally a surname based on the Old English “wefan.” It was an occupational name for a person who weaved cloth for a living, but it’s an adorable way to name your little one in the modern world.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: To weave
- Pronunciation: WIYV-er
- Variations: Weever, Weiver
- Popularity: Weaver is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it was used 508 times between 1880 and 2018.
Wild
Wild comes from the English “wilde,” a nickname given to an undisciplined, unruly person. It was also a name for someone who lived in a “wild” wasteland, but it has connotations of freedom for little boys and girls who want to run free.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Uncultivated land
- Pronunciation: WY-LD
- Variations: Wyld, Wilde, Wylde
- Namesakes: Wild Bill Elliott (born Gordon Nance), an American film actor known for B Westerns like the Red Ryder film series.
- Popularity: Wild is very rare worldwide and is mostly used in Egypt, where it ranked 8,446th.
Wolf
Wolf originally comes from the Old German “wolfe,” referring to the powerful animal known as a hunter. It appeared as a German surname varying from Wulf to Wolfgang, but your little hunter can simply be known as Wolf.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Wolf (animal)
- Pronunciation: WUHLF
- Variations: Wolfe, Wolff, Woolf, Wulfe
- Namesakes: Wolf Blitzer, a German-American journalist for CNN. Wolf Henzler, a German Porsche factory racing driver and winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2010.
- Popularity: Wolf is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Germany, where it ranked 692nd.
Zorya
In Slavic mythology, Zorya is the name of two star goddesses, Zorya Utrennyaya and Zorya Vechernyaya. They ruled over the morning and evening stars, respectively, but your young Zorya can be the mistress of every star in the sky.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Dawn, star
- Pronunciation: ZAOR-Yaa
- Variations: Zora, Zarya, Zoria
- Popularity: Zorya is extremely rare worldwide, used most in Afghanistan, and ranked 2,700th in Armenia.
