Mythology Names for Girls
Choose a mythical female name like Aurora or Cassandra. There are so many goddesses, nymphs, heroines, and other important feminine figures in myth. From famed goddesses like Isis to inspirational muses like Thalia, here are some mythological names that are perfect for any gal in your life: Alethea: Means “truth.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: Goddess of truth, honesty, and clarity. Andromeda: Means “ruler of men” or “to think of a man.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A princess who was saved by the hero Perseus. Aurora: Means “dawn” or “morning light." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: Goddess of dawn, new beginnings, and renewal. Calypso: Means “she who conceals” or “hidden." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: An enchanting nymph who detained Odysseus on his journey. Cassandra: Means “shining upon man” or “to excel man." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A prophetess who foresaw tragic events (i.e., the Trojan War). Guinevere: Means “white fairy” or “fair one." Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: The Queen of Camelot and wife to King Arthur. Morgana: Means “sea-born” or “bright sea.” Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: A sorceress with healing abilities and shape-shifting powers. Eos: Means “dawn." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The goddess of dawn, new beginnings, and hope. Gaia: Means "earth” or “land." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The personification of Earth and a representation of nurturing and life. Helen: Means "torch,” “light,” or “shining one." Origin: Greek myth. In Myth: A demigod who was renowned as the most beautiful woman in the world and abducted by Paris—an event which triggered the Trojan War. Inanna: Means "lady of the heavens." Origin: Sumerian mythology. In Myth: The goddess of love, war, and fertility. Isis: Means "throne." Origin: Egyptian mythology. In Myth: A goddess of protection and motherhood who had magic and healing powers. Kora: Means "maiden." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: Goddess of spring and renewal, and the Queen of the Underworld. Alternate name for Persephone. Luna: Means "moon." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: Goddess of the moon. Nerissa: Means "sea nymph." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: Name associated with the nereids, who were sea goddesses and protectors of sailors. Niamh: Means "bright” or “radiant." Origin: Irish mythology. In Myth: A demi-god princess associated with eternal youth, golden hair, and the sea. Nysa: Means "goal” or “beginning." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The name of the mythical mountain where Dionysus was raised. Penelope: Means "weaver." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The faithful and clever wife of Odysseus who patiently awaits her husband’s return. Rhea: Means "flowing." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A Titaness and the mother of the gods. Selene: Means "moon." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The goddess of the moon, femininity, and intuition. Sibil: Means "prophetess." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The name of multiple oracles who delivered prophecies from the gods. Thalassa: Means "the sea." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The goddess of the sea, depth, and emotion. Thalia: Means "to blossom” or “flourishing." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The Muse of comedy and joy. Yara: Means "lady of the waters." Origin: Brazilian mythology. In Myth: Water goddess. Zaria: Means "dawn” or “sunrise." Origin: Slavic mythology. In Myth: Goddess of beauty, elegance, and grace. Meet the wikiHow Experts Maria Souza is a comparative mythologist and the founder of Women & Mythology, guiding women on a journey to rediscover their true selves through the power of myths, fairy tales, and folktales. Mira Lazine is a journalist specializing in LGBTQ+ issues, politics, science, and gaming who is acclaimed for her investigative slant to the world of queer reporting.
Mythology Names for Boys
Explore male names from mythology, like Adonis or Arthur. Many mythological characters are praised for their strength, loyalty, and compassion—all of which are essential qualities for a modern man! If you want to give your baby boy a mythical name to live up to, try something like “shining” Castor, “blessed” Asher, or any of the options below: Adonis: Means "handsome” or “lord/master." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A handsome youth known for his beauty and allure who spent half of the year above ground and half below. Asher: Means "blessed” or “happy." Origin: The Hebrew Bible. In Myth: The eighth son of Jacob in the Hebrew Bible. Atlas: Means "enduring." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A Titan who was condemned to hold up the sky above the Earth. Castor: Means "to excel” or “to shine." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: One of two twin brothers known as the “Dioscuri,” who had excellent horsemanship and formed the Gemini constellation. Cyrus: Means "sun." Origin: Persian mythology. In Myth: A king known for his wisdom and justice. Hyperion: Means "he who goes above” or “watched from above." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A Titan associated with light. Narcissus: Means "daffodil." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A beautiful mortal man whose vanity got him turned into a daffodil. Orion: Means "the hunter." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A giant and huntsman who was turned into a constellation. Phaeton: Means "shining one” or “radiant." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The son of Helios who recklessly drove his father’s sun chariot. Sisyphus: Means "wise” or “goatskin." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A king who angered the gods with his trickery and deceit. He was punished to live in the Underworld and made to endlessly roll a boulder up a hill. Thanatos: Means "death." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The personification of death and the inevitability of mortality. Erebus: Means "darkness” or “deep shadow." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A primordial entity and one of the first beings to emerge from Chaos. Orpheus: Means "darkness” or “orphaned." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A musician and poet who tragically journeyed to the Underworld to retrieve his deceased wife. Typhon: Means "to smoke." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A monstrous giant who fathered many famous monsters and challenged the Olympian gods. Icarus: Means "follower” or “the one who reaches the sky." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The son of Daedalus who flew too close to the sun with wings made of wax and feathers. Phrixus: Means "standing on end” or “bristling." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A mortal prince who escaped his stepmother on a winged ram with a golden fleece. Damocles: Means "fame of the people” or “glory of the people." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A courtier who was granted the taste of a king’s life, but found a sword suspended above his head by just a single thread. Arthur: Means "bear." Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: A legendary king who owned the sword Excalibur, ruled over Camelot, and created the Knights of the Round Table. Lancelot: Means "servant” or “land." Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: A knight of the Round Table who was particularly strong and loyal (until his affair with King Arthur’s wife, Queen Guinevere). Philoctetes: Means "one who acquires friends." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A renowned archer who killed Paris during the Trojan War. Patroclus: Means "glory of the father." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The close companion and friend of the hero Achilles. Metztli: Means "moon." Origin: Aztec mythology. In Myth: A moon deity who represents fertility, time, and the night sky. Percival: Means "pierce the valley." Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: A knight of the Round Table who went on a quest for the Holy Grail.
Gender-Neutral Mythology Names
Opt for a gender-neutral name, like Ila or Zephyr, that’d work for anyone. While mythology is certainly chock-full of gods and goddesses, there are plenty of deities, entities, and other important figures with gender-neutral names. Here are some monikers that’d perfectly fit any girl, boy, or non-binary person: Aether: Means "pure air,” “clear sky,” or “upper sky." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The personification of the upper sky, light, and atmosphere. Cygnus: Means "swan." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A friend of Phaeton who was transformed into a swan while grieving his friend’s death. Karma: Means "action,” “deed,” or “fate/destiny." Origin: Hindu and Buddhist philosophies. In Myth: A concept representing action and consequence. Elysium: Means "a state of bliss or delight." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The mythical concept of paradise, afterlife, and bliss. Nemo: Means "no one." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: An alias used by Odysseus to deceive the Cyclops Polyphemus. Phoenix: Means "dark red” or “crimson." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A mythical bird that is reborn and rises from its own ashes. Sable: Means “black." Origin: Hindu mythology. In Myth: The name of a powerful sword used by Yama, the god of death, that could overshadow even the sun. Zephyr: Means "west wind." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: God of the west wind. Minos: Means "king." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A king of Crete who ordered the construction of the Labyrinth, which housed the Minotaur. Evander: Means "good man” or “strong man." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A mortal man who founded a city on the site that would later become Rome. Leander: Means "man-lion." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A young man who fell in love with a priestess but tragically died while trying to swim across the Hellespont to meet her. Sjöfn: Means "love" or “to make peaceful.” Origin: Norse mythology. In Myth: A goddess of love, affection, and harmony within relationships. Aster: Means "star." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A flower associated with the goddess Astraea, the goddess of justice, innocence, and purity. Ceres: Means "with grain." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: The goddess of agriculture, grain crops, fertility, and maternal relationships. Koda: Means "friend” or “ally." Origin: Japanese mythology. In Myth: Associated with “kodama,” or forest spirits. Styx: Means "shuddering” or “hateful." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The river that separates the world of the living from the Underworld. Daedalus: Means "craftsman," “skilled worker,” or “cunning worker.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A legendary inventor and architect who built the Labyrinth for the Minotaur and wings for his son, Icarus. Ila: Means "earth” or “speech" Origin: Hindu mythology. In Myth: A deity known for gender fluidity and an association with the Earth, speech, and divine essence. Ishtar: Means "leading one” or “chief." Origin: Mesopotamian mythology. In Myth: A goddess of love, war, and fertility. Hapi: Means "the Nile." Origin: Egyptian mythology. In Myth: The god of the Nile River and its annual flooding. Pax: Means "peace." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: Goddess of peace. Nyx: Means "night." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: Goddess of night.
Names from Greek Mythology
Bring a name like Pandora or Charon down from Mount Olympus. Greek mythology is arguably the most famous and well-known set of stories in the Western world. You’ve probably already heard of major gods and goddesses like Artemis or Zeus, but what about the more minor figures that circle their orbit? Check out this list to read all about them: Hestia: Means "hearth” or “fireplace." In Myth: “The goddess of the hearth and the home—or the fire of the home,” Souza explains. “She’s gentle, not vengeful, and an ally to humans.” Aphrodite: Means “foam-risen” or “born of the sea foam.” In Myth: Goddess of love, beauty, passion, and desire. Artemis: Means "safe,” “unharmed,” or “butcher." In Myth: Goddess of the hunt and the moon. Hera: Means "protectress." In Myth: Goddess of marriage, family, childbirth, and “Zeus’ main wife,” says Souza, “who actually persecutes a lot of the other women that Zeus has relationships with.” Hecate: Means "far away” or “worker from afar." In Myth: Goddess of magic, witchcraft, mystery, and transformation. Nemesis: Means "balancer” or “distributer of justice." In Myth: Goddess of retribution and vengeance. Ares: Means "god of war." In Myth: God of war. Zeus: Means "sky” or “shine." In Myth: King of the gods and the god of thunder and the sky. Demeter: Means "earth mother” or “barley-mother." In Myth: “The goddess of agriculture and fertility, and the mother of Persephone,” describes Souza. Urania: Means "heavenly." In Myth: Muse of astronomy. Xanthe: Means "golden” or “yellow." In Myth: The goddess of the sea. Psyche: Means "soul” or “mind." In Myth: “She started out as a mortal but was described as so beautiful…that she caught the attention of Aphrodite’s son, Eros,” tells Souza. “They fall in love…[and] it’s through this journey that Psyche becomes a goddess” of the human soul. Apollo: Means "to destroy” or “assembly." In Myth: The god of light, music, poetry, healing, prophecy, and archery. Charon: Means "fierce brightness” or “keen gaze." In Myth: The ferryman of Hades who guided souls to the Underworld. Athena: The meaning is unknown. In Myth: “The goddess of wisdom…warfare, and strategy,” explains Souza. “In many ways, she’s a symbol for intellect and women’s intellectual power.” Morpheus: Means "shaper of dreams” or “form." In Myth: The god of dreams, sleep, and imagination. Echo: Means "reflected sound” or “resonance." In Myth: A nymph who could only repeat what others said. Metis: Means "wisdom,” “skill,” or “craft." In Myth: “A wife of Zeus,” says Souza, as well as a symbol of repressed femininity. She was also a Titan goddess of wisdom, cleverness, and planning. Eros: Means "love” or “desire." In Myth: The god of love and desire. The Greek equivalent of Cupid. Daphne: Means "laurel” or “laurel tree." In Myth: A nymph who was transformed into a laurel tree, which represents victory and honor. Poseidon: Means "husband of the earth." In Myth: The Greek “sea god” who has violent tendencies, as Souza explains it. He also uses symbols like “tridents, horses, and storms.” Persephone: Means "bringer of destruction” or “she who brings the light." In Myth: Goddess of spring and Queen of the Underworld. Tyche: Means "fortune” or “luck." In Myth: Goddess of fortune and prosperity. Pandora: Means "all-gifted” or “all-giving." In Myth: The first human woman of Greek myth, who opened a box full of all the evils and suffering of the world (with only “hope” remaining inside). Hermes: Means "messenger." In Myth: Messenger god of communication and cunning. Cronus: Means "to rule” or “to cut." In Myth: The leader of the Titans and father of the Twelve Olympians. Circe: Means "falcon” or “circle." In Myth: A powerful sorceress and goddess who turned Odysseus’s men into swine before helping the hero on his journey. Nike: Means "victory." In Myth: The winged goddess of victory.
Names from Roman Mythology
Resurrect the Roman Empire with a name like Minerva or Vulcan. As with Greek mythology, Roman myths and their mythic figures are pretty well known—the planets are named after them, for god’s sake (no pun intended). Whether you want a “youthful” name like Juno or a “lucky” one like Fortuna, Roman myth is rich with beautiful names: Neptune: Means "god of the sea." In Myth: “The Roman God of the Sea,” according to Souza. He’s related more to “fresh water” and has symbols like the “trident, horses, and storms.” Diana: Means "divine,” “heavenly,” or “goddess." In Myth: The goddess of the hunt, the moon, wildlife, and nature. Juno: Means "young” or “youthful." In Myth: The goddess of marriage and childbirth. Minerva: Means "wisdom,” “intellect,” or “mind." In Myth: The goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. Pluto: Means "wealthy one." In Myth: The god of the Underworld. Mars: Means "god of war." In Myth: The god of war. Jupiter: Means "Father Zeus” or “sky father." In Myth: King of the gods. Equivalent to Zeus in Greek myth. Bacchus: Means "to shout." In Myth: The god of wine, revelry, and celebration. Venus: Means "love." In Myth: The goddess of love and beauty. Proserpina: Means "to emerge." In Myth: The goddess of spring and the Queen of the Underworld. Pomona: Means "fruit” or “fruit tree." In Myth: The goddess of fruit trees and gardens. Vesta: Means "hearth” or “fireside." In Myth: The goddess of the hearth, home, and family. Janus: Means "gateway,” “divine gate,” or “gate to heaven." In Myth: Two-faced god of beginnings and transitions. Vulcan: Means "to flash." In Myth: The god of fire and craftsmanship. Cybele: Means "hair” or “stone." In Myth: A goddess of nature, fertility, mountains, wild animals, and motherhood. Dido: Means "wanderer" or “virgin.” In Myth: A legendary queen of Carthage who tragically falls in love with Aeneas before taking her own life. Fortuna: Means "good fate” or “luck." In Myth: The goddess of fortune, chance, and fate. Maia: Means "mother" or “nurse.” In Myth: The goddess of spring and growth. Silvia: Means "forest” or “woods." In Myth: Derived from Rhea Silvia, the mother of Romulus and Remus (the founders of Rome). Giove: Means "Jupiter." In Myth: The Italian word for Jupiter, the Roman king of the gods. Auster: Means "south wind." In Myth: The god of the south wind. Ulysses: Means "wrathful” or “full of anger." In Myth: The Roman name for Odysseus, a cunning hero who fought in the Trojan war and sailed home—encountering many obstacles along the way. Liber: Means "freedom." In Myth: A god of wine, fertility, and freedom. Volturnus: Means "to roll." In Myth: A river god associated with the Tiber River.
Names from Egyptian Mythology
Harken back to the era of the Pharaohs with a name like Bes or Amun. Egyptian mythology is full of fascinating gods, goddesses, and deities with mystical powers, animal heads, and intriguing stories. Plus, their names are beautifully unique with powerful meanings behind them—check out a sample below: Horus: Means "the distant one” or “he who is above." In Myth: God of the sky, protection, and kingship. Ra: Means "sun” or “day." In Myth: God of the sun. Osiris: Means "mighty,” or “the eye." In Myth: God of the afterlife, resurrection, and the Underworld. Isis: Means "throne." In Myth: A goddess of protection and motherhood who had magic and healing powers. Seth: Means "appointed." In Myth: God of storms, the desert, and conflict. Shu: Means "emptiness” or “he who rises up." In Myth: God of air who separates the earth and sky. Amun: Means "the hidden one." In Myth: God of the sun and air. Anubis: Means "royal child” or “decay." In Myth: God of mummification and the afterlife. Aten: Means "sun disk” or “orb." In Myth: God of the sun and the solar disk. Bastet: Means "she of the ointment jar." In Myth: Goddess of protection, home, and cats. Bes: Means "brings joy." In Myth: Deity who protects households, mothers, and children. Geb: Means "earth." In Myth: God of the Earth. Hathor: Means "House of Horus." In Myth: Goddess of love, beauty, music, dance, and motherhood. Khepri: Means "to come into existence" or “to become.” In Myth: The god who pushed the sun across the sky each day. Khonsu: Means "traveler." In Myth: God of the moon, time, healing, and fertility. Ma’at: Means "truth" and “justice.” In Myth: Goddess of truth, justice, order, balance, harmony, law, morality, and the cosmic order. Montu: Means "nomad." In Myth: God of war. Neith: Means "water." In Myth: Goddess of water, war, wisdom, weaving, and hunting. Nun: Means "primeval waters." In Myth: God of the primordial waters from which the universe was created. Nut: Means "water." In Myth: Goddess of the sky. Seshat: Means "female scribe." In Myth: Goddess of writing, knowledge, and measurement. Sobek: Means "he who unites." In Myth: Crocodile god of the Nile River, fertility, and the pharaoh’s power. Tawaret: Means "the great one." In Myth: Goddess of fertility, childbirth, and protection. Thoth: Means "He who is like the Ibis." In Myth: God of wisdom, writing, magic, and the moon.
Names from Norse Mythology
Pick a Norse name as beautiful as the fjords—like Elli or Tyr. With followers across Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland, all types of early Scandinavian people (including Vikings!) worshipped the Norse gods. While you might already know Loki and Thor from a certain superhero franchise, there are so many more mythical Norse figures with intriguing names and stories: Freya: Means "lady” or “noblewoman." In Myth: “The goddess of love,” says Souza, “as well as fertility and battle. She’s similar to Aphrodite, but has more warrior, battle-like energy.” Frigg: Means "beloved." In Myth: “Odin’s wife and the protector of families, the home, and domestic life…She also has a bit of premonition and is able to see the fate of those around her,” explains Souza. Sif: Means "related by marriage” or “kinship." In Myth: Goddess of the earth, fertility, and growth. Valkyrie: Means "chooser of the slain." In Myth: A warrior maiden who decides who lives or dies in battles. Baldur: Means "brave” or “bold." In Myth: A god associated with beauty and light whose death triggered the Norse apocalypse (Ragnarok). Loki: Means "flame,” fire,” or “to end." In Myth: A trickster god known for cunning, mischief, and chaos. Odin: Means "frenzy,” “rage,” or “inspiration.” In Myth: The chief god, associated with wisdom, war, poetry, death, magic, and knowledge. Thor: Means "thunder." In Myth: The god of thunder. Sága: Means "story." In Myth: The goddess of history, storytelling, and prophecy. Nanna: Means "mother” or “brave one." In Myth: The wife of Baldur and the mother of Forseti, the god of justice. Elli: Means "old age." In Myth: The personification of old age. Heimdall: Means "the one who lights the house” or “shining one." In Myth: The guardian of the gods. Tyr: Means "god” or “deity." In Myth: The god of law, justice, heroic glory, and war. Freyr: Means "lord." In Myth: The god of fertility, prosperity, peace, good weather, and harvests. Bragi: Means "poetry." In Myth: The god of poetry and eloquence. Ullr: Means "glory” or “splendor." In Myth: God of winter, archery, hunting, and skiing. Skadi: Means "shadow” or “harm." In Myth: A giantess goddess associated with winter, hunting, and the mountains. Jord: Means "earth” or “soil." In Myth: A giantess goddess who personifies the Earth itself. Vali: Means "to choose." In Myth: A god of revenge and retribution who was born to avenge the death of Baldur. Eir: Means "protection," “help,” or “mercy.” In Myth: A goddess or valkyrie associated with healing and medical skill. Hodr: Means "war” or “battle." In Myth: The blind god of darkness and winter. Sol: Means "sun." In Myth: The personification of the sun. Mani: Means "moon." In Myth: The personification of the moon. Hel: Means "hidden place." In Myth: Goddess of the underworld and the realm of the dead. Sigyn: Means "victorious friend." In Myth: The wife of Loki and a symbol of unwavering marital fidelity.
Names from Japanese Mythology
Channel Shinto and Buddhist traditions with names like Ebisu and Inari. Japanese mythology has a complex history that blends Shinto and Buddhist traditions together. As a result, the stories of these cultures are rich with detailed creation myths, dynamic deities, and fascinating folklore. Here are some popular figures from those stories: Amaterasu: Means "shining in heaven." In Myth: Sun goddess. Ame-no-Uzume: Means "heavingly alarming female." In Myth: Goddess of the dawn, mirth, and revelry. Benzaiten: Means "dispenser of heavenly wisdom." In Myth: Goddess of music, arts, wisdom, and wealth. Bishamonten: Means "heaven” or “God." In Myth: A Buddhist deity and protector of shrines and holy places. Daikokuten: Means "great black deity." In Myth: A deity of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. Ebisu: Means "foreigner." In Myth: God of fishermen and good fortune. Fujin: Means "wind god." In Myth: God of wind, storms, and typhoons. Fukurokuju: Means "god of happiness, wealth, and longevity." In Myth: God of wisdom. Hoderi: Means "fire shine." In Myth: God of fishing and the sea’s bounty. Hotei: Means "cloth sack." In Myth: The Laughing Buddha and a deity associated with fortune, happiness, and contentment. Inari: Means "rice-bearer." In Myth: Deity of fertility, rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Izanagi: Means "He who invites." In Myth: Creator god who formed the Japanese archipelago and several other gods. Jizo: Means "earth womb." In Myth: A protector of children, expectant mothers, and women in labor. Jurojin: Means "Old Man of Longevity." In Myth: God of long life and good fortune. Kagutsuchi: Means "shining force." In Myth: God of fire. Kannon: Means "observing the sounds of the world." In Myth: God of compassion. Kichijoten: Means "heavenly good luck and fortunes." In Myth: Goddess of happiness, beauty, and prosperity. Raijin: Means "thunder god." In Myth: God of thunder, lightning, and storms. Susanoo: Means "wild" and “impetuous male.” In Myth: God of the sea and storms. Tsukuyomi: Means "moon gazer." In Myth: God of the moon. Kami: Means "god,” “deity,” or “spirit." In Myth: The sacred beings worshipped in the Shinto religion. Momotaro: Means "peach boy." In Myth: A popular hero who’s born from a peach and grows up to defeat ogres that are terrorizing nearby villages. Kintaro: Means "golden boy." In Myth: A popular child hero who has superhuman strength, befriends animals, and fights demons.
Names from Hindu Mythology
Use the many gods of Hinduism—from Vishnu to Sri—as your name inspo. Hindu mythology has been and continues to be a central part of the Hindu religion. Many of the beliefs and customs within Hinduism trace back to its mythic stories—including the worship of important gods like Vishnu and Shiva. Below, you’ll find a combination of major and minor Hindu deities to name someone (or something) after: Kali: Means "black,” “time,” or “death." In Myth: Goddess of destruction, rebirth, transformation, and empowerment. Vishnu: Means "the pervader." In Myth: The Preserver and Protector of the Universe, who maintains cosmic order. Shiva: Means "the benevolent." In Myth: The Destroyer and Transformer, who represents cosmic destruction and regeneration. Brahma: Means "expansion." In Myth: The Creator God who created the universe. Krishna: Means "dark" or “black.” In Myth: God of compassion, protection, tenderness, and love. Ganesha: Means "lord of the hosts." In Myth: God of beginnings and wisdom, and the remover of obstacles. Rama: Means “pleasant." In Myth: God of virtue and dharma. Indra: Means "possessor of power." In Myth: King of the Gods and a god of thunder, rain, and war. Lakshmi: Means "auspiciouness." In Myth: Goddess of wealth, fortune, and beauty. Sri: Means "radiance." In Myth: Goddess of prosperity. Arjuna: Means "Bright” or “pure." In Myth: Heroic warrior prince who was devoted to Krishna. Hanuman: Means "disfigured jaw." In Myth: A monkey god who represents strength, devotion, and courage. Agni: Means "fire." In Myth: God of fire and the messenger of the gods. Aditi: Means "limitless." In Myth: The mother of the gods and the goddess of the sky. Durga: Means "Invincible." In Myth: Warrior goddess who destroys evil. Indrani: Means "Queen of Indra." In Myth: Goddess of jealousy and storms, and the wife of Indra. Manasa: Means "Of the mind." In Myth: A snake goddess who protects mortals from snakebites. Rati: Means "delight." In Myth: Goddess of love and sexual desire. Shashti: Means "sixth." In Myth: Goddess of childbirth and the protector of children. Yama: Means "restrainer” or “twin." In Myth: God of death and the Underworld. Mahadevi: Means "great goddess." In Myth: The supreme mother goddess and the mother of all goddesses. Ganga: Means "swiftly moving." In Myth: The goddess of the Ganges River and a purifier of sins. Bhramari: Means "buzzing one." In Myth: A goddess who destroys demons by using bees as weapons. Pushan: Means "nourisher." In Myth: God of roads, travel, and guidance. Parvati: Means "daughter of the mountain." In Myth: Wife of Shiva and the goddess of love, devotion, and motherhood.
Names from Celtic Mythology
Soar over the hills of Scotland and Ireland with names like Finn and Lir. Ancient Celts lived across a broad swath of Europe, but they were mostly concentrated in (and associated with) the British Isles, including Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. With abundant stories of mischievous fairies, mysterious creatures, and Highland heroes, Celtic mythology leaves us with plenty of names to choose from: Brigid: Means "exalted one” or “high goddess." In Myth: Goddess of fire, fertility, and poetry. Morrigan: Means "phantom queen” or “great queen." In Myth: Goddess of war and fate. Finn: Means "fair” or “white." In Myth: A hero and warrior who led the Fianna. Lugh: Means "light." In Myth: God of skills, crafts, and war. Danu: Means "flowing” or “river." In Myth: A mother goddess who oversees the Tuatha Dé Danann. Taranis: Means "thunderer." In Myth: God of thunder. Cernunnos: Means "horned one." In Myth: God of animals, fertility, and nature. Dagda: Means "the good god." In Myth: God of fertility, agriculture, and strength. Rhiannon: Means "great queen." In Myth: Goddess of horses and sovereignty. Macha: Means "plain” or “field." In Myth: Goddess of war, sovereignty, and fertility. Eriu: Means "land” or “earth." In Myth: Goddess of Ireland. Aine: Means "radiance." In Myth: Goddess of love and summer. Aengus: Means "true vigor." In Myth: God of love, youth, and poetry. Arawn: Means "unrestrained." In Myth: God of the Otherworld and death. Epona: Means "divine horse." In Myth: Goddess of horses and fertility. Cerridwen: Means "crooked woman” or “poetry.” In Myth: Goddess of transformation, wisdom, and inspiration. Neit: Means "fighting” or “passion." In Myth: God of war. Lir: Means "sea." In Myth: God of the sea. Rosmerta: Means "great provider." In Myth: Goddess of abundance and fertility. Onuava: Means "correctness." In Myth: Goddess of fertility and rebirth. Damona: Means "divine cow." In Myth: Goddess of healing and sacred waters. Damara: Means "gentle." In Myth: Goddess of fertility and children. Elatha: Means "art” or “craft." In Myth: God of beauty and light. Áine: Means "radiance." In Myth: Goddess of love, summer, and wealth. Cailleach: Means "veiled one” or “old woman." In Myth: Goddess of winter and storms.
Mythology Monster Names
Choose a name like Kappa to give a misunderstood monster a second chance. There are many monsters from world mythologies that remain significant to this day, with some of the most famous including Medusa, the Minotaur, pixies, and selkies. However, not all of these monsters are, well, monsters! Some of them are mischievous, playful, or just plain misunderstood—and you can read about each one of them with their names, origins, and mythic tales written below: Medusa: Means "guardian” or “protectress." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: “A woman with snakes for hair who turns people into stone,” is the basic tale, explains Souza. However, Medusa was actually a “beautiful mortal priestess” who was assaulted by Poseidon and cursed by Athena. Ammit: Means "devourer” or “devourer of the dead." Origin: Egyptian mythology. In Myth: A demon with a crocodile head, lion body, and hippo legs who devours the hearts of the unworthy in the afterlife. Minotaur: Means "bull of Minos." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A half-man, half-bull who was trapped in the Labyrinth and killed by Theseus. Tanuki: Means "raccoon dog." Origin: Japanese mythology. In Myth: A shapeshifting trickster who pulls pranks and has magic abilities. Kitsune: Means "fox." Origin: Japanese mythology. In Myth: A magical, multi-tailed fox spirit that can shapeshift. Kappa: Means "river child." Origin: Japanese mythology. In Myth: A water-dwelling creature that holds a dish of magical water atop its head. Tengu: Means "heavenly dog." Origin: Japanese mythology. In Myth: Winged spirits who can be protectors, tricksters, or warriors. Cerberus: Means "spotted." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A three-headed dog that guards the entrance to the Underworld. Selkie: Means "seal." Origin: Scottish, Irish, and Norse mythologies. In Myth: A half-woman, half-seal creature that can shed or put on its skin to become one or the other. Hydra: Means "water serpent." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A many-headed serpent that grows back two heads for every one that’s cut off. Chimera: Means "she-goat." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A fire-breathing monster with a lion head, goat body, and serpent tail. Pixie: Means "tiny spirit." Origin: Celtic mythology. In Myth: A small and playful fairy-like being. Harpy: Means "snatcher." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A winged female monster that torments wrongdoers. Wendigo: Means "evil spirit that devours mankind." Origin: Algonquian (Native American) mythology. In Myth: A cannibalistic spirit with an insatiable desire for human flesh. Kelpie: Means "heifer” or “colt." Origin: “Scottish mythology,” according to Souza. In Myth: “A shape-shifting creature that’s similar to a horse,” defines Souza. “They’re often interpreted as a force that attracts us into the water and leads to death.” Nessie: Derives from Loch Ness, which means “roaring lake.” Origin: Scottish folklore. In Myth: A large, serpent-like creature that’s said to live in Scotland’s Loch Ness. Scylla: Means "she who rends" or “tearer.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A sea monster with multiple heads who’d devour passing sailors. Sphinx: Means "strangler." Origin: Egyptian and Greek mythology. In Myth: A riddle-asking creature with a lion's body and a human head. Echidna: Means "viper" or “she-snake.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A half-woman and half-snake monster.
Mythology Hero Names
Pay homage to the great heroes of lore and legend, from Sigurd to Atalanta. “A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.” That quote isn’t from Greek myth, but it is from Disney’s Hercules…which we think is close enough! And it reflects a sentiment that’s true for all the mythical, legendary heroes we’ve named below—they all show traits of loyalty, determination, and bravery when it comes to those they love: Prometheus: Means "forethought." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: “He gives fire to the humans,” explains Souza. “And, because he gives fire to the humans, the gods” take revenge on him. Achilles: Means "pain" or “lipless.” Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: “A fierce warrior who…sought to make himself invincible during the [Trojan War]. He bathed in the River Styx,” explains Lazine, “which granted invincibility. But, he had to leave a certain part of his body vulnerable,” which we now call the “Achilles heel.” Aeneas: Means "praise” or “to be praised." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A hero who journeyed from Troy to Italy to found Rome. Galahad: Means "pure,” “noble,” and “selfless." Origin: Arthurian (British) legend. In Myth: A knight of the Round Table known for purity and virtue. Hector: Means "holding fast” or “steadfast." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A brave Trojan prince who was killed by Achilles during the Trojan War. Hercules: Means "glory of Hera." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: A legendary hero known for otherworldly strength and heroic deeds. Heracles: Means "glory of Hera." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A legendary hero known for otherworldly strength and heroic deeds. Alternate name for Hercules. Perseus: Means "destroyer." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A demi-god who defeated Medusa and rescued the princess Andromeda. Jason: Means "healer." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A hero who led the Argonauts on a quest for the Golden Fleece. Odysseus: Means "to be angry,” “to hate,” or “to be grieved." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A cunning and resilient hero who helped the Greeks win the Trojan War, then went on a long and adventure-filled journey home to Ithaca. Theseus: Means "to set” or “to place." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A hero who famously killed the Minotaur and founded the democratic city of Athens. Bellerophon: Means "slayer of Bellerus." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A hero who tamed Pegasus and killed the Chimera. Agamemnon: Means "steadfast." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The king of Mycenae and the leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War. Menelaus: Means "strength of the people." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The King of Sparta and the husband of Helen before she was abducted by Paris (an event which kick-started the Trojan War). Ganymede: Means "joyful." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A beautiful mortal boy whom Zeus abducted to serve as a cupbearer to the gods. Iphigenia: Means "born to strength." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: The daughter of Agamemnon and the princess of Mycenae who was sacrificed by her father in order to appease Artemis before the Trojan War. Atalanta: Means "balanced." Origin: Greek mythology. In Myth: A swift-footed huntress and warrior who famously challenged her suitors to a footrace. Sigurd: Means "guardian of victory." Origin: Norse mythology. In Myth: A Norse hero who could talk to birds and slayed a dragon in the Volsunga Saga. Siegfried: Means "peace" and “victory.” Origin: Norse mythology. In Myth: A dragon-slaying hero who bathed in blood in order to become invincible. Alternative name for Sigurd. Hagbard: Means "high beard” or “warrior with a tall helmet." Origin: Norse mythology. In Myth: The lover of Signy, with whom he had a tragic romance before being executed for defying her father. Helgi: Means "holy." Origin: Norse mythology. In Myth: A hero and the reincarnated lover of Sigrun, a Valkyrie. Fionn: Means "fair” or “white." Origin: Celtic mythology. In Myth: The wise and heroic leader of the Fianna. Deirdre: Means "woman” or “sorrowful." Origin: Celtic mythology. In Myth: A tragic heroine whose beauty was prophesied to lead to Ulster’s destruction. Maui: Means "lift” or “move." Origin: Polynesian mythology. In Myth: A trickster demigod who could slow the sun, raise islands, and give fire to humans. Camilla: Means "attendant." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: A maiden warrior who fought against the Trojans during the war between Aeneas and Turnus. Cornelia: Means "horn." Origin: Roman mythology. In Myth: The mother of the Gracchi brothers, who was considered to be the ideal version of Roman womanhood and motherhood.
More Names from Folklore & Myth
Looking for more mystical, mythical, magical names? We’ve got you covered! If you still haven’t found the perfect mythological name for you (or you’re just interested in learning more about the characters attached to them), check out these articles full of folkloric and fable-inspired names: 200+ Witchy Names for Boys, Girls, Pets, and Businesses 220+ Magical Fairy Names for Girls & Boys (With Meanings) 220+ Unique Merman Names: Mythical & Ocean-Inspired Ideas 120+ Mermaid Names & Their Meanings: The Ultimate List 47 Minor Greek Goddesses Whose Stories You Should Know 53 Roman Goddess Names and Their Meanings
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