Darkness has always held a special meaning in many cultures. It can represent mystery, the unknown, or even strength. Throughout history, names that signify darkness have been popular for their deep meanings and intriguing sounds. Whether inspired by nature, mythology, or other languages, these names offer something unique. They can evoke feelings of power, elegance, and depth.
Today, we will look at various names that mean darkness. From ancient origins to modern choices, you’ll learn about names for boys and girls that carry this important theme. Each name tells a story, reflecting the beauty and complexity of the idea of darkness in our world.
Names That Mean Darkness
1. Leila
Leila is a beautiful name of Arabic origin meaning ‘night’. It evokes the captivating allure of the night sky, representing beauty in darkness.
2. Kiera
Kiera is an Irish name meaning ‘dark-haired’ or ‘little dark one’. The name captures the essence of darkness in a charming and gentle manner.
3. Malone
Derived from Irish origins, Malone means ‘dark’ or ‘descendant of the dark one’. This name is unique, fitting for someone with a connection to their roots.
4. Ciaran
Ciaran is an Irish name that means ‘little dark one’. It has historical significance and offers a traditional yet mystical appeal.
5. Nox
Nox comes from Latin, meaning ‘night’. It hints at the intrigue and depth of the night, making it a mysterious choice.
6. Mira
Mira is a name of Slavic origin meaning ‘peace’ but can also mean ‘dark’ in some interpretations. It’s a lovely name for modern times.
7. Chione
Chione is a Greek name meaning ‘snow’ and relates to darkness by contrasting cold white with the shadowy essence of night.
8. Kaden
Kaden means ‘fighter’ or ‘spirit of battle’ but offers an undertone of mystery with its connection to darkness in the night.
9. Ashby
Ashby is an English name meaning ‘ash tree’ and can symbolize the dark woods. It evokes the beauty of nature intertwined with shadow.
10. Sidhe
Sidhe refers to the ‘fairy folk’ in mythology, often associated with darkness and mystery, creating an enchanting name.
11. Brahm
A name from Hindu mythology that can mean ‘darkness’, it’s linked to the concept of cosmic force and depth.
12. Darcia
Derived from the name dark, Darcia means ‘dark’ and adds a soft, feminine touch to the concept of shadow.
13. Darragh
Darragh is an Irish name meaning ‘oak tree’ but has underlying connotations of darkness through the woods.
14. Kallie
Kallie means ‘most beautiful’, yet can suggest a hidden beauty lurking in the shadows, highlighting the theme of darkness.
15. Ankou
Ankou is Breton for ‘death’ and symbolizes the darker aspects of life, making it an apt connection to evening and shadows.
16. Laila
A variation of Leila, also meaning ‘night’, it embodies the beauty that darkness can bring.
17. Tennyson
This English name captures a poetic essence with a nod to the haunting feelings that accompany the dark.
18. Morrigan
A name from Irish mythology associated with war and fate, embodying dark and powerful forces, perfect for a strong female character.
19. Nyx
Nyx is derived from Greek mythology, meaning ‘night’ and representing the personification of night herself. It is striking and captivating.
20. Zephyr
Zephyr is a name meaning ‘west wind’ but carries a mystical quality with the darker tones related to evening breezes.
21. Dusk
A name that literally means ‘the darker part of twilight’, Dusk captures the magical transition from day to night.
22. Bella
Bella means ‘beautiful’ but can also symbolize the serene beauty of the night, offering a unique perspective on darkness.
23. Nocturne
This name means ‘of the night’ and is often used in music to evoke feelings of tranquility connected to darkness.
24. Shadi
An Arabic name meaning ‘to rejoice’, Shadi can have undertones of finding joy in dark moments.
25. Vesper
A name that means ‘evening star’, Vesper embodies the beauty of darkness and the stars that shine within it.
26. Hespera
Hespera refers to the evening star, symbolizing a connection to twilight and the mystery of nightfall.
27. Lethia
Lethia has Greek origins meaning ‘oblivion’ or ‘forgetfulness’, bringing a dark allure to the name.
28. Dalfour
This Scottish name meaning ‘dark river’ suggests a connection to the deep waters and shadows of nature.
29. Kallikrates
An ancient Greek name meaning ‘beautiful strength’, reflecting the powerful aspects of darkness.
30. Shadow
A word name that speaks for itself, Shadow embodies the very essence of darkness and the layers that come with it.
31. Tamsin
Tamsin is a feminine name meaning ‘twin’ and offers a sense of duality often found in dark themes.
32. Zarek
Zarek is a unique name meaning ‘God protects’ and symbolizes the strength found in sheltering darkness.
33. Erlkonig
Erlkonig means ‘Elf King’ and is related to the darker aspects of folklore and fantasy, perfect for a character shrouded in mystery.
34. Curio
Curio implies curiosity but also brings up the mysterious, often dark aspects of seeking knowledge.
35. Caligo
A Latin name meaning ‘darkness’ or ‘fog’, emphasizing the elements of mystery and obscurity.
36. Sakari
Sakari means ‘sweet’ but can also mean ‘darkness’, a balancing act between light and shadow.
37. Umbra
Umbra is a Latin word for ‘shadow’, encapsulating the essence of darkness in its purest form.
38. Moros
Moros is a Greek name meaning ‘doom’ or ‘fate’, and it carries heavy, dark meanings symbolizing inevitable shadows.
39. Kenley
Kenley means ‘land of the warriors’ and can also suggest the darker aspects of battle.
40. Ronin
Ronin is a Japanese name meaning ‘wanderer’, often associated with the shadows and the lost.
41. Clio
This name means ‘glory’, but also brings to mind the dark sides of history, unveiling truths hidden in the shadows.
42. Erebus
Erebus is a primordial god in Greek mythology associated with darkness and shadow; his name directly reflects the themes of darkness.
43. Kuro
A Japanese name meaning ‘black’, Kuro directly connects with the meaning of darkness.
44. Archon
This name translates to ‘ruler’ and can imply dark powers or control over night, owing to its mythological roots.
45. Sable
Sable refers to the color black and symbolizes richness and depth, reflecting the mysterious quality of darkness.
46. Obsidian
This name comes from volcanic glass and embodies the reflective qualities of darkness, being both beautiful and sharp.
47. Calamity
Calamity speaks to dark times or misfortune, emphasizing the trouble that often lurks in shadows.
48. Maya
Maya means ‘illusion’ and alludes to the darker aspects of reality that lie beneath what we can see.
49. Shadowyn
Though a modern twist on ‘shadow’, it captures the essence of darkness in a fresh, playful way.
50. Tenebris
A Latin term translating to ‘darkness’ or ‘gloom’, Tenebris encapsulates the mysteries of the night.
51. Cole
Cole means ‘swarthy’ or ‘dark’, representing a strong connection to the names that symbolize darkness.
52. Ebon
A name that directly means ‘black’ or ‘dark’, Ebon is a bold choice with a clear connection to the theme.
53. Nacht
Nacht is a German word for ‘night’ and brings a European flavor while maintaining its dark connotation.
54. Jareth
Jareth is a name that reminds many of fantasy realms where darkness flourishes amid adventure.
55. Samir
This name means ‘entertaining companion’ but can also have an underlying tone of depth that relates to the dark theme.
56. Avalon
A name associated with the mythical island of magic, following darker lore of legends and mysteries.
57. Tansy
Tansy is a flower name but adds shades of darkness often associated with forgotten gardens.
58. Nerezza
This Italian name means ‘darkness’ and is rare yet beautiful, capturing the depth of shadowy beauty.
59. Eclipse
A name referring to the phenomenon of the moon obscuring the sun, symbolizing darkness overtaking light.
60. Sable
Similar in meaning to ‘black’ and ‘dark’, Sable is associated with elegance intertwined with mystery.
61. Noctis
Noctis means ‘night’ in Latin and evokes a sense of tranquility and the enchanting nature of darkness.
62. Callian
This name suggests a strength found in the depth of the night, representing bravery amid darkness.
63. Cimmerian
Derived from Greek mythology, Cimmerian references a location where darkness prevailed, embodying the depths of shadowy realms.
64. Takhoma
A Native American name for ‘dark waters’, perfectly encapsulating a relationship between shadows and nature.
65. Quelda
This unique name means ‘dark’ and adds a mystical sense of luxury, making it alluring.
66. Zephyra
The feminine variant of Zephyr, Zephyra captures the soft whispers of dark winds, showcasing gentleness within twilight.
67. Gloom
This straightforward word name speaks of the heavy weight of darkness, suited for dramatic undertones.
68. Damaris
Damaris means ‘gentle’ and can reflect the quiet, soft nature that often accompanies dark nights.
69. Jett
This modern name means ‘black stone’, directly denoting a powerful yet dark presence.
70. Adira
Adira means ‘strong’ and suggests the resilience found in the beauty of night and darkness.
71. Marnie
Marnie implies ‘sea’, but draws a beautiful connection to the darkness represented in deep waters.
72. Acheron
A name from Greek mythology representing the river of pain, it adds a haunting quality connected to darkness.
73. Lilith
Lilith, in lore, symbolizes dark femininity and empowerment, perfectly capturing a fierce aspect of darkness.
74. Gwendolen
This Welsh name means ‘white ring’, but has deeper connections with the darker aspects of ancient legends.
75. Vespera
A name that means ‘evening star’, presenting a softer side of darkness while still connected to night.
76. Kage
Kage is Japanese for ‘shadow’, a direct link embodying the very theme of names that mean darkness.
77. Thalassa
Thalassa refers to the sea, but has associations with dark waters and the mysteries found beneath its depths.
78. Fenrir
In Norse mythology, Fenrir is a wolf associated with darkness and destruction, offering a fierce connection to the name.
79. Rhiannon
A Welsh name meaning ‘great queen’, Rhiannon also hints at the dark, mystical enchantments surrounding ancient royalty.
80. Onyx
A name referring to a black gemstone representing strength intertwined with the essence of darkness.
81. Nocturne
This name means ‘night music’, bringing forth feelings of romantic darkness and tranquility.
82. Lela
A variation of Leila, embodying the soft beauty of night, making it appealing for modern-day naming.
83. Raven
This name refers to the black bird traditionally linked to mystery and the unknown, perfectly aligned with darkness.
84. Oletha
This unique name has roots meaning ‘darkness’, offering a rich character amidst powerful tones.
85. Nyra
Meaning ‘night’ or ‘radiance’, Nyra connects the beauty of darkness with the brightness that emerges from it.
86. Morrigan
This name is from Celtic mythology, embodying a powerful woman associated with darkness, fate, and war.
87. Ender
This name captures the allure of depth and mystery, often associated with the unknown, aligning perfectly with the theme of darkness.
88. Jaan
A Hindi name meaning ‘life’, it can also suggest the hidden aspects of growth found in dark places.
89. Darya
This name means ‘sea’ in Persian and hints at the deep dark waters that are often shrouded in mystery.
90. Cobalt
This name tips its hat to dark blue colors, suggesting the deeper tones of night in a unique way.
91. Umbra
A powerful name meaning ‘shadow’, striking the essence of the darkness that’s ever-present.
92. Scathach
A legendary warrior woman from Scottish mythology known for her dark magic skills, reflecting power and strength.
93. Ensorcelled
This name hints at enchantment through shadows and magical realms resembling dark fairytales.
94. Sajni
A Pakistani name meaning ‘beloved’ that can also imply the sweetness found in dark experiences.
95. Zana
This name means ‘God’s gracious gift’ but can carry hints of darkness in its lyrical sound.
96. Nyctalops
A name meaning ‘night owl’, connecting to the deeper aspects of darkness with a unique twist.
97. Yara
A name translating to ‘water lady’, it brings forth associations with dark, deep waters while alluding to mystery.
98. Jumbie
A name meaning a spirit or ghost, closely tied to folklore and themes of darkness and mystery.
99. Tenebris
This direct translation means ‘darkness’ in Latin, capturing the stark aspects of night.
100. Enola
Meaning ‘solitary’, Enola hints at the darker aspects of isolation and introspection linked with the nighttime.
101. Maelstrom
This name refers to a powerful whirlpool, symbolizing the chaotic and dark energies found in the depths.
102. Obsidian
A name that represents a dark volcanic glass, capturing the beauty of shadows and depth.
103. Sirin
In Slavic legends, Sirin is often associated with dark landscapes and enchanting beings of the night.
104. Tarquin
A historical name often associated with darkness and power due to its ancient Roman roots.
105. Arcana
This name suggests hidden knowledge, deep lore, and the profound mysteries embedded within darkness.
106. Astrid
This Scandinavian name meaning ‘divine strength’ can feel connected to the fierce resilience found in the dark.
107. Loki
In Norse mythology, Loki signifies cunning and chaos, often associated with darkness due to his transformative nature.
108. Tanzanite
A precious dark blue stone, Tanzanite hints at the beauty and luxury wrapped in dark elegance.
109. Neven
This name means ‘marigold’, often blooming in darker shades, blending beauty with the essence of darkness.
110. Nyala
This African origin name means ‘gift’ but suggests the symbolic beauty that can exist within darkness.
111. Varda
Meaning ‘rose’, this name creates a metaphor for hidden beauty found in shadowy settings.
112. Rona
A name meaning ‘song of joy’, but can carry darker undertones in its resonance.
113. Ashra
A name that implies darkness and depth in a poetic way, adding layers of elegance.
114. Triste
A name meaning ‘sad’, it hints at the emotional connections to darkness and shadows.
115. Selene
Meaning ‘moon’, this name captures the beauty that can be found amidst dark nights.
116. Neith
A name from Egyptian mythology that embodies the war goddess who had connections to the night and darkness.
117. Cimmeria
A name derived from the place in mythology known for being perpetually dark, evoking deep shadows and mystery.
118. Hecate
The Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft is known for her associations with darkness, bringing a powerful aspect to the name.
119. Astraea
This name means ‘star-maiden’ but carries dark mystery through its connection to the unknown of the night sky.
120. Yvaine
A name that suggests ‘evening star’, reflecting beauty and tranquillity within the darkness.
121. Elysia
Meaning ‘from Elysium’, it connects to mythological places that can symbolize dark realms of the afterlife.
122. Lanara
A name of unknown origin, Lanara implies softness in the dark, bestowing an air of mystery.
123. Melantha
This name means ‘dark flower’, capturing a vivid representation of beauty hidden within darkness.
124. Adira
A strong name meaning ‘noble’, it also brings to mind the mysterious strength linked to darkness.
125. Alaric
Meaning ‘ruler of all’, Alaric signifies a powerful darkness associated with leadership and gravity.
126. Zorion
While meaning ‘happiness’, Zorion can hint at finding light from the depths of dark experiences.
127. Lirael
A form of Lira, meaning ‘lyric’ which can relate to the deep, emotional tones often found in stories about darkness.
128. Keira
Another variant of Kiera, it also means ‘dark-haired’ and continues to reflect the theme of shadows and beauty.
129. Amaya
This name means ‘night rain’ and emphasizes the soothing yet dark nature of storms that can bring solace.
130. Moira
A name meaning ‘fate’ in Greek, relating to the inevitable darkness we all face through life.
131. Selene
Another name meaning ‘moon’, emphasizes how the moon shines bright amidst darkness, embodying tranquility.
132. Elektra
A name from Greek mythology associated with darkness and vengeance; it carries powerful connotations.
133. Ronan
A name meaning ‘little seal’, alluding to the dark waters in which it might swim.
134. Morticia
A name meaning ‘death’, associated with the dark themes in life and lore, perfectly suited for a strong character.
135. Talia
Meaning ‘dew from God’, it hints at the beauty that can be savored in the quiet of the dark.
136. Ombra
This name means ‘shadow’ in Italian, a direct representation of darkness and depth.
137. Ines
A name meaning ‘pure’, though often associated with night, contrasts beautifully with darkness.
138. Cyndra
A unique variant of the name Cinder, which symbolizes the remnants of fire now lost in the dark.
139. Kaira
Though meaning ‘peaceful place’, it reflects the calm that can be found in darkness.
140. Elara
In mythology, Elara is one of the moons of Jupiter, drawing connections to celestial bodies that twinkle amid nighttime shadows.
141. Sterling
A name meaning ‘pure’, which can represent the beauty that shines within darkness.
142. Nyassa
Meaning ‘gift from the moon’, linking the beauty of night to darkness in a more poetic way.
143. Thusitha
A name deeply rooted in culture that can suggest unique beauty found amid darker attributes.
144. Trystan
This name, often associated with dark legends, adds a layer of romantic mystery that fits perfectly with the theme of darkness.
145. Aquila
Meaning ‘eagle’, it reflects the majesty one can find in the great expanse of a dark night sky.
146. Jivan
This name means ‘life’, hinting at the opportunities that can arise from dark beginnings.
147. Devlin
This name suggests ‘unlucky’ or ‘unfortunate’, representing the shadows of fate often tied to darkness.
148. Zilpah
Zilpah means ‘drop’ and can signify the essence of darkness within tears and heartache.
149. Callum
This name means ‘dove’, symbolizing peace that emerges even amid dark skies.
150. Maeve
An Irish name that means ‘she who intoxicates’, associating with the allure that darkness can hold.
Final Thoughts
Names that mean darkness not only capture the captivating essence of shadows but also the depth and mystery associated with the unknown. From historical roots to modern interpretations, the names reflect a wide array of traits that embody beauty, strength, and elegance. Whether you favor traditional or unique options, names evoking darkness provide a rich tapestry of choices that can suit any personal taste.
As you explore these names, consider how they resonate with the themes of strength and elegance found within their meanings. For further inspiration, don’t hesitate to explore names like these names that mean darkness or delve into specific boy names that mean darkness.
Finding a name that resonates with you is an exciting journey, one that connects heritage with personal stories wrapped in a rich tapestry of meanings.