Last names often carry rich meanings, telling stories about our heritage and the places we come from. Some last names have ties to nature, reflecting the beauty and power of elements like water. Names that mean “sea” can evoke feelings of adventure and mystery, making them special to many families.
Today, we will look at some interesting last names that mean sea. These names may have different origins but all share a connection to the vast ocean. Whether you are curious about your own last name or just interested in unique names, these sea-related surnames are sure to captivate you.
Last Names That Mean Sea
1. Marsh
The soft and mellifluous name Marsh means ‘a low-lying land flooded at high tide or in wet seasons’. This happens to be a cooler alternative to Marshall.
2. Morrissey
Steven Patrick Morrissey, the famous English songwriter and crooner, is solely responsible for bringing fame to this name. And with its meaning ‘choice of the sea’, this Irish name makes a perfect water name too.
3. Murphy
Murphy, the English version of the Gaelic name Murchadh, means ‘sea warrior’. If you want, you can even consider Murchadh. At least you will be assured that your child’s name is not common.
4. Murray
If you’re a “Bachelorette” fan, Murray is the name of one of the suitors of Andi Dorfman’s. This Irish name meaning ‘lord of the sea’, falls into the category of hot last names as surnames too.
5. Delmar
The name Delmar is Spanish in origin and means ‘of the sea’. With its rolling sound, it conjures images of waves crashing against the shore.
6. Morley
This English surname means ‘from the marshy land by the sea’, perfect for a family that has history near coastal areas.
7. Neptune
Neptune, named after the Roman god of the sea, holds great significance for those with ties to water and maritime traditions.
8. Olwen
This Welsh name translates to ‘white footprint’, which can signify the sea foam left on the shore when waves retreat.
9. O’Reilly
The name O’Reilly, stemming from Ireland, can mean ‘descendant of Raghallach’, where ‘Ragh’ relates to sea or ocean in some interpretations.
10. Searl
Searl is derived from Old English and can mean ‘sea’ or ‘of the sea’, making it a lovely choice for ocean enthusiasts.
11. Calder
This Scottish surname translates to ‘rocky water or stream’, echoing the natural beauty often found by the sea.
12. Delaunay
Delaunay is a French surname potentially meaning ‘by the sea’. This name holds a certain elegance that links to coastal living.
13. Hali
A Greek origin name meaning ‘the sea’, Hali is not only rare but also beautiful, perfect for those enamored with ocean life.
14. Rhea
In mythology, Rhea is the mother of the gods, and her name can also mean ‘flowing’, reflecting bodies of water like the sea.
15. Thalassa
A Greek name meaning ‘the sea’, Thalassa embodies the essence and majesty of oceanic wonders.
16. Loch
This Scottish surname means ‘lake’ or ‘water’. It’s fitting for those who live near both lakes and seas.
17. Mariner
Mariner directly refers to someone who works at sea, connecting to the vast adventures on the oceans.
18. Muir
This Scottish name means ‘sea’, and it is deeply connected to nature and coastal landscapes.
19. Murphy
Another variant of this name appears here again, meaning ‘sea warrior’. A great name for families keen on oceanic connotations.
20. Hadria
A name derived from the Adriatic sea, Hadria links directly to bodies of water famous throughout history.
21. Dumas
This surname translates to ‘of the river’ in French, evoking images of serene water bodies flowing towards the ocean.
22. Lonna
This name is of Hebrew origin, meaning ‘of the sea’ or ‘ocean’, capturing the beauty of marine life.
23. Gale
A name meaning ‘stormy sea’, referring not just to the ocean but also to the power and mystery that come with it.
24. Alon
This name means ‘oak tree’ in Hebrew but is also associated with coastal and marine life due to its natural roots.
25. Aalto
A Finnish name meaning ‘wave’, reflecting the dynamic movements of the sea. It’s a beautiful name for water lovers.
26. Lothar
This name means ‘army of the people’ but is also connected to waters, reflecting strength by the sea.
27. Darya
A Persian name meaning ‘sea’, Darya brings a touch of the exotic with its roots tied to water.
28. Lindgren
This Swedish name means ‘lime tree’ but also has connections to ‘fringe of the sea’, suggesting a coastal home.
29. Rivera
The Spanish surname Rivera means ‘riverbank’, indicating closeness to bodies of water, including the sea.
30. Marlow
This English name means ‘drained lake’, referring to wetland areas that may influence sea ecosystems.
31. Marina
A name derived from the Latin word for ‘sea’, Marina is a beautiful and feminine choice for maritime inspiration.
32. Maris
This Latin name translates to ‘of the sea’, making it a lovely option for families who appreciate oceanic beauties.
33. Cale
With multiple meanings, one of them can include ‘sea’, making Cale a versatile choice for surnames.
34. Marceau
This French name also brings with it the essence of sea connections and resonates caring images of oceanic beauty.
35. Coates
This English surname, meaning ‘by the water’, indicates proximity to rivers or seas, making it special for families near coasts.
36. Kalia
A name with Hindu roots, Kalia translates to ‘ocean’, sharing a direct connection with water elements.
37. Baxton
This English name means ‘from the town by the river’, linking deeply to aquatic landscapes.
38. Marisol
A combination of ‘sea’ and ‘sun’ in Spanish, Marisol embodies warmth and beauty, reflecting the landscape at sea.
39. Waverly
This name signifies ‘meadow by the river’, which can also hint towards proximity to the ocean.
40. Morgan
This Welsh name is traditionally interpreted as ‘sea circle’ or ‘sea chief’, linking it beautifully to the ocean.
41. Zale
With Greek origins meaning ‘sea strength’, Zale emphasizes both power and beauty associated with the sea.
42. Nahum
A name of Hebrew origin meaning ‘comfort’, it can also be linked with stories about journeys across the sea.
43. Oceanus
A name from mythology, Oceanus refers to the father of water, resonating deeply with family roots near the sea.
44. Tuon
This name means ‘water’ or ‘sea’ and reflects the calming nature of oceans and lakes alike.
45. Nyali
This name refers specifically to ‘the sea’, appealing to those interested in unique and significant water-related surnames.
46. Marsha
This name, derived from Marsh, adds a feminine touch while still connecting to wetland and sea imagery.
47. Wade
The name Wade means ‘to go’, but also can refer to water crossings or riverbanks, showing ties to water.
48. Naida
This name means ‘water nymph’ in Greek, capturing the magic found by the sea.
49. Fathom
A name that means to measure depth in water, Fathom ties closely to coastal and oceanic themes while inviting adventure.
50. Ansel
With roots meaning ‘follower of a ruler’, some interpretations align it with ancestral connections to the sea.
51. Bayles
The name Bayles signifies ‘someone living near the bay’, emphasizing coastal living.
52. Brenner
This name means ‘burner’, but can also reflect warmer climates found near the sea or ocean.
53. Riverton
This name symbolizes ‘town by the river’, connecting once again to water bodies that may flow into the sea.
54. Nereus
A name from Greek mythology, Nereus was a sea god, indicating stability and wisdom, directly linked to maritime themes.
55. Bodhi
While this name traditionally signifies ‘enlightenment’, some interpretations also connect it to specific water elements.
56. Kai
Of Hawaiian origin, Kai means ‘sea’ and is often selected for its beauty and strong connection to marine life.
57. Murray
As mentioned before, Murray meaning ‘lord of the sea’ fits well with families who admire oceanic heritage.
58. Paxton
This surname can mean ‘peaceful town by the sea’, lending itself to tranquil coastal images.
59. Calderon
A Spanish name connecting to water sources, it brings a vibrant twist to the idea of living by the sea.
60. Seabrook
The name Seabrook means ‘sea brook’, directly relating to bodies of water flowing into the ocean.
61. Delfino
This Italian surname means ‘dolphin’, a creature synonymous with the sea, appealing to marine animal lovers.
62. Oceane
A French name meaning ‘ocean’, Oceane is beautifully simple yet carries deep oceanic significance.
63. Angeline
A unique name that reflects the ‘angelic’ waters and can also be linked to sea-related imagery.
64. Portis
This name means ‘of the port’, indicating closeness to coastal areas and maritime commerce.
65. Riviera
This surname relates directly to coastal regions, emphasizing the allure and beauty of the sea.
66. Seaborn
With roots in English, Seaborn means ‘born at sea’ or ‘of the sea’, making it an evocative choice for those linked to marine heritage.
67. Kelly
The name Kelly can mean ‘warrior’, but some variants can also relate to ‘sea’. It’s a versatile surname with a strong history.
68. Janet
This name can indirectly relate to water-themed contexts, embodying home and serenity near the sea.
69. Pilot
As a name, Pilot reflects those guiding boats safely through waters, directly linking to maritime traditions.
70. Magnus
This name means ‘great’, but also can refer indirectly to the vastness of the sea in various interpretations.
71. Marlin
Marlin, related to the ocean fish, captures both the excitement of sea life and beautiful underwater journeys.
72. Armand
A name with roots meaning ‘soldier’, variations also connect it to sea fables and legendary sailors.
73. Delta
The name Delta refers to landforms shaped by river and ocean interactions, showcasing where waters meet.
74. Humbert
With Old German origins meaning ‘famous warrior’, it can also allude to connections near bodies of water.
75. Barron
This name refers to a nobleman but can also link to historical sea navigation and maritime ranks.
76. Rivale
A unique name that combines river and sea imagery, giving it a dual significance that connects to flowing waters.
77. Shanty
Derived from “shanty,” meaning a small hut, it contributes to coastal living and marine traditions.
78. Breckin
This name refers to ‘freckled’ but can also evoke imagery related to coastal settings and the sea.
79. Joonas
A Hebrew name meaning ‘dove’, it symbolizes peace, often semantically tied to calm waters at sea.
80. Orion
In mythology, Orion is a hunter but also can refer to ocean tide symbolism, linking back to celestial waters.
81. Tarquin
This name means ‘thick’, but in certain contexts, it showcases connections to riverbanks or coastal shores.
82. Caspian
A name strongly linked to the Caspian Sea, it showcases unique ties to specific water bodies known globally.
83. Thorne
Though its literal meaning relates to an area with thornbushes, it can tie to coastal landscapes as well.
84. Walton
This name signifies ‘town by the wall’, but can also hold closest connections to water-bound areas.
85. Cayne
Derived from ‘key’ in some interpretations, Cayne can refer to coastal dynamics and marine inspirations.
86. Brannan
This Irish name means ‘descendant of Bran’, which often can connect to historical sea routes or ships.
87. Clyde
A Scottish name tied to the Clyde River, bringing the imagery and beauty of water into focus.
88. Rainey
This name relates to ‘rainy’, but can refer to specific coastal ecological patterns and weather behavior tied to the sea.
89. Leduc
This French name means ‘leading’, and in certain contexts it can signify a journey across the sea.
90. Harlow
Meaning ‘army hill’, its connection to eco-spaces often implies sea interactions in some interpretations.
91. Marigold
This floral name hints at beauty, often associated with coastal flowers that thrive near the sea.
92. Nivalis
A name inspired by snow, it explores the aesthetic of icy waters connecting to the sea.
93. Trevithick
This Cornish name means ‘badger’, but its roots imply proximity to coastal paths or habitats.
94. Rainier
A name translating to ‘wise leader’, it also can connect to elements of water and storms over the sea.
95. Jetty
Named after the structures extending into water, Jetty ties directly to maritime themes and coastal living.
96. Flint
This name can signify stability, but when linked to coastal dynamics, it showcases a close history with the water.
97. Maren
A Latin name meaning ‘of the sea’, Maren embodies beautiful marine significance.
98. Isla
Means ‘island’, perfect for those who love coastal communities surrounded by the beauty of the ocean.
99. Perry
This name refers to ‘pear tree’ but can also symbolize growth nurtured by coastal waters.
100. Morisette
This French name means ‘from the marsh’, intimately connecting to coastal and wetland regions.
101. Sylvan
A surname signifying woodlands, but can also combine with coastal imagery found along shorelines.
102. Thrasher
This name relates to courage, drawing parallels to the strength of those navigating feasible waters.
103. Aponi
Of Native American origin, this name translates to ‘butterfly’, signifying transformation that can happen in maritime life.
104. Conley
This Irish name means ‘hero’, radiating strength that can also echo the stories of sailors at sea.
105. Forrester
This name connects to forested areas, often beside bodies of water, enhancing coastal themes.
106. Halwyn
This name translates to ‘peace and safety’, generically a sense that the sea provides for coastal communities.
107. Ember
A name inspired by burning visions, it evokes the fierce beauty of sunsets witnessed near the sea.
108. Jett
A name representing ‘black’, often denoting depth, portraying aspects of vast and deep seas.
109. Southerland
Hinting at a southern land, it provides connections to warm coastal climates.
110. Irwin
Of Scottish descent, meaning ‘friends by the sea’, it encourages connections among those who cherish coastal environments.
111. Harmond
This vibrant name represents harmony, connecting with the peaceful rhythms found along the shore.
112. Alicia
A name that means ‘noble’, it can also symbolize elegant maritime journeys across oceans.
113. Talia
Feminine name meaning ‘dew from God’, connects deeply to water bases surrounding coastal regions.
114. Carina
This name, meaning ‘beloved’, reflects the affection that many hold for nature aside the sea.
115. Scylla
In Greek mythology, Scylla was a sea monster, connecting to stories from the expansive ocean.
116. Creole
Relating to cultural expressions found among coastal populations, particularly in the Caribbean, tying significant ties to marine history.
117. Zircon
A name that relates to the gemstone, but in coastal terms can symbolize many treasures found on beaches.
118. Lenora
This Spanish name means ‘light’, reflecting the illuminating messages delivered by the vast sea.
119. Neil
Of Gaelic origin meaning ‘champion’, it reverberates themes connecting to mariners and sailors through history.
120. Tierra
Meaning ‘earth’ in Spanish, and indirectly, refers to lands alongside ancient sea routes.
121. Farren
Meaning ‘adventurer’, it amplifies the spirit of exploration and discovery that the ocean embodies.
122. Felix
Latin in origin, meaning ‘happy’, it reflects the joy of time spent by the sea and thriving coastal communities.
123. Lorraine
This name evokes historical connection to waters, specifically relating to the region near rivers or seas.
124. Hesperus
A Greek name, symbolizing the evening star often setting over the sea, linking celestial imagery with maritime life.
125. Arista
A name meaning ‘the best’, it reflects the beauty found along shorelines and in marine lives.
126. Missy
A diminutive form of Melissa, it means ‘bee’ but can suggest just as sweet imagery of serene afternoons at sea.
127. Yara
This Arabic name means ‘small butterfly’, tying together the delicate life often sustained by aquatic ecosystems.
128. Amaya
Of Spanish origin, meaning ‘night rain’, it captures elements of water in a broader context.
129. Quintana
Means ‘fifth’ in Spanish but can also refer to rustic coastal life encountered in quaint villages.
130. Vesper
This name references the evening star, beautifully emphasizing nighttime skies reflecting on the sea.
131. Hurd
Referring to a ‘herd’, it can also bring connotations about communities living near expansive waters.
132. Hadria
A reference to the Adriatic Sea in its original form, it connects to historical maritime ties navigated over centuries.
133. Shorey
This name refers directly to ‘shore’, indicating proximity and connections to coastal ecosystems.
134. Kenley
This name implies ‘royal meadow’, bridging images of coastal lands flourishing with sea foliage.
135. Salvia
The name translates to ‘wise one’, which can also signify wisdom learned through maritime history.
136. Abernathy
Means ‘river mouth’, positioning itself firmly right at the intersection of river and sea.
137. Waverly
The name represents ‘meadow by the river’, capturing the serenity of waters, often flowing into the sea.
138. Alaric
Germanic in origin, meaning ‘ruler of all’, it brings to mind tales of kings navigating treacherous waters.
139. Oslo
This name refers phonetically to ‘meadow by the sea’, further strengthening coastal ties.
140. Callan
Meaning ‘battle’, it can echo heroic narratives among those at sea or engaging with battles on water.
141. Morgan
Earlier referred to the ‘sea’ but its varied meanings symbolize richness from families tied to coastal lands.
142. Beaumont
This name means ‘beautiful mountain’, but it can also apply to coastal hills drawing mist from the sea.
143. Clarence
This name means ‘bright’, which can evoke joyous energy found in breezy seaside environments.
144. Lavelle
Of French origin meaning ‘the hollow’, it accentuates the beauty of coastal dunes or shores.
145. Bullock
This name signifies strength akin to ocean waves crashing against the shore, representing endurance.
146. Thalassa
Referring directly to the sea, this Greek name emblematically ties characteristics of fluidity and vastness.
147. Oden
A name that carries echoes of ocean narratives throughout history, enhancing the power of exploration.
148. Cascade
The name refers directly to water flow, indicating how rivers eventually mingle with the sea.
149. Merrick
Meaning ‘sea ridge’, it showcases the beauty of landscapes created along coastlines.
150. Zale
As previously noted, Zale meaning ‘sea strength’ celebrates the formidable beauty of the ocean.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the rich array of last names that mean sea reveals a world filled with adventurous and natural connections. Each of these names tells a tale of heritage, ancestry, and the beauty of the ocean. Whether you have ties to the sea or simply enjoy the serene imagery that accompanies these last names, their meanings evoke a sense of wonder and exploration.
Familiarizing oneself with names related to the sea not only enhances our understanding of individual heritage but also connects us to the collective human experience of our deep and intertwined relationships with water. From names that signify a warrior spirit to those that embody the beauty of the waves, the sea-themed surnames presented here are sure to inspire.
To further enhance your knowledge, explore additional resources. Check out our article about names that mean ocean, sea, or water and see more last names with a maritime connection in our guide to last names that mean ocean or sea.