Fantasy stories often have characters whose names reflect their nature. Names related to darkness can add a rich layer to your storytelling, suggesting mystery and depth. Whether you’re creating a character for a novel or a game, the right name can set the tone for your entire story.
Today, we’ll explore a selection of fantasy names that mean darkness. These names can inspire you and help shape your characters’ identities. Each name carries a unique meaning and can bring a sense of intrigue to your narrative. Let’s look at some captivating options that embody the essence of darkness.
Fantasy Names That Mean Darkness
1. Alaric
Alaric means ‘ruler of all’ and has a strong and mysterious sound to it, making it a great name for a dark and powerful character.
2. Morrigan
The name Morrigan means ‘phantom queen’ or ‘great queen.’ It evokes images of darkness and mystery, perfect for a powerful female character.
3. Nyx
In Greek mythology, Nyx is the goddess of night. This name immediately conveys darkness and the enchanting unknown that comes with it.
4. Kuro
Kuro is a Japanese name meaning ‘black.’ This simple yet impactful name symbolizes absolute darkness.
5. Shadow
The name Shadow is straightforward yet evokes a sense of mystery and darkness, representing characters that lurk beneath the surface.
6. Sable
Sable refers to black fur and is a name that portrays elegance and darkness, making it suitable for a character with a mysterious nobility.
7. Omen
Omen signifies a sign or warning, often related to darker themes. This name is perfect for a character carrying a heavy burden of fate.
8. Zephyr
Although Zephyr means ‘west wind,’ it also carries connotations of change and transformations, which can reflect a darker arc in a character’s journey.
9. Desdemona
Desdemona means ‘ill-starred,’ and can be a fascinating name for a tragic character associated with darkness and sorrow.
10. Draven
Draven is a darkly romantic name that suggests a character with an edge, embodying shadows and a mysterious past.
11. Selene
In mythology, Selene is the goddess of the moon, often associated with night and darkness, making for a beautiful and mystical name.
12. Dusk
Dusk symbolizes the time between day and night, representing transition and the darkness that settles in.
13. Raven
Ravens are often associated with mystery and the macabre, making this name a perfect fit for a dark-themed character.
14. Eclipse
Eclipse represents a temporary darkness, a unique way to symbolize change and the impact of shadow in someone’s life.
15. Umbra
Umbra means ‘shadow’ in Latin, which directly relates to darkness and is a fitting name for a character shrouded in mystery.
16. Lirael
Lirael is a name that carries a magical quality, and with its ties to darkness, it can suggest hidden depths to a character’s personality.
17. Azrael
Azrael is known as the angel of death in some traditions, representing themes of darkness, transition, and the unknown.
18. Nocturne
Nocturne means ‘of the night’ and has musical connotations, making it a sophisticated dark name for any character associated with night themes.
19. Hades
As the god of the underworld in Greek mythology, Hades represents the ultimate darkness, making this a powerful name for a sinister character.
20. Moros
Moros signifies doom and is a compelling name for a character destined to bring darkness or misfortune to their story.
21. Tenebris
Tenebris means ‘darkness’ in Latin, straightforward yet evocative, making it a fitting name for characters embodying shadows.
22. Shade
Shade refers to areas shielded from light, symbolizing an element of disguise and concealment, ideal for a sneaky character.
23. Cimmerian
Cimmerian refers to a mythical location of perpetual darkness, a powerful name for a character centered around deep shadows.
24. Twilight
Twilight represents the time just after sunset, bridging light and dark, suggesting a character who resides in both worlds.
25. Ebon
Ebon is a term for black wood, representing depth and richness associated with the color black, synonymous with darkness.
26. Nox
Nox is Latin for ‘night’, elegantly embodying the essence of darkness and perfect for nocturnal characters.
27. Khaos
Khaos means ‘void’ or ’emptiness’, representing the dark unknown and could symbolize a character’s inner turmoil.
28. Anubis
Anubis is the Egyptian god associated with mummification and the afterlife, embodying themes of darkness and mystery.
29. Obsidian
Obsidian is a dark volcanic rock, known for its sharp edges, symbolizing both beauty and danger, fitting for a dark character.
30. Sombra
Sombra means ‘shadow’ in Spanish, and it captures the essence of darkness beautifully, ideal for a character leading a secret life.
31. Nerezza
This name means ‘darkness’ in Italian, perfect for a character who embodies sorrow and mystery.
32. Mistral
Mistral refers to a strong wind that brings in storms, symbolizing turbulent darkness and unexpected change.
33. Chione
Chione is the goddess of snow, bringing a chilly darkness, perfect for characters intertwined with winter themes.
34. Morwen
Morwen means ‘dark maiden’ in Welsh, a fitting name for a female character cloaked in shadows.
35. Kali
Kali, a Hindu goddess known for destruction, embodies darkness and power, making it a potent name for a fierce character.
36. Fenrir
Fenrir is a monstrous wolf from Norse mythology, representing chaos and darkness, perfect for a villainous character.
37. Stygian
Stygian refers to the river Styx, symbolizing the boundary between the living and the dead, steeped in darkness and mystery.
38. Obscura
Obscura means ‘dark’ or ‘hidden’ in Latin, an evocative name that suits characters who keep secrets.
39. Dracul
Dracul means ‘dragon’ or ‘devil’, often related to darkness and evil, ideal for a menacing character.
40. Dred
Dred evokes the feeling of deep darkness and foreboding, a perfect name for a character surrounded by doom.
41. Tanith
Tanith is a Phoenician goddess associated with darkness and the moon, providing a celestial connection to the shadows.
42. Yggrasil
Yggrasil is the world tree in Norse mythology, its roots weaving through realms of darkness, making it a name full of depth.
43. Valeria
Valeria means ‘strength,’ often associated with dark themes of empowerment that arise from hardship or adversity.
44. Cinder
Cinder represents the remains of fire and is evocative of a destruction that leads to darkness.
45. Zephyra
Zephyra refers to west winds that typically bring storms, symbolizing chaotic transformation and darkness.
46. Loran
Loran means ‘crowned with laurel’ but can have shadowy connotations for a character entangled in intrigue.
47. Thorne
Thorne represents strength with a dark edge, ideal for a character known for their sharp wit and shadowy personality.
48. Gloom
Gloom suggests a somber or dark vibe, indicating a character often shrouded in sadness or misfortune.
49. Vesper
Vesper means ‘evening star,’ a metaphorical nod to darkness overcoming the day, suitable for a character whose destiny unfolds at night.
50. Nihil
Nihil is derived from Latin meaning ‘nothing,’ conceiving the void often associated with darkness.
51. J black
J black is a modern take that reflects a deep sense of darkness, conveying a character’s edgy or alternative vibes.
52. Acheron
Acheron signifies the river of sorrow in Greek mythology, an apt representation of a character flowing with dark emotions.
53. Lemmy
Lemmy has a cool undertone with dark implications, ideal for a character with a rebellious spirit.
54. Salome
Salome means ‘peace,’ which contrasts beautifully with darker themes suggesting inner turmoil and complexity.
55. Asher
Asher means ‘happy’ but might be a darkly ironic fit for a character hiding their true sorrow.
56. Zephyrus
Zephyrus refers to the god of the west wind, often associated with seasonal darkness.
57. Thanatos
Thanatos represents death in Greek mythology, immediately enveloping the name with darkness.
58. Fenton
Fenton implies ‘marsh land’, typically associated with dark, boggy environments.
59. Cosima
Cosima means ‘order,’ but can take on dark meanings when paired with troubled characters.
60. Nightshade
Nightshade is a poisonous plant, linked to dark magic and mystery, making it a compelling name.
61. Elysium
Elysium refers to the final resting place of souls in Greek mythology, often characterized by shadows and echoes.
62. Gethsemane
Gethsemane represents a place of deep sorrow and darkness related to pivotal moments of suffering.
63. Sanguine
Sanguine refers to blood, inferring life and death intertwined, fitting perfectly with darkness themes.
64. Noctis
Noctis means ‘night’ in Latin, implying beautiful darkness that encompasses shadows.
65. Kaliara
Kaliara derives from Kali, embodying darkness and destruction with a softer touch.
66. Vantablack
Vantablack represents the darkest material, reflecting an absence of light perfectly aligned with dark characters.
67. Rhiannon
Rhiannon means ‘great queen’, and has ties to dark themes, mystique, and magic.
68. Selkie
Selkies are mythological beings that transform between seals and women, representing elusive darkness.
69. Charybdis
Charybdis is a mythological sea monster embodying the dangerous, dark depths of the ocean.
70. Yuki
Yuki means ‘snow’ in Japanese but also brings with it a dark undertone of cold and isolation.
71. Nyssa
Nyssa means ‘goal’ but can resonate with darker elements as a name for a complex character.
72. Leona
Leona means ‘lioness’, often suggesting themes of strength wrapped in a shroud of darkness.
73. Bane
Bane represents destruction or ruin, making it a perfect name for a character associated with darkness.
74. Caligo
Caligo means ‘mist’ or ‘darkness’ in Latin, emphasizing shadowy elements in a character’s journey.
75. Malice
Malice signifies the desire to do evil, an apt choice for a dark villain character.
76. Cale
Cale means ‘slim’ but can take on darker connotations with an air of mystery.
77. Threnody
Threnody means ‘a song of lament’ capturing the essence of darkness in sorrowful themes.
78. Azura
Azura means ‘sky blue,’ but when portrayed in night themes, it adds depth to a character wrapped in darkness.
79. Occam
Occam elicits thoughts of straightforwardness amidst turmoil, emphasizing themes of dark simplicity.
80. Cassius
Cassius means ‘hollow,’ which can symbolize a sense of emptiness often associated with dark narratives.
81. Kastiel
Kastiel is a name associated with darker angels, making it a unique fit for a devilish character.
82. Ophelia
Ophelia comes with dark associations from literature, evoking the tragic elements of darkness.
83. Morticia
Morticia implies a dark, gothic elegance, perfect for charming yet sinister characters.
84. Stygos
Stygos refers to the bleak river of the underworld, a rich source of dark inspiration.
85. Riven
Riven means ‘to tear apart’, capturing the essence of destruction often related to dark themes.
86. Ombra
Ombra means ‘shadow’ in Italian, straightforwardly tying it to concepts of darkness.
87. Ashriel
Ashriel suggests a blend of ashes and darkness, forming a unique name perfect for troubled characters.
88. Nocturne
Nocturne, connected to night music, embodies darkness beautifully wrapped in artistic expression.
89. Jett
Jett refers to a dark gemstone, making it a sleek and modern choice that evokes a darkness aesthetic.
90. Helios
Helios emphasizes the contrast between light and dark, perfect for complex characters battling inner demons.
91. Duskra
Duskra suggests a dark and mysterious aura, perfect for characters thriving in the shadows.
92. Nyme
Nyme means ‘night’ in a mystical vein, strengthening the bond with dark themes.
93. Ravena
Ravena directly relates to ravens, embodying dark imagery in an elegant format.
94. Umbrielle
Umbrielle evokes imagery of shadows and dark magic, fitting for whimsical yet sinister characters.
95. Lunaria
Lunaria means ‘moon,’ often igniting ideas of darkness and mysticism associated with night.
96. Morasse
Morasse signifies ‘darkness’ in an elegant manner, suggesting charm entwined with shadows.
97. Krystal
Krystal juxtaposes light and dark, a name perfect for characters who embody contradictions.
98. Neralis
Neralis combines celestial elements with darkness, emphasizing a character’s duality.
99. Kyra
Kyra means ‘mistress’ but contrasts beautifully with darker interpretations of its deeper meanings.
100. Nocturne
Nocturne encapsulates the essence of the night and darkness, perfect for characters steeped in moonlit adventures.
101. Marek
Marek carries the strong implication of darkness within its origination, suggesting strength in shadow.
102. Ravyn
This variation of Raven signifies darkness and rebellion, ideal for a strong character.
103. Shadrach
Shadrach implies a connection to darkness through historical Biblical translations, ideal for intricate narratives.
104. Caelum
Caelum, meaning ‘sky’, may paradoxically reflect darkness through stormy skies.
105. Tenebrius
Tenebrius echoes with overtones of darkness, an explicit name for characters facing epic struggles.
106. Melaina
Melaina connects one to ‘darkness’ in Greek, evoking a deep mysterious vibe.
107. Ebonhart
Ebonhart signifies a resilient heart born from shadows, perfect for determined characters.
108. Misery
Misery implies sorrow deeply associated with darkness, making it a compelling choice for tragic characters.
109. Zariel
Zariel brings forth multiple dark layers in desperation, ideal for characters navigating dark waters.
110. Sorrow
Sorrow aligns with emotions tied to darkness, invoking compassion for characters who have faced tragedy.
111. Valdrik
Valdrik suggests a powerful character shaped by a dark past, excellent for fierce warriors.
112. Gideon
Gideon combines light with darkness, perfect for complex characters battling their inner demons.
113. Orpheus
Orpheus represents charming darkness through music, crafting a narrative about loss and mystery.
114. Kreon
Kreon implies rule over shadows, ideal for characters leading a dark life.
115. Tenebris
This name means ‘darkness’ in Latin, widely recognized for its shadowy qualities.
116. Delilah
Delilah carries a dark baggage, suggesting betrayal entwined in darkness.
117. Mortis
Mortis, directly translating to ‘death’, emphasizes themes laced deeply in darkness.
118. Ghast
Ghast evokes feelings of shock and fright, indicating dark magic lurking close by.
119. Cerberus
Cerberus represents the three-headed watchdog of the underworld—a strong symbol of forbidding darkness.
120. Obscurus
Obscurus directly translates to ‘hidden’ or ‘dark’, signifying the deep elements of shadowy stories.
121. Fenrira
Fenrira reflects folklore beasts, signifying a character with wild and dark energies.
122. Deimos
Deimos represents fear in Greek mythology, intertwined with dark forces.
123. Ashleigh
Ashleigh can imply dark remnants of fire, fitting well with characters coming from devastating trials.
124. Calantha
Calantha means ‘beautiful flower,’ yet its shades symbolize the contrast against dark backgrounds.
125. Zephos
Zephos connotes strong winds signifying turbulent storms—and consequently, darkness.
126. Lucien
Lucien means ‘light’ which, in dark narratives, reflects inner turmoil resonating with the absence of brightness.
127. Zara
Zara means ‘princess,’ entangled with dark themes of a leading character with burdens.
128. Thorne
Thorne resonates with heavy shades, creating a name for a character built on resilience against life’s tribulations.
129. Nebula
Nebula refers to cosmic dust—darkness in the universe, instilling wonder and mystery.
130. Hela
Hela refers to the leader of the underworld, representing the depths of darkness and sorrow.
131. Myrkur
Myrkur means ‘darkness’ in Old Norse, providing a musical touch to a name embodying shadows.
132. Adra
Adra implies darkness and sorrow, a compelling name for a character tied to grief.
133. Caligo
Caligo means ‘mist’ or ‘darkness,’ emphasizing hidden undertones in characters.
134. Le Sombre
Le Sombre means ‘the dark’ in French, adding a sophisticated edge to a character steeped in shadows.
135. Zeke
Zeke means ‘God strengthens,’ but can imply inner strength against a backdrop of darkness.
136. Biara
Biara translates to ‘dark, shadowy place,’ enhancing intrigue and enigma.
137. Atropos
Atropos is one of the Fates in Greek mythology, known for cutting the threads of life—a dark embodiment.
138. Kali
Kali directly connects to themes of destruction and transformation with darkness.
139. Mourne
Mourne symbolizes sorrow and darkness, ideal for characters facing profound grief.
140. Nonna
Nonna means ‘grandmother’ but can symbolize dark wisdom passed down through generations.
141. Zephyrine
Zephyrine represents gentle winds that can herald dark storms, bridging light and darkness.
142. Vadim
Vadim has noble roots but can be tied back to darker bloodlines.
143. Lorelei
Lorelei signifies temptation with a dark edge, portraying seduction around shadows.
144. Ashen
Ashen represents the remains of fire blending seamlessly with dark themes and landscapes.
145. Strigoi
Strigoi are spirits or vampires in Romanian folklore, directly linking to darkness and night.
146. Tempest
Tempest represents chaos and storms often associating with darker emotions.
147. Nyssa
Nyssa means ‘essential’ but can imply darker facets of necessity intertwined with chaos.
148. Cierro
Cierro means ‘to close’ or ‘to shut’, suggesting themes of closing off light and embracing darkness.
149. Lаса
Laca translates to ‘black’, an assertive name rooted directly in dark classicism.
150. Kairo
Kairo means ‘to seize’, insinuating capturing darkness intertwined with one’s fate.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right name that means darkness can profoundly enhance your characters and stories. Each of the names showcased evokes the essence of shadows, myth, and intrigue, enriching your narrative. From ethereal to stern, each name resonates with elements of darkness, providing a compelling anchor to your character’s journey.
Darkness can reveal strength, sorrow, struggle, and mystery, creating multi-dimensional personalities that draw readers in. Whether it’s a name like Morrigan that hints at power or Dusk that symbolizes transition, the possibilities are endless. Explore more on names related to darkness and find the perfect fit for your characters.
For more names that signify shadows and night, check out these links: Names That Mean Darkness and Boy Names That Mean Darkness.