Water is an essential part of many fantasy worlds. It brings life and beauty, from sparkling rivers to vast oceans. Giving characters names that relate to water can add depth to your storytelling. Whether you’re creating stories about magical creatures or epic adventures, a water-themed name can make your characters even more memorable.
Today, we’ll share a list of fantastic names that mean water. These names come from various cultures and languages, each carrying unique meanings and vibes. Whether you want to name a hero, a villain, or a magical being, these water-inspired names will give your characters a special touch.
Fantasy Names That Mean Water
1. Aqua
Aqua is rooted in Latin, meaning ‘water’. This simple yet powerful name gives a direct nod to the essential element of life.
2. Llyn
Of Welsh origin, Llyn translates to ‘lake’. This name conjures serene images of still waters and tranquility.
3. Cora
Meaning ‘maiden’ in Greek, Cora is often associated with water-related goddesses, adding depth to this elegant name.
4. Maris
Maris means ‘of the sea’ in Latin. This name carries an air of sophistication and connection to the ocean’s vastness.
5. Nidawi
A unique name from Welsh mythology, Nidawi means ‘water’. It has an enchanting quality that suits a magical character.
6. Rill
In English, Rill refers to a small stream. This name is perfect for a character representing subtle, flowing movements.
7. Zephyr
Though meaning ‘west wind’ in Greek, Zephyr often evokes imagery of gentle breezes over water, creating a calm and refreshing vibe.
8. Shannon
Irish in origin, Shannon is named after the longest river in Ireland, further linking it to elements of flowing water.
9. Kenai
Of Native Alaskan origin, Kenai means ‘flat land’ but is synonymous with rivers that traverse through the terrain, linking it to water themes.
10. Ella
The name Ella has meanings tied to water, including ‘fairy maiden’ and ‘goddess of the lake’ in some cultures, making it magical.
11. Morgan
In Welsh, Morgan means ‘sea-born’ and is often associated with the legendary sea witch Morgan le Fay from Arthurian lore.
12. Cascade
Cascade brings to mind waterfalls and streams, evoking vivid images of rushing water and nature’s beauty.
13. Mira
A name of Latin and Sanskrit origin, Mira means ‘ocean’ in some contexts. It’s short, sweet, and connected to water.
14. Bay
Bay, a term for a body of water, like a bay or inlet, is a simple yet powerful name that resonates with coastal imagery.
15. Ryne
Derived from the term ‘river’, Ryne suggests a character linked to flows of water, movement, and change.
16. Marla
Marla can mean ‘from the lake’ or ‘of the sea’, making it a beautiful choice for a character with an aquatic background.
17. Thalassa
This ancient Greek word means ‘the sea’, representing not just water but the mystery and power associated with it.
18. Talia
Meaning ‘dew from God’, Talia carries a gentle connection to water in its purest form, suitable for a soft character.
19. Rain
As a direct reference to water in the form of rain, this name encompasses the nurturing aspect of water during the growth of life.
20. Jora
Jora means ‘autumn rain’ in Hebrew, offering a fresh and unique perspective on water’s life-giving properties.
21. Cathyra
Derived from a mythical source, Cathyra suggests a ‘water spirit’, linking it to magical, watery adventures.
22. Adriana
With its roots in Latin meaning ‘from the Adriatic Sea’, this name conjures images of beautiful coastal landscapes.
23. Darya
In Persian, Darya means ‘sea’, giving your character a strong connection to vast waters and open horizons.
24. Ganga
Named after the sacred river in India, Ganga symbolizes purity and life, making it a revered water-themed name.
25. Sirena
Meaning ‘mermaid’ in Spanish, Sirena encapsulates the enchanting nature of water and aquatic creatures.
26. Zale
Zale has Greek roots, meaning ‘sea strength’, as it invokes a sense of power associated with water.
27. Isolde
In some Celtic traditions, Isolde is linked to the goddess of water, making it a rich name for any fantasy world.
28. Taliah
An alternative spelling of Talia, meaning ‘morning dew’, connects with the beauty of water at dawn.
29. Caelum
Caelum means ‘sky’ in Latin, suggesting the endless reach of water evaporating to form clouds.
30. Asteria
In Greek mythology, Asteria is a goddess associated with stars, but also with water, making her a figure of intrigue.
31. Oceana
As powerful as the ocean itself, Oceana is a name that heralds fluidity, strength, and mystery inherent in water.
32. Raina
Raina, meaning ‘queen’ in some cultures, also reminds us of rain, the natural essence of water’s cycle.
33. Tethys
Tethys was a Greek Titaness associated with the nourishing waters of the Earth, fitting for a majestic figure.
34. Pelagia
Pelagia means ‘of the sea’ in Greek, making it a fitting name for someone deeply connected to marine life.
35. Ursula
From Latin meaning ‘little bear’, Ursula is often linked to water through its tales of mermaids, deepening its association with the sea.
36. Aquaelia
Combining elements of ‘aqua’ with a more regal touch, Aquaelia offers a refined water-themed option for noble characters.
37. Marin
Marin derives from Latin meaning ‘of the sea’, making it a simple yet elegant aquatic name choice.
38. Aquarelle
The term refers to the medium of watercolor painting, suggesting a light, flowing, and artistic connection to water.
39. Cascadea
Related to cascading waterfalls, Cascadea captures the dynamic nature of water in movement.
40. Breck
Breck means ‘a brook or small stream’, perfect for characters connected to nature and gentle water flows.
41. Kaimana
In Hawaiian, Kaimana means ‘power of the sea’, symbolizing strength derived from aquatic origins.
42. Ninette
Ninette is connected to the French word for ‘little water’, offering a whimsical and playful name option.
43. Michaela
Michaela means ‘who is like God’, frequently tied to river deities in various cultures, linking it back to water.
44. Beringia
Named after the now-submerged land, Beringia maintains a connection to oceanic explorations.
45. Jaleh
A Persian name meaning ‘dew’, Jaleh embodies the delicate aspect of water and its role in nourishment.
46. Morwen
A name from Welsh meaning ‘maiden of the sea’, Morwen suggests a strong female presence connected to water.
47. Phelan
A Gaelic name meaning ‘wolf’, associated with rivers in folk tales, it carries a strong and rugged connection to water.
48. Ceres
Referencing the Roman goddess of agriculture and fertility, this name also hints at sources of life like rivers.
49. Lorelei
This name evokes the image of a water nymph in German folklore, intertwined with the mysteries of rivers.
50. Aqualina
A floral name derived from water, Aqualina suggests elegance and fluidity in character.
51. Kira
Kira may mean ‘sparkle’ or ‘shine’, invoking images of sunlight dancing on water surfaces.
52. Meara
Irish in origin, Meara means ‘ocean’ and shares the meaning of a ‘sea of joy’. It’s perfect for a buoyant character.
53. Brenna
Brenna means ‘descendant of Braonán’, referring to a ‘sorrow’ and implicitly linking to the flow of water.
54. Glenna
Glenna means ‘valley’ in Gaelic and implies the presence of gentle waters weaving through natural landscapes.
55. Dionysia
Named after the Greek god associated with nature and wine, the rivers and streams of the countryside tie into this name.
56. Zalea
A lyrical name derived from ‘sea’, Zalea has a captivating sound that resonates with waves of the ocean.
57. Tamsin
Tamsin has connotations of ‘twin’, akin to the duality of nature represented by rivers and their tributaries.
58. Eleora
Meaning ‘God’s light’, this name subtly connects with water through light refraction, creating magical images of reflection.
59. Morana
Morana, a Slavic goddess of water, embodies winter and death, suggesting an emotional depth to the water-themed identities.
60. Thalia
Linked to flourishing and rich vegetation, Thalia connects water with the life it sustains in enchanting ways.
61. Rivka
With Hebrew origins meaning ‘to bind’, Rivka connotes the connection between water and nurturing relationships.
62. Kallista
Translating to ‘most beautiful’, Kallista encompasses the beauty found in lakes and oceans alike.
63. Cascadea
A derivative of ‘cascade’, this name reflects dynamic water flows, perfect for adventurous characters.
64. Neptune
The Roman god of the sea, Neptune embodies power and connection to oceans, commanding a strong presence.
65. Sanya
Sanya, often meaning ‘brilliant’, can be associated with shimmering waters under the sun, linking it to beauty.
66. Aquanetta
A unique spin on ‘aqua’, Aquanetta is suited for a character from a rich aquatic kingdom or village.
67. Lochlan
Meaning ‘from the lakes’, Lochlan is a strong name with deep connections to water imagery.
68. Morwenna
Derived from Cornish meaning ‘sea waves’, Morwenna has a mythic quality tied to the ocean.
69. Darya
Darya means ‘sea’, making it suitable for a character associated with marine adventures.
70. Liora
Liora signifies ‘light’ in Hebrew, akin to the light dancing on the surface of water, creating radiant visuals.
71. Eirwen
Eirwen means ‘blessed snow’, connecting to the water cycle and the beauty of nature.
72. Sereia
Translating to ‘mermaid’ in Portuguese, Sereia evokes enchantment and a strong connection to sea legends.
73. Marvina
A melodic variation, Marvina highlights both the sea and vivid adventures across its waters.
74. Serafina
With a flair for the ethereal, Serafina weaves together the imagery of fire and water in its meanings.
75. Kiyomi
A Japanese name meaning ‘pure beauty’, Kiyomi connects with the clear and sparkling waters of serene ponds.
76. Adira
Meaning ‘noble’ in Hebrew, Adira can also imply strength often found in the tides of raging waters.
77. Morgana
A powerful figure in mythology, Morgana connects with water elements through her enchanting nature.
78. Edda
Of Scandinavian origin, Edda translates to ‘great grandmother’, often associated with the great rivers of mythology.
79. Mizu
Mizu means ‘water’ in Japanese, a direct and fitting name for any character strongly linked to aqueous themes.
80. Althea
Meaning ‘healer’ in Greek, Althea connects water’s soothing nature with healing powers.
81. Elowen
Elowen translates to ‘elm tree’, often found near rivers, linking her name to natural water settings.
82. Marisol
A name meaning ‘sea and sun’, Marisol embodies light and water harmoniously intertwined.
83. Vespera
This name means ‘evening star’, representing reflections on water surfaces during twilight, conjuring peaceful imagery.
84. Nysa
Nysa refers to the water nymphs associated with fertility and abundance in ancient mythology.
85. Calypso
In Greek mythology, Calypso was a nymph who lived on the sea, representing a beautiful and alluring connection to water.
86. Kanya
With Hindi roots, Kanya means ‘young girl’ but also carries connotations of purity often linked to water in literature.
87. Waverly
A name meaning ‘meadow by the river’, Waverly offers imagery of gentle flows in nature.
88. Taimur
Though primarily known as a sturdy name, Taimur also implies ‘iron’ which can symbolize strong waters in mythology.
89. Ondine
Meaning ‘little wave’, Ondine ties beautifully to the essence of water; perfect for a graceful water sprite character.
90. Halia
In Hawaiian, Halia means ‘remembrance of a loved one’ and carries echoes of oceanic waves in its gentle sound.
91. Cheyenne
Meaning ‘people of the large lake’, Cheyenne is a name tied directly to water-centered cultures and stories.
92. Cordelia
Often translated to ‘heart’, Cordelia means ‘daughter of the sea’ in varied interpretations.
93. Niamh
An Irish name meaning ‘bright’ or ‘radiant,’ Niamh hints at the visual beauty of sunlight on water.
94. Isola
Isola means ‘island’ in Italian, giving a geographic water connection and a sense of serene isolation.
95. Kali
This name has roots in Hindu mythology where Kali is connected with rain and the rejuvenating aspect of water.
96. Maldives
A name derived from the idyllic island nation, Maldives evokes images of tropical waters and sunlit beaches.
97. Belena
Belena means ‘the sea’s meeting place’, symbolizing confluence and harmony found in water.
98. Kira
A beautiful name meaning ‘shining’, Kira ties in with the reflective properties of water.
99. Mireille
With French roots, Mireille suggests ‘to admire’, as one would admire tranquil lakes and rivers.
100. Salina
Derived from the notion of salt water, Salina ties closely to the essence of oceans and nourishment.
101. Marit
Of Scandinavian origin, Marit means ‘the sea’, connecting your character’s journey with all aquatic themes.
102. Naida
Meaning ‘water nymph’, Naida suggests magic and mystery inherent in water mythology.
103. Anahita
Rooted in Persian mythology, Anahita is the goddess of water and fertility, making it a meaningful name choice.
104. Cascade
Simply put, Cascade represents waterfalls; a vibrant name for a character with energetic nature.
105. Dakota
This name means ‘friend’, but is also tied to indigenous groups living near rivers and lakes.
106. Lirael
A unique name that combines ‘song’, often associated with the serene sounds of flowing waters.
107. Baja
As a Spanish term for ‘below’ tying into oceans and depths, Baja can easily represent someone of the ocean.
108. Seraphine
A variant of Seraphim means ‘fiery ones’, connected symbolically to fire on water themes, symbolizing polarized traits.
109. Koi
Koi refers to ornamental fish often found in lakes, celebrating the beauty of creatures in serene waters.
110. Pania
From Maori mythology, Pania represents a water spirit, beautifully tying her character to the aquatic essence.
111. Calista
Meaning ‘most beautiful’ in Greek, Calista captures the allure often associated with mystical waters.
112. Sinead
Originating from ‘Janet’, linked to ‘God is gracious’, it represents purity similar to water and flowing connection.
113. Vala
In several contexts, Vala translates to ‘rich in water’; a beautiful name for a wise character.
114. Kalliope
This name carries the meaning of ‘beautiful voice’, reminiscent of sounds made by flowing rapids.
115. Eliana
Eliana can mean ‘God has answered’, with deep ties to themes of abundance as found near water sources.
116. Kapalua
Hawaiian for ‘to embrace the sea’, Kapalua carries the feeling of closeness to aquatic environments.
117. Clarity
Clarity connects to clear waters and the vision tied to understanding life’s deeper meanings.
118. Cheapali
This name translates to ‘the one with river-like qualities’, hinting at adaptability in characters.
119. Fukuko
In Japanese, Fukuko signifies ‘blessed child’, suggesting joy and abundance like water nourishing life.
120. Anouk
Meaning ‘grace’, Anouk suggests fluidity and elegance akin to water’s smooth movements.
121. Gale
Although typically referring to a strong wind, Gale can symbolize torrential rain or waves crashing on shorelines.
122. Wenna
Of Cornish origin, Wenna means ‘white wave’, presenting a lovely image of water in motion.
123. Jahzara
A name symbolizing ‘blessed princess’, lent to characters with strong ties to nurturing, flowing waters.
124. Zaria
Zaria means ‘flower’, often depicted as growing near water sources, richly connecting to vital ecology.
125. Kaimana
Means ‘power of the sea’ in Hawaiian, symbolizing ocean strength and connection to aquatic dynamics.
126. Ionian
Based on ‘Ionian Sea’, this name ties into eclectic maritime themes and showcases character potential for adventure amid waves.
127. Lapis
Referring to ‘lapis lazuli’, its beautiful blue color represents water visually in its many hues.
128. Jewel
This name implies something precious, akin to the pearls found in the ocean’s depths.
129. Seren
A Welsh name for ‘star’, Seren connects with the connection between celestial bodies reflecting on water.
130. Hestia
The Greek goddess of hearth and home often represented the flames needed to warm waters, demystifying even heat.
131. Galen
This name means ‘calm’ in Greek; it is exquisitely associated with the tranquility of still waters.
132. Halia
Halia means ‘sea’ in Hawaiian and can serve as a gentle nod to the reverence towards oceans.
133. Bianca
This Italian name means ‘pure’, linking memories of clarity found in sparkling water.
134. Shalini
A Hindi name meaning ‘calm’, Shalini connects to tranquil scenery often dominated by flowing rivers.
135. Thule
The mythical land of Thule is often surrounded by water, an excellent name for an adventurous character.
136. Dalis
This name means ‘watered’, symbolizing growth and sustenance connected to the very essence of life.
137. Mistral
Meaning ‘cold northwesterly wind’, Mistral indirectly connects with water’s ever-changing nature.
138. Iluka
Of Australian origin, Iluka means ‘by the sea’, making it a fitting name for ocean-inspired characters.
139. Rayen
This name translates to ‘flower’ in Mapudungun, often blooming near water sources, connecting life to its essence.
140. Copal
A name related to resin, Copal ties into the liquid that nourishes trees, representing a broader aspect of water.
141. Manon
This French name means ‘bitter’, commonly connected to realities faced by characters emerging from turbulent waters.
142. Zeri
An Arabic name meaning ‘golden’, adding richness metaphorically linked to sunsets glimmering over bodies of water.
143. Rhea
An ancient Greek term linked with water goddesses, Rhea symbolizes nurturing sources of life.
144. Vale
This name means ‘valley’, traditionally areas where streams and rivers meander, linking hence to water.
145. Liara
Of Alkina descent, Liara evokes imagery of beauty that stretches as far as lakes, resonating with grace.
146. Naia
This name means ‘sea foam’ in Greek, encapsulating the light and airy aspects of waters.
147. Yara
In Brazilian folklore, Yara refers to the mother of rivers, symbolizing protection and connection with water.
148. Marigold
An interesting variant combining sunshine and water; it evokes beauty nourished through nature.
149. Aquaen
A unique name that directly links to water; it’s a variation that can add uniqueness to a character’s narrative.
150. Aquaelle
A floral variation of ‘aqua’, suitable for any sophisticated aquatic character enhancing the beauty of storytelling.
Final Thoughts
Naming your characters with water-themed names can be a magical addition to your fantasy tales. They can provide a deeper connection to elements that shape your stories, evoking images of oceans, rivers, and lakes. These names invite readers to explore the beauty and significance of water as a life-giving force.
Remember, a name can reflect personality, origin, and destiny, thus enhancing the depth of your characters. Consider the names shared above, and find one that resonates with the spirit of your character’s journey in your storytelling.
If you’re looking for more options, check out our collection of names that mean ocean, sea, or water at this link and explore various last names that mean ocean or sea at this link.