Last names often carry interesting meanings and histories. Some names are linked to nature, including the vast ocean and the calming sea. These surnames can evoke feelings of peace, adventure, and connection to water. Understanding these names can deepen our appreciation for family roots and the world around us.
Today, we will look at last names that mean ocean or sea. From ancient cultures to modern times, many families have names that reflect their love for the water. This list will highlight unique surnames and their meanings, helping you connect with the beauty of our planet’s waters.
Last Names That Mean Ocean Or 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. O’Malley
The name O’Malley means ‘descendant of the devotee of St. Olcan’, but can also suggest ‘sea’ origins through its connection to coastal regions in Ireland.
6. Delmar
Delmar has Spanish roots meaning ‘of the sea’. It merges nicely with the Spanish love for the ocean and maritime history.
7. Calvet
Calvet translates to ‘of the sea’, making it a unique name that speaks to the beauty of coastal life.
8. Mariner
This name directly refers to ‘a sailor’ or someone who navigates the ocean, showcasing a family’s strong ties with water.
9. Nereus
Nereus is derived from Greek mythology, referring to ‘the old man of the sea’, fondly known as the father of the Nereids.
10. Bodin
The name Bodin means ‘small creek’ and often describes a family’s unique relationship with water bodies, feeding into larger seas.
11. Salvatore
This Italian last name means ‘savior’ but is linked with sailorship and the sea, particularly in regions with rich maritime traditions.
12. Callahan
Callahan means ‘little bat’, yet it is associated with places near the coast, echoing a connection to the sea.
13. Adami
A last name rooted in Hebrew that signifies ‘earth’, but it also touches upon maritime connections through different cultures.
14. Aquila
This last name translates to ‘eagle’, a creature often seen soaring over oceans, representing freedom and majesty connected to the sea.
15. Doran
Doran is derived from the Irish word for ‘stranger’, but many families with this name have deep ties to coastal areas.
16. Maríñez
This name is related to the sea in its root meaning and signifies families that appreciate coastal living.
17. Oceanus
The name Oceanus derives from Greek mythology referring to the titan of the ocean, perfectly linking it to oceanic themes.
18. Seabrook
This English surname literally means ‘the brook by the sea’, embodying a strong family connection to water.
19. Marisol
This name combines ‘sea’ and ‘sun’ in Spanish, making it a beautiful, vibrant name reflecting coastal landscapes.
20. Morgan
Morgan means ‘sea-born’ or ‘sea dweller’ in Welsh, embodying the spirit of someone connected deeply to water.
21. Boswell
A name that signifies ‘at the house by the river’ but often relates to families connected to lakes and seas as well.
22. Moreira
This name in Portuguese directly relates to the sea, tying families to maritime history in coastal regions.
23. Fontaine
This French surname means ‘fountain’ or ‘spring’, linking it indirectly to water and the sea.
24. Latham
Latham translates to ‘the dwelling by the water’, pointing to families linked to coastal living.
25. Wade
This name means ‘river crossing’, suggesting a deep appreciation for waterways and the sea.
26. Nereid
Nereid translates to ‘sea nymph’ in Greek mythology, connecting directly to the oceanic theme.
27. Marek
This Polish name that means ‘of the sea’ showcases a strong bond with water and oceans.
28. Marina
Marina means ‘of the sea’ in Latin, directly linking it to coastal and ocean life.
29. Pelayo
This name connects to the term ‘lock of the sea’ in historic coastal communities, celebrating maritime traditions.
30. Rio
The Spanish word for ‘river’, Rio carries elements related to water and seaside geographical features.
31. Talbot
This surname means ‘the valley’ but is often found in families connected to regions near oceans.
32. Finn
This Irish name relates to the ‘fair’ or ‘white’, often associated with the pure waters of the sea.
33. Leclercq
The French name translating to ‘the cleric or clerk’, is also seen in regions bordering the sea, connecting it to the water.
34. Seaborn
This name directly signifies someone born by the sea, making it a perfect fit for ocean-loving families.
35. Kavanagh
This Gaelic name implies ‘handsome’, but it often refers to families originating from coastal areas.
36. Luzon
Luzon is an island in the Philippines known for its beautiful beaches, directly connecting the name to oceanic influences.
37. Cove
This last name speaks to a small coastal inlet, emphasizing a family’s ties to the sea.
38. Marquette
A name that directly means ‘little sea’ in old French, making it a charming choice for maritime enthusiasts.
39. Okeanou
Derived from the Greek word for ‘ocean’, showcasing families with unicorns linked to vast water bodies.
40. Meriwether
The name means ‘sea journey’, reflecting the spirit of travel and the adventures that come from the ocean.
41. Marno
This name can mean ‘the sea or water’, acting as a direct connection to the ocean.
42. Oceanetti
A modern name that incorporates ‘ocean’, promoting associations with the sea.
43. Lavelle
Lavelle derives from the Irish word meaning ‘of the river’, but often refers to coastal settlements.
44. Skye
This name stands for ‘cloud or island’, linking families to beautiful sea vistas and coastal experiences.
45. Calder
An English name that refers to a ‘rocky water’, linking it subtly to ocean formations.
46. Harlan
This surname means ‘land on the sea’, pointing to families that have settled close to the coast.
47. Cortez
A Spanish surname meaning ‘the corte’, referring to parcels near the ocean, summarizing oceanic roots in families.
48. Baye
As a surname, Baye references bays, natural coastal shelters, affirming connection to sea-born environments.
49. Nadja
This traditional name means ‘hope’, but also carries the connotation of ‘water’, blending beautifully with oceanic themes.
50. Aqua
This name literally means ‘water’ in Latin, providing a straightforward link to the sea.
51. Barbin
Barbin means ‘little bar; a sandy beach’, connecting directly to coastal living.
52. Bodhi
While Bodhi means ‘awakening’, it’s also associated with ‘ocean’ in various cultures, merging both meanings beautifully.
53. Loughlin
This name translates to ‘little lake’, which often signifies families from nearby oceanic water bodies.
54. Waters
A clear name denoting a relationship with water sources, amplifying ties to oceans and lakes.
55. Marisol
With a name meaning ‘sea and sun’, it brings forth vibrant imagery associated with the ocean.
56. Kai
This Hawaiian name simply means ‘sea’, offering a direct and beautiful love for water.
57. Manley
While Manley means ‘man’s meadow’, it is often associated with regions near the sea.
58. Moreau
Meaning ‘dark or brown’, this French name can be found in locations near rich coastal environments.
59. Teague
This Irish surname relates to coastal towns, linking it to water and the ocean.
60. Zale
This unique name translates to ‘sea strength’, perfectly aligning with oceanic themes.
61. Riptide
While uncommon, Riptide directly refers to a strong ocean current, beautifully encapsulating the essence of the sea.
62. Lido
This name means ‘beach’ in Italian, extending ties to oceanic locations.
63. Norva
This name means ‘north’, but it often relates to northern sea cultures, providing a coastal feel.
64. Vega
This name means ‘swooping eagle’ and connects families to coastal skies and waters.
65. Rivero
Meaning ‘river’, this name links families to a water-centric lifestyle that often includes the oceans.
66. Kora
A name signifying ‘maiden’, but many families derive it from ideas related to the sea.
67. Hali
A Hawaiian name meaning ‘heavenly’ conveys the beauty associated with the ocean.
68. Dell’Acqua
This Italian name means ‘of the water’, establishing strong connections to maritime cultures.
69. Rial
This name directly ties to ‘river’, which often connects families to oceanic origins.
70. Lpeople
As an uncommon surname, it emphasizes the bond of communities near the ocean.
71. Hestia
This name means ‘hearth’ in Greek mythology but reflects familial importance often tied to coastal life.
72. Zaleh
This surname means ‘to open or reveal’, often connected to the secrets of the sea.
73. Fontaine
Translates to ‘fountain’, linking it beautifully to fresh water sources near the ocean.
74. Reid
This name means ‘red’ but is common in families near sandy coastlines.
75. Goren
Means ‘born to the sea’ or ‘from the water’, perfectly suiting ocean themes.
76. Calder
A name that speaks to a ‘rocky water’, beautifully combining both land and sea elements.
77. Boaz
This name can mean ‘fleet’ and connects indirectly to ocean adventures.
78. Delacroix
This French name directly translates to ‘of the cross’, often found near coastal settlements.
79. Malik
This name means ‘king’, but it can derive inspiration from ocean kings in folklore.
80. Nautilus
Named after the marine creature, this surname relates directly to oceanic wonders.
81. Ocean
A straightforward name that spells out the love for water, making it easy to connect with maritime themes.
82. Miranda
While traditionally meaning ‘admirable’, it can also reference the sea through its ties to coastal town history.
83. Tidal
A modern surname that relates directly to the phenomena of tides, reflecting oceanic influences.
84. Skipper
This name means ‘ship’s captain’, reaffirming the connection to sailing and the sea.
85. Orin
A name meaning ‘light’ which is often associated with reflections on ocean waters.
86. Marseillaise
Named after the port city, it relates closely to marine culture and coastal communities.
87. Lais
This name means ‘ocean voyage’, showcasing a family’s love for the sea and adventure.
88. Brook
Though it means ‘small stream’, Brook is often linked to water bodies that feed into the ocean.
89. Eldridge
This name means ‘old ruler’, suggesting strong ties to historical coastal towns.
90. Lowe
While it signifies ‘hill’, it also draws connections to elevated coastal regions overlooking the sea.
91. Cashman
This name refers to the ‘hollow’ and often signifies families living near coastal inlets.
92. Arabella
A beautiful name tied to ‘yielding to prayer’, with many families from seaside towns.
93. Webb
While it means ‘weaver’, it also connects to families from regions by the ocean.
94. Calderwood
This name translates to ‘the wood by the water’, reinforcing relationships with coasts.
95. Astraea
A Greek name meaning ‘star-maiden’, often tied to families seeking guidance by the sea.
96. Lacroix
This surname means ‘of the cross’ yet refers to places often near the ocean and fishing communities.
97. Garner
While it means ‘to gather’, it’s often seen in maritime communities associated with seafaring.
98. Forde
This name means ‘river crossing’, highlighting familial ties to waterways adjacent to the sea.
99. Keane
This Irish name means ‘sharp’ or ‘brave’, yet families associated with it often come from coastal locations.
100. Zinn
This name refers to ‘little rose’, but has connections to many seaside plants and flora.
101. Delaporte
Translating to ‘of the port’, emphasizing maritime history and oceanic ties.
102. Kingston
This name means ‘king’s town’, often linking to towns or regions by the coast.
103. Waverly
This name means ‘meadow by the river’, falling beautifully in line with oceanic settings.
104. Veldt
This name signifies ‘field’, providing a link to coastal lands adjacent to water.
105. Quint
This name signifies ‘the fifth’, but is often associated with nautical terms in few cultures.
106. Banks
This name refers to ‘the riverbank’, which often leads to the ocean’s mouth.
107. Monroe
This name signifies ‘mouth of the river’, directly linking it to maritime themes.
108. Weller
This surname means ‘well’ but indirectly connects water sources found near the coast.
109. Seaton
Derived from ‘sea town’, making it a descriptive representation of coastal heritage.
110. Vandermeer
The name means ‘from the lake’, emphasizing coastal communities with ties to ocean waters.
111. O’Brien
This Gaelic name refers to ‘descendant of Brien’, often seen among coastal populations.
112. Tane
This name denotes ‘the earth’, but many bearers are found in coastal areas.
113. Coral
This name reflects marine structures, tying closely to oceanic themes.
114. Foster
This name means ‘to nurture’, often signifying the care of coastal environments.
115. Raven
A name meaning ‘dark-haired’, it’s often seen in coastal folklore relating to the sea.
116. Hepburn
This surname means ‘high bury’, indicating families that may reside near elevated coastal areas.
117. Hutton
The name means ‘settlement on a rise’, hinting at coastal homes located above the shoreline.
118. Gale
This surname connected to strong winds often experienced at sea represents fierce maritime connections.
119. Chin
This name signifies ‘to rise’, subtly indicating families connected to mountains bordering the coast.
120. Laufer
This name refers to ‘fisherman’, essentially linking to those working in oceanic resources.
121. Krane
This name refers to ‘crane’, suggesting families often found by water, where these birds thrive.
122. McKay
This name means ‘son of the battle’, yet echoes names common in maritime cultures.
123. Koda
A name meaning ‘friend’, showcasing relationships found in coastal towns.
124. Braden
This name signifies ‘broad valley’, indicative of those living near mountains and the sea.
125. Helms
While it means ‘helm’ or ‘shield’, this name connects strongly to sailing and navigating on the ocean.
126. Wylie
A name that means ‘resolute’, often found in families with deep connections to maritime adventure.
127. Blair
This name, meaning ‘plain’, is often associated with coastal settlements.
128. Leicester
A surname meaning ‘town by the river’, tying it closely to maritime origins.
129. Oceanic
This modern name directly refers to the ocean, showcasing a strong affinity for water.
130. Neave
This name signifies ‘brightness’, often related to coastal environments.
131. Delaunay
This French surname means ‘from the river’, connecting it directly to oceanic waters.
132. Sinclair
Originating from ‘St. Clair’, this name can connect to geographic locations known for watery landscapes.
133. Baird
This name means ‘poet’ or ‘bard’, though is often used in areas known for fishing.
134. Merlynn
A name relating to ‘sea fortress’, enhancing its coastal connection.
135. Stroud
This surname means ‘from the marsh’, which can connect to coastal families.
136. Rhea
A name that refers to ‘flow’, capturing the essence of running water and the sea.
137. Waterman
This surname directly relates to those who work with water and the oceans.
138. Oriole
This name signifies ‘golden bird’, often residing near or keeping an affinity for changeable waters.
139. Angler
This name denotes a fisherman, providing a direct connection to ocean life.
140. Becker
Meaning ‘baker’, it often finds families living in coastal towns where fresh sea breezes keep the climate appealing.
141. Mira
This short name signifies ‘wonder’, evoking the beauty and mystery of the ocean.
142. Exxon
A more modern name, directly tied to a brand associated with oil and ocean depots.
143. Cooper
This name means ‘barrel maker’, indirectly linking through shipbuilding and transportation via sea.
144. Bailey
The name signifies ‘bailiff’, often connecting it to centuries of souls working on oceanic waters.
145. Marlin
The name refers to a type of fish found in oceans, relating beautifully to maritime themes.
146. Carr
While it means ‘rocky ground’, Carrs can often be found close to the coast, indicating coastal life.
147. Beckett
This name means ‘bee cottage or bee hive’ but has roots in various maritime locations.
148. Curran
An Irish surname meaning ‘descendant of Corrán’, often found in families around the sea.
149. Maravilla
Translated to ‘marvel’, it connects to the wonders associated with the ocean.
150. Lavigne
This French surname means ‘the vine’, often seen in regions with strong ties to the sea.
Final Thoughts
Exploring last names that mean ocean or sea can reveal fascinating connections between family histories and nature. Each name tells a story that ties to water, movement, and serenity, highlighting the beautiful ways our ancestors incorporated their surroundings into their identities. Whether through ancient myths or geographical ties, these names bring a sense of peace and adventure.
As you reflect on these names, consider how they might inspire you in your own journey. There are many more water-related names out there that could further connect you to the oceans. You might also enjoy exploring male names that mean sea or ocean at male names that mean sea or ocean. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into these themes, visit names that mean ocean, sea, or water for even more insight!