Last names can reveal a lot about a person’s history and background. Some last names carry meanings that link to nature, strength, and wildness. These names often reflect traits such as bravery, independence, and passion. Curious about which names fit this category?
Today, we will look at last names that mean “wild.” These names often reflect a connection to untamed landscapes or fierce qualities. Whether you’re researching your own family name or just interested in names with exciting meanings, you’ll find some fascinating options here. Let’s jump into the wild world of last names that tell a story!
Last Names That Mean Wild
1. Wilder
The surname Wilder literally means ‘wild one’ and is often associated with those who have a free spirit and adventurous nature.
2. Savage
This last name comes from the Old French word ‘sauvage’, meaning ‘wild’ or ‘untamed’, perfectly encapsulating strength and a fierce spirit.
3. Wilding
Wilding is a playful variation meaning ‘belonging to the wilderness’, making it a unique surname with a nature-centric twist.
4. Bohrer
This surname has German origins and implies a connection to the wild boar, a symbol of strength and ferocity in many cultures.
5. Vildeman
A name of Dutch origin, Vildeman translates to ‘wild man’, suggesting a connection to untamed characteristics.
6. Friesen
This name originates from the Frisian people of Northern Europe, known for their strong and wild qualities as warriors of the sea.
7. Ferrell
Derived from ‘feral,’ the name Ferrell represents untamed nature, ideal for families embracing wild beauty.
8. Brawley
Of Scottish origin, Brawley means ‘from the muddy place’, often associated with the wild nature of the landscape.
9. Wright
This English surname can signify ‘craftsman’ but is also tied to those who navigate wild and free spaces.
10. Yates
This name means ‘gates’ but can symbolize the wild entrance to new lands and adventures.
11. Heath
Heath refers to an area of uncultivated land, representing wildness in its natural form in English landscapes.
12. Gilpin
A name meaning ‘from the cliff’, it evokes images of wild landscapes filled with nature’s dramatic features.
13. Stark
This surname suggests a boldness and strength often associated with wild and untamed surroundings.
14. Wylde
Wylde means ‘wild’, delivering a direct connection to free-spirited and natural living within its meaning.
15. Alva
With its roots in Latin, Alva can mean ‘white’, but often refers to a wild, natural landscape in different cultures.
16. Bush
The surname Bush directly implies a connection to dense, wild shrubbery and natural growth.
17. Cavendish
Dated back to the 14th century, Cavendish comes from the wild land, symbolizing its untamed landscapes.
18. Dwyer
This Irish surname can connect to wild surroundings and refers to those from a muddy area in old Gaelic.
19. Kinsley
Kinsley means ‘king’s meadow’, hinting at a natural area where the wild flourishes.
20. Thorpe
A name that means ‘village’, but is commonly associated with rural and wild aspects of the countryside.
21. Fox
Fox is a classic surname that denotes cunning and often represents a wild, untamed spirit.
22. Landon
The surname Landon means ‘long hill’, suggesting a connection to vast, wild terrains.
23. Brooks
This name refers to small streams, symbolizing the wild yet gentle flow of nature.
24. Roper
Originating from occupational duties, it hints at navigating through wild landscapes and untamed terrains.
25. Knight
Linking back to valiant warriors, Knight embodies qualities of bravery found in the wild.
26. Parker
Parker, meaning ‘keeper of the park’, speaks to those who nurture wild lands.
27. Longo
This surname conveys images of sprawling wild fields and landscapes that are vast and free.
28. Hastings
Hastings implies an area containing untamed wilderness, popular in English history.
29. Noble
While it suggests grandeur, it is often associated with strong individuals who conquer wild territories.
30. Baird
With roots in Scottish history, Baird refers to one who sings about wild places or is inspired by them.
31. Rowan
Rowan trees often thrive in wild, untamed areas, giving this surname a natural connotation.
32. Barrett
This name means ‘bear strength’, linking its bear symbolism to untamed wildness.
33. Banks
A natural name implying river banks, representing lands rich with wild flora and fauna.
34. Griffith
A Welsh patronymic name meaning ‘strong chief’, ideal for a tough warrior with wild traits.
35. Craven
This last name means ‘cattle farmer’, a direct relationship to living closely with wild creatures.
36. Hart
The Hart refers to a male deer and leads us to the imagery of a wild, free spirit thriving in nature.
37. Larkin
This name indicates a spirited and wild personality, perfect for the adventurous soul.
38. Kent
Believed to derive from ‘coastal land’, this name encapsulates a wildness often found at the shore.
39. Slater
This surname can refer to wild landscapes where slate stone abounds, representing rugged terrains.
40. Connolly
A rich Irish name meaning ‘brave as a hound’, which carries wild hunting traits.
41. Ainsley
Ainsley means ‘one’s own meadow’, symbolizing wild and free-spirited living.
42. Baker
While commonly known, this name suggests those who strongly connect with lands and wild growth.
43. Wolf
Strongly related to the wild, this surname references a fierce animal often associated with independence.
44. Ryder
A dynamic name that connects to wild pursuits through horseback riding and adventure.
45. Forbes
This name means ‘river bank’, connecting with wilderness and nature’s untamed beauty.
46. Leona
Symbolizing courage through its connection to lions, representing royalty in the wild.
47. Mason
This name connects to builders of fortifications, hinting at living close to wild natural frontiers.
48. Whitman
The meaning ‘white land’ could symbolize open, wild spaces beneath vast skies.
49. Hastings
This name suggests one belonging to a wild area, linking its title back to the free English countryside.
50. Knighton
With ties back to chivalry, this name symbolizes resilience commonly associated with wild living.
51. Callahan
This Irish name, meaning ‘bright-headed’, evokes a spirited wild personality.
52. Morton
With connections to a wild hill, Morton signifies untamed living conditions.
53. Havens
This surname means ‘safe place’, hinting at a wild sanctuary in nature.
54. Harmon
This name suggests strength and wildness alongside peaceful coexistence with nature.
55. Dallas
This name meaning ‘meadow dwelling’ captures wild beauty in serene environments.
56. Clough
Often associated with rugged landscapes, Clough means wild terrain and challenging paths.
57. Gage
Meaning ‘pledge’, Gage alludes to untamed spirit and the adventurer within.
58. Stack
A name that can reference a wild expanse characterized by rocky landscapes and cliffs.
59. Porter
Referring to one who carries goods, this name captures those navigating through wild areas.
60. Harlow
This name relates to ‘army hill’, indicating resilience and strength in the wilderness.
61. Barrett
The meaning ‘bear strength’ links this name to untamed bravery in nature’s wild expanse.
62. Calder
This last name means ‘rocky water’, blending notions of wild landscapes with fierce streams.
63. Payton
A strong and adventurous surname meaning ‘fighting man’s estate’, showcasing wild ambition.
64. Turner
A prevalent name that refers to the wild and natural artistry found in woodworking.
65. Newton
Scientific yet rich in nature connection, this name resonates with the wild’s untamed essence.
66. Reid
This name translates to ‘red-haired’, often symbolizing wild and fierce ancestry.
67. Wainwright
This name marks one who created and crafted, particularly within wild environments.
68. Hurst
Meaning ‘a wooded hill’, this surname paints a vivid picture of wild and rustic terrains.
69. Tiberius
Named after the Tiber River, this name conveys a sense of wildness in flowing waters.
70. Ramsey
An ancient name meaning ‘wild garlic island’, celebrating nature’s untamed layers.
71. Lark
The name evokes the beauty of wild birds, symbolizing freedom and grace in untamed nature.
72. Blackwood
This surname conjures images of wild, dark forests filled with mysteries and adventures.
73. Ashby
Meaning ‘ash tree farm’, this name resonates with wildness and natural endurance.
74. Wildermuth
Of German origin, this name literally translates to ‘wild heart’, celebrating untamed spirits.
75. Ashworth
This name ties to a place where ash trees grow, representing wildgrowth and nature’s strength.
76. Muirhead
The name translates to ‘the head of the moor’, bringing a wild outdoors imagery alive.
77. Mercer
As an occupational name, it symbolizes one navigating through wild and untamed markets.
78. Wells
A name hinting at natural springs, evoking wild landscapes rich in natural abundance.
79. Sinclair
A name connected to the wild land, reflecting vibrant history through its untamed associations.
80. Flint
This surname has ties to wild terrains, exemplifying strength and resilience in nature.
81. Gordon
This name translates to ‘great hill’, a reminder of adventurous landscapes and wild pursuits.
82. Hawthorne
A name linked to wild shrubbery, implying strength and growth in natural settings.
83. Shuster
Often associated with wild qualities, this name speaks to terriers and fierce natural instincts.
84. Hastings
This historical name refers to old lands tied to many wild battles and natural landscapes.
85. Cowan
With connections to wandering cattle, this name showcases the wild’s spirit of freedom.
86. Sommers
This surname depicts the beauty of wild summers spent in the sunniest locations around nature.
87. Archer
The name indicates a warrior skilled in bow and arrow, ideal for wild pursuits.
88. Gray
This name, while simple, is often linked to the wild gray wolf, symbolizing freedom and fierceness.
89. Adair
This name means ‘oak grove’, linking to wild growth and natural endurance against the elements.
90. Lake
Evoking the serene images of wild bodies of water, this name represents nature’s beauty.
91. Cromwell
Meaning ‘well by a crooked area’, it suggests a nature rich in wild, rugged beauty.
92. Knightly
This name recalls images of knightly bravery found within wild myths and adventures.
93. Hodge
A name tied to wilderness and adventure, often referencing humans in wild habitats.
94. Mason
Though generally connected to construction, this name implies building in rugged terrains.
95. Carver
This surname draws connections to craftsmanship and portraying the wild landscapes beautifully.
96. Sinclair
A name referencing wild lands often linked to historical battles and heroes.
97. Houghton
This name means ‘high farm’, a classic link to wild and elevated platforms in nature.
98. Salter
This surname signifies the person who worked in connection with wild landscapes and salt, representing survival.
99. Campbell
Meaning ‘crooked mouth’, Campbell symbolizes roughness often found in wild settings.
100. Shotwell
This surname can signify those who navigate wild adventures with a keen eye.
101. Kinsley
A name that speaks of a kingly meadow, suggesting an earthly connection to wild fields.
102. Laird
This Scottish surname signifies landowners, often in wild, rustic regions filled with wilderness.
103. Wells
A name connected to natural springs and water flow, representing a wild and refreshing essence.
104. Jefferson
This historical surname denotes integrity, often tied to wild terrains in America’s past.
105. Taylor
Often linked to craftsmanship, it symbolizes the outdoor qualities built from navigating wilderness.
106. Marsh
This name means a swampy area, reminding one of wild, undisturbed land in nature.
107. Corbin
With meanings related to ‘raven’, this surname represents wild, cunning elements from the avian world.
108. Sutherland
Meaning ‘southern land’, this name brings forth strong images of wild landscapes teeming with life.
109. Clay
Directly tied to earth and ground, this name connects with wild outdoor relationships.
110. Blake
This surname symbolizes wild energies, inspired by ‘black’ as a color associated with power.
111. Cormac
This strong name indicates a ‘charioteer’, linking to wild rides and adventurous spirits.
112. Durrant
This name speaks of endurance, thriving through wild, rugged terrains where life can be challenging.
113. Hawkes
A name associated with wild birds, implying freedom and connection to the sky.
114. Langley
This name means ‘long meadow’, suggesting a wild, open area where nature flourishes.
115. Drake
This surname hints at a wild spirit, often connected to dragons or fierce creatures.
116. Foxe
A reiteration of the fox as a symbol of cunning and wild intelligence.
117. Delaney
Meaning ‘dark warrior’, it naturally invokes imagery of those strong and wild in nature.
118. Ashton
Derived from ‘ash tree town’, symbolizing strength and wild growth in a community.
119. Hannon
Meaning ‘descendant of the warrior’, embracing wild ancestry and spirit within families.
120. Peverell
A rare name that connects to wild bloodlines of noble warriors known for their strong traits.
121. Kember
This last name reflects a wild and adventurous spirit, indicative of those enjoying the outdoors.
122. Onslow
A name meaning ‘from the riverbank’, suggesting a connection to wild nature.
123. Wylder
A variant spelling emphasizes living truly in the wild, thriving naturally.
124. Bracken
This surname means ‘fern’, a plant often found in wild, untamed territories.
125. Vale
Referring to a vale represents valleys often filled with wild beauty and adventure.
126. Hamlin
A name connected to the wild land, hinting at simple living in rustic surroundings.
127. Bramley
This name means ‘plum tree’, a wild symbol of natural sustenance and beauty.
128. Gormley
This Irish surname hints at wild land, reminding people of strong cultural connections to nature.
129. Sterling
This name means ‘little star’, reminding one of wild night skies illuminated by nature.
130. Gottlieb
Meaning “God loves”, often representing individuality and strength amidst wild landscapes.
131. Shipman
This name evokes images of sea-faring individuals navigating the wild waters.
132. Saville
Bringing forth notions of wildness intertwined with splendor in historical ties.
133. Sharp
This strong surname embodies resilience in the wild, suggesting a powerful presence.
134. Herrick
This name means ‘army ruler’, suggesting a leader in combat in wild terrains.
135. Winter
Evoking imagery of wild wintry landscapes, strong yet beautiful in the extremes of nature.
136. Barlow
Means ‘from the birch grove’, implying wild growth amid scenic wooded areas.
137. Heathcote
Derived from ‘fence by a heath’, representing living harmoniously within wild settings.
138. Hardy
Signifying those with endurance, this name reflects adaptability in wild environments.
139. Stetson
This surname suggests the spirit of the wild West, a reflection of rugged, adventurous life.
140. Ross
Often meaning ‘peninsula’, indicating a strong connection to wild oceanfront properties.
141. Finch
This name ties to wild birds, symbolizing freedom and life’s lightness in nature.
142. Kenton
Means ‘from the kings’ town’, hinting at wild terrains ruled by ancient leadership.
143. Lockley
This surname can evoke wild, protected places within dense forests or hidden lands.
144. Gibbons
This name links to wild primates, highlighting strength in a natural context.
145. Evers
Connected with wild lands, this name embodies perpetual growth in nature.
146. Madison
Meaning ‘son of Maud’, it hints at a history that flourishes in the wild.
147. Thorne
This name signifies wild plants with thorns, depicting naturally fierce protection.
148. Tilton
A name meaning ’tilled farm’, symbolizing the relationship between nature and wild living.
149. Montague
This name evokes images of wild hills and uncharted landscapes ripe for exploration.
150. Eskridge
This unique surname signifies ‘ash tree ridge’, representing strength and resilience in wild settings.
Final Thoughts
Names connecting to wildness tell captivating stories of character and history. From evoking fierce animals to celebrating untamed landscapes, each last name embodies a unique essence of wild traits. Exploring these names opens a gateway to understanding cultural ties to nature and the wilderness. They embody the bravery and passion often necessary to thrive in wild surroundings.
If you’re interested in discovering more fascinating surnames, you can explore options like last names that mean fire for additional insights into symbolic meanings. Each name has its playful story shaped by its connection to nature.
Feel free to continue exploring the world of names and their histories; there are always more stories waiting to be discovered.