Names carry powerful meanings and can reflect a person’s identity. Many parents search for unique and meaningful names for their daughters. If you’re interested in names that convey a sense of mystery or depth, consider those that mean “dark.” These names can evoke beauty, strength, and intrigue, making them special choices for your little girl.
Today, we will share a selection of lovely names that represent darkness. Whether you prefer classic options or something more modern, there is a name here to suit every taste. Let’s celebrate the beauty of these shadowy names and the unique qualities they bring!
Names That Mean Dark For Girls
1. Arwen
The name Arwen means ‘noble maiden’ but is often associated with darkness due to its character connection in the “Lord of the Rings” series. This makes it a beautiful choice for those who appreciate fantasy and depth.
2. Leila
With roots in Arabic, the name Leila means ‘night’. Its melodic sound and association with darkness render it a lovely option for parents seeking a name filled with mystery.
3. Mavka
The Ukrainian name Mavka refers to a female spirit from Slavic folklore, connected with dark forests and mystery, making it a unique and enchanting choice.
4. Kiera
Kiera is of Irish origin meaning ‘dark-haired’ or ‘black’. This name has a strong heritage and a beautiful sound that makes it stand out.
5. Samara
The name Samara translates to ‘protected by God’ and has a connection to dark berries, giving it a dual meaning that balances light and darkness beautifully.
6. Morrigan
In Irish mythology, Morrigan is the goddess of battle and sovereignty, whose name means ‘great queen’ or ‘phantom’, embracing the enchanting power of darkness.
7. Sulis
Sulis is a name that means ‘dark water’ and is derived from old Celtic origins. It represents the depth and beauty of water associated with shadows.
8. Nox
A Latin name that means ‘night’, Nox has a cool vibe that makes it trendy and unique, perfect for parents looking for something edgy yet meaningful.
9. Kallista
The name Kallista means ‘most beautiful’ and is often associated with dark beauty, giving it a mysterious and alluring quality.
10. Faye
Faye means ‘fairy’ or ‘elf’ and has been associated with darkness due to its mystical connotations, perfect for those who believe in magic.
11. Dahlia
The name Dahlia, inspired by the beautiful dark flower, symbolizes elegance and mystery, making it suitable for a girl with a strong personality.
12. Carys
Carys is a Welsh name meaning ‘love’, but its soft sound often lends it a shadowy and romantic vibe that is unique and modern.
13. Onyx
This name is derived from the dark gemstone and signifies strength and protection, perfect for parents looking for a name that embodies resilience.
14. Raven
The name Raven evokes imagery of the dark, intelligent bird and symbolizes mystery, magic, and depth, making it a strong choice.
15. Tempest
Tempest refers to a storm, often associated with dark skies and powerful forces, giving a name filled with strength and energy.
16. Lilith
In various mythologies, Lilith is a sinister figure associated with darkness and independence, empowering and captivating all at once.
17. Zara
The name Zara translates to ‘princess’ or ‘radiance’ but can also imply darkness and depth through its exotic sound and feel.
18. Erelyn
Erelyn is a modern name that means ‘light in darkness’, symbolizing beauty that shines amidst shadow, appealing to those who value both aspects.
19. Bellatrix
Meaning ‘female warrior’, Bellatrix is also the name of a dark star. This unique blend of strength and celestial significance makes it a compelling choice.
20. Calypso
Calypso comes from Greek mythology and often evokes sirens and mysterious islands, giving it a dark yet enchanting essence.
21. Selene
Selene means ‘moon’ in Greek, often representing darkness and beauty in the quietness of night, creating a poetic name choice.
22. Nyx
Nyx, the Greek goddess of night, embodies both mystery and power, making it an extraordinary name with deep roots in mythology.
23. Lila
The name Lila means ‘night’ in Arabic and has a beauty that flows softly, making it a modern favorite for parents seeking dark-themed names.
24. Zora
While Zora typically means ‘dawn’, its association with the end of darkness makes it a balancing choice for those appreciating light and shadow.
25. Circe
Another figure from Greek mythology, Circe is associated with magic and enchantment, with a fascinating connection to darkness and transformation.
26. Ravenna
This Italian name means ‘dark’ and is reminiscent of the famous city, giving it both intrigue and a lyrical quality.
27. Lysandra
This name means ‘liberator’ but often evokes dark themes due to its powerful sound, perfect for a strong female presence.
28. Asteria
Asteria means ‘starry’ while hinting at the darkness of night skies, embodying beauty and a connection to the celestial realm.
29. Sable
Sable means ‘black’ in French and conjures images of luxurious darkness, making it a chic choice for parents wanting something distinctive.
30. Astraea
As the goddess of justice in Greek mythology, Astraea’s name is associated with stars and often darkness, rendering it a name with dual meaning.
31. Jett
Jett symbolizes the color black, representing strength and elegance in its simplicity, popular for parents looking for modern names.
32. Thea
Meaning ‘goddess’, Thea has connections to darkness through its beautiful lore and strength, making it timelessly appealing.
33. Sable
The name Sable directly translates to ‘black’ and is linked with elegance. Its uniqueness makes it stand out perfectly in modern circles.
34. Aisling
This Irish name means ‘dream’ or ‘vision’, often associated with dark dreams, giving it an artistic and poetic allure.
35. Calista
Calista means ‘most beautiful’ but carries an enchanting appeal connected to darkness, making it an elegant choice.
36. Ravenna
Ravenna brings a sense of elegance and darkness together in one name, inspired by the color and the famous Italian city.
37. Tansy
A cheerful name with a hidden dark charm, Tansy refers to a type of flower and has historical links to herbal knowledge of ancient times.
38. Amaya
Amaya means ‘night rain’, beautifully capturing the essence of darkness in a gentle and poetic manner.
39. Drusilla
Drusilla has classic historical roots and means ‘strong’, often painted with dark themes in literature, making it a glamorous choice.
40. Cimmerian
A name derived from the Cimmerians, a mythological people from darkness, lending both strength and mystery to this unique choice.
41. Thalassa
Meaning ‘the sea’, Thalassa invokes images of mysterious dark waters, giving it an aquatic dark vibe.
42. Kiera
Kiera means ‘little dark one’, which is perfectly suited for any parent wanting to embrace the beauty of shadow.
43. Inara
Inara means ‘illuminated’, yet it carries dark undercurrents that symbolize mystery, making it a unique dual-meaning name.
44. Zephyra
Zephyra, meaning ‘west wind’, possesses gentle undertones of night breezes, melding beauty and darkness.
45. Talia
Talia means ‘dew from heaven’ but invokes images of the night’s quiet, lending it a soft yet mysterious vibe.
46. Kiira
Kiira, meaning ‘darkness’, directly embodies the essence of this theme, making it simple yet compelling.
47. Aeliana
Aeliana has a celestial sound and meaning ‘heavenly’ alongside its links to shadow, making it a balanced name choice.
48. Shadiyah
Shadiyah can mean ‘one who celebrates’, but it encompasses darker themes of festivity in the shadows.
49. Vespertine
As a name associated with evening, Vespertine embodies the beauty of darkness setting in, perfect for those who cherish twilight.
50. Isolde
Famous from Arthurian legends, Isolde carries an air of allure and enchantment associated with darkness and passion.
51. Tarin
The name Tarin means ‘dark’ and conveys strength and beauty, making it a meaningful choice to consider for a girl.
52. Zara
Zara stands for ‘princess’, but when placed together with darkness signifies a balance of elegance and mystery.
53. Kallie
While Kallie means ‘pure’, it has dark undertones that provide a beautiful contrast making it unique.
54. Esmeralda
The name Esmeralda, while meaning ‘emerald’, often connects with the depth and richness of dark green stones, creating a bewitching name.
55. Kira
Kira means ‘beam of light’ but often symbolizes light shining through darkness, making it a beautiful duality choice.
56. Meridith
The name Meridith stands as a reminder of hidden paths in shadow, making it both unique and inspired by darkness.
57. Violet
This name, while referring to the flower, is also associated with deep hues, evoking dark shades of beauty in nature.
58. Sakina
Sakina means ‘tranquility’, often alluding to serene nights filled with darker hues, perfect for reflecting calmness amidst shadows.
59. Tamsin
Tamsin is a name of English origin meaning ‘twin’, often associated with dark and beautiful duality.
60. Ylva
Ylva, meaning ‘wolf’, holds ancient ties to the dark and mysterious realm of nature, perfect for a child with strong roots.
61. Gretchen
In meaning ‘little pearl’, Gretchen carries an allure with its beautiful dark undertones that can inspire elegance.
62. Keli
Keli means ‘dark-haired’, directly embracing the enchanting beauty of darkness for your child’s identity.
63. Rhiannon
The name Rhiannon speaks of a Welsh goddess linked to the night and darkness, lending a mystical quality to the choice.
64. Niamh
Niamh means ‘bright’, but in contrast connects uniquely to enchanting tales of darkness in Irish folklore.
65. Céline
Céline means ‘heavenly’ but has intimate ties to night skies, making it both divine and shadowy.
66. Vesper
The name Vesper translates to ‘evening star’, embracing the beauty of night and the elegance that comes with darkness.
67. Calypso
This name embodies charm and enchantment, associating with aquatic mysteries, often linked to dark oceans.
68. Rona
The name Rona means ‘pure joy’ but its softness has an underlying connection to darkness that makes it special.
69. Saya
With roots in several cultures, Saya means ‘to accompany’, suggesting a walk through shadowed realms of adventure.
70. Calliope
Calliope, while meaning ‘beautiful voice’, evokes dark images from Greek myths creating a contrast with light.
71. Dusk
The name Dusk refers to the transition of day into night, perfectly embodying the theme of darkness in a single word.
72. Remi
This name signifies a thoughtful personality, often embracing themes of darkness in a beautifully approachable manner.
73. Avani
Avani, meaning ‘earth’, creates a cozy dark sense of grounding through the connection to natural elements.
74. Midnight
The name Midnight expresses the ultimate essence of darkness, making it a bold choice for your daughter.
75. Isolde
Isolde is a magical name from Arthurian legend connected to dark beauty, strength, and romance.
76. Deirdre
Deirdre is an Irish name associated with a tragic tale that mirrors darkness and profound emotions through folklore.
77. Livia
Livia means ‘life’ but often whispers the luxurious dark tones in its pronunciation, making it memorable.
78. Zinnia
Connecting to the flower, Zinnia has layers of rich colors, often seen in darker backgrounds to make it stand out.
79. Elda
Elda means ‘great warrior’, a name that finds strength in the mysterious dark themes surrounding it.
80. Meridian
Meridian, referring to the highest point of the sun, also hints at dusk and darkness, making it a beautifully layered choice.
81. Brynn
In Welsh, Brynn means ‘hill’, connecting to the hidden beauty often associated with shadowy landscapes.
82. Seraphina
While it means ‘fiery’, Seraphina can also imply a warm glow amidst the cozy darkness, blending charm beautifully.
83. Maelene
This modern name signifies a beautiful dark sound that brings forth mystery and deep connections.
84. Nyssa
Nyssa means ‘goal’, often unseen until darkness settles, representing both presence and mystery.
85. Katerina
Katerina often implies purity but adds a dimension of intriguing darkness through unique blends in various cultures.
86. Aria
Aria translates to ‘song’ but evokes a sense of warm darkness combined with beauty, making it captivating.
87. Ffion
This name means ‘foxglove’ but connects to dark green shades, inspirational for parents who appreciate nature.
88. Mira
Mira stands for ‘wonder’, often embraced with dark themes of wonderment, perfect for unique journeys.
89. Morwen
Meaning ‘dark maiden’, Morwen holds Celtic roots that perfectly capture the enchanting essence of dark beauty.
90. Selene
Selene symbolizes the moon, connecting readers with ghostly tales and offering a shade of mystery in darkness.
91. Belladonna
The name Belladonna refers to a dark yet beautiful flower, mysterious and captivating, embodying the essence of danger and allure.
92. Kaela
Karla has roots meaning ‘pure’ but also manages to possess a dark inherent charm, creating a unique fusion.
93. Xanthe
Xanthe means ‘golden’, but when linked with darker undertones connects warmth to shadow, enriching its allure.
94. Davina
Davina is a name meaning ‘beloved’ but is also associated with ancient darkness, providing a blend of attention.
95. Leocadia
Leocadia means ‘bright’, yet brings a powerful contrast of light amidst hidden darker stories.
96. Ember
Derived from glowing ashes, Ember evokes imagery of warmth in dark spaces, making it a stylish yet powerful name.
97. Esme
Esme means ‘esteemed’ or ‘beloved’, carrying historical tones that connect to dark shadows, creating gentility.
98. Annika
While Annika often means ‘grace’, its sound reverberates through depth and darkness beautifully.
99. Kayla
Meaning ‘slim’, Kayla brings forth reliability amidst dark moments, creating a unique rhythm in its identity.
100. Phaedra
Phaedra means ‘bright’, yet spins stories of complexity often interwoven with darkness in Greek mythology.
101. Calya
Calya often symbolizes a ‘beautiful’ connection to mysteries of darkness, promoting inherent grace.
102. Amaya
Amaya means ‘night rain’, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty and power of nocturnal elements.
103. Menolly
A name that connects with music, Menolly resonates with enchanting shadow images in its creative essence.
104. Veera
Veera, meaning ‘brave’, often stands amidst shadows with confidence, embodying a beautiful strength.
105. Elara
Elara, named after one of Zeus’s lovers, carries unique shades of admiration with ties to dark stories.
106. Hecate
Hecate is the goddess of witchcraft; the name deeply connects with dark themes and female empowerment.
107. Linnea
Linnea symbolizes a flower, often appearing under the cover of twilight and darkness, connecting to nature beautifully.
108. Elysia
Meaning ‘blissful’, Elysia is captivating as it references an enchanting paradise beneath a dark sky.
109. Juno
Juno represents the roman goddess who embodies mystery, strength, and dark beauty in an awe-inspiring manner.
110. Ianthe
Ianthe means ‘purple flower’ and symbolizes deep magic often tied with darkness making it unique.
111. Inara
Inara means ‘ray of light’, playing beautifully amid dark shades, rendering it a captivating choice.
112. Vespera
Similar to Vesper, Vespera means ‘evening star’ and evokes serene images under the blanket of night.
113. Zadie
Zadie means ‘princess’ but feels deeply resonant with darkness and strength, giving it a modern twist.
114. Isha
Isha means ‘goddess’ or ‘life’ yet has ties to deeper meanings in shadowy realms.
115. Zephyra
Zephyra means ‘west wind’ but also hints at the soothing evening breeze, making it enchanting.
116. Catriona
Catriona means ‘pure’, and manages dark depths within this pure essence, creating dazzling duality.
117. Ophelia
Ophelia, from Shakespearean literature, is steeped in dark romance and mystery, embodying timeless charm.
118. Tahlia
Tahlia means ‘blooming’ but often evokes recollections of shadowy night gardens, rendering beauty in darkness.
119. Marella
Marella means ‘shining sea’ but associates resonant images of enchanted dark ocean depths.
120. Liviana
121. Zaida
Zaida means ‘prosperous’ while also invoking darker images reflecting on cultural roots.
122. Vanya
The name Vanya means ‘gracious gift’, creating humbleness amidst shadows with a hint of strength.
123. Nocturna
Nocturna directly refers to night, symbolizing darkness perfectly, making it a bold and unique choice.
124. Selene
Selene often translates to ‘moon’, entwining beauty firmly in darkness and luminescence.
125. Talia
Talia connects with ‘blooming’ taking root beautifully underneath layered darkness reflecting growth.
126. Mariella
Mariella means ‘star of the sea’ and connects oceans’ dark depths, expanding upon this theme beautifully.
127. Liora
Liora means ‘my light’ but embodies traces of shadowy duality that inspire depth and curiosity.
128. Kylah
Kylah means ‘slim’ or ‘fair’ while retaining an intriguing contrast with dark beauty.
129. Moira
Moira means ‘destiny’, often threading stories lined with dark themes, creating a compelling sound.
130. Nia
Nia means ‘brilliant’, yet links beautifully to deep stories intertwined with shadowy realms.
131. Esmae
Esmae means ‘beloved’ adorned with connections to delicate light amidst darker tides.
132. Zara
Zara means ‘blossoming flower’, effortlessly blending themes of light into shaded grace.
133. Tove
Tove means ‘beautiful’, resonating with soft shades of dark and depth in its portrayals.
134. Vesperia
Vesperia evokes a sense of evening magic; great for creating charm amid evening shadows.
135. Noira
Noira literally means ‘dark’, emphatically tying directly to the theme of darkness.
136. Seren
Seren means ‘star’, offering a lovely dual meaning connecting night and exquisite beauty.
137. Raine
Raine evokes connections to storms and darkness, enriching the name with beautiful imagery.
138. Yvaine
The name Yvaine means ‘evening star’, entrenching it firmly among the darkness of night.
139. Paloma
Paloma means ‘dove’, connecting to peace and tranquility often uncovered in dark times.
140. Zinnia
Zinnia refers to the vibrant flower but often gives images of dark shades reflected in nature.
141. Tansy
Tansy symbolizes complexity through its dark, beautiful floral imagery, being gently alluring.
142. Selima
Selima means ‘peaceful’ linking tranquility of dark nights with unique beauty.
143. Kyra
Kyra means ‘lady’ and softly reflects dark elegance, intertwining beauty and strength.
144. Fiorella
Fiorella means ‘little flower’, representing delicate beauty often seen amidst dark blooms.
145. Tsukiko
This Japanese name means ‘child of the moon’, closely echoing darkness and serene illumination.
146. Minerva
Minerva means ‘of the mind’ but intricately weaves elements of ancient shadows and intellect.
147. Soraya
Soraya means ‘princess’ but generates an aura of mystery and elegance through dark tones.
148. Tihna
Meaning ‘dark one’, Tihna embraces the beauty of darkness directly linked within.
149. Ouida
With its roots in Latin, Ouida means ‘wealthy’, often juxtaposed to dark histories of culture.
150. Noxie
Noxie derived from ‘night’, embodies a simple beauty rooted in darkness and shadowy undertones.
Final Thoughts
Exploring names that mean dark for girls can open up a world of beautiful possibilities. Each name not only carries its own unique meaning but also invokes feelings of mystery, strength, and depth. Names like Nyx, Morrigan, and Raven are perfect for those who appreciate the beauty found in shadows and deeper themes.
Choosing a name that reflects darkness does not mean sacrificing light. Many of these names convey the balance between light and shadow, creating a rich tapestry of identity for your daughter. Let the allure of these dark names inspire your choice, as they each tell a story and embody a unique spirit.
If you’re interested in more options, you might want to explore more names that mean darkness for girls or consider Chinese names that echo the theme of darkness. Happy naming!