Names can hold powerful meanings, shaping identity and perception. Some names, however, carry a heavier weight, associated with betrayal or treachery. These names often reflect stories, myths, or historical figures known for their disloyalty. Understanding these names can provide insight into human relationships and the consequences of betrayal.
Today, we will look at various names that mean “betrayer.” We’ll uncover their origins and the stories behind them. Whether you’re curious about naming a character or just interested in the topic, these names offer a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of loyalty and trust.
Names That Mean Betrayer
1. Judas
The name Judas is almost synonymous with betrayal due to the biblical figure who betrayed Jesus. This name represents disloyalty and treachery, making it powerful yet controversial.
2. Maalik
Maalik is an Arabic name meaning ‘master’ or ‘king’. However, it can also imply someone who rules with an iron fist or betrays their subjects, relating closely to the idea of betrayal.
3. Betrayal
While unconventional, naming someone Betrayal is a bold statement that directly expresses disloyalty. It immediately captures attention and carries the weight of its meaning.
4. Brutus
Brutus is often remembered as the ultimate betrayer in literature. In Shakespeare’s play, he betrays Julius Caesar, making this name synonymous with treachery.
5. Cain
In the Bible, Cain betrays his brother Abel, leading to one of the first murders. This name resonates with the theme of betrayal and familial betrayal.
6. Iago
Iago, from Shakespeare’s Othello, is known for his deceit and treachery. This name is forever linked to betrayal in the realm of literature.
7. Delilah
Delilah famously betrays Samson, leading to his downfall. This name represents seduction and treachery in a strong way.
8. Narcissus
This Greek name represents selfishness and betrayal of others for one’s own desires. It speaks to the inner traitor that can exist in us all.
9. Tarquin
Tarquin is a name tainted by betrayal, as the last king of Rome was known for his treachery. It carries a historical weight that relates to betrayal.
10. Treachery
Naming someone Treachery is a blunt way of expressing the theme of betrayal. It’s not a common name, but its impact is undeniable.
11. Acheron
Acheron is a river in Greek mythology that is associated with the underworld. It represents betrayal and loss, as souls crossed water to their fate.
12. Judas Iscariot
By bearing the full name of Judas Iscariot, the gravitas of betrayal in Christianity is intensified. This name is laden with historical context.
13. Earle
Earle means ‘nobleman’ but can have darker connotations, representing those who betray their honor for personal gain.
14. Mallory
This name means ‘unfortunate’ but can also be associated with an ill fate that comes from betrayal, reflecting the consequences of one’s actions.
15. Loki
Loki, from Norse mythology, is known for his trickster ways and betrayal of the gods. This name implies cunning and deceit.
16. Maleficent
Originating from the Latin word meaning ‘evil-doer’, Maleficent embodies the essence of betrayal, making it a compelling name for a character.
17. Scar
The villain from The Lion King, Scar represents betrayal of family, making this an evocative name choice that captures the essence of treachery.
18. Viper
Named after the snake, Viper represents deceit and betrayal, embodying the cunning acts associated with treachery.
19. Judas Priest
The term ‘priest’ alongside Judas evokes a sense of betrayal from within the church, representing those who misuse trust.
20. Katu
This name means ‘betrayer’ in some cultures, making it a straightforward reference to the theme of disloyalty.
21. Cadi
Cadi means ‘betrayer’ in certain dialects, further strengthening its connection to disloyalty.
22. Ashtar
In various stories, Ashtar symbolizes betrayal and treachery, often coming from a place of ambition.
23. Bane
Bane means ’cause of distress or ruin’, and has links to breaking trust, showcasing the dark side of betrayal.
24. Tybalt
Tybalt, from Romeo and Juliet, is symbolic of betrayal in familial loyalty, making this name deeply associated with treachery.
25. Albus
In contrast to the benevolent image of Albus Dumbledore, this name can also be seen as one who betrays an underhanded motive.
26. Morgan
While often seen as a neutral name, Morgan le Fay in Arthurian legend represents betrayal with dark magic.
27. Rhiannon
A name working its way through Welsh mythology, Rhiannon has tales where betrayal figures prominently in her stories.
28. Roderick
This name means ‘famous power’, but power can lead to betrayal when wielded in self-interest, reflecting historical tales.
29. Arachne
Arachne was turned into a spider for betraying Athena, embodying the hurt of disloyalty in mythology.
30. Neo
While the name means ‘new’, Neo from The Matrix represents betrayal by the system, making the name evocative of treachery.
31. Dorian
Dorian Gray in literature symbolizes betrayal of morality in pursuit of eternal youth, a powerful reflection on treachery.
32. Zeus
The king of the gods is known for his many betrayals, which add a layer of complexity to the name used in various cultures.
33. Satan
The name Satan directly denotes betrayal, representing the ultimate disloyalty in religious texts.
34. Alaric
This name means ‘ruler of all’, but can imply betrayal when leaders turn their backs on their people.
35. Acerbus
Acerbus means ‘sour’ or ‘harsh’, reflecting the bitterness that can arise from an act of betrayal.
36. Nihil
Nihil means ‘nothing’ in Latin and resonates with the emptiness left behind after betrayal.
37. Sarai
In some contexts, the name Sarai can symbolize a turning point in trust, making it relevant to themes of betrayal.
38. Typhon
In mythology, Typhon’s actions can be seen as betrayals to the gods, making it a strong name choice for treachery.
39. Caspian
This name invokes the sea but also relates to characters who betray in stories, making it multifaceted.
40. Morgana
Morgana, often depicted as a betrayer in mythology, embodies enchantment and treachery.
41. Blade
This name implies sharpness and can represent those who betray trust with a swift action.
42. Caelum
The name Caelum means ‘heaven’, but can also relate to the betrayal of the sublime.
43. Delano
While it’s a historically significant name, Delano can represent betrayals in power dynamics throughout history.
44. Devlin
This name means ‘unlucky’, hinting at the unfortunate outcomes of betrayal.
45. Slytherin
Named after the infamous house in Harry Potter, Slytherin is often associated with cunning and betrayal.
46. Kira
This name means ‘light’ but can also represent the shadow cast by betrayal in tales.
47. Simoom
A name that refers to a dry wind can signify the betrayal that removes all life.
48. Felon
This name directly ties to criminal activity, but its essence can also be linked to betrayal.
49. Void
A name symbolizing emptiness speaks volumes about the aftermath of betrayal in relationships.
50. Xanthe
This name means ‘golden’ but can signify the deceptive value that comes from betrayal.
51. Damis
Damis represents someone who falters in loyalty and is often used in literature depicting betrayal.
52. Asa
This name means ‘physician’, but can also refer to betrayal of trust when healing fails.
53. Aisling
Aisling means ‘dream’ in Irish and can symbolize betrayal in loss of hope.
54. Thorne
This name symbolizes the sharp edge of betrayal, a fitting name reflecting hurt.
55. Riven
This name means ‘torn apart’, representing the fracture in trust caused by betrayal.
56. Malachi
The name Malachi means ‘messenger’ but can betray in its truths.
57. Kallista
This name means ‘most beautiful’ but can signify a deceptive beauty that betrays trust.
58. Jett
A strong name with roots in betrayal, Jett implies speed but can also connote betrayal in relationships.
59. Cambiaso
This name, meaning ‘changer’, speaks to the shifting nature of loyalty.
60. Brindley
The name meaning ‘burnt meadow’ can symbolize the aftermath of betrayal in relationships.
61. Briar
This name means ‘thorned or prickly’, an apt metaphor for the pain of betrayal.
62. Hecate
A name steeped in mythology, Hecate embodies betrayal within the realms of magic.
63. Simo
This name means ‘told’, relating to the act of spilling secrets and betraying trust.
64. Lament
Lament indicates sorrow, often felt after acts of betrayal.
65. Adira
This name means ‘strong’ but carries undertones of those who misuse strength for betrayal.
66. Jude
This name, as a derivative of Judas, brings an air of betrayal in its historical context.
67. Saro
The name Saro implies a sense of sadness tied directly to betrayals.
68. Arcturus
Meaning ‘guardian of the bear’, it can imply a betrayal of duty.
69. Ember
This name reflects the glowing downfall that betrayal creates in relationships.
70. Rake
This name connects to reckless abandon, often associated with betrayal in actions.
71. Tamsin
The name Tamsin implies ‘twin’, hinting that betrayals often come from those closest to us.
72. Apollo
While often viewed positively, his stories also contain shades of betrayal.
73. Emberly
A variation of Ember, emphasizing warmth but hiding the stark betrayal beneath.
74. Bellatrix
This name means ‘female warrior’, historically linked to betrayal in wartime loyalties.
75. Renegade
This name directly conveys rebellion and betrayal from established loyalties.
76. Quillon
A strong name that suggests ‘sword’, hinting at the sharpness of betrayal’s impact.
77. Tiberius
Tiberius can evoke the power struggles where betrayal often plays a significant role.
78. Griffin
This name applies the symbolism of a guardian but can hint at betrayal when guardians turn against.
79. Hades
The name of the god of the underworld implies betrayals in life and death tales.
80. Cordelia
While she’s seen as loyal, different interpretations of her tale reveal underlying betrayal themes.
81. Selene
This name, associated with the moon, symbolizes cycles of betrayal though beautiful façade.
82. Loki
From mythology, he’s the clever deceiver, illustrating the cunning side of betrayal.
83. Thalia
The muse associated with comedy often embodies irony in themes of betrayal.
84. Gwendolyn
This name carries a lighthearted tone but in literature hints at treachery and betrayal.
85. Astra
This name signifies ‘star’, often alluding to destiny and potential betrayals from fate.
86. Narcisse
This name indicates a self-loving traitor, evoking themes of deceit.
87. Zanna
A name correlated to joy but can also be source of sorrow through betrayal.
88. Eve
The biblical connection symbolizes the first betrayal, impacting trust forever.
89. Vesper
This name means ‘evening’ but hints at the darkness of betrayal that comes with night.
90. Peirce
An old name suggesting sharpness, representing the emotional cuts betrayal can inflict.
91. Cerberus
Associated with dog guarding the underworld, Cerberus symbolizes betrayal of trust.
92. Remus
In myth, the brotherly bond is broken by betrayal, leading to tragedy.
93. Zenith
This term means the highest point, which can depict a fall caused by betrayal.
94. Zephyr
This name means gentle breeze but hints at the unseen breeze of treachery.
95. Obsidian
This stone signifies darkness and can symbolize hidden betrayal within.
96. Belladonna
A name for a beautiful poison, connecting beauty to the risk of betrayal.
97. Coraline
This name, with its ocean ties, can also represent betrayal of trust from unexpected places.
98. Avalon
Associated with Arthurian legends where betrayal and destiny intertwine.
99. Trajan
This name means ‘to lead’, showing that leaders can also betray their people.
100. Phantom
Phantom embodies themes of betrayal through illusion and misrepresentation.
101. Siren
In mythology, Sirens lure sailors to betrayal of their ships and lives.
102. Nemesis
This name signifies retribution, often arising from betrayal and treason.
103. Paradox
A name implying contradiction, much like sometimes disguises betrayal.
104. Tartar
This name connects to the underworld, implying betrayal in mythologies.
105. Zuri
This name, meaning ‘beautiful’, can also denote the deceptive quality of a traitor.
106. Marcellus
This historic name relates to betrayals throughout time, making it a powerful echo.
107. Icarus
Falling prey to hubris, Icarus represents betrayal to himself in mythology.
108. Rex
This name meaning ‘king’ demonstrates betrayal in the realm of authority.
109. Tassa
This name connects with tales of betrayal in classic literature.
110. Erebus
This name signifies half-darkness, hinting at the shadowy side of betrayal.
111. Savior
This name ironically alludes to betrayal of faith by those seen as protectors.
112. Charon
As the ferryman of the dead, Charon connects to betrayal in abandoning this life.
113. Ruin
This name encompasses the destructive aftermath of betrayal.
114. Tanis
A name suggesting ‘serpent’, which directly ties to a symbolism of betrayal in many cultures.
115. Ashwin
This name can imply a betrayal through loss, representing fleeting moments of trust.
116. Wick
Named after the burning flame, Wick symbolizes the pain felt through betrayal.
117. Nyx
This name representing night can also represent hidden betrayals lurking in dark.
118. Ajax
A figure associated with the Greek wars, Ajax faced betrayal on many fronts.
119. Caelus
This name embodies the sky, often a symbol of promises broken through betrayal.
120. Galen
This name means ‘calm’, yet can hint at the quiet treachery beneath the surface.
121. Maeve
The name pointing to a mythical queen where betrayals of loyalty unfold.
122. Atlas
This name carries the beast of the world, often representing betrayals in bearing burdens.
123. Riot
A name symbolizing chaos directly linked to the betrayal of trust.
124. Thespian
This name relates to actors but hints at the betrayal found in masked intentions.
125. Celestria
This name connects to the heavens but can hint at betrayal of ideals.
126. Chaos
This name signifies turmoil, often beginning with betrayal.
127. Falcon
This name implies a predator, representing betrayal in the animal kingdom.
128. Garrick
This name can mean ‘spear’ implying a sharp attack through betrayal.
129. Rune
A name connected with inscribed spells can denote betrayal hidden in secrets.
130. Sterling
This name refers to high quality, yet can represent the betrayal of trust in greed.
131. Zenith
This name means the peak of something yet can often lead to betrayals along the way.
132. Vita
This name means ‘life’ yet can hint at betrayal through the fragility of trust.
133. Phoenix
The Phoenix represents rebirth but is connected to betrayal in darker tales.
134. Enigma
This name signifies mystery, reflecting the uncertainty that comes with betrayal.
135. Halcyon
A name symbolizing peace that can be broken by an act of betrayal.
136. Lamenta
Connected to mourning, it showcases the fallout from betrayal.
137. Siren
Siren could refer to enchanting beauty, with betrayal lurking beneath.
138. Medusa
Known for her tragic betrayal, Medusa represents the consequences of broken trust.
139. Lilith
This name symbolizes rebellion and estrangement, often connected to betrayal narratives.
140. Grief
This name represents the suffering following betrayal, a universal emotion.
141. Astraea
In mythology, Astraea embodies purity betrayed by humanity.
142. Moros
This name depicts ‘doom’, deeply entwined with themes of betrayal.
143. Vale
This name often symbolizes a valley, which could illustrate emotional depth in betrayal.
144. Nyssa
This name can mean ‘beginning’ but can also relate to deceit.
145. Fenris
In mythology, Fenris embodies themes of betrayal through his catastrophic actions.
146. Bellum
This name means ‘war’, showcasing the conflict intrinsic to betrayal.
147. Lysander
This name suggests freedom but can hint at betrayal through disloyalty.
148. Elysium
This name connects to paradise, often disrupted by acts of betrayal.
149. Valen
This name means ‘strength’ but can also imply the betrayal of one’s own strength.
150. Rivenheart
This name signifies a broken heart, painting a vivid picture of the consequences of betrayal in relationships.
Final Thoughts
Names carry deep meanings, some of which can be linked directly to the concept of betrayal. The names we explored reflect various cultures and stories, reminding us of the nuances in loyalty and trust. Through history and literature, betrayal has remained a powerful and impactful theme, represented by these names.
Whether you’re interested in naming a character or exploring the devastating effects of betrayal, the meanings behind these names can add depth and intrigue. They serve as reminders of the complexities in human emotions and relationships.
For more insights, you might want to discover names that mean betrayal or delve into names that mean traitor for a broader perspective on these themes.