Some names carry deep meanings that can reflect nature and human experiences. Among these are names that mean “famine.” These names often come from languages and cultures around the world, representing struggles with food scarcity throughout history. Famine has had a significant impact on societies, shaping their stories and legacies.
Today, we will look at a selection of names that signify famine or hunger. We will explore their origins and meanings, offering you insights into why these names can be powerful symbols. Whether for storytelling or personal interest, understanding these names can reveal much about our shared human experience.
Names That Mean Famine
1. Rachel
The name Rachel comes from Hebrew, meaning ‘ewe,’ but it is often associated with hunger through the biblical tale of Rachel’s mourning for her children who are no more, symbolizing loss and famine.
2. Mara
Mara is a Hebrew name that translates to ‘bitter’ or ‘sorrowful.’ In the Bible, Naomi changes her name to Mara to reflect her loss, linking it to the experience of famine and hardship.
3. Acheron
Acheron is derived from Greek mythology and means ‘river of sorrow.’ This name evokes the feelings of despair related to enduring famine and suffering.
4. Lila
The name Lila means ‘night’ in Arabic, but in some cultures, it represents a time of scarcity and hunger during dark times in history, offering a connection to famine.
5. Devlin
This Irish name means ‘unlucky,’ often associated with dark times, including periods of famine and scarcity that leave a lasting impact.
6. Carys
Carys means ‘love’ in Welsh. In contrast, it also represents the love lost during times of famine, making it a poignant choice.
7. Seara
Seara is derived from Gaelic, meaning ‘drought.’ With its direct relation to the struggle for water and food during drought, it symbolizes famine as well.
8. Ruzhena
This Slavic name means ‘famine’ or ‘hunger.’ It is a direct reference to the concept of scarcity and survival in tough times.
9. Mairin
Although Mairin means ‘beloved,’ it can also encompass the anguish felt during famines, representing lost love due to hunger.
10. Aisling
Aisling means ‘dream’ or ‘vision’ in Irish. However, during famine, dreams of a bountiful future can turn into nightmares for many.
11. Tucker
This name, which originally meant ‘cloth-maker,’ is also linked to the famine of cloth and lack of resources during hard times.
12. Kalisha
Kalisha is a modern name that resonates as a reference to divine grace, often highlighting the grace we seek in times of famine and need.
13. Desdemona
This name of Greek origin means ‘ill-fated’ and conjures the hardships faced during periods of famine and hunger.
14. Berenice
Berenice means ‘she who brings victory,’ but historical context includes tales where famine challenged such victories.
15. Leta
Leta means ‘gladness’ in Latin, but it can also relate to the happiness amidst the sorrow of famine. It creates a contrast between joy and hardship.
16. Aeliana
With meanings linked to ‘light’ and ‘sunshine,’ Aeliana reflects the hope one has while facing the harsh conditions of famine.
17. Tanwen
A Welsh name meaning ‘fire and light,’ Tanwen can symbolize the light that guides people through times of hunger.
18. Carmine
This Italian name means ‘song’ but can symbolize the cries for help during times of famine.
19. Corinna
Though typically understood as ‘young girl,’ Corinna’s links to ancient tales often include scarcity and survival themes.
20. Devol
The name Devol means ‘to cry out,’ representative of the pain experienced during famine when communities plead for aid.
21. Darnell
This name comes from a type of weed that grows in poor soil, often symbolizing survival amidst famine.
22. Raja
Raja, meaning ‘king’, carries the burden of leadership during the hardships of famine, highlighting the responsibility of rulers.
23. Jarek
This name means ‘sacred’ in Slavic contexts, but also echoes the cries for sustenance during desperate times.
24. Clovis
Clovis means ‘famous warrior,’ yet many famous warriors have led their people through the difficulties of famine and strife.
25. Abaddon
In Hebrew, Abaddon means ‘place of destruction,’ often linked with periods of famine that cause devastating loss.
26. Deirdre
This Irish name means ‘sorrow,’ a fitting description of the grief felt in times of famine.
27. Eldred
The name Eldred means ‘old counsel’, but it also encompasses the wisdom gathered through experiences of famine.
28. Jabari
Jabari, meaning ‘brave’, represents the courage to survive even when faced with famine and great hardships.
29. Kanti
This name translates to ‘song’ in Hindi but symbolizes the yearning for sustenance and hope during famine.
30. Azafran
Azafran means ‘saffron’, a spice that has historically been scarce and valuable, relating to the theme of famine.
31. Dreya
Meaning ‘a powerful person’, this name also reflects the strength of those who persevere through famine by any means necessary.
32. Deon
Deon signifies ‘divine’, often calling to mind the divine intervention sought during famines.
33. Tempest
As a name, Tempest can represent tumultuous times when food becomes scarce, driving home the severity of famine.
34. Kaelin
The name Kaelin means ‘slender’, which can also relate to the physical manifestations of hunger during times of famine.
35. Mvinji
This name means ‘one who handles food’, highlighting the theme of nourishment, essential during famine periods.
36. Vesna
Vesna means ‘spring’ in Slavic languages and represents hope for rebirth after times of famine.
37. Jabez
This biblical name means ‘sorrow’, closely linked with experiences of famine and the hardships that define them.
38. Taran
This name means ‘thunder’ in Welsh, but can symbolize the deep scars of societal strife including famine.
39. Reyna
Reyna means ‘queen’ but can carry the burdens of famine on leadership and survival.
40. Lorna
Meaning ‘laurel,’ Lorna can also symbolize victory over the struggles of hunger and famine.
41. Cadogan
This Welsh name means ‘the battle’, reflecting the struggle against famine and its devastating effects.
42. Carrow
Carrow means ‘rocky ground,’ often associated with tough farming conditions that lead to famine.
43. Lanaya
The name Lanaya means ‘afraid’, resonating with the fear that comes with famine and scarcity.
44. Ermengarde
This German name means ‘universal strength’ but can also reflect the endurance required to weather a famine.
45. Hecate
As the goddess of magic in Greek mythology, her association with darkness calls to mind the despair often felt during famines.
46. Chione
This name, meaning ‘snow’, symbolizes the harsh conditions often faced during times of famine.
47. Kylian
Kylian, meaning ‘narrow’, can relate to the challenges of finding food in limited resources during a famine.
48. Bellamy
This French name means ‘handsome friend’, but can also symbolize the bonds of friendship formed during shared hardships like famine.
49. Sorcha
This Irish name, meaning ‘light’, brings a sense of hope for relief during times of famine.
50. Elyse
Elyse means ‘pledged to God’, a sentiment often felt during times of famine when communities unite in hope.
51. Nerea
This Greek name signifies ‘water’, emphasizing the essentials often scarce during famine.
52. Sienna
Named after the city known for its rustic tones of red clay, Sienna can evoke the earthy struggles associated with famine.
53. Azara
This name means ‘to help’ in Hebrew, embodying the supportive roles people play during famine.
54. Zia
Meaning ‘light’ in Arabic, Zia represents the hope that arises during scarcity.
55. Jumanah
This name means ‘silver pearl’ in Arabic, symbolizing rarity like food during famine.
56. Alea
Alea means ‘sublime’, arguably parallel to the higher call to aid those suffering in famine.
57. Thorne
This name symbolizes protection amidst harsh circumstances such as famine.
58. Selah
Meaning ‘pause’ or ‘rest’, it evokes moments of reflection during harrowing famine times.
59. Aislinn
With a meaning tied to ‘dream’, the name can evoke aspirations lost during periods of famine.
60. Ronan
This name means ‘little seal’, often associated with the sea, but deep symbolism exists around resource scarcity concerning food.
61. Livia
A name tied to ‘life’, Livia can represent the struggle to maintain life during famine.
62. Minerva
As the Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva can symbolize the wise decisions made in times of famine.
63. Keva
This name translated means ‘gentle’, but it also signifies the gentleness needed to survive during famine.
64. Aisling
Irish for ‘dream’, this name implies longing during difficult times like famine.
65. Harlow
Harlow, meaning ‘rocky hill’, brings connotations of hardness faced during times of famine.
66. Nyssa
Nyssa means ‘goal’, which reflects the aspirations of communities striving to overcome famine.
67. Brisa
This name means ‘breeze’, representing hope that often comes with recovery after famine.
68. Kyra
Meaning ‘lady’, this name can serve as a representation of leadership during desperate hunger times.
69. Zora
Zora, meaning ‘dawn’, symbolizes the hope and renewal that follows fights against famine.
70. Genesis
Meaning ‘beginning’, this name also symbolizes new starts often necessitated after a period of famine.
71. Arwen
The name Arwen means ‘noble maiden’, connecting back to those elevated through kindness during famine seasons.
72. Eglantine
This name is associated with wildflowers that bloom amidst adversity, highlighting resilience during famine.
73. Clover
As a name associated with hope and good fortune, it reflects the aspirations dancers have amidst food scarcity.
74. Sahar
This name means ‘dawn’ in Arabic and evokes renewal during trying times such as famine.
75. Ronit
Ronit translates to ‘song of joy’, a longing we all have during distressing periods like famine.
76. Wynne
Meaning ‘fair’ or ‘blessed’, Wynne can symbolize the blessings we wish for during famine.
77. Liora
Liora means ‘light’ in Hebrew, embodying the hope often sought during famine.
78. Ember
This name symbolizes fire and warmth, which may feel scarce during the cold realities of famine.
79. Lyric
Lyric represents music, which can express the deep sorrow felt during times of famine.
80. Gaia
As the Greek goddess of the earth, Gaia reflects our roots and the importance of food access during famine.
81. Thalia
In Greek, Thalia symbolizes blooming and growth, often sought after the harshness of famine.
82. Elara
Elara means ‘bright’, symbolizing the hope for a better future that is often crushed during famine.
83. Ailsa
This name has its roots in Scandinavian origins and signifies ‘supernatural strength’, much needed to overcome famine.
84. Brahma
As the Ayurvedic creator god, Brahma embodies stability, something sought during the uncertainties of famine.
85. Famine
This direct name encapsulates the core subject itself, clearly signifying the challenges and struggles associated with hunger.
86. Lua
With roots in both Latin and Portuguese, Lua means ‘moon’, which can signify the cyclical nature of food scarcity.
87. Kyra
Kyra means ‘throne’, representing the ruling class that often leads during food scarcity crises.
88. Anka
Anka means ‘a little anchor’, symbolizing the stability sought in times of famine.
89. Asherah
This name signifies ‘sacred tree’, representing the connection to nature and food sources impacted by famine.
90. Echo
Although it primarily means ‘to resound’, this name connects to stories and tales often shared during desperate times like famine.
91. Seren
This name means ‘star’ in Welsh. Stars often symbolize hope, which shines through darkness of famine.
92. Kaia
Meaning ‘the sea’ in Hawaiian, Kaia can represent the bountiful resources that might be scarce during famine.
93. Tyga
Implying ‘strength’, Tyga reflects resilience in the face of famine.
94. Mahala
This name means ‘tenderness’, which can symbolize the compassion that emerges during famine.
95. Briar
Briar signifies a thorny plant, representing the struggles that come with scarcity during famine periods.
96. Daphna
This name means ‘laurel’, linking it back to resilience and perseverance even through hunger.
97. Aislinn
As mentioned before, the name Aislinn reflects ‘dream’, embodying the aspirations lost in time of famine.
98. Esme
Esme means ‘esteemed’, highlighting values revered in communities battling famine.
99. Halia
This name means ‘remembrance’, invoking nostalgia especially in relation to famines experienced.
100. Zade
Zade symbolizes abundance, as stark a contrast to the main subject of famine.
101. Seren
With the meaning ‘star’ in Welsh, this name can symbolize guidance needed during struggles tied to famine.
102. Halcyon
This name, representing peace within turbulence, reflects the hope sought within periods of famine.
103. Eira
Eira means ‘snow’ in Welsh, symbolizing both purity yet harsh conditions that can lead to famine.
104. Roshan
This name means ‘light’ in Persian, the light that people seek amidst the dark despair of famine.
105. Xara
Meaning ‘shining’, Xara can connect with the hope for brighter days after food scarcity.
106. Aiko
Aiko translates as ‘beloved child’ in Japanese—children suffering during famine often weighs heavily on hearts.
107. Lyra
This name means ‘lyre’, an instrument often used for storytelling of struggles involving famine.
108. Halcyon
Referring to calmness in damaging times, Halcyon reflects the serenity that can be found even in famine.
109. Tatum
Of English origin, this name may indirectly connect to enduring the harshness of famine-related struggles.
110. Farrah
This Arabic name means ‘joyous’, often sought after despair linked to hunger and famine.
111. Agravaine
This name reflects sorrow with its hidden connection to the tragic tales often tied to famine.
112. Zari
Meaning ‘golden’, it offers a sense of hope amid the struggle for sustenance through famine.
113. Isolde
This is an old name that often evokes feelings related to love and loss depicted during famines.
114. Jericho
This city, known for biblical stories of ruin, also connects back to the idea of famine and survival.
115. Fallon
This name means ‘leader’, echoing the weight carried by those navigating communities amid famine.
116. Glenna
This name means ‘valley’, indicating the struggles faced in cultivating land especially during starvation periods.
117. Mallory
Meaning ‘unfortunate’ captures the essence of the hardship associated with massive famines.
118. Ivory
This name is precious like food but can also symbolize the strive for sustenance during famine.
119. Selene
This name links back to the moon, representing the cycle of desperation and hope surrounding famine.
120. Thalia
Meaning ‘to flourish’, signifies those who fight against famine with the intent to thrive.
121. Jaida
This name means ‘from the jade’ but can also link back to their struggles for survival during famine.
122. Vesper
Meaning ‘evening star’, it resonates with the fading hope some communities face during famine.
123. Oceane
This French name means ‘ocean’, holding depth like the stories tied to famine.
124. Ashanti
A name with its roots in an African tribe known for the trials they faced, including famines.
125. Nova
Meaning ‘new’, it embodies the concept of rebirth often discussed after periods of famine.
126. Elle
Meaning ‘she’ in French, it often evokes empathy towards women dealing during famine.
127. Surge
As a name, Surge can symbolize the rise of hopes against famine.
128. Verity
This name means ‘truth’, capturing the stark reality of famine hardships that people face.
129. Astoria
Symbolizing ‘a place of wonders’, it contrasts sharply with the dire situation of those facing famine.
130. Farishta
Farashita means ‘angel’ in Hindi, often invoked during prayers for relief from famine.
131. Halden
Meaning ‘hallowed valley’, it can connect deeply with nature’s impact faced during famines.
132. Zander
Though typically meaning ‘defender of the people’, it may reflect a guard against famine-related struggles.
133. Desiree
This name means ‘desired’ or ‘wished’, resonating with longing during times of hunger and famine.
134. Liora
This Hebrew name means ‘light’, showcasing hope that rises despite facing famine.
135. Amara
Meaning ‘eternal’, it holds the desire for constant nourishment which often becomes scarce during famine.
136. Indigo
This vibrant name signifies richness, contrasting with the scarcity of resources during famine.
137. Revna
This name means ‘to thrive’, resonating with survival amid famine crises.
138. Lennox
A Scottish name meaning ‘with many elm trees’; indirectly pointing towards nature’s bounty often suppressed by famine.
139. Zephyr
This name means ‘west wind’, opening thoughts on freshness and change often sought in times of famine.
140. Isidore
This name symbolizes wealth, contrasting with shortages caused by famine.
141. Camilla
While it means ‘young ceremonial attendant’, it can symbolize the attention needed during famine.
142. Orchid
Orchids often symbolize rare beauty that might reflect scarcity during times of famine experiences.
143. Aster
Meanings include ‘star’, capturing hope and guidance sought during famines.
144. Fiona
This name means ‘fair’ or ‘white’, often evoking innocence lost in starvation situations.
145. Betony
This name means ‘herb’, a symbolic reminder of nature’s resources sought after during famines.
146. Malia
Meaning ‘calm’, this name resonates with the peaceful longing hoped for amid famine distress.
147. Penelope
This name signifies ‘weaver’, echoing on how we hope to weave diets during moments of famine.
148. Freya
Named for the Norse goddess of love connected strongly with community ties felt during famine.
149. Kavi
This name means ‘poet’, often explores themes surrounding the emotional depths faced in famine.
150. Nyka
This name means ‘to come from’, symbolizing ties back to heritage and stories of famine in history.
Final Thoughts
Names that mean famine span a variety of cultures and languages, reflecting deeper histories and emotions surrounding the struggle for food and sustenance. These names remind us of the stark realities that many have faced throughout time due to scarcity and hunger.
Choosing a name connected to famine can be both a reflection of history and an opportunity to honor those who have experienced such hardships. As you explore these names, consider the strength and resilience they represent.
If you’re interested in names that carry different meanings, you might want to explore names that mean abundance or even look into other significant names reflecting various human experiences. Start your journey with Names That Mean Famine and explore more fascinating topics.