Ravens are fascinating birds that symbolize intelligence and mystery in many cultures. Because of their unique qualities, some last names are linked to these captivating creatures. If you’re interested in genealogy or just enjoy learning about names, you might be curious about which surnames have meanings tied to ravens.
Today, we’ll look at several last names that mean raven and explore their origins. Whether you’re searching for a new name inspiration or simply want to know more about these intriguing connections, there’s plenty to uncover. Let’s get started on this interesting journey into the world of names!
Last Names That Mean Raven
1. Corbin
Corbin is derived from the Latin word for raven, “corvus”. This surname has a strong and dark allure that many find appealing.
2. Crow
The name Crow directly references the bird and often signifies someone with dark features. It’s a simple yet powerful name.
3. Ravenwood
Ravenwood combines “raven” with “wood”, symbolizing a connection to nature and the mysterious woods ravens are often found in.
4. Ravenhill
Similar to Ravenwood, Ravenhill signifies a place that is associated with ravens, adding a geographical aspect to this fascinating name.
5. Booth
While usually meaning ‘shelter’ or ‘living place’, in some contexts Booth has been linked to old English usage that connects it with birds like ravens.
6. Douglass
A solid Scottish name meaning “black stream” or “dark river”, it’s symbolic of both darkness and the qualities of a raven.
7. Bran
This Celtic name means “raven” directly, highlighting its connection to these birds in folklore and mythology.
8. Sullivan
This Irish name means “dark-eyed” or “hawk-eyed” and has links to birds of prey, including ravens.
9. Moore
The name Moore derives from ‘moorland’, a place often associated with ravens due to its barren and wild nature.
10. Kennedy
This notably Irish surname means “helmeted chief” but is also associated with the dark-plumaged raven in some traditions.
11. Ravenson
A surname that combines ‘raven’ with a suffix denoting descent, Ravenson implies a lineage tied to ravens or dark traits.
12. Karas
Of Slavic origin, Karas means “raven” in many Eastern European languages, making it a perfect fit for this list.
13. Cormick
Cormick means “son of the raven” in Irish, highlighting a genealogical connection to these birds.
14. Morin
This name has roots in the word “mor” meaning “dark”, paralleling the dark nature of a raven.
15. Kavanagh
An Irish surname that implies a connection to dark or mysterious things, which draws a parallel to ravens.
16. Ravenna
The name Ravenna is directly tied to the raven and carries a beautiful melodic quality.
17. Baird
This surname can signify a poet or minstrel, but in Gaelic derivations, it can relate back to the raven as a symbol of wisdom.
18. Channon
This Irish surname means “young raven”. It has a playful and whimsical connection to the bird.
19. Donnelly
Donnelly means “dark” or “brown,” often associated with the color of a raven’s feathers.
20. O’Rourke
This notable Irish name means “descendant of Rourke” and is believed to have associations with dark birds like the raven.
21. Walther
A German name meaning “ruler of the army,” it can also be linked to folklore traditions mentioning ravens in battle.
22. Blackwood
A name that explicitly denotes ‘black woods’, often home to ravens, giving it a mysterious and dark quality.
23. Nyx
Derived from Greek mythology, Nyx means “night,” and fits perfectly with the raven’s symbolism of mystery.
24. Durban
25. Zafra
This name of North African origin means “to be happy,” but it is often associated with raven themes in storytelling.
26. Sable
A name meaning “black” often used metaphorically to hint at dark birds like ravens.
27. Crowley
An Irish name that combines the word ‘crow’, pointing to its relation to the darker avian family, including ravens.
28. Brannan
This surname signifies “descendant of Bran”, which directly references the raven as a symbol of wisdom.
29. Cochrane
This name may not mean ‘raven’ directly, but its dark connotations are shared across various interpretations.
30. Munro
This Scottish surname, meaning “from the royal town”, often evokes images of dark, magical lands where ravens thrive.
31. Auberon
This name, closely associated with kings and mythology, often evokes imagery of wise ravens accompanying heroes.
32. Draven
A modern name that brings the essence of the raven’s mystery and dark beauty into a contemporary light.
33. Balan
This name means “dark”, aligning with the color associated with ravens and the enigmatic quality around them.
34. Larkin
This name means “rough” or “wild,” akin to the spirit of a raven as it flies through the untamed skies.
35. Dreux
Of French origin, Dreux means “dark” or “brave” and connects beautifully to the essence of a raven.
36. Parker
Parker means “keeper of the park” and symbolizes open spaces where both ravens and mystery can thrive.
37. Abel
This name means “breath” or “vapor,” reminiscent of the mystical presence ravens hold in nature.
38. Crowder
Derived from ‘crow’, this last name inherently conveys the connection to dark avian creatures like the raven.
39. Tarquin
An ancient name with deep roots in history, Tarquin conveys a sense of nobility attached to the raven.
40. Ravenel
A lyrical surname that beautifully echoes the word ‘raven’, making it an elegant choice for any family.
41. Sorenson
This Scandinavian surname means “son of the sorrowful,” and the raven is frequently seen as a harbinger of sorrow.
42. O’Flaherty
This name meaning “descendant of Flaherty” carries folklore themes often depicting birds and ravens in storytelling.
43. Czar
While commonly associated with royalty, Czar can also hint at the untamed, powerful nature of the raven.
44. Dreyfus
This French surname often evokes thoughts of mystery, similar to the raven’s role in various legends.
45. Kessler
Meaning “butcher” in German, this name has ties to themes of darkness and ravens in folklore.
46. Hargrove
This name evokes images of dark, dense woods where ravens might dwell, symbolizing the mystery inherent in the name.
47. Blaque
A unique twist on the word “black”, Blaque clearly relates to the raven’s dark feathers.
48. Abaddon
Meanings linked with destruction or darkness connect this name with the darker imagery of ravens.
49. Achenbach
This German surname translates to “oakhill” and conjures images of ravens settling among ancient trees.
50. Ravenclaw
This name explicitly includes ‘raven’ and hints at wisdom and intellect, much like the bird.
51. Dravon
Similar in sound to ‘raven’, Dravon keeps the dark essence tied to these birds alive.
52. Blackwell
This name evokes thoughts of dark waters where ravens might easily be found, making it atmospheric and rare.
53. Landry
Meaning “land ruler,” this name parallels the way ravens rule the skies with their intelligence.
54. Aistare
Diving deep into classic roots, Aistare conveys mystery akin to the cleverness associated with ravens.
55. Vesper
This name means “evening star,” quietly resonating with the shadowy world where ravens thrive.
56. Acheron
The name associated with a river in mythology often depicts dark themes, similar to the presence of ravens.
57. Ravenstone
Combining ‘raven’ with ‘stone’, this name symbolizes a strong connection to nature and the mysteries of the ravens.
58. Blackmore
This British surname incorporates ‘black’, closely linking to the darkness of the raven.
59. Nighthawk
An evocative name that suggests connections with dark creatures of the night, similar to the raven’s habits.
60. Selwyn
The name means “from the manor by the sea,” often invoking imagery tied to dark colors like those of a raven.
61. Grier
This name is often associated with the color gray, reminiscent of a raven’s shimmering feathers in different lights.
62. Carrion
This name signifies “dead animal,” alluding to the raven’s role as a scavenger.
63. Beauregard
Meaning “beautiful gaze,” it reflects the captivating beauty of the raven in folklore.
64. Sorrow
While more of an emotional descriptor, the presence of a raven often brings forth themes of sorrow and loss.
65. Aveline
The name means “hazelnut,” but in some interpretations, also conjures images of the dark-feathered raven.
66. Wren
This name signifies another bird, but the intertwining stories of ravens and wrens deepen the connection.
67. Drayton
This name means “settlement on the English estate,” resonating with rural settings where ravens may reside.
68. Blackthorn
This name signifies a type of shrub often linked to dark, healing qualities of nature that ravens symbolize.
69. Ravenport
A point in a mythical storyline, this name hints at a harbor known for its dark, mysterious traits like the raven.
70. Balaram
This unique name translates to “strength of light”, suggesting how ravens are often seen as guides in folklore.
71. Nero
Meaning “black,” Nero tightly intertwines with the visual identity of ravens in cultures around the world.
72. Quillon
Meaning “crossing swords,” this name brings to mind scenes of conflict where ravens often symbolize change.
73. Corvinus
Linking back to ‘corvus’, or raven in Latin, this name directly relates to its meaning in history.
74. Bane
This name suggests darkness and mischief, echoing the somewhat sinister allure of a raven.
75. iteman
Possessing an obscure yet cool flair, this name relates to dark traits akin to those of a raven.
76. Sirocco
A warm desert wind, Sirocco evokes the mystery of dark storms often represented by a raven’s flight.
77. Berkeley
This place name has ties to historical significance, where ravens could often be found in the landscape.
78. Finnigan
This name, while meaning “fair” or “white,” often contrasts well with characteristics of a raven.
79. Sampson
Although it means “sun” in Hebrew, many cultures associate this strong name with the darker side represented by ravens.
80. Jet
Referring to the black gemstone, Jet closely mimics the raven’s deep black feathers.
81. McRaven
A strong surname that suggests a lineage tied to the raven, highlighting family traditions through names.
82. Ashwood
The name denotes connection to trees, where ravens often find their homes and nests.
83. Moros
A name meaning ‘darkness’ in Greek, symbolizing the themes tied around ravens.
84. Tenebris
Meaning “darkness” in Latin, Tenebris directly relates to the shadowy figure of a raven.
85. Rooke
In many regions, a ‘rook’ refers to a type of crow, capturing the essence of the raven in bird classification.
86. Calloway
This name carries an air of uniqueness but shares a connection to the darkside often associated with ravens.
87. Galloway
This Scottish surname means “foreigner’s land,” also portraying characteristics near the omens related to ravens.
88. Crowther
The name points to someone residing near crows, indicating a familial tie to these dark birds.
89. Adair
With roots indicating “oak tree”, this name connects to wooded areas where ravens typically thrive.
90. Harkin
A surname that means “little rough one”, evoking the roughness commonly associated with ravens.
91. Nightingale
Your mind might wander to another bird but the night sky also holds muche connection to the mystery of ravens.
92. Hawkeye
This name grants a vision of sharp darkness and keen sights which parallels a raven’s intelligence.
93. Charon
This name means “the one who fetches” and parallels with the raven as a guide between the worlds.
94. Micah
This biblical name means “who is like God” but its association to dark stories brings similarities to a raven.
95. Zenith
Connoting the peak or highest point, Zenith can also suggest the lofty heights where ravens soar.
96. Selwyn
A name meaning “from the manor by the sea,” it reveals connections to dark areas where ravens can hunt.
97. Aveline
The name means “hazelnut,” yet in folklore, similar names resonate with themes surrounding ravens.
98. Grimm
With ties to dark fairy tales, the name Grimm evokes the sense of magic found in raven folklore.
99. Gazer
A surname popular in modern storytelling, often tying back to the way ravens are viewed through folklore.
100. Dirge
This name is often linked with funeral music, aligning it with the more ominous aspects heralded by ravens.
101. Jettison
A nautical term meaning to cast off, evoking themes tied to ravens guiding lost sailors.
102. Omen
This name directly connects to dark predictions often associated with the appearance of ravens.
103. Rove
A name that suggests wanderers, similar to how ravens roam the lands with intelligence.
104. Dusk
Meaning “twilight,” Dusk beautifully mirrors the time when ravens are often most active.
105. Ashby
This name meaning “ash tree farm” hints at wooded areas frequented by these dark birds.
106. Hightower
This name evokes imagery of tall places where ravens can perch above the world.
107. Ebon
This name means “black,” invariably correlating to the raven’s striking hue and mystique.
108. Tempest
Meaning “storm,” this name relates to the chaotic skies often filled with the shadows of ravens.
109. Valkyrie
Names from Norse mythology often associate with ravens, depicting them as guides for lost souls in battle.
110. Gray
Continuing the theme of darkness, Gray brings to mind the muted tones often attributed to ravens.
111. Oracle
This name sounds mystical and can often connect to ravens as deliverers of messages and omens.
112. Wraith
A name tied to ghostly figures echoes the ancient folklore where ravens signified otherworldliness.
113. Nightfall
This evocative name resonates with the time when ravens become most prominent in tales and legends.
114. Applegate
Next to its beautiful tree homage, Applegate has links in folklore often told alongside ravens.
115. Forker
This name implies a forked path, reminiscent of stories where ravens are seen as guides on life’s many paths.
116. Nemed
A name from Irish mythology meaning ‘sacred’, it connects to revered positions ravens hold in ancient stories.
117. Skye
This name relates to vast spaces where ravens can soar, creating a free-spirited connection with nature.
118. Holloway
A strong surname meaning “holy road” relates to folklore where ravens are guides on spiritual journeys.
119. Thatcher
This name signifying a thatcher often connects to dwellings where ravens might find shelter.
120. Quill
As a reference to writing, Quill draws beautiful imagery of ravens known for spreading tales.
121. Gallows
This name speaks to dark times in history, aligning with the ominous presence of ravens.
122. Herald
Meaning ‘messenger’, this name intricately ties back to the role of ravens as bringers of news and foreboding signs.
123. Thunder
The name Thunder evokes the wildness of nature, often intertwined with stories featuring ravens.
124. Ghost
This name embodies mystery and ties with the ethereal qualities often attributed to ravens.
125. Oriel
This name implies “golden” color but can also bring thoughts of cleverness tied back to ravens.
126. Hunter
A strong name that resonates with the powerful hunting traits of ravens, symbolizing survival.
127. Serf
Meaning “of the land,” this name connects with ecosystems inhabited by ravens, showcasing their roles.
128. Lyon
Though meaning “lion,” Lyon intricately links back to dark and mysterious symbolism often associated with ravens.
129. Nox
This name means “night” in Latin, representing the time when ravens take their mysteries into the world.
130. Haven
Meaning “shelter” or “safe place,” it denotes areas where ravens seek refuge.
131. Galleon
This name signifies a ship, hinting at the navigation wisdom often personified by ravens in myth.
132. Insignia
Symbolically tied to identity, this name connects deeply with the raven’s role in various cultures.
133. Aether
A name representing the pure essence of the sky underlines the high flights of ravens above.
134. Ember
This name, while fiery, shares a connection to the ash-like colors in ravens’ feathers during certain seasons.
135. Rivern
This surname ties down the life of a river to the dark banks where ravens often hunt.
136. Draven
A modern twist that implies a connection to the raven, highlighting its importance in today’s culture.
137. Jett
This unique name not only directly ties to the raven’s color but also conveys a sense of speed and intelligence.
138. Minerva
Meaning “wise,” this name resonates with the intelligence ravens display in nature.
139. Shadbury
This name hints at a shady area where ravens might find refuge and protection.
140. Nyssa
A name rich in history often associated with dark woods, stories often told involve woodsy traits similar to ravens.
141. Seamus
This Irish representation often signifies “supplanter,” reminiscent of the adaptability of ravens in diverse settings.
142. Wrenleigh
Although referencing another bird, Wrenleigh implies intertwining tales shared in stories with ravens.
143. Muir
Meaning “sea” or “moor”, closely ties to the wild, which is often frequented by these dark birds.
144. Csumberton
While it sounds more ambiguous, this unique name hints at darker themes resonating with ravens.
145. Halleck
This name suggests a strong character, paralleling the commanding presence of ravens in folklore.
146. Basalt
Named after a type of volcanic rock, it evokes images of tough landscapes where ravens might thrive.
147. Nyx
This mystical name from Greek mythology adorns a connection with the night and the raven.
148. ironwood
Another earthy name depicting rich, dark spaces where ravens often call home.
149. Vespertilian
This term ties to bats but carries mysterious connotations similar to those evoked by ravens.
150. Caligo
The Latin word for “mist” or “fog”, linking beautifully to the hidden nature often tied around ravens.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the world of surnames that mean raven has revealed connections between culture, history, and nature. Each name carries with it a sense of mystery, reflecting the unique characteristics attributed to ravens in various traditions. Whether you are seeking a unique name or delving into the meanings behind your last name, these names tie back to one of nature’s most enigmatic creatures.
Whether it be through tales of wisdom and darkness or the beauty of their presence, ravens continue to inspire and intrigue. We hope this journey through names has sparked your interest in the fascinating world of surnames.
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the study of names, you might find interest in our exploration of names that mean crow or names intertwined with darkness. Keep on exploring the meanings hidden within names!