Choosing a name for your daughter can be a meaningful task. Some parents look for names that carry special meanings, like those that reflect beauty, strength, or even mystery. Names associated with darkness or shadows can be enchanting and unique. They often evoke thoughts of nature, night skies, or rich lore, giving girls a name that stands out.
Today, we will share a list of girl names that mean dark or shadow. Each name comes with its own story and significance, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your little one. These names can bring an air of elegance and depth, making them truly special.
Girl Names That Mean Dark Or Shadow
1. Leila
This beautiful name of Arabic origin means ‘night’ or ‘dark beauty.’ Leila evokes an aura of enchantment that connects it to the mystique of the night.
2. Selena
From the Greek word for ‘moon,’ Selena brings to mind the shadows that dance in the moonlight, giving it a mysterious and light-hearted essence.
3. Kalila
A name of Arabic roots, Kalila means ‘dark one’ or ‘beloved.’ It perfectly blends the allure of darkness with affection.
4. Aisling
This Irish name means ‘dream’ or ‘vision,’ often associated with visions of the night and the mystical shadows that accompany them.
5. Kiera
Kiera, of Irish origin, translates to ‘dark-haired,’ embodying the beauty of dark tresses and the depth of shadows.
6. Aislin
A variant of Aisling, Aislin means ‘dream’ but can also be related to the ‘darker realms’ of the imagination, linked to shadows and mystery.
7. Samara
This name of Arabic origin means ‘protected by God,’ but it is also linked to the shadows of the evening, creating an ethereal vibe.
8. Nisha
Of Sanskrit origin, Nisha means ‘night,’ connecting the beauty of darkness to the serenity of the dark hours.
9. Morrigan
This name originates from Irish mythology and means ‘great queen’ or ‘phantom queen,’ symbolizing the powerful shadows of the night.
10. Tamsin
With roots in English, Tamsin is a variant of Thomasina and means ‘twin,’ but the dark connotation relates to the shadowy depths of the night.
11. Amaya
This name means ‘night rain’ in Japanese and embodies both the beauty of darkness and the soft whispers of shadows.
12. Leocadia
In Spanish, Leocadia means ‘bright, clear,’ yet it can symbolize a clarity found in the deepest shadows.
13. Nyx
Named after the personification of night in Greek mythology, Nyx carries a powerful grace that embodies darkness and shadow.
14. Mira
This name, meaning ‘ocean’ in Sanskrit, reflects the dark mysteries of deep waters, where shadows play beneath the surface.
15. Zahra
Zahra means ‘radiant’ or ‘luminous’ in Arabic. It presents a lovely contrast when paired with the shadows of the night.
16. Kaelin
With Irish origins, Kaelin means ‘slender’ or ‘fair,’ reflecting the delicate shadows that dance when light meets dark.
17. Umbria
This name means ‘shadowy’ in Italian and brings forth images of dimly-lit forests and hidden trails.
18. Phaedra
From Greek mythology, Phaedra means ‘bright’ while also encapsulating the shadows cast by the sun’s fading light.
19. Selene
This name is associated with the moon and night, suggesting the soft shadowy light that bathes the world at night.
20. Dreya
Dreya suggests mystery and shadows, a name that evokes images of twilight and the deepening darkness.
21. Diana
Named after the Roman goddess of the moon, Diana reflects darkness and light, symbolizing the beauty of night skies.
22. Ciaran
This name translates to ‘dark haired’ in Irish, beautifully linking to the theme of darkness.
23. Lila
In Arabic, Lila means ‘night,’ connecting it to the essence of shadows and nighttime beauty.
24. Taiga
This Japanese name means ‘big river,’ but also symbolizes the dark and shadowy forests abundant in natural elements.
25. Nocturne
This melodic name evokes the beauty and mystery of nighttime music, enhancing the allure of shadows.
26. Morwenna
This Cornish name means ‘wave of the sea’ and brings a connection to the dark mysteries that lie beneath the surface.
27. Jaya
In Sanskrit, Jaya means ‘victory,’ but the name also links to the darker side of night, filled with bold dreams.
28. Carys
Carys means ‘love’ in Welsh, combining tenderness with the enigma of the shadows of the night.
29. Oona
This name of Irish origin means ‘lamb’ but is often associated with the darker, understated elegance of femininity.
30. Talia
Talia means ‘dew from God’ and evokes the freshness and beauty found even in the shadows of early morning.
31. Ember
A name that means ‘spark’ often linked to fires that dance in the shadows, indicating warmth even when the light is dim.
32. Shyla
This name derives from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘daughter of the mountains,’ adding a unique twist to the theme of shadowy beauty.
33. Minerva
The Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva, also embodies the night and its secrets, connecting it to the theme of darkness.
34. Bella
This Italian name meaning ‘beautiful’ can also harbor a depth that embraces the shadows of its environment.
35. Mallory
The name means ‘ill-fated,’ which offers a darker connotation, linking it to the theme of shadows.
36. Dusk
This evocative name simply brings to mind the twilight hours where shadows emerge and possibilities awaken.
37. Raven
Named after the dark bird of myths, Raven resonates strongly with dark connotations and the depths of shadowy tales.
38. Kyra
This name can mean ‘lady’ but also resembles ‘kur,’ which means ‘dark,’ connecting it to shadowy elegance.
39. Sabra
With a meaning of ‘thorny fruit’, Sabra hints at the beauty that can be found in the thorns and shadows.
40. Nox
A name inspired by the Latin word for ‘night,’ Nox is a concise and powerful representation of darkness.
41. Zola
This African name means ‘tranquil’ but can also evoke thoughts of the quiet shadows of the night.
42. Onyx
The gemstone name synonymous with darkness, Onyx embodies the richness and mystery of deep shadows.
43. Soraya
This Persian name translates as ‘the Pleiades,’ the stars that twinkle in the dark night sky, connecting stars and shadow.
44. Tavia
Of Latin origin, Tavia means ‘full of life,’ but can also suggest the vitality found in the depth of shadows.
45. A tropical
Meaning ‘dark, strong’ in Yoruba, this name also expresses resilience and mysterious beauty.
46. Delilah
A biblical name that represents ‘delicate’ but carries an air of shadowy allure, highlighting feminine power.
47. Zafa
Meaning ‘victory’ in Arabic, Zafa can also represent the triumph one can find in dark and shadowy situations.
48. Yara
This name means ‘small butterfly’ in Arabic, but can also allude to ethereal beauty that is often found in shadows.
49. Sable
This name refers to the black fur of a small animal and symbolizes deep darkness, ideal for shadowy connotations.
50. Banshee
A name from Irish folklore meaning ‘woman of the fairy mound,’ it encapsulates the mystery of shadows lurking in myth.
51. Keyara
Meaning ‘dark’ in an intricate twist, Keyara provides an exotic touch to the theme of shadows.
52. Tindra
Sparking with life and wonder, Tindra means ‘to sparkle’ suggesting light amidst the shadows of existence.
53. Nyomi
Of Hebrew origin, Nyomi means ‘pleasantness’, presenting a lovely balance of soft shadows with happy undertones.
54. Velda
This name of Old English origin means ‘powerful’ but is closely linked to darkness and strength in shadow.
55. Amara
Of various origins including Igbo and Sanskrit, Amara means ‘grace’ or ‘immortal,’ but it also has shadows in its richness.
56. Iliana
This name means ‘bright’ in some cultures but can reference the illumination found in dark corners during night time.
57. Lark
A name that inspires a sense of freedom, suggesting a beautiful contrast against the shadows.
58. India
Meaning ‘river’ in Sanskrit, this name gives a sense of flow, reflecting the shadows that move with water.
59. Mika
This Japanese name means ‘beautiful fragrance’ but can also portray the layered beauty that exists in darkness.
60. Nova
A stellar name meaning ‘new,’ but can connect to the points of light found contrasting with shadows at night.
61. Vesper
This name means ‘evening star,’ beautifully linking it to the shadows that emerge with twilight.
62. Elda
Meaning ‘battle’ in Old English, Elda is strong and carries an aura of shadowed warriors.
63. Elara
This name is associated with one of the moons of Jupiter, alluding to the darkness of space and shadows cast by celestial bodies.
64. Lanaya
With a melodic sound, Lanaya suggests deep shadows that bring serenity and calmness.
65. Gale
This name means ‘stormy,’ suggesting the unpredictability of dark skies and the shadows that follow.
66. Rei
A name that means ‘spirit’ in Japanese, it can also resonate with the ethereal beauty found in shadows.
67. Indira
Of Sanskrit origin, Indira means ‘splendid,’ often connected with the gentle shadows of twilight.
68. Calista
This Greek name means ‘most beautiful,’ with an artistry often seen in shadows on a canvas of beauty.
69. Elysia
This name means ‘blissful’ and can be associated with the pleasurable ventures that arise in shadows.
70. Portia
Meaning ‘offering’ but also signifies the wealth of wisdom associated with shadowy depth.
71. Darina
This Slavic name means ‘gift,’ often bringing forth a gentle beauty associated with the softness of shadows.
72. Thalassa
This name of Greek origin means ‘the sea’, evoking the depths and hidden shadows beneath the waves.
73. Zephyr
Meaning ‘gentle breeze,’ it signifies the subtle movements that cause shadows to dance.
74. Yasmin
This name means ‘jasmine flower,’ often depicted as blooming under the shadows of the night.
75. Farah
Meaning ‘joy,’ this name can reflect the light found even in the depths of dark shadows.
76. Zinnia
A flower name that blooms in the light, Zinnia also represents beauty juxtaposed with darker backgrounds.
77. Reina
Meaning ‘queen’ in Spanish, it hints at royal shadows and elegant darkness.
78. Kiran
This name translates to ‘ray’ in Sanskrit, symbolizing the light that can shine through dark shadows.
79. Halcyon
Rooted in Greek mythology, Halcyon personifies calmness and serenity found in the dim light of shadow.
80. Nyrah
A modern name that suggests a quiet strength found within the darkness, perfect for shadowy connotations.
81. Yara
The name of Arabic and Brazilian roots, Yara can mean a ‘water lady’, hinting at the shadows that dance in liquid.
82. Mariel
This name combines the strength of Mary with the softness of the night, offering a gentle shadowy presence.
83. Celine
Meaning ‘heavenly’, this name elegantly dances between light and the shadows of the earth.
84. Leyla
A variation of Leila, the name directly means ’night,’ corresponding perfectly with dark beauty.
85. Tamsyn
An alternative spelling to Tamsin, Tamsyn maintains the charm while suggesting darker depths.
86. Annalise
Meaning ‘graced with the light’, it can also symbolize a delicate beauty amidst the shadows.
87. Neith
Egyptian in origin, Neith is a goddess associated with war and fertility, encapsulating shadows with fierce beauty.
88. Zina
This name means ‘shining’, yet it highlights the beauty found even in deep shadows and dark experiences.
89. Shae
A softer name, Shae implies ‘admirable’, while also hinting at the quiet strength that shadows can bring.
90. Xara
With an exotic tone, this name suggests a hidden beauty that dwells within the shadows.
91. Sonya
Meaning ‘wisdom’ in Greek, Sonya can conjure the thoughtful insights that arise from the depths of darkness.
92. Halley
This name is associated with Halley’s Comet, which casts shadows as it graces the dark sky.
93. Cinder
Implying remains of something once burning bright, Cinder connects to the goodness that often lingers in shadows.
94. Luna
Named after the moon, Luna conjures imaginations of night shadows that bring an air of serenity.
95. Ffion
The Welsh name meaning ‘foxglove’ implies unique depth and beauty often hidden in shadowy places.
96. Daeva
This Persian name means ‘angel’, juxtaposing light and grace with beautiful dark tales.
97. Tempest
This name symbolizes storm and chaos, suggesting an affinity with the darker elements of nature.
98. Zuri
A Swahili name meaning ‘beautiful’, which suggests elegance found amidst the shadows.
99. Enid
Meaning ‘soul’ in Welsh, Enid exudes a presence of gentle mystery often associated with shadows.
100. Cerise
This name means ‘cherry’, a fruit often depicting the deep reds and shadows of its surrounding leaves.
101. Samira
This Middle Eastern name means ‘companion in evening talk’, beautifully connecting to the rich conversations found in shadows.
102. Astraea
This name means ‘star-maiden,’ echoing the celestial shadows found in the night sky.
103. Skye
This name refers to an open expanse but often hints at the dark shadows between clouds.
104. Sable
A name linked to the color ‘black’ representing luxurious depth and beauty found in shadows.
105. Zephora
Meaning ‘bird’, this name evokes freedom found in shadows among trees and branches.
106. Kallista
This name translates to ‘most beautiful’, suggesting a graceful presence amidst dark shadows.
107. Winona
This Native American name means ‘firstborn daughter,’ connecting to the beauty often found in nature’s shadows.
108. Senna
This name of Arabic origin signifies ‘blessed’, yet connects to the hidden blessings found in shadowy moments.
109. Isolde
A name from Arthurian legend, Isolde holds a mysterious depth and connection to shadows within myth.
110. Althea
This Greek name means ‘healer,’ suggesting the serene shadows that provide peace and healing.
111. RCara
A modern take on ‘Cara,’ this name means ‘beloved’ and hints at cherished shadows shared among friends.
112. Laurette
This French name can mean ‘the laurel tree,’ symbolic of the deep shadows often found in woodlands.
113. Sonnet
A name that evokes the poetic beauty often captured under the shadows of old trees.
114. Noa
Of Hebrew origin, Noa means ‘motion’ or ‘movement,’ suggesting shadows in action.
115. Serene
This name translates to ‘calm’, embodying the tranquility found even within the depths of shadow.
116. Gaia
This name signifies ‘earth,’ often portraying the blackness associated with the rich, dark soil.
117. Kalia
A beautiful name with roots in Hawaiian, Kalia means ‘the beloved,’ hinting at tenderness hidden in shadows.
118. Ione
Named after a flower, Ione represents beauty associated with night blooms that thrive in shadow.
119. Isadora
A name that hints at divine gifts while invoking the mystical allure of the night and shadows.
120. Lavinia
This name suggests purity but offers an unexpected depth associated with the beauty of shadows.
121. Kaarin
This modern interpretation of ‘Karen’ encompasses affection often hidden in the canvas of darkness.
122. Fleur
The name means ‘flower’ and brings forth images of blooms gently resting in shadowy corners.
123. Astrid
A name of Scandinavian origin meaning ‘divine strength,’ carrying an elegant depth connected to shadows.
124. Daria
Meaning ‘upholder of good’, it symbolizes the strength one can gather from dark experiences.
125. Rayna
This name translates to ‘queen’ in Hebrew, hinting at royal beauty that encompasses shadows.
126. Lavera
This old name means ‘the woman’ while suggesting the mystery that hides in the shadows of womanhood.
127. Aurelia
A golden name that also resonates with the deep shades found in sunsets and shadows.
128. Verity
A name meaning ‘truth’ that can present dark complexities and the hidden depth of shadows.
129. Celestia
A cosmic name connecting stars with the shadows they cast upon Earth.
130. Darya
This Persian name means ‘sea’, symbolizing the dark and mysterious beauty found in deep waters.
131. Kestrel
A bird name linked to elegance and shadowy hunting in dim light.
132. Shayla
A name that evokes the quieter, shadowy aspects of personality and character.
133. Mirae
This modern name suggests ‘future’; connecting shadows to the unknown.
134. Echo
A name from Greek mythology that signifies the elusive and often shadowy nature of sound.
135. Hespera
A name of Greek essence meaning ‘evening star’ capturing the blush of dusk and the layers of shadows.
136. Kaeli
This name means ‘slender’, often hinting at the elegance of shadows that can appear long and graceful.
137. Noemi
Of Hebrew origin, Noemi means ‘delight’, representing the shadows cast by happiness.
138. Brielle
A modern name that suggests strength and elegance, both found within the layers of shadows.
139. Calypso
This name from Greek mythology connects to the sea and the enchanting shadows found in deep oceans.
140. Soller
This name implies ‘sunshine’ yet can encompass the playful shadows cast during sunny moments.
141. Lumi
Meaning ‘light’ in Finnish, it brings contrast to the shadows and connects both light and dark beauty.
142. Dara
Meaning ‘star’ in Persian, Dara suggests the brilliance hidden amidst shadows and night skies.
143. Melina
This lovely name suggests honey while also representing sweet nectar hidden in dark places.
144. Amory
This name means ‘brave’ while keeping a soft tie to the mysterious shadowy aspects of bravery.
145. Zafira
The meaning ‘winner’ implies a triumph over darkness, often depicted in shadowy tales.
146. Halona
An American name meaning ‘fortunate,’ linking the positive aspects of shadows and discovering light.
147. Emera
Meaning ‘beloved’, this name hints at the special warmth found amidst darker layers.
148. Juna
A modern name that combines youthfulness with the mystery that shadows can encapsulate.
149. Aveline
This name means ‘hazelnut’, resonating with nature and the shadows present in forests.
150. Draper
This name refers to a fabric seller but can also imply the soft textures of darkness inherent in shadows.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name can reflect the beauty and mystery associated with darkness and shadows. Names like Leila, Morrigan, and Raven are just a few examples that embrace this theme. They carry special meanings that can resonate deeply as your child grows, showcasing elegance and depth associated with night and shadow.
Whether you feel drawn to the ethereal aspects of night or the enchanting beauty found in shadows, these names offer unique options to celebrate your daughter’s individuality.
Explore further with our resources on names that mean dark or discover more about names that mean shadow.