Choosing the right name for a baby boy can be an exciting task. Many parents look for names that carry special meanings, and some are drawn to names that signify colors. Names that mean black or dark often carry powerful imagery and unique qualities. These names can symbolize strength, mystery, and elegance.
Today, we’ll share a selection of boy names that are associated with darkness or the color black. Whether you’re seeking something traditional or modern, this list will inspire you with options that stand out while reflecting a deep meaning. Let’s find the perfect name for your little one!
Boy Names That Mean Black Or Dark
1. Kiefer
Kiefer is a name of German origin that means ‘barrel maker’. In some interpretations, it is associated with darkness, making it a unique choice for parents looking for names that mean black or dark.
2. Blake
Blake is a modern name derived from Old English and means ‘black’ or ‘dark’. Its stylish appeal makes it a popular choice for contemporary parents seeking names that mean black or dark.
3. Nero
Nero is a Latin name meaning ‘black’ or ‘dark’. This powerful name has historical significance, often evoking strong imagery, making it perfect for a boy with a bold presence.
4. Jet
The name Jet is of English origin and refers to the deep black gemstone, jet. This name signifies darkness and is a great choice for parents looking for names that mean black or dark.
5. Darrow
Darrow is an English name that means ‘spear’. It is associated with darkness, giving it a strong and mysterious quality, making it fit for a boy who will stand out.
6. Blaine
Blaine is a Gaelic name meaning ‘yellow’ or ‘dark’. While it carries an element of brightness, its usage also symbolizes darkness, making it a balanced name choice.
7. Sampson
Sampson is derived from Hebrew and means ‘of the sun’. However, it is commonly linked to darkness due to its association with the biblical figure known for his strength and challenges.
8. Sable
The name Sable stems from English origin, meaning ‘black’. This name offers a unique touch and is perfect for a boy name connected to darkness and elegance.
9. Othello
Othello originates from Shakespeare’s play and means ‘the dark-skinned one’. It carries a rich historical background while standing as a strong name that means black or dark.
10. Donovan
Donovan is an Irish name that translates to ‘dark warrior’. This name emphasizes strength and nobility, making it ideal for parents seeking names that mean black or dark.
11. Coltan
Coltan, a modern name derived from ‘coal’, signifies darkness with its deep black hues. This name offers a contemporary feel while highlighting its connection to darkness.
12. Gable
The name Gable can be traced back to Dutch origins and is often interpreted as a dark tower. Its unique sound and meaning make it a fitting choice for a boy associated with black or dark themes.
13. Kellan
Kellan is an Irish name meaning ‘slender’ or ‘dark’. It embodies elegance while relating to its meaning tied to darkness, making it an attractive option.
14. Zarek
Zarek is a Slavic name meaning ‘golden’ or ‘black’. This name combines the aspects of light and darkness, presenting a strong and distinctive choice.
15. Abel
Abel has Hebrew origins and signifies ‘breath’ or ‘son of the sorceress’. Its connection to darker origins gives it a mystical aura, aligning it perfectly with names that mean black or dark.
16. Kael
Kael is an Irish name that translates to ‘slender’ or ‘narrow’. While it does not directly mean black, its association with dark interpretations gives it a unique twist.
17. Malachi
Malachi is a biblical name that means ‘my messenger’ or ‘my angel’. However, in some interpretations, it is associated with darkness, giving it depth and resonance.
18. Shakir
Shakir is of Arabic origin and means ‘grateful’ or ‘black’. This name symbolizes strength and nobility while being rooted in meanings associated with darkness.
19. Jarek
Jarek, a Slavic name, roughly means ‘fierce’ or ‘dark-eyed’. This powerful name gives a nod to both strength and darkness, perfect for a baby boy.
20. Sable
Sable is a name linked to a shade of black, often referring to the soft black fur of the sable animal. This name directly means black or dark, making it a stylish name for boys.
21. Koen
Koen is a Dutch name meaning ‘bold’ or ‘dark’, and it embodies strength while having a modern ring to it, ideal for contemporary parents.
22. Acheron
Acheron is derived from Greek mythology, linked to a river associated with the underworld. Its dark connotations tie it to the themes of black or dark.
23. Amaya
Amaya has roots in both Japanese and Spanish, meaning ‘night rain’. This name beautifully connects to dark themes without being overly conventional.
24. Kieran
Kieran is an Irish name meaning ‘dark-haired’. This is a classic choice that directly symbolizes darkness while being charming and approachable.
25. Ciaran
Ciaran is similar to Kieran and translates to ‘dark one’. This name carries significant lore while emphasizing attributes of mystery and elegance.
26. LeRoi
LeRoi translates to ‘the king’ in French. While not directly connected to darkness, its powerful connotations allow it to stand among names that symbolize strength.
27. Tarak
Tarak is an Indian name that means ‘star’, but in certain cultures, it references dark skies. It blends bright imagery with associated darkness, giving it range.
28. Hagan
Hagan is a German name that means ‘little fire’. While it signifies light, its overall essence relates to dramatic contrasts embraced in names that may symbolize darkness.
29. Zuberi
Zuberi derives from Swahili and translates to ‘strong’, but it is often associated with the dark or strong aspects of strength, making it fitting.
30. Tarik
Tarik is an Arabic name meaning ‘morning star’, but it also conveys themes related to the nighttime, connecting it with the essence of black or dark.
31. Blakeley
Blakeley is a variation of Blake and means ‘dark meadow’. This name emphasizes earthiness while relating directly to the theme of darkness.
32. Jetson
Jetson, inspired by the gemstone jet, means ‘black’ and carries an adventurous tone. It perfectly reflects darkness in a modern and approachable name.
33. Korbin
Korbin is a Latin name meaning ‘raven’, a bird often associated with darkness and mystery, making it ideal for parents seeking names that mean black or dark.
34. Hollis
Hollis is an English name meaning ‘near the holly trees’, with certain associations linking it back to dark imagery. Its unique sound gives it character.
35. Darius
Darius is a Persian name meaning ‘kingly’ or ‘possessing goodness’. While not directly linked to darkness by definition, it carries an aura of strength and elegance.
36. Kairo
Kairo is a variation of Cairo and generally means ‘victorious’. It indirectly connects with dark and bold influences through its unique sound.
37. Qadir
Qadir is an Arabic name meaning ‘powerful’ or ‘able’. While not explicitly dark, its strong meanings resonate with the themes explored in names that embody black or dark imagery.
38. Niklas
Niklas is a name of Greek origin that translates to ‘victory’. Though light-hearted, it can be seen as a contrast to darkness through its powerful message.
39. Soren
Soren is a Scandinavian name meaning ‘stern’ or ‘severe’. This name’s strong attributes relate closely to themes of darkness and strength.
40. Raven
Raven is a nature-inspired name directly associated with the black bird, symbolizing darkness, mystery, and elegance that adds a magical touch.
41. Kade
Kade is a modern name meaning ‘round’ or ‘barrel’, which sometimes portrays darkness, making it an attractive choice for parents pursuing unique meanings.
42. Asher
Asher is a biblical name meaning ‘blessed’ or ‘happy’. It is sometimes linked to darker interpretations of luck and destiny, making it thought-provoking.
43. Gaius
Gaius has Latin roots meaning ‘to rejoice’. While it may not mean dark, it often invokes mystery and strength associated with dark characters in history.
44. Aldwin
Aldwin is an Old English name that means ‘old friend’ but often ties to nobility and darkness, giving it depth amidst its gentle sound.
45. Emory
Emory means ‘brave’ or ‘powerful’ and is often associated with darker themes due to its ancient connections, making it fitting for parents seeking names with gravitas.
46. Denzel
Denzel means ‘from the high stronghold’ and is sometimes found in discussions regarding strength associated with darkness, giving it resonance.
47. Onyx
Onyx is derived from the gemstone known for its deep black color. This name directly connects to the theme of darkness, making it stylish and unique.
48. Bellamy
Bellamy means ‘handsome friend’ but often evokes associations related to darker interpretations, making it pleasant while intriguing.
49. Kenyon
Kenyon means ‘blond’ in its original form; however, its ties to the dark meanings through familial history make it a subtly clever choice of names.
50. Roderick
Roderick means ‘famous ruler’ with certain interpretations aligning it with darker histories of strength and leadership. Its stately sound is appealing too.
51. Anar
Anar means ‘pomegranate’ but is often linked to dark beauty and symbolism within various cultures, giving it cultural depth.
52. Darian
Darian means ‘gift’ but is associated with dark and strong imagery in various cultures, making it a thought-provoking choice for parents.
53. Jace
Jace is a shortened form of Jason, meaning ‘healer’ or ‘with an eye’. While not directly linked to darkness, its concise sound can carry those associations.
54. Zephyr
Zephyr means ‘the west wind’ and its gentle connotations include depth that relates to dark themes, making it a popular choice.
55. Falcon
Falcon is connected to the bird of prey known for its fierce nature. While not explicitly dark, it carries a certain gravitas that aligns with black imagery.
56. Tarek
Tarek means ‘morning star’ but often signifies dark nights, creating a strong contrast that lends the name uniqueness.
57. Halcyon
Halcyon means ‘calm’ or ‘peaceful’ but often ties with historical themes featuring darkness that provide an intriguing contrast, making it multi-dimensional.
58. Houston
Houston means ‘Hugh’s town’ but is linked to strength and fortitude, often creating ties to darker interpretations in popular culture.
59. Amaya
Amaya means ‘night rain’, providing a lyrical connection to darkness while being unique in its sound and feel.
60. Keanu
Keanu is Hawaiian for ‘cool breeze over the mountains’. It can relate to uplifting feelings connected with night winds, giving it connections to darkness.
61. Brannon
Brannon means ‘descendant of Braonán’. It is linked to darker attributes regarding power and leadership throughout history.
62. Caelan
Caelan is an Irish name meaning ‘slender’ or ‘narrow’, often associated with shadows beneath light, alluding to its meanings connected with darkness.
63. Krish
Krish is a name linked to Lord Krishna. The whimsy and depth surrounding this name can lead to a connection with enduring tales emboldened by shadows.
64. Ramiro
Ramiro means ‘wise protector’ and carries connotations relevant to battles fought in dark times, amplifying its connection to the past’s strength.
65. Dimitri
Dimitri is a name of Greek origin, often tied to darkness through its mythological associations, offering timeless luxury while embracing its roots.
66. Valen
Valen is derived from meanings of ‘strong’ or ‘healthy’ but is discussed in light of darker perspectives, showcasing its complexity.
67. Adriel
Adriel means ‘flock of God’. Some associations link it to protective figures within ancient dark myths, giving it textured narratives.
68. Bodhi
Bodhi means ‘awakening’ in Sanskrit and illustrates balance with its connections to night versus light, thus linking it to themes of dark explorations.
69. Sylas
Sylas means ‘wood’ or ‘forest’, evoking darkness tied to nature. This name’s earthy qualities resonate clearly with associations of mystery.
70. Caius
Caius is linked to grace and beauty, yet its historical past connects it to darker aspects within cultures, making it distinctly versatile in meaning.
71. Quillon
Quillon means ‘sword’ in Latin and often symbolizes battle and power, which carries dark historical references in its overall appeal.
72. Aiden
Aiden is an Irish name meaning ‘little fire’. Its duality gives it relation to dark and bright themes, allowing for versatile interpretations.
73. Roshan
Roshan means ‘light’ but can symbolize hope emerging from darkness, reflecting the balance often seen in names tied to black or dark aspects.
74. Everet
Everet meaning ‘wild boar’ carries beastly shadows connecting to darkness. This strong character-driven name grants weight to its deeper meanings.
75. Ansel
Ansel means ‘godly’ and often connects to darkness due to its historical associations with various figures throughout time, giving it prominence.
76. Lavelle
Lavelle means ‘from the land of the hills’, occasionally exploring earthy interpretations tied to dark themes, providing a lyrical approach.
77. Mercer
Mercer refers to ‘merchant’, often discussing trades connected to darker themes of history and commerce, making it unique yet historically entrenched.
78. Lucan
Lucan means ‘light’ but is often linked with the struggle against darkness, creating a beautiful dichotomy between the two extremes.
79. Umbra
Umbra is the Latin word for ‘shadow’. It holds deep connections directly to darkness, making it a powerful name that can stand boldly.
80. Orpheus
Orpheus is a figure from mythology often linked to themes of loss and darkness. It holds weight while connecting with beauty and storytelling.
81. Kendrick
Kendrick means ‘royal ruler’ and evokes strength, often relating to dark rulers in history. Its power can resonate through time.
82. Kye
Kye means ‘rejoice’ but often symbolizes darkness through history’s struggles, thus granting layers to this short yet impactful name.
83. Garrick
Garrick means ‘spear ruler’, which connects with notions of strength amid darkness evoked by historical portrayals of power.
84. Riven
Riven means ‘split’ and symbolizes the divisions among light and darkness. Its sound carries heaviness rooted in intensity.
85. Jacques
Jacques is the French version of James and can connect to darker historical narratives, highlighting strength and resilience.
86. Dorian
Dorian means ‘from Doris’, a historical place associated with myth and drama; it links itself to dark narratives filled with artistry.
87. Sorrell
Sorrell refers to the reddish-brown color but often symbolizes more ominous dark interpretations in different contexts.
88. Gale
Gale can mean ‘storm’ and has connections to chaos and darkness, layers of meaning tied to natural events unfolding dramatically.
89. Jovan
Jovan means ‘young John’ in Slavic interpretation while embodying certain traits associated with strength, often relating back to darker histories.
90. Adonis
Adonis is associated with beauty and desire but also ties to storylines from ancient times that touch on themes of tragic darkness.
91. Raoul
Raoul translates to ‘wolf counsel’. The wolf often evokes shadowy imagery linking back to themes of darkness in history.
92. Zane
Zane is a modern variation of John, meaning ‘God is gracious’ but features connections linked to darkness through historical narratives.
93. Aslan
Aslan means ‘lion’ in Turkish but symbolizes the struggle against dark forces, offering a firm balance between light and darkness.
94. Lynx
Lynx refers to a wild cat often tied to nocturnal imagery. This modern name evokes both elegance and connection to themes of darkness.
95. Sandy
Sandy can mean ‘defender of men’, usually associated with historical battles and conflicts rooted in darker narratives of human nature.
96. Kael
Kael can mean ‘mighty warrior’ and often embodies connections to darkness through themes of strength and protection against adversities.
97. Akil
Akil means ‘intelligent’ in Arabic but can also connect with darker aspects through wisdom drawn from experience and the shadows of past struggles.
98. Rayne
Rayne is a creative spelling of rained. It brings to mind stormy skies that embrace darker scenes while providing a fresh and modern touch.
99. Brock
Brock means ‘badger’ but brings forth rugged imagery often associated with darker, stormy connotations in nature.
100. Darian
Darian means ‘gift’ but is often paired with darker explorations through its narrative surrounding human relationships connecting back to historical struggles.
101. Heath
Heath refers to ’open wasteland’ and can be tied to darker interpretations when discussing untamed nature and associated imagery.
102. Asher
Asher means ‘happy’ but also carries significance regarding heavier narratives that can veer toward gloom and darkness throughout various traditions.
103. Corin
Corin means ‘spear’ but its meaning aligned with darkness and challenges spanning back through time keeps its narrative compelling.
104. Varek
Varek can mean ‘strong’ but is linked with narratives surrounding darker histories through strong figures and characters within stories.
105. Emory
Emory means ‘brave’ but often connects to dark themes of historical clashes that enrich its meaning with weight.
106. Ulysses
Ulysses means ‘wrathful’ and connects with deep mythological themes reflecting journeys tied to darkness and trials.
107. Twylla
Twylla means ‘to blossom’ but resonates with inner strength amidst emotive darker narratives around growth and beauty.
108. Berkley
Berkley means ‘birch wood meadow’ yet offers earthy ties rooted in themes that reconnect with darker aspects of history and time.
109. Svante
Svante means ‘to act’ while frequently linking back to dark historical moments that made significant cultural impacts.
110. Farouk
Farouk means ‘one who distinguishes truth from falsehood’ and is rooted in cultural stories that speak deeply of darkness and light.
111. Lane
Lane means ‘path’ and hints at imagery surrounding direction through dark terrains enhancing depth in its interpretation.
112. Jaden
Jaden can mean ‘thankful’ but often finds itself exploring narratives surrounding dark experiences shaping character development.
113. Malone
Malone means ‘servant’ or ‘descendant of the churl’. Its historical references connect it to darker lifeways that frame its narrative.
114. Turner
Turner means ‘lathe worker’ but can explore connections to dark crafts throughout history and skilled individuals creating from intrigue.
115. Sullivan
Sullivan means ‘dark-eyed’ in Irish, directly connecting with its theme of being one of the boy names that mean black or dark.
116. Calder
Calder means ’rocky water’ and speaks to darker waters found below surfaces, creating compelling references to life beneath.
117. Dario
Dario means ‘upholder of good’, but ties can weave through narratives including darker historical moments, enriching its stature.
118. Hugo
Hugo means ‘bright in mind and spirit’ yet can be linked back to interpretations skewed toward deeper dark traits, enhancing its layers.
119. Oran
Oran is a name meaning ‘light’ which can be inversely considered against darker representations in various folklore and storytelling traditions.
120. Stellan
Stellan means ‘calm’ but also evokes historical composure amidst storms or chaos, creating darker insights rooted in its calm nature.
121. Leander
Leander translates to ‘lion man’, which can be connected to strong characters often woven through tales with dark undertones and complexities.
122. Zenas
Zenas means ‘gift of Zeus’. Many darker associations threaded through its mythological roots reflect strength amid trials faced.
123. Garrick
Garrick means ‘spear ruler’ and strongly resonates with dark historical narratives surrounding strength in presence and conflict.
124. Malvin
Malvin is a name of Latin origin meaning ‘beloved’ but can hint at underlying themes often explored through darker societal frames.
125. Emrick
Emrick translates to ‘powerful ruler’, often linked back to darkness through explorations of power battles sustained throughout history.
126. Colby
Colby means ‘from the dark village’. This direct reference to darkness emphasizes its constant appeal when selecting names that connect to this theme.
127. Sidney
Sidney refers to ‘wide island’. However, linking deeper meanings can evoke historical darkness in navigating waters from earlier tales.
128. Icarus
Icarus means ‘the sun’ and is often associated with tragedy linked to darker narratives, providing a classical feel amidst grit.
129. Rocco
Rocco means ‘rest’ but can often be portrayed in contexts that hint at deeper interpretations involving dark imagery of conflict.
130. Wes
Wes means ‘from the west’, where darkness falls. It subtly connects with shifting perspectives surrounding black and dark themes.
131. Theron
Theron means ‘hunter’, linking back to shadowy realms often found amidst darker woods where threats dwell, enhancing its overall meaning.
132. Caelum
Caelum means ‘sky’ while being linked to traditional shadowed skies during nighttime, creating connections to darker elements in nature.
133. Darvin
Darvin means ‘dear friend’ but can evoke darker connections rooted in loyalty challenged through historical experiences.
134. Kaelan
Kaelan is often tied to dark meanings through interpretations of followers showcasing strong personalities accompanying trials in nature.
135. Riven
Riven indicates ‘torn apart’ often associating it with memories of darkness surrounding pain and dichotomies faced.
136. Neon
Neon could be linked with darkness in night scenes illuminated, brushing upon themes of discovery amidst blackened surroundings.
137. Rawley
Rawley indicates ‘roe deer’ but often circles around darker images that highlight survival under shadows, enhancing depth.
138. Fenris
Fenris means ‘wolf’ in Norse mythology and embodies deeper dark essence, symbolizing wolves’ bonds to shadows lurking beyond.
139. Axl
Axl means ‘father of peace’ but equally conveys a sense of strength amid struggles shrouded under darkness creating complexity.
140. Qamar
Qamar directly translates to ‘moon’ and evokes dark night images, connecting beautifully with themes shadowing through names.
141. Arlo
Arlo means ‘fortified hill’ but can carry associations with landscapes appearing darkened by nighttime representing endurance through struggles.
142. Corvin
Corvin references ‘raven’ which is clearly tied to darkness, showcasing attributes rich in meaning while aligning perfectly with this list.
143. Sai
Sai means ‘unique’ but can reverberate through societies linking back to darkness through individuality discovered in trials faced by one’s self.
144. Aziel
Aziel translates to ‘God is my strength’ carrying associations with darkness found in journeys navigated through strength amidst trials.
145. Tanek
Tanek means ‘to commit’ and extracts layered ideas associated with darkness tied to those overcoming obstacles stemming from conflict.
146. Rishi
Rishi means ‘sage’ but threads into histories surrounding darkness faced by those through time becoming wise in the shadows of experiences.
147. Kamau
Kamau translates to ‘quiet warrior’ often linking shadows that intertwine within storytelling regarded through historical journeys to strength.
148. Ozias
Ozias means ‘salvation’ tied intricately with darkness that shapes resilience contrasting with the themes of hope emerging as shadows retreat.
149. Indra
Indra is a name meaning ‘possessing drops’ resonating challenge tied with dark imagery often charged during storms within cultural lore.
150. Koda
Koda means ‘friend’ among the people stemming ties through narratives reflecting interwoven relations often bereft of challenges presenting darkness and unity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name for your baby boy is an important decision that can have a lasting impact. Names that mean black or dark not only offer unique identities but also carry rich meanings steeped in history and culture. The names listed here provide a range of options from traditional to modern, ensuring that there is something for every family’s taste. Embracing a name that denotes strength, mystery, and elegance can create a lasting legacy for your child.
Explore more about names like those that mean black or dark and discover their unique connections with history and culture. Remember that every name chosen is part of your child’s story, representing not only their identity but also the journey ahead.
If you’re curious about exploring other related themes, check out names that mean black or dark or delve into names that mean darkness for even broader insights into name meanings.