Choosing a name for a baby girl can be a special moment for parents. Some people are drawn to names that carry unique meanings. One interesting theme is names that signify darkness or the night. These names can represent mystery, beauty, or strength. Many cultures have rich histories tied to such names, revealing how darkness can symbolize elegance or power.
Today, we’ll look at a variety of girls’ names that mean dark. From classic names to modern choices, each one has its own captivating story. If you’re searching for a name with depth and character, these names might just inspire you.
Girls Names That Mean Dark
1. Leila
Leila is a popular name of Arabic origin that means ‘night’. This beautiful name embodies the tranquility and mystery associated with darkness.
2. Nyx
Originating from Greek mythology, Nyx is the personification of the night. A powerful name that reflects depth and enigma, it is unique and captivating.
3. Kali
Kali comes from Hindu mythology and represents the goddess of destruction and darkness. She embodies fierce strength and resilience.
4. Mira
Mira can be derived from Latin meaning ‘wonderful’ but is also linked with the Sanskrit term for ‘sea’, which evokes a dark, moody beauty.
5. Ciaran
This traditional Irish name translates to ‘dark’. While it’s more commonly used for boys, it can certainly be a lovely name for girls, symbolizing allure.
6. Samira
With Arabic roots, Samira means ‘companion in evening talk’ which ties the name closely with the night and suggests a mysterious charm.
7. Rhiannon
This Welsh name meaning ‘great queen’ relates closely to the moon and night sky, embracing darkness in a powerful and royal context.
8. Ziva
Ziva originates from Hebrew, meaning ‘radiance’ or ‘brightness’, but its association with the evening makes it fit perfectly into the dark theme.
9. Brangaine
Derived from Arthurian legend, Brangaine means ‘dark princess.’ It hints at elegance and a deep, captivating presence tied to darkness.
10. Melaina
This name has Greek roots and means ‘dark, black’. Melaina carries a sense of strength and majesty within its dark connotation.
11. Esmeralda
Spanish for ’emerald’, but Esmeralda often evokes the imagery of dark treasures hidden in the night, giving the name a rich depth.
12. Kiera
This Irish name translates to ‘dark-haired’ reflecting a connection to physical beauty, emphasizing a lovely darkness.
13. Sheba
Of Hebrew origin, Sheba means ‘severity’ or ‘darkness’, lending a sense of strength and mystery to the bearer.
14. Laila
Similar to Leila, Laila is another spelling that conveys the beautiful meaning of ‘night’ and is an elegant choice for a name.
15. Adele
While Adele means ‘noble’, its association with the dark and haunting melodies often performed by the popular singer carries a rich, dark allure.
16. Juna
This name embodies the moonlight shining in the dark, suggesting beauty found within the shadows of night.
17. Alayna
An alternate spelling of Elena, it carries the meaning ‘shining light’ yet can also imply the beauty within a dark context.
18. Thana
This name means ‘death’ in Arabic, surrounded with an aura of darkness while being mystical and intriguing.
19. Darya
A Persian name that means ‘sea’, Darya reflects the deep, dark waters, symbolizing depth and mystery.
20. Rhea
This name is associated with the Greek goddess of the earth, sometimes linked to dark environments and the core of earth.
21. Gloom
Modern and more unconventional, Gloom evokes a sense of mystery while signifying the darkness of night.
22. Raven
A name reminiscent of the black bird associated with darkness, Ravens are symbols of mystery and intelligence.
23. Shadya
This unique name from Arabic translates to ‘dark’. It holds a sense of individuality while embracing the essence of darkness.
24. Priya
Priya means ‘beloved’ in Sanskrit, but can also be associated with the deep connections formed during quiet, dark evenings.
25. Selene
Named after the Greek goddess of the moon, Selene embodies the beauty of night, and has dark yet serene undertones.
26. Adira
This Hebrew name means ‘strong’ but can also carry this strength in connection with shadows and night.
27. Nocturna
A more contemporary name that directly means ‘night’, Nocturna is unique and ties prominently with the theme of darkness.
28. Kaliyah
A variant of Kali, Kaliyah still retains the connection with darkness while sounding more melodic and gentle.
29. Amalthea
This name means ‘tender goddess’ but also is associated with a moon, tying into the mystery of darkness.
30. Zola
Meaning ‘calm’ or ‘tranquil’, Zola evokes the peacefulness found in the depth of night.
31. Kaala
This Hawaiian name means ‘dark’ indicating a beautiful representation of shadowy elegance.
32. Ines
This name means ‘pure’ in Latin yet can be associated with the moon’s light in the dark sky.
33. Enid
Of Welsh origin, Enid means ‘soul’ and suggests a beauty within the dark mysteries of the night.
34. Nyssa
Derived from Greek meaning ‘start of something’, Nyssa can represent new beginnings that can start in darkness.
35. Jovienne
This lovely name connects to the joyous and festive aspects of night, perfect for someone radiant in darker times.
36. Samaya
This name signifies ‘time’ in Sanskrit, bringing an ethereal connection to the night and the darkness that accompanies it.
37. Bina
This name means ‘knowledge’ or ‘intellect’ in Hebrew, often representing the wise stillness experienced during the night.
38. Elara
The name Elara ties to celestial influences and relationships with dark skies and stars.
39. Nisha
This Indian name means ‘night’, evoking the calm and beauty tied with dark hours.
40. Runa
Runa translates to ‘secret’ in Norse, perfectly reflecting the hidden mysteries found in darkness.
41. Samaya
This name signifies ‘time’ in Sanskrit, evoking the beauty of moments enjoyed in the stillness of the dark.
42. Solstice
Referencing the longest night of the year, Solstice connects directly to the dark themes of nature and mystery.
43. Vespera
A lovely name meaning ‘evening star’, Vespera epitomizes the beauty found in dark evenings.
44. Misha
With Russian origins, Misha means ‘gift from God’, but implies a depth that can beautifully resonate with darkness.
45. Lodi
This name means ‘dark’ in Hindi, creating a straightforward yet elegant appeal.
46. Tamsyn
Meaning ‘twin’ and linked with darkness, Tamsyn invokes a thoughtful connection to darker imagery.
47. Zafira
This name implies ‘victorious’, and can also represent achieving strength from the darkness.
48. Carina
Meaning ‘beloved’, yet can symbolize the gentle, soft night that embraces those we love.
49. Leocadia
This name’s meaning offers a connection to brightness while relating intricately to dark themes within its heritage.
50. Amaya
Amaya means ‘night rain’, combining the beauty of dark nights with nurtured growth from rains.
51. Hazel
While Hazel signifies a color, it has a nature of dark and rich undertones, linking to the mystery of the woods.
52. Celine
Celine means ‘heavenly’ in Latin but evokes the beauty of night skies filled with stars.
53. Okina
This name implies ‘darkness’ and carries a melodic beauty, making it both unique and charming.
54. Eunice
This Greek name means ‘good victory’, representing triumph over the shadows and darkness.
55. Laiyla
Alternative to Leila, Laiyla still signifies ‘night’ and has a lovely flow, embracing the theme of darkness.
56. Viridiana
A name meaning ‘green’, it can remind one of night owls in darkness looking for food.
57. Ciel
French for ‘sky’, this name develops connections to dark nights when the sky is beautifully painted with stars.
58. Lira
This name means ‘harp’ in Hebrew, resonating with the sweet, soft melodies heard in the dark evenings.
59. Ciara
This name means ‘little dark one’ in Irish, embodying a beautiful connection to the theme of darkness.
60. Tenebris
Latinate for ‘darkness’, Tenebris delivers a bold and powerful option tied directly to dark themes.
61. Morwenna
An old name meaning ‘maiden of the sea waves’, Morwenna can represent the mystery of dark ocean depths.
62. Elowen
This name signifies ‘elm tree’, representing the growth in darkness beneath a majestic canopy.
63. Selah
This Hebrew name means ‘to pause’, suggesting the stillness experienced during dark moments.
64. Amina
Amina means ‘trustworthy’ and while it doesn’t directly reference dark, can symbolize grounding in times of darkness.
65. Nocturne
Nocturne directly references musical compositions inspired by the night, celebrating the beauty found in darkness.
66. Calista
Meaning ‘most beautiful’, this name can symbolize the beauty found even within the dark shadows of life.
67. Cydonia
This name implies a connection to dark fruits and nature, embodying the essence of dark beauty.
68. Shade
A simple yet effective name that denotes the beauty of darkness and its protective nature.
69. Thyme
This name brings to mind dark herbs and nature’s elegance, representing growth in shadows.
70. Sidra
Meaning ‘the star’, this name carries a celestial quality while being rooted in the beauty of dark skies.
71. Morgana
A name associated with sorcery and mystery from Arthurian legends, perfect for those who love dark tales.
72. Ebon
This name means ‘dark wood’, incorporating subtle connections to deep, dark beauty found in nature.
73. Twilight
A modern name that represents the blend of light and dark, embodying mystery and allure.
74. Fae
Fae represents mythological creatures associated with night, adding a touch of enchantment to darkness.
75. Pantera
This name symbolizes power and strength as derived from the dark, mystical panther.
76. Vega
A name indicating the bright star in the constellation Lyra, named poetically with ‘dark’ connections to the night sky.
77. Danika
This Slavic name means ‘morning star’, making it perfect for someone bringing light amidst darkness.
78. Phaedra
With Greek origins, Phaedra implies ‘bright’ but is linked with dark tales, suggesting depth and complexity.
79. Elara
A name in connection with celestial bodies, marrying the beautiful night with its dark vastness.
80. Neoma
This name means ‘new moon’, creating a perfect link to the beauty in the darker phases of the moon.
81. Kiera
Kiera’s meaning of ‘dark-haired’ ties directly to dark beauty, making it a lovely name choice.
82. Maeve
This Irish name means ‘she who intoxicates’, alluding to the deep, dark magnetism of character.
83. Sabriel
Meaning ‘of the night’, Sabriel creates enchanting elegance tied distinctly to dark themes.
84. Eleora
Meaning ‘God’s light’, but can evoke soft hope and brightness in the darkest times.
85. Mahira
This name means ‘skilled’, yet can also symbolize mastering dark challenges.
86. Olwen
An enchanting name meaning ‘white footprint’, contrasting yet symbolizing beauty in darkness.
87. Endellion
Meaning ‘fire soul’, it can symbolize inner light flourishing in the darkness.
88. Calantha
This name means ‘beautiful flower’, representing growth and beauty found in deep, dark soil.
89. Zafiro
The Spanish word for sapphire, Zafiro references dark gemstones with rich beauty.
90. Mistral
This name reflects the winds that take on haunting beauty during dark hours.
91. Beryl
Referring to a dark green gemstone, Beryl implies richness and strength often found in shadows.
92. Vale
This simple yet meaningful name implies a valley, often dark and mysterious.
93. Thalia
This name means ‘to blossom’ while representing dark floral concepts that bloom beautifully.
94. Zephyr
A lovely name meaning ‘gentle breeze’ with undercurrents connecting darkness and calmness.
95. Liora
Meaning ‘light’ in Hebrew, Liora symbolizes hope rising from the darkness.
96. Raine
This name meaning ‘queen’ evokes the beauty of rainfall flourishing in shadows.
97. Shadow
A bold name that speaks directly of darkness while embodying mystery and allure.
98. Cloe
While this name means ‘young green shoot’, its connections run deep through nature’s dark vibrancy.
99. Evangeline
While it means ‘bearer of good news’, it has a grace that can shine through and evoke darkness.
100. Amaris
Meaning ‘child of the moon’, Amaris brings a direct connection to beauty found in night.
101. Astra
This name means ‘star’, living in the deep, dark sky yet shining beautifully among shadows.
102. Hecate
Named after the Greek goddess of witchcraft, Hecate symbolizes powerful dark connections.
103. Zahra
This name means ‘flower’, often suggesting beauty that grows amidst dark nights.
104. Thalassa
This name represents ‘the sea’, embodying the deepness and mystery that comes with dark waters.
105. Taura
Meaning ‘of the earth’, suggestive of the darkness that surrounds nature and growth.
106. Zuri
This Swahili name means ‘beautiful’, often bringing to mind the elegance found even in dark themes.
107. Leocadia
Meaning ‘bright’, though tied to deep histories of dark beauty.
108. Silk
A name suggesting soft elegance, Silk embodies darkness in its mysterious allure.
109. Winter
While it signifies the cold season, it also implies beauty in the dark nights of the year.
110. Winslet
This name refers to a dark, mysterious wood, embodying nature’s beauty in shadows.
111. Caia
While this name means ‘rejoice’, it can evoke joyous moments experienced in dark times.
112. Isolde
Associated with dark romantic stories, Isolde has a beautiful depth tied to shadows.
113. Radiance
A positive name suggesting warmth and light, hinting at beauty within darkness.
114. Iris
While meaning ‘rainbow’, connecting with dark skies after stormy weather enhances its charm.
115. Gale
This name implies a powerful wind but suggests strength found amidst dark, turbulent storms.
116. Callista
Meaning ‘most beautiful’, resembling the elegance discovered in darkness.
117. Louvenia
This name is an adaptation of ‘divine light’, combining beauty found even in dark hours.
118. Zinnia
Named after a flower that grows in a variety of colors, including those found in deep, dark shades.
119. Soraya
This name implies richness and speaks to cultures that embrace the beauty found in the dark.
120. Amara
This name means ‘eternal’, reflecting beauty that endures despite the darkness.
121. Eliana
A beautiful name meaning ‘my God has answered’, hinting at illumination within deep shadows.
122. Ione
Meaning ‘violet flower’, suggesting subtle beauty thriving in darker tones.
123. Cassiopeia
This celestial name evokes the night sky with ties to dark, starry voyages.
124. Yara
A name meaning ‘small butterfly’ often implying beauty found through dark struggles.
125. Amia
This name means ‘beloved’, hinting at love existing in the shadows of life.
126. Sable
Sable is associated with richness and darkness, directly implying the depths found in the night.
127. Selah
With a meaning that hints at reflection, this name encourages contemplation often found in dark moments.
128. Azura
This name represents a blue color and can connect beautifully with dark sky themes.
129. Samir
A name that means ‘entertaining companion’, suggesting beauty in dark moments shared.
130. Vesper
Hinting at evening time, Vesper embodies the essence of calmness in darkness.
131. Marisol
This name implies ‘sea and sun’, bringing a dark oceanic theme to light.
132. Aisling
This Irish name means ‘dream’, often connected to beautiful dark dreams.
133. Thistle
This flower name resonates with dark beauty and resilience found in unexpected places.
134. Tarikah
Meaning ‘morning star’, it ties beautifully with the brighter sides of dark nights.
135. Onyx
Referring to a dark gemstone, Onyx links strength and elegance found in darkness.
136. Ember
An enchanting name that evokes sparks among dark shadows.
137. Elise
Meaning ‘pledged to God’, hinting at divine beauty hidden in darkness.
138. Nyssa
Implying ‘goal’, connects directly to the ambitions illuminated amidst dark struggles.
139. Selene
This beautiful name means ‘moon’, directly representing the connection between beauty and darkness.
140. Mahiya
This name means ‘a very beautiful girl’, embodying elegance tied with shadows and mystery.
141. Anaya
This name symbolizes care and protection, often found within the protective embrace of dark shadows.
142. Lumi
Meaning ‘light’, linking to the gentle light found amidst dark nights.
143. Evangeline
A name that enshrines hope and positivity, hinting at connections that can be formed in darkness.
144. Mirage
A mystical name that evokes images of illusions seen on dark paths.
145. Sarai
This name means ‘princess’, embodying beauty and strength amidst darkness.
146. Twilight
Bringing to mind the gentle transition to darkness, encapsulating the mystery of night.
147. Sirena
With ties to the sirens of mythology, hinting at beauty and danger found in dark oceans.
148. Daria
A name meaning ‘possessor of good’, embodying strength in dark environments.
149. Louella
Meaning ‘famous warrior’, linking to battles fought in enchantingly dark tales.
150. Nema
This lovely name means ‘a thread of life’, anchoring connection despite the darkness.
Final Thoughts
Selecting a girl’s name connected to darkness can be a captivating journey. There are numerous beautiful choices that symbolize mystery, strength, and elegance. Names like Leila and Nyx not only embody the essence of night but also carry deep meanings that resonate with many cultures. Whether you’re drawn to classic names or more modern interpretations, each name offers something unique. Explore this enchanting theme further by discovering more options for names that mean dark or delving into girls’ names that mean darkness or death. Each name tells a story, inviting you to find the perfect one for your cherished little one.
For more inspiration, check out these resources on names that mean dark or girl names that mean darkness or death.