When choosing a name, some people look for something unique or powerful. However, some names carry darker meanings, like those that signify evil or malevolence. It can be fascinating to learn about names with such meanings and the stories behind them. These names often have roots in myths, literature, and history.
Today, we’ll take a look at a list of names that mean evil. From characters in famous tales to names rooted in ancient cultures, each one has its own interesting background. Whether you’re just curious or searching for a name with a sinister vibe, you’ll find some intriguing options here!
List Of Names That Mean Evil
1. Abaddon
Abaddon is derived from Hebrew, signifying a place of destruction, often associated with evil. In the Book of Revelation, Abaddon is the angel of the abyss, embodying malevolence and chaos.
2. Bellatrix
Meaning ‘female warrior’ in Latin, Bellatrix is also the name of a star in the constellation Orion. It is often linked to dark and evil characters in literature, symbolizing strength but also destructiveness.
3. Clotho
Clotho is one of the three Fates in Greek mythology, known for controlling destiny. While she weaves threads of life, her association with fate can imply a hand in dark destinies.
4. Drusilla
This name, which means ‘strong’ in Latin, has evil connotations in pop culture, particularly due to the character from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” a vampire known for her madness and cruelty.
5. Lilith
Lilith has origins in Hebrew folklore, representing a night daemon or spirit associated with evil and seduction. She embodies independence and defiance against traditional roles, but is also seen as a symbol of darkness.
6. Leviathan
This name refers to a monstrous sea creature from biblical texts, symbolizing chaos and evil. It is often used to represent the overpowering forces of nature and malevolence.
7. Maleficent
Derived from the Latin word meaning ‘malevolent,’ Maleficent is best recognized as the iconic evil fairy from Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty,” symbolizing the embodiment of evil through her curse.
8. Mara
Mara is a name associated with a demon in Buddhist tradition, representing temptation and evil that leads individuals away from enlightenment. It serves as a reminder of the darker paths one can take.
9. Nyx
In Greek mythology, Nyx is the goddess of night, often associated with dark and chaotic forces. Her name evokes thoughts of mystery and the sinister aspects of the night.
10. Pandora
The name Pandora means ‘all gifts’ but is rooted in the myth of Pandora’s box, from which evil was released into the world, making her name synonymous with bringing forth misfortune.
11. Qayin
Qayin, or Cain, from the biblical story is known for committing the first murder, symbolizing wickedness. His story represents the darker side of humanity and the consequences of jealousy and anger.
12. Rhea
Rhea is a Titaness in Greek mythology who represents motherhood and fertility but is also associated with the dark themes of family betrayal, specifically in the tale of Cronos’ fear of being overthrown.
13. Samael
This name represents an archangel of death and a demon in various mythologies, symbolizing both evil and darkness. Samael’s presence typically indicates a force of destruction and chaos.
14. Tiamat
Tiamat, a Babylonian goddess, embodies primordial chaos and evil. She is often depicted as a dragon or sea monster, representing the chaotic forces of creation and destruction.
15. Vesper
While Vesper means ‘evening star,’ its connections to darkness and the night create an aura of mystery and possible malevolence, leading to the idea of hidden dangers in the dark.
16. Xanthus
Xanthus means ‘yellow,’ but is also a name found in Greek mythology associated with a horse that belonged to Achilles, often linked to themes of destruction due to the Trojan war.
17. Yama
In Hindu mythology, Yama is the god of death, representing the ultimate evil fate. His role evokes fear of mortality and moral justice, underscoring the nature of life and death.
18. Zagan
Zagan is a demon mentioned in demonology, known for turning wine into blood and water into oil. His sinister capabilities emphasize his dark nature linked to evil and corruption.
19. Astaroth
Astaroth is often depicted as a powerful demon in various texts, representing lust but also associated with betrayal and trickery, embodying the essence of evil.
20. Belial
Belial is often referenced as a demon representing wickedness and lawlessness. The name itself suggests a being of evil, representing moral corruption and rebellion.
21. Charon
The name of the ferryman of the dead in Greek mythology, Charon’s role in guiding souls to the underworld links his name directly to the themes of death and the supernatural.
22. Dagon
Dagon is a god worshipped in ancient Mesopotamia, considered a deity of the oceans. However, his dark associations in folklore depict him as a figure of malevolence.
23. Eurynome
Eurynome can mean ‘wide wandering,’ but in myth, she is sometimes depicted as a chaotic force, symbolizing both creation and the chaos associated with evil.
24. Fenrir
Fenrir is a monstrous wolf from Norse mythology who represents chaos and destruction, often associated with the end of the world, known as Ragnarök, embodying pure evil.
25. Gorgon
Gorgons, especially Medusa, represent fear and evil in Greek mythology, transforming onlookers to stone with their gaze, signifying the dangerous aspects of beauty intertwined with horror.
26. Hades
Though Hades is the Latin-derived name of the Greek god of the underworld, many interpret its meaning as synonymous with death and darkness, linking him to evil interpretations.
27. Isolde
Isolde can signify ‘ice ruler’, but through tales of tragic love and betrayal, her name invokes darker themes of heartbreak and moral conflicts associated with evil.
28. Jareth
Jareth is a modern name popularized by “Labyrinth,” representing the dark, whimsical nature of the Goblin King, showcasing a blend of enchantment and malevolence.
29. Kali
Kali, in Hindu tradition, is a goddess of destruction and change. While she represents empowerment, her fierce nature associates her with dark powers and the essence of evil.
30. Loki
Loki, the trickster god in Norse mythology, embodies mischief and chaos. His cleverness often leads to deceitful acts, linking him closely to the concept of evil.
31. Morgana
This name, often linked to the powerful sorceress in Arthurian legends, evokes themes of dark magic and betrayal, making it a fitting representation of evil.
32. Nereus
Nereus, a sea god in Greek mythology, was known for deception. His capability to change forms signifies the manipulative nature of evil and treachery.
33. Orpheus
While Orpheus is often known for beauty and music, his tragic story involving the underworld speaks to the darker facets of love and loss, touching on themes associated with evil.
34. Persephone
Persephone, the queen of the underworld, is associated with seasonal change but also embodies a darker essence when taking into account her abduction by Hades.
35. Quirinus
This ancient Roman god is associated with war. His name evokes a darker theme of conflict and the inherent evil aspects of strife and human struggle.
36. Ra’s al Ghul
An iconic villain from the DC Comics universe, Ra’s al Ghul’s name means ‘the demon’s head,’ representing the embodiment of evil and the quest for immortality through sinister means.
37. Set
In ancient Egyptian mythology, Set is the god of chaos and storms. His association with disorder and destruction directly connects him to the concept of evil.
38. Thorne
Thorne is a name that suggests sharpness and potential danger, linking it closely to sinister aspects, making it a fitting representation of evil.
39. Uzziah
This name has biblical roots, associated with a king who fell from grace. Its meaning reflects themes of pride and downfall intertwined with evil consequences.
40. Vile
The name Vile indicates something morally reprehensible, directly linking it to the essence of evil and malice, reinforcing negative connotations through its definition.
41. Wraith
A wraith is a ghost or spirit often associated with foreboding and evil. Choosing this name evokes a sense of darkness and otherworldly fears.
42. Xeron
Xeron is a name that suggests malice and darkness, often associated with fictional evil characters, making it a direct representation of evil themes.
43. Yanek
Of Slavic origin, Yanek means “gift from God,” but it can also refer to someone with malicious intent, linking it to dual meanings of good and evil.
44. Zephyr
Zephyr refers to a gentle breeze but in some interpretations, the gentle wind can symbolize the ethereal touch of the devil, linking it subtly to darker undertones.
45. Amaranth
This plant symbolizes eternal life, but its association with dark literary themes adds an evil essence, representing beauty intertwined with dark desires.
46. Banshee
This name reflects the spirit whose wail foretells death, embodying the darker side of fate, making it directly associated with the themes of evil.
47. Calypso
Associated with seduction and the allure of danger in Greek mythology, Calypso ties emotions to dark themes, making this name a gentle reference to evil.
48. Delilah
Delilah, known for betraying Samson, represents deceit and manipulation, embodying the darker aspects of love and loyalty, directly linking her to evil.
49. Erebus
The Greek god representing darkness and shadow, Erebus symbolizes the evil aspects of night and chaos, showing a deep connection to the idea of malevolence.
50. Freya
While Freya is often viewed as a goddess of love, her association with war and death highlights the balance between good and evil in Norse mythology.
51. Gabar
Meaning ‘to overcome’ in Arabic, Gabar’s association with destruction makes it a name reflecting both strength and the potential for evil.
52. Hel
The Norse goddess Hel represents the underworld, where lost souls reside, directly linking her name to themes of death and evil.
53. Inferno
This name signifies hell or fiery destruction, serving as a vivid representation of evil and chaos intertwined with punishment.
54. Judas
Judas is infamously known for betraying Jesus, symbolizing treachery and evil in biblical stories, forever marking the name with darkness.
55. Keres
Keres are female death spirits in Greek mythology, deeply tied to the themes of doom and malice, embodying the true essence of evil.
56. Levi
This name often refers to a ‘joining’ or ‘uniting,’ but in some interpretations, it represents a darker aspect, alluding to troubles and dark associations.
57. Moloch
Moloch symbolizes an ancient god associated with child sacrifice, representing the ultimate evil in historical texts, marking him with a legacy of darkness.
58. Nox
Nox, meaning ‘night’ in Latin, signifies darkness and mystery, embodying the eerie connotations of evil tied to the night.
59. Obsidian
This volcanic glass is often linked to darkness and protection, emphasizing the sharp nature found in evil elements.
60. Pestilence
The term pestilence refers to widespread disease, often linked to curses in folklore, highlighting the malicious aspect of evil and chaos.
61. Quasim
Quasim means ‘one who is imposed upon,’ hinting at themes of manipulation and injustice linked to darker undertones.
62. Ruin
The name Ruin signifies destruction, often associated with evil influences leading to downfall and chaos in lives and societies.
63. Sable
Sable, associated with the dark fur, implies darkness and shadow, evoking a certain evil essence related to properties of the night.
64. Talon
This name suggests a fierce and predatory nature, directly correlating with elements of evil and danger inherent in its meaning.
65. Umbra
Umbra means shadow in Latin, representing darkness and the malevolent aspect of light’s absence, tying it closely to evil themes.
66. Vespera
This variation of the name Vesper signifies evening, connecting it to dusk’s creeping darkness, culturally tied to various evil superstitions.
67. Wulfen
This name is derived from ‘wolf,’ known as a symbol of ferocity and cunning, associating it with themes of evil and treachery.
68. Xara
Xara can mean ‘princess,’ but her connections in literature link her to darker tales of betrayal and malice, suggesting an evil undertone.
69. Yara
Yara can mean ‘small butterfly,’ but also has ties to darker meanings, suggesting transformation often linked with duplicitous intent.
70. Zuri
While Zuri means ‘beautiful,’ its ties to betrayal in literary themes associate it with the darker side of beauty, embodying superficial evil.
71. Abraxas
A name that symbolizes a mystical entity associated with both good and evil, Abraxas embodies a duality often linked to sin and virtue.
72. Baba Yaga
A well-known witch from Slavic folklore, Baba Yaga is often portrayed as a fearsome character representing evil, mischief, and cunning.
73. Cerberus
The name of the three-headed dog guarding the entrance to the underworld in mythology, Cerberus provides a direct representation of danger and evil.
74. Dorian
While Dorian has ties to beauty, the character Dorian Gray embodies the theme of corruption and moral decay, linking his name to the darker aspect of human nature.
75. Envy
The name Envy embodies a deadly sin and reflects malevolent desires and jealousy, connecting it firmly to its evil implications.
76. Faust
Faust, known for making a deal with the devil in folklore, personifies the struggle between good and evil, amplifying its dark and malevolent implications through the story.
77. Golem
The Golem is created from earth in Jewish folklore, yet can become a symbol of uncontrolled vengeance, intertwining good intentions with evil outcomes.
78. Hecate
As the goddess of witchcraft, sorcery, and the moon, Hecate is directly linked to darkness and evil, embodying malevolent powers within her name.
79. Ichabod
Ichabod, meaning ‘no glory,’ is closely associated with dismal fates and dark imagery, reflecting a sense of sadness and evil within its history.
80. Jinx
This name suggests bad luck and misfortune, making it an apt representation of darkness and the evil forces found within superstition.
81. Krampus
Krampus is a creature from folklore often associated with punishing naughty children during Christmas, symbolizing the darker side of festive traditions linked to evil.
82. Lucinda
Derived from the root ‘light,’ Lucinda’s contrast within tales often depicts her as a character traversing through dark themes, linking her to evil forces.
83. Mabus
Often associated with a prophesied dark figure, the name Mabus links directly to themes of chaos and destruction within literature, making it inherently evil.
84. Nefarious
This name directly means wicked or villainous, symbolizing malevolence and the essence of evil in various narratives.
85. Omen
The name Omen signifies a sign of danger or evil, providing an immediate connection to its darker implications through its meaning.
86. Perseus
While typically a heroic figure, Perseus’s battles often involve confronting dark, monstrous entities, tying his name to encounters with evil forms.
87. Quarantine
Although mainly used today in health contexts, quarantine has roots in darkness associated with disease—bringing a sense of evil lurking within society.
88. Rook
This name, referring to a black bird, links directly to superstition and darkness, signifying the ominous nature historically tied to evil.
89. Selene
A name associated with the moon, Selene evokes themes of night and mystery, aligned with folklore’s darker elements that connect her to evil.
90. Tartarus
Tartarus is a deep abyss in Greek mythology used as a dungeon of torment, symbolizing dire themes of evil and punishment linked to sins.
91. Uriel
Though commonly an angelic name, Uriel’s ties to darkness within certain interpretations signify wisdom, but often reference the struggle against evil.
92. Vortex
This name signifies a whirling mass of destruction that can draw people in. Vortex embodies the uncontrollable and chaotic themes often associated with evil.
93. Wyrm
This old word means dragon, often linked to serpent-like creatures in mythology, evoking notions of evil and treachery.
94. Xina
Xina suggests a femme fatale essence, linked to themes of danger and deceit, ultimately representing the essence of evil in narratives.
95. Yggdrasil
The World Tree in Norse mythology, its roots connect various realms, including those of chaos, linking its name to an inherent darkness.
96. Zephyrus
Although named after the west wind, its ties to ancient myths associate it with unpredictable and sometimes malevolent forces of nature.
97. Acantha
This name means ‘thorn,’ invoking a sense of danger and malevolence, fitting comfortably within evil narratives.
98. Balthazar
Balthazar, one of the Magi, is often depicted in various works as harboring dark secrets, linking him to broader themes of mystery and evil.
99. Charybdis
A sea monster in mythology, Charybdis represents chaos and destruction, lending her name as a fierce representation of evil.
100. Deathstrike
This name evokes immediate images of danger and malevolence, making it inherently linked to the idea of evil.
101. Evilyn
A play on the name Evelyn, it carries the literal meaning of ‘evil’ within its sound, directly implying malevolence.
102. Faustine
This name is derived from Faust, who made a pact with the devil, illustrating themes of temptation and innate evil desires.
103. Grim
Grim instantly connects to darkness and seriousness, suggesting a sinister unyielding edge tied to themes of evil.
104. Havoc
This name directly reflects chaos and destruction, vividly tying it to the themes of malevolence and evil.
105. Iago
Famous for his manipulative and treacherous nature in Shakespeare’s “Othello,” Iago’s name has become synonymous with deceit and evil intentions.
106. Japhy
Japhy has a playful sound but draws links to darker literary themes, implying underlying evil within seemingly benign characterizations.
107. Korrigan
This name references a mythical creature from Breton folklore linked to mischief and darker intentions, engaging with the essence of evil.
108. Lamashtu
Lamashtu, a demoness in Mesopotamian mythology, brings nightmares and misfortunes, embodying evil themes in her narratives.
109. Malarie
While this name signifies ‘unfortunate’ or ‘illness,’ it conveys a sense of dark living, linking it closely to the essence of evil.
110. Nero
The infamous Roman emperor symbolizes tyranny and evil acts, making the name synonymous with historical malevolence.
111. Obscura
This name relates to darkness and mystery, evoking an aura of suspense and hiding evil within its depths.
112. Pandemonium
Referring to utter chaos and confusion, the name Pandemonium links closely to evil themes, representing disorder and malevolent intentions.
113. Quicksilver
This name suggests danger due to its unpredictable nature, embodying the essence of deviousness linked to evil.
114. Revenant
A name linked to spirits returning from the dead, it embodies darkness and the lurking themes of evil in ghost stories.
115. Sablewood
Sablewood conveys an aura of darkness, connected to the imagery of deep forests, often tied to sinister references in folklore.
116. Thornebreaker
With a name suggesting the breaking of something sharp, directly ties to evil through its representation of pain and danger.
117. Ulmo
Ulmo, from Tolkien’s works, references elemental evil through his connections to water, suggesting dangerous undercurrents in nature.
118. Vengeance
The name Vengeance directly signifies retribution and darker intentions, making it synonymous with evil and its consequences.
119. Wraithborn
This name suggests a lineage connected with ghosts or spirits, directly tying into themes of darkness and evil through ancestry.
120. Xenomorph
Known as a terrifying creature in film, Xenomorph symbolizes evil embodied in pure horror, enhancing the legacy of darkness.
121. Ymir
This figure from Norse mythology represents chaos and primordial beings, tying his name directly to evil themes through his creation myths.
122. Zima
The name Zima means ‘winter’, which is often associated with death and darkness, linking it to colder, darker themes of evil.
123. Acheron
Representing the river of pain in Greek mythology, Acheron’s name evokes strong associations with both suffering and evil.
124. Ba’al
This ancient deity represents power and has connections with dark rituals, embodying malevolence and its accompanying ferocity.
125. Cimmerian
This name references a place of eternal darkness in mythology, representing challenges and evils associated with deep, unyielding darkness.
126. Deimos
The personification of dread in Greek mythology, Deimos is deeply tied to the concept of fear and evil through psychological turmoil.
127. Ebon
This name signifies darkness and can symbolize the absence of light. It directly links to evil through its associations.
128. Furor
Meaning ‘rage’ in Latin, Furor embodies chaotic emotions often linked to dark deeds and acts of evil.
129. Gwynn
This name hints at purity but can also have darker implications in various stories, suggesting a contrast tied to evil.
130. Harbinger
Harbingers signify forewarnings, often linked to impending doom or evil. Their name immediately connects to darker themes.
131. Invidia
Meaning ‘envy’ in Latin, Invidia symbolizes jealousy, often driving people toward malicious and evil actions.
132. Jotun
Often referring to giants in Norse mythology, Jotun encompasses chaos and darkness, representing a direct connection to evil beings.
133. Khune
Khune suggests an association with darkness and danger, embodying the spirit of evil in its characterizations.
134. Lysander
Though typically associated with light, the name Lysander has ties to darkness in some interpretations, revealing an innate duality relating to evil.
135. Maelstrom
This word refers to a powerful whirlpool, directly connecting to chaos, danger, and ultimately, a representation of evil forces.
136. Nyarlathotep
A figure in H.P. Lovecraft’s works, Nyarlathotep embodies chaos and malevolence, directly tying his name to the heart of evil.
137. Ozymandias
The name represents a once-great ruler whose empire crumbled, suggesting themes of hubris and the evil associated with tyranny.
138. Phaedra
A character in Greek mythology, Phaedra’s story entwines love, obsession, and dark themes of betrayal, encompassing evil implications.
139. Quagmire
Though it means a swamp, in literature it represents situations entangled with moral dilemmas, often ending in dark consequences indicative of evil.
140. Revenant
Referring to a spirit returning from the dead, this name emphasizes fear and associations with haunting, linking closely to the essence of evil.
141. Sorrow
While a generally understood feeling, Sorrow evokes connections to darker narratives and the evil correlated with pain and distress.
142. Tempest
This name suggests storms and chaos, linking to tumultuous emotions and circumstances that can bring forth evils in tumultuous lives.
143. Umber
A shade associated with darkness, this name directly relates to themes evoking fear and evil associations.
144. Vespertilio
Meaning ‘bat’ in Latin, this name brings forth imagery of night creatures often associated with darkness and sinister forces.
145. Wraithen
This name presents an ethereal quality linked to spirits, directly tying it back to themes of danger and evil in narratives.
146. Xander
Xander, while often regarded as a heroic name, has been linked to darker stories that portray the complexities of evil within heroes.
147. Ysolde
Often signifying betrayal, Ysolde has connections to tales of treachery, aligning it directly with evil narratives.
148. Zorak
This name evokes images of a menacing creature from sci-fi, representing evil and darkness through its sinister character.
149. Acheronyx
A blend of Acheron and darkness, this name directly signifies dark waters filled with evil, connecting it to chaos and malevolence.
150. Belphegor
A demon associated with laziness and sloth, Belphegor links his name intricately to the aspects of evil found within indulgence and slothful deeds.
Final Thoughts
Names that signify evil often come from a variety of cultural and mythological backgrounds, giving them deep meanings and narratives. Each name listed resonates with dark themes, illustrating how language can reflect the complexities of morality. Whether associated with famous figures or rooted in folklore, these names offer an intriguing glimpse into the idea of evil across different societies.
From Abaddon to Belphegor, each of these names carries a tale woven through history and myth, creating an intricate tapestry of meaning. Exploring names with darker connotations can enhance our understanding of storytelling and the moral complexities in human behavior.
If you enjoyed this exploration of names that mean evil, consider diving deeper into more fascinating subjects like names that mean evil or names associated with demons. There is always more to discover when it comes to the stories behind names!