Animals have always inspired us, influencing our lives in many ways. Whether it’s through stories, nature, or our pets, animals hold a special place in our hearts. Some names even have meanings connected to specific animals, making them unique and meaningful. These names can reflect traits or qualities we admire, like strength, loyalty, or grace.
Today, we will look at some fascinating names that mean animals from different cultures and languages. You might find a new favorite name or learn something interesting about the origins. Let’s jump right in and celebrate the bond between names and animals!
Names That Mean Animals
1. Aine
Aine is an Irish name that means ‘radiance’ but is also associated with animals, particularly the goddess Aine who is linked to the moon and fertility, representing the gracefulness of a deer.
2. Ayla
Ayla is a beautiful Turkish name meaning ‘moonlight’ but also relates to animals as it is sometimes tied to the gentle nature of a doe or a female deer.
3. Barron
This English name, meaning ‘nobleman’, has ties to the word ‘bear’, often seen as a symbol of strength and courage.
4. Bence
A unique Hungarian name meaning ‘blessed’, it also connects to ‘bence’, which means ‘swan’, reflecting elegance and beauty.
5. Calista
The Greek name Calista means ‘most beautiful’ and is also associated with the myth of Callisto, a nymph who was turned into a bear.
6. Carlyle
Carlyle is an English name meaning ‘from the carpet land’, but it also holds connections to the animal kingdom through the wolfer or ‘wolf’ meanings attributed to it.
7. Dena
This name means ‘divine’, often linked to the dove, a symbol of peace and purity.
8. Ella
Etymologically, Ella can refer to ‘fairy maiden’ but is also associated with ‘fawn’, representing youth and gentleness in certain cultures.
9. Faunus
Faunus is a Latin name directly associated with the god of the forest, who is often depicted with goat-like features, linking this name to nature and animals.
10. Hania
A Hebrew name meaning ‘gracious’, it bears connotations to animals like swans known for their graceful movements.
11. Ilya
This Slavic name can mean ‘my God is Yahweh’ but has also been found connected to ‘wolf’ in some traditions.
12. Jera
In some interpretations, Jera means ‘year’ in Old Norse but has qualities that reflect the resilience and adaptability of animals.
13. Kaia
A Hawaiian name meaning ‘pure’, it is sometimes associated with the sea turtles that are seen as symbols of wisdom and longevity.
14. Leo
This classic name directly translates to ‘lion’, symbolizing strength, courage, and nobility.
15. Livia
A name of Latin origin, which can mean ‘blue’ or ‘envious’ but also connects to the idea of a lively spirit like a dove.
16. Malaika
This Swahili name means ‘angel’, but it is also related to the word for ‘bird’, symbolizing freedom and lightness.
17. Nala
This beautiful name means ‘gift’ in Swahili and is famously linked to the lioness from The Lion King, making it a strong animal-related name.
18. Orion
This name comes from Greek mythology and refers to a hunter in stories, linking to the trait of a fierce animal in the wild.
19. Panya
Panya is a Swahili name that means ‘mouse’, symbolizing cleverness and adaptability.
20. Qadir
While this Arabic name means ‘powerful’, it can also be tied to narratives that feature lions as symbols of strength.
21. Rhiannon
This Welsh name means ‘great queen’ but is also associated with a horse goddess, connecting it to an animal symbolism of nobility.
22. Sai
A name of various origins, but in several cultures, it means ‘animal’ or ‘essence’, highlighting a connection to wildlife.
23. Thierry
This French name means ‘ruler of the people’, and it can also evoke the strength of a tiger, a common symbol in Asian cultures.
24. Uma
Though it means ‘nation’ in Sanskrit, Uma is closely connected to the elephant goddess, symbolizing wisdom and memory.
25. Vesper
This Latin name means ‘evening star’, often linked to the evening owl, an animal that symbolizes wisdom during the night.
26. Wren
A charming name that directly references the small songbird, Wren embodies the qualities of joy and freedom.
27. Xanthe
This Greek name meaning ‘yellow’ can also refer to a golden eagle, a symbol of majesty and freedom.
28. Yara
This Arabic name means ‘small butterfly’, capturing the beauty and transformation animals undergo in nature.
29. Zara
30. Axl
This Norse name means ‘father of peace’, linking it to the lion that is often referred to in literature as a symbol of strength and peace.
31. Banafsheh
This Persian name means ‘violet’, but it is sometimes associated with the graceful movements of butterflies.
32. Ceres
A Roman name referring to the goddess of agriculture, Ceres also alludes to livestock and animals connected to farming.
33. Drake
Meaning ‘dragon’ or ‘male duck’ in English, Drake can symbolize both fierce nature and gentleness.
34. Fiera
This Spanish name translates to ‘wild’, which can connect to the untamed spirit of many animals.
35. Gabriel
This Hebrew name means ‘God is my strength’ and can connect to the lion often seen as the ‘king of the jungle’.
36. Harman
This name means ‘army man’, but in many cultures, it conjures images of a bear, symbolizing strength and courage.
37. Ibis
A unique name calling to a bird known for its long legs and neck, representing adaptability.
38. Judd
This English name, meaning ‘the brave’, is often linked to the hawk as a symbol of strength in hunting.
39. Kiran
This Indian name means ‘ray of light’, often related to the sunrise when many animals become active, reflecting their essence.
40. Lark
The name Lark refers directly to a small bird known for its musical song, symbolizing joy and freedom.
41. Maren
This name means ‘sea’ in Latin, often associated with marine animals like whales and dolphins.
42. Nox
A Latin name for ‘night’, often associated with black panthers that are mysterious and powerful.
43. Ophelia
This name means ‘help’ in Greek but can also represent animals revered for their assistance, like dogs.
44. Pax
This Latin name means ‘peace’, which can be tied to the tranquility of animals like doves.
45. Quill
The name Quill, although it refers to a feather, is often linked to birds that have a significant impact on nature.
46. Rune
Meaning ‘secret’ in Norse, Rune can also symbolize the quiet presence of animals that roam silently.
47. Selah
This Hebrew name means ‘pause’ or ‘reflect’, often associated with the serene nature of a grazing animal.
48. Tula
Tula is a Sanskrit name meaning ‘balance’, which can be associated with horses that symbolize harmony in nature.
49. Uma
While it signifies ‘flourishing’, this name brings to mind the elephant, regarded as a protector and scholar.
50. Vela
Meaning ‘sail’ in Latin, Vela also refers to the ‘sailfish’, representing speed and grace in the ocean.
51. Willow
Meaning ‘graceful’, Willow can symbolize the gentle nature of animals found near water sources.
52. Xenia
This name means ‘hospitality’ in Greek and can tie into the friendliness of pet animals.
53. Yonder
Meaning ‘at some distance’, it reflects the nature of animals that explore vast lands and terrains.
54. Zephyr
This name means ‘west wind’ in Greek and evokes the image of animals that wander freely with the wind, like birds.
55. Ashvitha
This name has roots in Sanskrit meaning ‘swift horse’, directly connecting the name to the strength and grace of horses.
56. Bashira
With Arabic origins meaning ‘bringer of good news’, it relates to the songbirds that often herald morning.
57. Clio
This Greek name means ‘glory’ and has connections to the ‘lioness’, a symbol of strength and leadership.
58. Dromos
A unique Greek name meaning ‘runner’, often likened to animals known for their speed, like horses or cheetahs.
59. Elara
This name, tied to mythology, symbolizes a celestial body but can also evoke the image of the elephant, an animal immensely valued for its wisdom and family ties.
60. Finn
Meaning ‘fair’ or ‘white’, it can also refer to ‘fish’, which ties into many cultures around the world’s fishing traditions.
61. Gia
A short and sweet Italian name meaning ‘God is gracious’, also associated with a noble animal, the hawk.
62. Hezekiah
This Hebrew name means ‘God strengthens’, and could evoke thoughts of the mighty lion representing divine strength.
63. Izzie
This playful name is a shortened version of Isabel, but it can symbolize the ‘swallow’ bird, known for its joyful chirping.
64. Juno
The Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth has ties to the shape of a cow, an animal revered for its nurturing spirit.
65. Kalani
This name means ‘the heavens’, but it’s also associated with birds in Hawaiian culture, showcasing a connection with nature.
66. Lachlan
This Scottish name means ‘from the land of lakes’, often picturing ducks floating gracefully in serene waters.
67. Minu
68. Nyla
This Egyptian name means ‘winner’ but is often associated with gazelles, conveying elegance and agility.
69. Oriel
This name is derived from Latin meaning ‘golden’, directly related to the golden retrievers that exude warmth and friendliness.
70. Pippa
A name that means ‘lover of horses’, directly connecting it to the bond between humans and their equine counterparts.
71. Quinn
Even though it means ‘wisdom’, this Irish name also has ties to the mythological creature called the ‘swan’, which symbolizes beauty and grace.
72. Radley
This English name means ‘red meadow’, which is often the habitat for various small wildlife and birds.
73. Sable
This name signifies a black fur animal, often used to symbolize elegance and luxury, much like the mystique of a black panther.
74. Tigris
A Latin name linked to the ‘tiger’, it represents power, fierceness, and beauty in nature.
75. Ursa
A name meaning ‘bear’ in Latin, it conveys strength and nurturing qualities associated with mother bears.
76. Vega
This name refers to a star in the constellation Lyra, but it can also symbolize the beauty of a nightingale’s song.
77. Willa
This name means ‘resolute protector’, often associated with the wolf as a symbol of loyalty.
78. Xanthos
A Greek name meaning ‘yellow’, which can also remind one of golden lions known for their regal nature.
79. Yuki
This Japanese name means ‘snow’, but it has associations with the serene beauty of white doves in many cultures.
80. Ziva
This Hebrew name means ‘brilliance’ and can evoke the image of a peacock, with its famously colorful feathers.
81. Aisling
This Irish name means ‘dream’ and can be linked to the mythical creatures of the forest, like deer and faeries.
82. Brynn
This Welsh name means ‘hill’, often associated with sheep that graze gracefully across verdant pastures.
83. Cato
Meaning ‘pure’, Cato can also refer to a cat, symbolizing independence and agility.
84. Darya
This Persian name means ‘sea’, often associated with the diverse marine life found within its depths.
85. Eira
This Welsh name means ‘snow’, often linked to the delicate movements of snowflakes, similarly to a butterfly’s flight.
86. Finnegan
This Irish name means ‘descendant of Fionn’, the fair and brave, often connected to the fierce nature of foxes.
87. Gemma
This Italian name means ‘gem’ or ‘precious stone’, often symbolizing the loyalty and companionship of certain animals.
88. Holt
This English name means ‘wood’, which brings to mind the many animals that reside in forests, like deer.
89. Isla
Meaning ‘island’, Isla can be associated with the calmness of marine animals that surround coastal places.
90. Jett
A modern name that represents strength and determination, it also evokes the idea of ‘jet-black’, commonly seen in powerful animals like panthers.
91. Kade
This name relates to ’round’ or ‘barrel-shaped’, linking it to sturdy, dependable animals such as a bear.
92. Liana
This name means ‘to climb like a vine’, often representing animals like monkeys that are agile and playful.
93. Minerva
This name is linked to the Roman goddess of wisdom, typically represented by an owl, a symbol of knowledge and insight.
94. Nash
This English name means ‘by the ash tree’, reminding of habitats where various animals can be found, including squirrels.
95. Opal
This name refers to a gemstone but can symbolize the shimmering beauty of a fish gliding through water.
96. Pru
Meaning ‘wise’, Pru evokes the wise old owl, representing wisdom and insight in decision-making.
97. Quade
This name is often interpreted as ‘son of the warrior’, relating indirectly to the fierce nature of wolves.
98. Rio
This Spanish name means ‘river’, commonly representing the diverse aquatic life found in freshwater environments.
99. Sage
This name means ‘wise’ and can also refer to the wise old tortoise often featured in storytelling.
100. Thalia
This Greek name means ‘to flourish’ and is often pictured with animal characters in mythology that embody vitality.
101. Uri
This Hebrew name means ‘my light’, associated with the illuminating presence of creatures such as fireflies.
102. Vespera
This Latin name means ‘evening star’, often linked to night creatures like owls and bats, evoking mystery.
103. Willow
An elegant name that speaks of grace and resilience, directly connecting to animals that roam the meadows.
104. Xyla
A name that means ‘of the forest’, often referring to animals that inhabit woodland areas.
105. Yara
While it means ‘small butterfly’, it represents the sweetness and freedom of various winged creatures.
106. Zander
This name, meaning ‘defender of man’, can indirectly link to the protective instincts of certain animals.
107. Atreyu
A fictional name from literature, often related to mystical creatures that have animal-like features, representing bravery.
108. Breck
This name means ‘a hill’ in Scottish but can also refer to the rugged terrain that various animals call home.
109. Casa
This name means ‘house’ and can indirectly evoke the idea of animals that make their nests or homes with us.
110. Diario
A name meaning ‘daily’, often capturing the routine of wild animals as they play and hunt every day in nature.
111. Elowen
A Cornish name meaning ‘elm tree’, which represents habitats where many birds, squirrels, and other creatures thrive.
112. Faelan
This Irish name means ‘little wolf’, directly connecting to the fierce and loyal nature of wolves.
113. Ginevra
This Italian name means ‘white shadow’, invoking the imagery of graceful animals like doves and swans.
114. Hesper
Meaning ‘evening star’ in Latin, it connects to night-dwelling animals like bats and owls.
115. Isla
A name meaning ‘island’, referencing the diverse animal life that dwells in coastal habitats.
116. Juno
Named after the Roman goddess, this name links to animals revered in mythology, embodying characteristics such as strength and grace.
117. Kit
This cute name refers directly to a young fox and can represent cleverness and playfulness in animals.
118. Lyra
This name, meaning ‘lyre’, is also associated with the lyre bird known for its captivating song.
119. Maris
Meaning ‘of the sea’, this name can symbolize the richness of marine life found beneath the waves.
120. Niamh
This Irish name means ‘bright’ and can also signify the beauty and brilliance of mythical creatures like unicorns.
121. Ollie
This name can be linked to the olive tree but is also reminiscent of the carefree nature of small animals like puppies.
122. Pallas
A Greek name connected to wisdom, it often represents the owl, symbolizing knowledge and understanding.
123. Quicksilver
This name, while referring to the metal, can invoke the image of fast-moving animals like rabbits.
124. Rhea
A Greek name meaning ‘flowing’, often linked to the strong and graceful nature of birds like ostriches.
125. Suri
Your name means ‘princess’, which can also relate to the majestic characteristics of the peacock.
126. Talia
This name means ‘dew from God’ and can symbolize the softness of a newborn animal waking up in the morning.
127. Uki
A Japanese name meaning ‘to float’, often reminiscent of the serene nature of marine life floating in water.
128. Vanya
This name means ‘God is gracious’ in Slavic and can evoke the image of gentle creatures like grazing deer.
129. Wren
This name directly refers to a small bird known for its beautiful songs and joyful presence.
130. Xena
This Greek name means ‘guest or stranger’, and can evoke the adventurous spirit of many wildlife travelers.
131. Yvonne
This French name meaning ‘yew tree’ relates to the natural habitat of many woodland creatures.
132. Zara
This name means ‘princess’ in Arabic but also brings to mind the zebra, with its striking features.
133. Aria
This Italian name means ‘air’ or ‘song’, inspired by the trills of birds calling to one another.
134. Bexley
This English name means ‘Birch wood clearing’, which serves as a natural habitat for many animals.
135. Caden
This name means ‘fighter’, often associated with the strong and brave nature found in animals like lions.
136. Dalen
This name means ‘valley’, often representing places where various wildlife flourishes together.
137. Ember
This name means ‘spark’, but can also refer to the fiery spirit of animals such as foxes.
138. Frost
This name signifies ‘ice’, often conjuring images of penguins and polar bears in the cold.
139. Gale
A name meaning ‘stormy’, it evokes the powerful nature of ravens and birds that thrive in strong winds.
140. Hale
This name means ‘hero’, and can be linked to the bravery seen in many animals like elephants.
141. Ilse
Meaning ‘pledge’ in German, it evokes a sense of loyalty, often seen in animals like dogs.
142. Jace
This name means ‘healer’, evoking the caring nature of animals that protect their young.
143. Keira
This name means ‘little dark one’ but can also symbolize the strength of darker animals like bears.
144. Lira
145. Marnie
This name means ‘from the sea’, often representing the diversity of life found within ocean environments.
146. Niko
This Greek name means ‘victory’, associated with the pride and power represented by lions.
147. Olwen
This Welsh name means ‘white footprint’, often attributed to the gracefulness of a swift white horse.
148. Pallas
This name connects to the owl, representing knowledge, wisdom, and intelligence in decision-making.
149. Quinlan
This Irish name means ‘descendant of Caoinlean’, often likening the spirit of nature to protectors of the earth.
150. Rhea
This name means ‘flowing’, and can symbolize both rivers and birds that follow their natural paths through life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name that means an animal can highlight your love for nature and the qualities you admire in these creatures. Each name tells a story that connects us to the wild and reflects various traits that animals embody. Whether you love the grace of a swan like Nala or the strength of a lion like Leo, there is a plethora of unique names to suit your preferences.
Animals are not only companions but also teachers of resilience and beauty. Through names that mean animals, we can carry a piece of that spirit with us.
So, keep exploring to find names that resonate with your values, or perhaps delve into articles on names that have special meanings, like names that mean cat or names that mean dog.