Names hold powerful meanings, and some carry darker themes. Among them are names that symbolize betrayal. These names can reflect a story of trust broken or friendships turned sour. Understanding these meanings can give us insight into human relationships and the complexities of loyalty.
Today, we will look at various names that are linked to betrayal. From unique historical figures to modern interpretations, each name has a story. Whether you are curious about the meanings or searching for the perfect name, these options may surprise you. Let’s get started and uncover the intriguing meanings behind these names.
Names That Mean Betray
1. Judas
The name Judas is infamously linked to betrayal, specifically because of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus Christ for thirty pieces of silver. This name symbolizes treachery and has carried a heavy stigma throughout history.
2. Brutus
Brutus is most recognized from the phrase “Et tu, Brute?” when he betrayed Julius Caesar. The name is synonymous with betrayal among friends and carries a strong historical weight.
3. Malachi
Malachi means “my messenger” in Hebrew, but it is associated with betrayal due to the complexities within its biblical stories. This name can represent a message turned on those who trusted you.
4. Delilah
Delilah, known for her betrayal of Samson in the Bible, means “delicate” or “weak.” Her name carries the heavy burden of deceit and treachery within close relationships.
5. Cain
The name Cain, meaning “acquired” or “possession,” is often seen as a symbol of betrayal since he betrayed his brother Abel out of jealousy. This biblical name highlights the darker sides of sibling dynamics.
6. Loki
Loki is a trickster god in Norse mythology, known for his cunning and betrayals of the other gods. His name invokes themes of deceit and the consequences of betrayal among allies.
7. Iago
Iago is one of literature’s most notorious villains from Shakespeare’s “Othello.” The name represents betrayal as Iago manipulates and deceives those who trust him.
8. Jezebel
Jezebel symbolizes betrayal and corruption in the biblical context. The name carries a negative connotation due to her deeds, representing treachery at the highest level.
9. Tarquin
Tarquin, a name from Roman history, is associated with the betrayal of the Roman Republic. This name evokes thoughts of political deceit and treachery.
10. Melinda
While Melinda means “honey” or “sweet,” it also relates to betrayal through the character in literature who often misleads those around her.
11. Cassandra
Cassandra, a figure from Greek mythology, was cursed to utter true prophecies but never believed. Her story reflects betrayal by fate and the inability of others to trust her warnings.
12. Esau
Esau, in the biblical tale, betrayed his birthright for a bowl of soup. This name signifies the idea of sacrificing trust for immediate gratification.
13. Goneril
From Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” Goneril embodies betrayal when she turns against her father. The name can connote deceit and rivalry among family members.
14. Benedict
Benedict means “blessed,” but has come to be associated with betrayal because of Benedict Arnold, an American Revolutionary War figure known for switching sides. His name represents treachery in loyalty.
15. Kit
The name Kit can refer to Christopher Marlowe, a playwright whose works often examined betrayal. It reflects themes of double-crossing and conflicted alliances.
16. Parminder
Meaning “one who is knowledgeable,” Parminder also carries linkages to betrayal particularly in stories where knowledge is misused against trusted individuals.
17. Angela
Angela means “angel,” but her betrayal in certain stories shows how those who appear pure can hide darker intentions beneath the surface.
18. Rebecca
Rebecca has connotations of loyalty but can reflect betrayal through stories of manipulation and deceit.
19. Vashti
Vashti, a queen in the Bible, symbolizes breaking tradition which can correlate with betrayal against expected norms and loyalties.
20. Sinbad
Sinbad’s adventures often include themes of treachery and deception in friendships. The name reflects the dangers of misplaced trust.
21. Ethel
Ethel means “noble,” but some stories portray characters with this name who betray others for personal gain.
22. Roxanne
Although Roxanne means “dawn,” certain interpretations include themes of betrayal within romantic relationships.
23. Roger
Roger means “famous spear” and is associated with knights and betrayal in the context of chivalry and loyalty.
24. Helen
Helen of Troy is a figure known for inciting the Trojan War through her betrayal. Her name is linked to beauty and the chaos it can create.
25. Dmitri
Dmitri has connections to betrayal through narratives in literature where trust is tested among friends.
26. Enid
Enid means “soul” but has been associated with betrayal through stories where loyalty falters.
27. Lavinia
Lavinia’s story in Rome involves betrayal and loss, making this name resonate with themes of treachery.
28. Aurora
Aurora represents dawn but also symbolizes the dawning realization of betrayal when trust is undermined.
29. Caspian
The name Caspian evokes noble action but has ties to the betrayal of characters in literature navigating complex relationships.
30. Daphne
Daphne is rooted in mythology where betrayal is a key theme, particularly relating to trust and transformation.
31. Selene
Selene, the goddess of the moon, has stories that delve into loyalty and betrayal among gods and mortals.
32. Millicent
Millicent can symbolize betrayal in narratives where loyalty is tested among women.
33. Virginia
Virginia has connotations of purity but also relates to betrayal within relationships in historical contexts.
34. Livia
Livia means “life” but is often associated with betrayal in historical accounts, highlighting the manipulation of power.
35. Alice
While Alice means “noble,” certain stories portray her as a figure of betrayal among friends.
36. Calliope
Calliope is a muse in Greek mythology representing betrayal through the stories told by her followers.
37. Timothy
Timothy means “honoring God” yet has been connected to characters who betray divine loyalty through their actions.
38. Hester
Hester’s name is entwined with themes of betrayal, particularly in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s narratives.
39. Penelope
Peneolope signifies fidelity but also represents betrayal through her complex relationship with Odysseus.
40. Hector
Hector embodies the warrior spirit but has ties to betrayal in the context of loyalty to family and country.
41. Helios
Helios symbolizes the sun but has connotations of betrayal through stories of gods and mortals.
42. Estelle
Estelle means “star,” but certain interpretations highlight betrayal and the loss of guidance.
43. Circe
Circe is a figure known for her deceit and betrayal of Odysseus. Her name invokes themes of treachery in relationships.
44. Isolde
Isolde represents loyalty in romantic contexts but is also involved in stories of betrayal and tragedy.
45. Lorelei
Lorelei is known in folklore for luring sailors to death, symbolizes betrayal in trust and loyalty.
46. Morwenna
Morwenna embodies enchantment but has themes of betrayal woven through folklore where she misleads heroes.
47. Sable
Sable often relates to the color black or darkness, which can symbolize betrayal and loss of trust in relationships.
48. Bellatrix
Bellatrix means “female warrior” yet has ties to betrayal among stories of loyalty in conflicts.
49. Rowena
Rowena carries beauty but has connections to betrayal within love stories and historical narratives.
50. Zara
Zara, while it means “blooming flower,” can symbolize the betrayal of beauty leading to heartbreak.
51. Dorian
Dorian signifies wealth but has intertwined themes of betrayal in literary works about moral decay.
52. Miranda
Miranda, meaning “worthy of admiration,” can be connected to betrayal, especially in contexts of misplaced trust.
53. Aiden
Aiden signifies “fiery” yet can be linked to betrayal in stories where passion leads to deceit.
54. Eleonora
While Eleonora means “shining light”, stories featuring this name often portray betrayal shrouded in beauty.
55. Raven
Raven symbolizes darkness but has ties to betrayal in mythology where trust is broken.
56. Theodora
Theodora carries the meaning “gift of God” yet has stories emphasizing betrayal among the pious.
57. Alaric
Alaric is a name tied to betrayal in historical battles where loyalty faltered.
58. Lilith
Lilith carries themes of betrayal in ancient storytelling, particularly in contexts of loyalty and freedom.
59. Cyprian
Cyprian, associated with Cyprus, is embroiled in tales of intrigue and betrayal in politics.
60. Eudora
Eudora means “generous gift” yet may portray betrayal through deceit in expectations.
61. Ophelia
Ophelia connotes loyalty but is tied to betrayal in many romantic literary works.
62. Anakin
Anakin is often associated with betrayal, as his transition to Darth Vader represents a dark path.
63. Gwendolyn
Gwendolyn has connections to betrayal through its storytelling in fantasy genres where trust is tested.
64. Julian
Julian reflects brightness yet correlates to betrayal in historical accounts of loyalties betrayed.
65. Shari
Shari means “a song” yet can symbolize betrayal especially in narratives where harmony is lost.
66. Raphael
Raphael symbolizes healing yet evokes themes of betrayal in stories where trust is broken.
67. Samira
Samira represents a companion in storytelling yet can signify betrayal when trust is misused.
68. Tybalt
Tybalt exemplifies loyalty yet is linked to betrayal in literary conflicts.
69. Selma
Selma means “safe” but holds ties to betrayal narratives within close friendships.
70. Amara
Amara means “eternal,” yet can also imply betrayal through the loss of lasting bonds.
71. Orion
The name Orion, while signaling destiny, has layers of betrayal within its mythological roots.
72. Elysia
Elysia means “blissful” which can also highlight betrayal in the context of lost happiness.
73. Callista
Callista’s meaning “most beautiful” is intertwined with themes of betrayal through disguised intentions.
74. Damiano
Damiano invokes power but carries precarious themes of betrayal in leadership.
75. Astraea
Astraea symbolizes justice, yet narratives also convey betrayal against fairness and virtue.
76. Zane
Zane means “God is gracious”; however, like many names, it has contexts touching on betrayal.
77. Imogen
Imogen signifies “maiden” but often is linked to betrayal in historical tales.
78. Eamon
Eamon means “wealthy protector” yet embodies betrayal through broken allegiances.
79. Aria
The name Aria means “air” and connects to betrayal through the fleeting nature of trust.
80. Leander
Leander’s intrusion in stories evokes themes of betrayal when love leads to deception.
81. Zofia
Zofia, signifying wisdom, may represent betrayal in tales where knowledge enacts treachery.
82. Thalia
Thalia, known for flourishing, has ties to betrayal through deceptive appearances.
83. Atalanta
Atalanta signifies swiftness but carries connotations of betrayal through races won or lost.
84. Felix
Felix means “happy,” yet can poignantly relate to betrayal in cheerful façades hiding dark motives.
85. Isidore
Isidore means “gift of Isis,” unless that gift represents betrayal of sacred trust.
86. Laelia
Laelia signifies sweetness, but narratives involving her often involve betrayal.
87. Rhea
Rhea symbolizes flowing or ease, echoed in stories of betrayal that lead to conflicts.
88. Vespera
Vespera means “evening star,” capturing beauty that might disguise betrayal at the heart of dark stories.
89. Zenith
Zenith signifies the peak yet iterates the outcome of betrayal leading to downfall.
90. Lynette
Lynette also signifies beauty but might connect to betrayal in its historical context.
91. Evert
Evert means “brave,” highlighting the betrayal of trust challenged by personal valor.
92. Soren
Soren embodies sternness but interweaves stories of betrayal in bonds of loyalty.
93. Lydia
Lydia symbolizes a decision maker, yet betrayal does often unfold in choices.
94. Aurelia
Aurelia signifies gold, a tempting lure of betrayal in selfish pursuits.
95. Calista
Calista’s ties to beauty attract betrayal through jealousy and desire.
96. Elspeth
Elspeth means “pledged to God” but brings conflict through betrayal in divine trust.
97. Quinn
Quinn means “wise,” but can involve betrayal when wisdom is misutilized against others.
98. Zara
Zara means “radiance,” yet evokes the betrayals hidden beneath superficial beauty.
99. Talia
Talia symbolizing “dew from Heaven” captures those moments falling from grace through betrayal.
100. Odette
Odette signifies wealth yet runs tangents of betrayal amidst love and loyalty.
101. Elara
Elara means “shining light,” with hidden betrayals lurking in bright places.
102. Malik
Malik means “king,” yet kings often lead through betrayal of their vassals.
103. Cheryl
Cheryl means “dear one” but can symbolize betrayal when trust leads to pain.
104. Zara
The name Zara means “to blossom” but can signify betrayal blooming from deceit.
105. Adira
Adira means “strong” and can point to betrayal arising from the pursuit of strength.
106. Vivienne
Vivienne means “alive,” and those full of life may also be adept at deception.
107. Byers
Byers symbolizes a path and can represent betrayal by straying from trusted roads.
108. Elara
Elara, meaning “bright,” reveals betrayal when light is cast upon one’s dark secrets.
109. Verity
Verity means “truth,” highlighting betrayals that strip honesty from relationships.
110. Arlen
Arlen signifies “oath” but can involve betrayal when oaths are dishonored.
111. Sylvie
Sylvie means “from the forest” is intertwined with tales of betrayal in woodland adventures.
112. Faye
Faye means “fairy” intertwining enchanting loyalty but can also signify betrayal amid magic.
113. Blanche
Blanche means “white,” symbolizing purity yet can carry the shadows of betrayal.
114. Lennox
Lennox reflects a location yet represents political betrayal as loyalties shift.
115. Verena
Verena means “to bind,” often weaving ties of trust held by betrayal.
116. Eloise
Eloise signifies “healthy” but often encounters betrayal through interpersonal relationships.
117. Greta
Greta means “pearl” but might bring themes of betrayal through mystique.
118. Danica
Danica implies morning star, representing the beginnings marred by betrayal.
119. Zara
Zara means “princess” yet emphasizes betrayal from those closest to the crown.
120. Janus
Janus represents duality, symbolizing the betrayal of one face behind another.
121. Matilda
Matilda means “battle-mighty” often indicting betrayal within personal conflicts.
122. Rhea
Rhea means “flowing,” but hints at stories of betrayal through changing tides.
123. Lyric
Lyric highlights beauty but also brings betrayal in romantic sonnets.
124. Astra
Astra means “star” with stories depicting betrayal in constellations.
125. Sienna
Sienna conveys warmth, but in layers of betrayal amidst friendship.
126. Mabel
Mabel means “lovable,” yet recounts narratives of betrayals that shatter affection.
127. Beatrix
Beatrix means “blessed” yet embodies the tales of betrayal clouded by fortune.
128. Eloise
Eloise signifies “healthy” yet encounters betrayals amid personal healing.
129. Iris
Iris, meaning “rainbow,” evokes the fleeting nature of trust vulnerable to betrayal.
130. Selene
Selene means moon, drawing on narratives of trust betrayed by darkness.
131. Thalia
Thalia signifies blooming but can represent stories of betrayal under superficial beauty.
132. Janet
Janet signifies “God is gracious,” yet weaves betrayal into interpersonal narratives.
133. Picabo
Picabo means “shining waters,” which can symbolize the betrayal of nature’s beauty.
134. Clio
Clio embodies history, often laden with tales of betrayal throughout ages.
135. Jade
Jade implies a precious stone that could signify betrayal’s sharp edge.
136. Fay
Fay, meaning fairy, is associated with enchantment and betrayal hidden within magic.
137. Arwen
Arwen signifies noble maiden, embodying betrayal through loyalty tested in love.
138. Nyx
Nyx symbolizes night, filled with treachery concealed in shadows.
139. Azalea
Azalea evokes floral beauty, often connected with betrayal in romantic tales.
140. Fern
Fern connects with nature but in stories may cause betrayal among the flora.
141. Katya
Katya means pure, hinting at betrayal amid unseen complexities within relationships.
142. Zina
Zina means “shining,” with themes of trust juxtaposed against inevitable betrayal.
143. Holiday
Holiday symbolizes joy yet can bear the weight of betrayal in celebrations.
144. Alba
Alba means “dawn,” often signaling the betrayal that leads to new beginnings.
145. Solene
Solene means “solemn,” hinting at betrayal woven into deep connections.
146. Lavinia
Lavinia represents purity yet counters betrayal across civilizations.
147. Kiera
Kiera means radical, revealing betrayal in radical undertones in society.
148. Astraea
Astraea symbolizes “star-maiden,” urging betrayal among zealous relationships.
149. Selah
Selah indicates pause, often hinting at reflections on lost trust from betrayal.
150. Yara
Yara means water lady, hinting at betrayal in fluid relationships.
Final Thoughts
Names that mean betrayal carry deep meanings that reflect human relationships. Many of these names, from historical figures to characters in literature, emphasize the theme of trust broken and connections tarnished. Each name tells a story that reminds us of the complexities of loyalty and the consequences of deceit.
Whether you find inspiration from these names or seek to understand their meanings, it’s clear that names tied to betrayal can provide valuable insights into human nature. If you’re intrigued by the subject of betrayal, consider exploring additional names that delve into this theme.
For more on the topic, don’t hesitate to check out names that mean betrayal or discover more insights on names that mean traitor for a broader understanding of trust and treachery.