Names inspired by oceans and water can be beautiful and meaningful. They connect us to nature and evoke feelings of calmness and adventure. Many cultures have names that reflect the power and mystery of water, making them perfect choices for parents looking for something special. From names that mean “sea” to those that symbolize “river,” each has its own unique story and significance.
Today, we’ll explore some wonderful names that signify ocean and water. Whether you’re searching for baby names or simply love the idea of names with fluid beauty, this list will spark your imagination and help you choose something truly magical.
Names That Mean Ocean Or Water
1. Marsh
The soft and mellifluous name Marsh means ‘a low-lying land flooded at high tide or in wet seasons’. This happens to be a cooler alternative to Marshall.
2. Morrissey
Steven Patrick Morrissey, the famous English songwriter and crooner, is solely responsible for bringing fame to this name. And with its meaning ‘choice of the sea’, this Irish name makes a perfect water name too.
3. Murphy
Murphy, the English version of the Gaelic name Murchadh, means ‘sea warrior’. If you want, you can even consider Murchadh. At least you will be assured that your child’s name is not common.
4. Murray
If you’re a “Bachelorette” fan, Murray is the name of one of the suitors of Andi Dorfman’s. This Irish name meaning ‘lord of the sea’, falls into the category of hot last names as surnames too.
5. Nereus
Nereus is derived from Greek mythology and means ‘the sea god’. This powerful name is perfect for parents looking for a thematic connection to oceans.
6. Kenai
Kenai is a name of Native American origin meaning ‘river’. It’s a lovely name that connects to water in a serene way.
7. Raina
Raina is a name from Slavic origin meaning ‘queen’ but also closely associated with rain, making it a sweet water name.
8. Talise
Talise is a Native American name that translates to ‘lovely water’. This enchanting name is a great choice for parents who adore nature.
9. Aqua
Aqua is a Latin term that means ‘water’. This vibrant name denotes the essence of clarity and fluidity.
10. Mira
Mira is a name that means ‘sea’ in Latin and brings a peaceful vibe related to the ocean.
11. Maris
Maris is a Latin name that means ‘of the sea’. It’s a classic name that symbolizes the vastness of the ocean.
12. Talia
Talia has a Hebrew origin and means ‘dew from heaven’, reflecting the beauty of water in nature.
13. Darya
Darya is of Persian origin meaning ‘sea’ or ‘ocean’. This name embodies the essence of water in different cultures.
14. Liana
Liana is a name that stems from the Latin word for ‘water lily’, resonating beautifully with both water and nature.
15. Dylan
Dylan is a Welsh name meaning ‘son of the sea’. This masculine name has a playful and adventurous spirit.
16. Ocean
A direct and bold choice, Ocean represents the vast body of saltwater on Earth, symbolizing strength and tranquility.
17. Livia
Livia has connections to the Latin word meaning ‘blue’, often associated with clear water and oceanic hues.
18. Kaia
Kaia is a Hawaiian name that means ‘the sea’. It has a breezy feel perfect for a child who embodies playfulness.
19. Mira
Mira, a name meaning ‘sea’, showcases elegance and a sense of mystery associated with ocean depths.
20. Maren
Maren is derived from Latin and means ‘of the sea’. It’s a beautiful name that invokes thoughts of coastal fresh air.
21. Cormac
Cormac is an Irish name meaning ‘son of the sea’. Roots in Irish history tie this name to an adventurous spirit.
22. Lir
Lir is a name from Irish mythology connected to the sea and means ‘ocean’. This name carries deep history and majesty.
23. Nixie
Nixie comes from German folklore indicating ‘water spirit’. This charming name has a whimsical and enchanting narrative.
24. Cordelia
Cordelia is of Celtic origin meaning ‘daughter of the sea’. This name has romantic vibes and sophistication.
25. Nereid
Nereid comes from Greek mythology referencing sea nymphs. This name brings a mythical flair to oceanic associations.
26. Eira
Eira is of Welsh origin meaning ‘snow’, symbolizing rainfall and the water cycle, embodying winter’s beauty.
27. Lake
Lake, a straightforward name, conveys calmness and beauty, representing tranquil bodies of water.
28. Zinnia
Zinnia, a flower name with a water-related connotation of blooming near rivers or bodies of water, signifies liveliness.
29. Kia
Kia is a name of African origin meaning ‘the greatest’, but it can also refer to ‘water’ in some contexts.
30. Bay
Bay is a name inspired by inlets of oceans. It carries a natural charm tied closely to coastal landscapes.
31. Orin
Orin is a Gaelic name meaning ‘light; a pale water’. This name has soothing qualities resembling cool streams.
32. Leif
Leif has roots meaning ‘heir’ but is also linked to old Norse oral traditions where water stories abound.
33. Aquila
Aquila is a name that means ‘eagle’ in Latin but is also associated with water’s vastness, representing freedom.
34. Tidal
Tidal reflects the rhythmic movement of ocean water and makes for a unique choice full of depth.
35. Rio
Rio is a Spanish word meaning ‘river’ and brings forth images of flowing water and vibrant landscapes.
36. Nerida
Nerida is a name of Australian origin meaning ‘water nymph’. This name has a dreamy quality linked to water.
37. Calypso
Calypso is from Greek mythology linked to the sea, symbolizing enchantment and adventure.
38. Kai
Kai is a Hawaiian name meaning ‘sea’ and is popular for its simplicity and beautiful sound.
39. Isla
Isla is a Scottish name that means ‘island’, closely related to the ocean and its serene beauty.
40. Hudson
Hudson means ‘son of Hudd’, but it can be associated with the famous Hudson River, linking to flowing water.
41. Mabel
Mabel means ‘lovable’, but its flowy sound reflects a gentle stream or river water experience.
42. Marina
Marina is a name that means ‘from the sea’. It has an elegant feel and is great for a child tied to water.
43. Cypress
Cypress represents trees that grow near water and symbolizes durability and strength.
44. Kelsey
Kelsey means ‘island’ and is reflective of beautiful terrains surrounded by water.
45. Alona
Alona can mean ‘oak tree’ but has water connections in cultural narratives around strong ties to nature.
46. Renata
Renata means ‘reborn’, tied to waters that give life and symbolize renewal and purification.
47. Betty
Betty originated from the name Elizabeth, meaning ‘God is my oath’, but often relates to waters guiding one’s journey.
48. Elowen
Elowen is a Cornish name meaning ‘elm tree’ but is also connected to water as many elm trees grow near water bodies.
49. Tania
Tania is a name meaning ‘fairy queen’, often evoking images of playful rivers and water spirits.
50. Suri
Suri is a Hebrew name meaning ‘princess’ but is also associated with flowing water themes from various cultures.
51. Marina
Marina means ‘of the sea’ in Latin, and is often used for someone who is connected to water in spirit.
52. Moana
Moana is a Polynesian name meaning ‘ocean’. This name brings a sense of adventure and strength.
53. Ceri
Ceri is a Welsh name meaning ‘love’. When associated with water, it symbolizes the loving care of rivers and seas.
54. Beryl
Beryl is a name that refers to a precious stone but is also associated with the color of seawater.
55. Clementine
Clementine means ‘gentle’ and evokes images of calm waters, perfect for serene souls.
56. Summer
Summer denotes warm oceans, sunny beaches, and joy, making it an energetic name for lively children.
57. Bellamy
While Bellamy means ‘handsome friend’, it conveys warmth and companionship reminiscent of coastal adventures.
58. Aisling
Aisling is an Irish name that means ‘dream’, which can also symbolize reflections in tranquil waters.
59. Kaelin
Kaelin is a name meaning ‘slender’, but invokes flowing images similar to rivers and streams.
60. Brine
Brine directly refers to salt water used for preserving, and carries strength associated with ocean depth.
61. Ilan
Ilan means ‘tree’ in Hebrew, but trees growing by water bodies tie it cozy to this element.
62. Mizu
Mizu is a Japanese name meaning ‘water’. It has a crisp, lively sound that depicts freshness.
63. Odalys
Odalys signifies ‘song of the sea’. This melodic name connects beautifully to water themes.
64. Jill
Jill has old roots meaning ‘youthful’, evoking images of vibrantly flowing rivers alive with energy.
65. Penny
Penny, meaning ‘weaver’, can also relate to the intricate patterns of waves on the water’s surface.
66. Iara
Iara is a Brazilian name meaning ‘water lady’ and brings enchanting folktales of water spirits.
67. Hali
Hali means ‘sea’ in Greek, capturing both beauty and power in one simple name.
68. Bianca
Bianca means ‘white’, similar to foaming waves crashing on the shores.
69. Coral
Coral directly relates to vibrant life found in the ocean’s reefs, perfect for spirited children.
70. Livia
Livia means ‘blue’, reminiscent of clear waters and bright skies.
71. Selah
Selah is a Hebrew name that means ‘pause’, just like a serene moment spent by tranquil waters.
72. Rive
Rive can mean ‘riverbank’, an elegant and straightforward name that evokes natural beauty by the water.
73. Viviane
Viviane is a name meaning ‘alive’, resembling the vibrant energy of flowing water.
74. Yara
Yara is a name meaning ‘small butterfly’, but often referenced in stories connecting to rivers and water.
75. Zale
Zale means ‘sea strength’ and can be seen as a powerful name reflecting the vast ocean.
76. Firth
Firth refers to ‘estuary’ and offers a unique take on nautical beauty.
77. Oceanus
Oceanus is a name from Greek mythology associated with the Titan god of the sea, giving it a strong legacy.
78. Ceres
Ceres means ‘to grow’ and reflects life brought forth by water elements in nature.
79. Leona
Leona means ‘lioness’, but the strength found in water symbolizes balance and courage.
80. Marisol
Marisol combines ‘sea’ and ‘sun’, a perfect name for lively beachfront atmospheres.
81. Rainier
Rainier ties to rain and water cycles essential for sustenance in nature.
82. Devery
Devery connects to ‘riverbank’, offering a connection with flowing waters.
83. Calla
Calla means ‘beautiful’, similar to stunning forms found in water and nature.
84. Solveig
Solveig is a Nordic name meaning ‘strong house’, but across culture, water is often depicted as strength.
85. Asha
Asha means ‘life’ and reflects the essence of how vital water is for survival.
86. Oceane
Oceane is a French version meaning ‘ocean’, capturing all the allure and grandeur of water.
87. Lavinia
Lavinia is associated with ‘purity’, reminiscent of the clarity found in many water bodies.
88. Estelle
Estelle means ‘star’, often associated with reflections shimmering on water.
89. Tansy
Tansy is a flower connected with water often found on riverbanks, symbolizing nature’s cycle.
90. Waverly
Waverly meaning ‘meadow by the dwellings’ offers subtle connections to river and creek landscapes.
91. Elysia
Elysia means ‘blissful’, often associated with calm waters and beautiful sunlit days.
92. Raine
Raine brings direct associations to rain and the nurturing aspects of water.
93. Kaelani
Kaelani combines meanings of ‘sea’ and ‘sky’, creating a fluid connection to nature.
94. Vidya
Vidya means ‘knowledge’ but can often depict the wisdom found in water and its endless stories.
95. Marlowe
Marlowe means ‘driftwood’ and can resonate with journeys taken by water.
96. Vanora
Vanora means ‘white wave’ and has rhythmic qualities of flowing water.
97. Serafina
Serafina means ‘fiery’ and can be intertwined with the dynamic nature of waves and water.
98. Althea
Althea connects to health and healing reminiscent of the revitalizing properties of water.
99. Tidalyn
Tidalyn can be linked to tides, a perfect representation of how water ebbs and flows.
100. Isla
Isla means ‘island’ and reflects the serenity found in coastal regions surrounded by the ocean.
101. Luko
Luko comes from Loukos, a name meaning ‘of the sea’ in old Greek traditions.
102. Bianca
Bianca conveys ‘white’, a perfect fit for waves enraged and the beauty of foamy surf.
103. Marena
Marena is a variant of Marina, also meaning ‘of the sea’, reinforcing a love for oceanic themes.
104. Yara
Yara means ‘water lady’ in Brazilian folklore, connecting to beauty and fluidity.
105. Kishore
Kishore means ‘young’ but can symbolize youthfulness found in fresh, flowing rivers.
106. Maile
Maile in Hawaiian means ‘a sacred flower’, often blooming near water spots, embodying nature’s connection.
107. Holly
Holly signifies purity and vitality often found in lush, rippling waters.
108. Kanoa
Kanoa means ‘the free one’, reminiscent of the carefree flows of oceans and rivers.
109. Arden
Arden meaning ‘valley of the eagle’, connects with soaring vistas often seen near bodies of water.
110. Talia
Talia signifies ‘dew’ and conveys connections to fresh water droplets early in the morning.
111. Oriel
Oriel denotes the essence of ‘golden’, often associated with sunlit waters of oceans.
112. Marisol
Marisol intertwines meanings of sea and sun, painting picturesque images of coastal beauty.
113. Flint
Flint refers to strong stone but can evoke the ruggedness of rocky coastlines or riverbanks.
114. Selkie
Selkie comes from Scottish mythology telling tales of water spirits that transform into seals.
115. Sienna
Sienna means ‘reddish landscape’, blending land and water together in its essence.
116. Wynne
Wynne means ‘fair’ but can symbolize fairness often represented by clear waters.
117. Thalassa
Thalassa is a Greek name meaning ‘sea,’ linking to wholesomeness and fluidity.
118. Almeria
Almeria is of Spanish origin meaning ‘the sea’, resonating with water themes.
119. Galen
Galen means ‘calm’, invoking tranquility similar to peaceful ocean waves.
120. Lennox
Lennox means ‘from the elm grove’, but brings connections to areas often inhabited near water.
121. Astra
Astra means ‘star’, and like stars reflecting on water, evokes images of beauty.
122. Zephyr
Zephyr means ‘west wind’, reminding of breezes coming from oceanic waves.
123. Leelah
Leelah means ‘night beauty’, reflecting the serene nights by calm waters.
124. Clytie
Clytie can relate to a sunflower but also alludes to the beauty of blooms near watery environments.
125. Taiga
Taiga refers to coniferous forests but connects to the dampness and moisture found nearby.
126. Breeze
Breeze brings lightness and gentleness associated with the currents in water systems.
127. Talon
Talon symbolizes strength but mirrors the fierce power of water bodies.
128. Elara
Elara reflects brightness and connection to shimmering waters at dawn.
129. Teagan
Teagan means ‘little poet’, like flowing words that mimic the gentle streams of water.
130. Kamala
Kamala means ‘lotus’ and invokes beautiful imagery of flowers thriving in ponds.
131. Sorrel
Sorrel refers to a plant often growing near water, symbolizing support from this nurturing resource.
132. Margeaux
Margeaux connects with ‘pearl’, precious gems often found in sea beds.
133. Hayley
Hayley means ‘hay meadow’, where waterways often nourish lush fields.
134. Priya
Priya means ‘beloved’, similar to how water nourishes and holds connections.
135. Kelsey
Kelsey connects with ‘island’, bringing a sense of peace associated with beautiful coastal lands.
136. Asha
Asha means ‘hope’, evoking feelings reflected in calm, soothing water moments.
137. Livia
Livia resonates with beauty like the striking blues of water, connecting youthful energy.
138. Syren
Syren pulls from traditional tales of mermaids, linking to water folklore wonders.
139. Perho
Perho means ‘fishing net’ but evokes images of life and sustenance found in water ecosystems.
140. Esme
Esme means ‘beloved’, akin to how water is essential and loved in all communities.
141. Shona
Shona means ‘God is gracious’, reflecting the gracefulness of water’s flow.
142. Waverly
Waverly evokes visual imagery of gently rolling waves, capturing the essence of the ocean.
143. Brisa
Brisa is a Spanish name that means ‘breeze’, reminiscent of the air moving over water.
144. Tethys
Tethys is rooted in mythology and signifies mother of oceans, embodying ancient seas.
145. Aquila
Aquila means ‘eagle’, but it is often linked to majestic views over water.
146. Waverly
Waverly connects to ‘meadow by the river’, cultivating imagery of flowing beauty.
147. Serene
Serene closely ties to tranquility, a feeling reminiscent of calm waters.
148. Laine
Laine refers to ‘pathway’, where streams create paths through land.
149. Zora
Zora means ‘dawn’, which illuminates reflections upon water surfaces beautifully.
150. Callista
Callista means ‘most beautiful’, portraying the breathtaking beauty of oceans and lakes.
Final Thoughts
These names that mean ocean or water are an enchanting selection for anyone seeking to connect their child to the beautiful elements of nature. Ranging from classic to contemporary, they embody stories and attributes tied to water, whether it’s the calming flow of rivers or the powerful depths of oceans. Each name carries rich significance and showcases the beauty of our world’s hydrating elements.
Choosing a name inspired by water could encapsulate not only the essence of the love for nature but the traits you wish for your child to embody as they grow. Names like Ocean, Maris, and Kai echo strength, peace, and adventure, offering something special for everyone.
Explore more about the beauty of names associated with water through our articles on names that mean ocean or names that mean water. Each name tells a story, connects to emotions, and carries the magic of both adventure and calm.