Everyone loves a good underdog story. An underdog is someone who faces big challenges but still stands up to fight. These stories remind us that strength and courage can come from unexpected places. Names have power, and some names carry the spirit of the underdog. They represent resilience, hope, and the idea that anyone can rise to greatness, no matter the odds.
Today, we’ll look at names that mean underdog or symbolize that fighting spirit. Whether you’re naming a character, a pet, or even seeking inspiration for yourself, these names can remind us that being the underdog can lead to great victories.
Names That Mean Underdog
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 Marshalls.
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. Beckett
Beckett means ‘bee cottage’ and symbolizes a small fighter. This name resonates with the idea of the underdog who manages to thrive despite challenges.
6. Zuberi
This Swahili name means ‘strong’ and although it may seem contradictory, it celebrates the empowered underdog who is stronger than perceived.
7. Diana
Diana, meaning ‘divine’, is often associated with strength. It embodies the spirit of someone who rises against all odds to claim their rightful place.
8. Elara
Elara means ‘shining light’ and represents an underdog who illuminates the path to success through determination and hard work.
9. Carlotta
The Italian form of Charlotte, Carlotta means ‘free man.’ This name captures the essence of an underdog fighting for freedom and recognition.
10. Lior
Lior means ‘my light.’ It echoes the idea of the underdog being a guiding force, shining brightly amidst challenges.
11. Jarek
This Slavic name means ‘fierce’ and represents the unwavering spirit of an underdog, willing to brave storms to achieve victory.
12. Nyala
Nyala means ‘to achieve success.’ This name speaks to the essence of an underdog who overcomes obstacles to find triumph.
13. Salim
Salim means ‘peaceful,’ suggesting that the underdog’s calm and collected demeanor can lead to eventual success.
14. Kiera
Kiera means ‘little dark one’ and can represent someone perceived as lesser but who turns out to be full of unexpected abilities.
15. Arjuna
From Mahabharata, Arjuna embodies struggle but the promise of victory, symbolizing the heart of the underdog.
16. Bennett
Bennett means ‘blessed’ and signifies how even the unlikeliest of candidates may receive unexpected blessings leading to success.
17. Alaric
This name means ‘ruler of all.’ Underdogs who rise to rule embody the strength and energy of this powerful name.
18. Nia
Nia means ‘purpose’ reflecting how underdogs often fight with a sense of mission, leading to their eventual success.
19. Blaise
Blaise means ‘lisping’ but symbolizes overcoming obstacles like speech difficulties, exemplifying the underdog’s resolve.
20. Thiago
This name, meaning ‘supplanter’, symbolizes someone who takes the place of others and triumphs against the odds.
21. Delaney
Delaney means ‘dark challenger,’ fitting for someone who rises against adversity to make their mark.
22. Inara
Inara means ‘shining light’ representing the glow of the underdog who brings light to dark situations through resilience.
23. Wendell
Wendell means ‘to be in the position of a warrior.’ It illustrates an underdog’s fighting spirit against challenges.
24. Keon
Keon means ‘ancient,’ fitting for an underdog who draws strength from history to fight challenges today.
25. Odette
This name means ‘wealthy’, showing that the underdog may gain great riches through hard work and perseverance.
26. Esme
Esme means ‘esteemed’ and speaks to how underdogs can earn respect and honor through their steadfast efforts.
27. Coen
Coen means ‘brave.’ This name reminds us that bravery often dwells within the heart of the underdog.
28. Rhea
Rhea means ‘flowing,’ symbolizing the adaptability and resourcefulness that define the underdog’s journey.
29. Jasper
Meaning ‘treasurer,’ Jasper signifies the untold riches of talent and skill that underdogs often possess.
30. Leon
Leon means ‘lion’, symbolizing courage. Often, underdogs possess the heart of a lion within them.
31. Bessa
Bessa means ‘to fight’. This name captures the essence of the underdog’s constant battle against the odds.
32. Freya
Freya means ‘noble woman’, representing the inner strength that fuels the underdog’s spirit throughout their journey.
33. Maximus
This name means ‘greatest’ and resonates with the underdog’s potential to achieve greatness despite the odds.
34. Samira
Samira means ‘entertaining companion’, symbolizing the unexpected charm of an underdog who captivates others.
35. Callum
Callum means ‘dove’ which symbolizes peace and also the unexpected strength that can come from being underestimated.
36. Elowen
Elowen means ‘elm tree.’ Trees can withstand storms. This name is perfect for an underdog who stays strong despite the challenges.
37. Idris
Idris means ‘interpreter,’ showcasing the underdog’s ability to convey strength and wisdom in adversity.
38. Vesper
Vesper means ‘evening star’. This name embodies light and resilience that shines brightly after the darkest times.
39. Romy
Romy means ‘dew of the sea’ and signifies freshness and renewal that often comes with the success of an underdog.
40. Orla
Orla means ‘golden princess.’ Underdogs like these rise to achieve brilliance even if overlooked.
41. Thorne
Thorne means ‘thorn bush’ portraying how even tough situations can lead to thriving underdogs who flourish despite discomfort.
42. Gwendolyn
Gwendolyn means ‘white ring.’ This symbolizes purity and goodness within an underdog, showing resilience against darkness.
43. Aisling
Aisling means ‘dream’ or ‘vision.’ This reflects the pursuit of dreams that many underdogs show relentless commitment to.
44. Kaden
Kaden means ‘fighter’ and suits an underdog who embodies the concept of constant struggle towards victory.
45. Sorrel
Sorrel means ‘reddish brown’ and evokes strength through nature, depicting an underdog’s grounded strength.
46. Tyne
Tyne can mean ‘river.’ Much like rivers that carve their own paths, underdogs forge their way through life’s challenges.
47. Tulia
Tulia means ‘calm’ yet signifies resilience in the face of life’s unexpected battles, reflecting underdog stories.
48. Orion
Orion symbolizes a fighter among stars speaking to a potential underdog who shines through an adversary’s darkness.
49. Halina
Halina means ‘calm, peaceful’ but suggests an underdog’s quiet strength might be what determines their victory.
50. Eldon
Eldon means ‘old hill,’ representing wisdom and strength that can be found in those who face challenges.
51. Yasir
Yasir means ‘wealthy.’ An underdog often reveals untapped potential to flourish in surprising ways.
52. Thandiwe
The name Thandiwe means ‘beloved’ conveying how endearment fuels the fighting spirit of an underdog.
53. Juno
Juno means ‘youthful’ representing the resilience and vigor found in underdogs who are youthful warriors against adversities.
54. Lysander
Lysander means ‘liberator,’ capturing the essence of an underdog who fights hard for their freedom and autonomy.
55. Myra
Myra means ‘admirable’ as it embodies the qualities of an underdog rising to inspire the hearts of many.
56. Anara
Anara means ‘radiance.’ This name symbolizes how underdogs can shine brilliantly even against overwhelming odds.
57. Bellamy
Bellamy means ‘beautiful friend’ and signifies how even the most unassuming of allies may be underdogs who surprise you.
58. Cassian
Cassian means ‘hollow.’ An unassuming name that resonates with how hidden strengths often lie within the underdog’s journey.
59. Rocco
Rocco means ‘rest’ or ‘rock.’ It symbolizes stability amidst upheaval reflecting the fighting spirit of underdogs.
60. Azura
Azura means ‘sky blue’ which signifies openness and ambition, representing the underdog’s limitless potential.
61. Kian
Kian means ‘ancient,’ showing how the spirit of determination often transcends generations within underdog stories.
62. Rina
Rina means ‘joy’ reminding us that beneath struggles lie the joys waiting for the underdog’s hard-fought efforts.
63. Kenji
Kenji means ‘strong and vigorous’ perfectly aligning with the grit and tenacity found in underdog narratives.
64. Sable
Sable refers to a black fur animal, representing the elegant yet fierce spirit synonymous with the underdog.
65. Galen
Galen means ‘calm’ yet reflects how the underdog remains composed in turbulent times to achieve their goals.
66. Vanya
Vanya means ‘God is gracious,’ highlighting how divine support often benefits the underdog’s journey.
67. Amelia
Amelia means ‘work’ and speaks to how underdog stories often involve relentless effort leading to success.
68. Eliora
Eliora means ‘my God is my light’ symbolizing that hope prevails even in the hard times faced by underdogs.
69. Niko
Niko means ‘victory’ a fitting representation of underdogs, who often rise victorious from challenging circumstances.
70. Raine
Raine means ‘queen’ signifying how underdogs can rise to rule through sheer determination and hard work.
71. Vida
Vida means ‘life.’ This name embodies the resilience and fighting spirit of underdogs striving for their goals.
72. Sami
Sami means ‘elevated.’ Illustrating how underdogs are often rising above what is expected of them.
73. Zara
Zara means ‘princess’ depicting underdogs who may rise to become champions in their own unique way.
74. Quinlan
Quinlan means ‘descendant of the cheerful one’ showing lighthearted nature amidst challenges faced by underdogs.
75. Eira
Eira means ‘snow’ which symbolizes purity and the new beginnings that come from victory for underdogs.
76. Rami
Rami means ‘archer’ captures the precision and determination by underdogs who aim for success against adversities.
77. Brielle
Brielle means ‘God is my strength’ perfectly fitting for the underdog who fights against all odds with divine support.
78. Orion
Orion signifies a hunter often reminding us that the underdog may be forging their path as they pursue goals.
79. Asha
Asha means ‘hope.’ This encapsulates the spirit of the underdog who believes in better times ahead despite struggles.
80. Isolde
Isolde means ‘ice ruler’ signifying strength that can arise from someone who is often dismissed as an underdog.
81. Orin
Orin means ‘light,’ directly tying back to how the underdog often becomes a source of inspiration for others.
82. Zorita
Zorita means ‘little dawn’ representing how underdogs often rise from the darkness into bright days ahead.
83. Zarael
Zarael means ‘God’s light’ echoing the hopeful journey faced by underdogs striving for brighter futures.
84. Harlan
Harlan means ‘rocky land’ reminding us that strong foundations often exist beneath the underdog’s journey.
85. Laila
Laila means ‘night’ presenting the allure found within the challenges faced by underdogs on their path.
86. Abrielle
Abrielle means ‘God is my strength’, echoing the determination and resilience that embody underdog stories.
87. Tyler
Tyler means ‘tile maker,’ symbolizing the craftsmanship and the hard work inherent in the underdog’s journey towards success.
88. Xena
Xena means ‘guest’ and is synonymous with unexpected strength residing within the underdog’s heart.
89. Clement
Clement signifies ‘merciful,’ reminding us of the kindness that may motivate underdogs on their journey.
90. Finley
Finley means ‘fair warrior’ encapsulating the essence of fighting bravely through adversity as an underdog.
91. Sarai
Sarai means ‘princess’ emphasizing how the potential is often hidden within the underdog awaiting to shine.
92. Elina
Elina means ‘bright’ symbolizing the untapped qualities that glimmer within those who embody the underdog spirit.
93. Wyatt
Wyatt means ‘brave in war,’ suggesting the valiant heart that exists within the underdog facing trials.
94. Kaira
Kaira means ‘peaceful,’ showcasing how tranquility often coexists within the underdog’s heart amidst challenges.
95. Valor
Valor signifies ‘bravery’ thus encapsulating the courage inherent to underdog narratives on their road to success.
96. Sienna
Sienna meaning ‘reddish-brown’ also captures resilient beauty, illustrating how underdogs can persist through ups and downs.
97. Markus
Markus means ‘warlike,’ representing the fighting spirit that resonates deeply within the underdog’s journey.
98. Tenley
Tenley means ‘a grassy meadow’ suggesting natural resilience found in underdog stories where growth thrives.
99. Noemi
Noemi means ‘pleasantness.’ It represents the evolutionary journey from adversity to thriving success often experienced by underdogs.
100. Edric
Edric means ‘wealthy ruler,’ reflecting how an underestimated underdog can flourish into his rightful place with persistence.
101. Kalliope
Kalliope means ‘beautiful voice,’ representing how underdogs often have their unique voices emerge inspiring others.
102. Arlen
Arlen means ‘pledge,’ reflecting the commitment underdogs often have to their goals even when faced with adversity.
103. Aven
Aven means ‘a flower,’ emphasizing how underdogs blossom beautifully despite adversity and hardship.
104. Sabina
Sabina means ‘wise.’ An underdog often draws on wisdom accrued through life challenges leading to eventual success.
105. Heath
Heath means ‘moorland’ symbolizing resilience and the ability to survive in even the harshest environments that define many underdog stories.
106. Alina
Alina means ‘bright’ signifying how the light of hope guides underdogs through their challenges.
107. Brynn
Brynn means ‘hill’, denoting strength and resilience, fitting for an underdog facing uphill battles but emerging triumphant.
108. Theron
Theron means ‘hunter.’ It symbolizes the untamed determination in underdogs as they pursue their goals against all odds.
109. Dara
Dara means ‘oak tree’ representing strength, reflecting how underdogs find fortitude in the most challenging situations.
110. Janek
Janek means ‘God is gracious.’ This name speaks to the support underdogs receive on their journey to triumph.
111. Liora
Liora means ‘light’ showing how strength and resilience often illuminate paths for those who rise from the grassroots.
112. Maris
Maris means ‘of the sea’, symbolizing the adventurous spirit of an underdog diving into unknown territories.
113. Vespera
Vespera means ‘evening star’ which shines brightly after darkness, paralleling underdog experiences overcoming struggles.
114. Talin
Talin means ‘healer.’ This suggests that even in tough situations, an underdog rises stronger through adversity.
115. Damon
Damon means ‘to tame,’ symbolizing resilience found within underdogs who emerge victorious from battles.
116. Prisha
Prisha means ‘beloved.’ This name reflects the sense of deserving love and support often found within the spirit of an underdog.
117. Lestari
Lestari means ‘eternal,’ reflecting the undying spirit that defines the journey of an underdog.
118. Padma
Padma means ‘lotus.’ It signifies beauty that rises from muddy waters representing the underdog’s journey through adversity to success.
119. Kaelin
Kaelin means ‘slender’ reflecting the delicate yet strong nature of those who embody the qualities of an underdog.
120. Leif
Leif means ‘heir.’ It signifies someone who carries a legacy and carries through the challenges much like an underdog.
121. Milena
Milena means ‘gracious’ and this name underscores the strength of character often found in many underdogs.
122. Thalia
Thalia means ‘to flourish’ representing the growth and success of underdogs arising from humble beginnings.
123. Amory
Amory means ‘brave’ denoting the courage within underdogs regardless of external expectations.
124. Elowen
Elowen signifies ‘elm tree’ representing durability and strength amid trials faced by underdogs overcoming challenges.
125. Rune
Rune means ‘secret.’ Often, underdogs may have untapped skills waiting to be revealed through their hard work.
126. Alistair
Alistair means ‘defender of mankind’ representing the protective and fighting nature that underdogs embody.
127. Tamsin
Tamsin means ‘twin’ suggesting duality, with underdogs showing both vulnerability and strength in their journey.
128. Daxton
Daxton means ‘warrior who conquers.’ The name embodies the spirit of underdogs facing challenges head-on.
129. Alondra
Alondra means ‘defender of mankind,’ perfectly describing the unwavering nature often seen in underdog narratives.
130. Ezra
Ezra means ‘help’ and embodies the hope and support often found within the community witnessing the underdog rise.
131. Indira
Indira means ‘splendid.’ The strength and beauty tied to this name resonate deeply within the stories of underdogs.
132. Tarek
Tarek means ‘morning star’ illustrating hope and new beginnings arising with each victory an underdog achieves.
133. Calla
Calla means ‘beautiful’ highlighting how beauty often emerges from difficult journeys similar to that of an underdog.
134. Zakai
Zakai means ‘pure’ echoing the honest journeys of underdogs who push for their dreams against all expectations.
135. Ngala
Ngala means ‘a helper,’ suggesting that an underdog often lifts others up while facing their struggles.
136. Sivan
Sivan means ‘spring,’ symbolizing rejuvenation and growth reminiscent of the underdog emerging from the difficulties of life.
137. Desmond
Desmond means ‘gracious defender’ which highlights the tenacity within many underdogs to fight with grace.
138. Jovia
Jovia means ‘joyful,’ showcasing the uplifting spirit found in underdogs who conquer adversity.
139. Bodhi
Bodhi means ‘awakening’ symbolizing the awakening strength and potential present in underdogs working hard to succeed.
140. Olwen
Olwen means ‘white footprint’ suggesting an underdog’s unique path as they leave marks of achievements on their journey.
141. Tristian
Tristian means ‘sorrowful’, yet represents how even in sadness, the underdog can find the strength to thrive.
142. Ludo
Ludo means ‘to play,’ suggesting a playful approach can often lead to winning, much like underdogs in sports.
143. Amani
Amani means ‘peaceful’ hinting that underdogs often find harmony through perseverance even in turmoil.
144. Shiho
Shiho means ‘guarding from the back,’ likening to the support often found within the underdog community.
145. Lira
Lira means ‘lyre.’ A reminder that art and expression emerge as powerful tools in the toolbox of the underdog.
146. Niko
Niko means ‘victory’ capturing the essence of determination in the heart of every underdog striving for greatness.
147. Barak
Barak means ‘lightning’ suggesting the quick empowerment often found within underdogs rising against odds.
148. Teagan
Teagan means ‘attractive’ symbolizing the unexpected charm and resilience many underdogs bring to their efforts.
149. Nyssa
Nyssa means ‘the beginning,’ reflective of how every underdog’s journey begins with overcoming a fresh set of obstacles.
150. Kaari
Kaari means ‘the right place’ symbolizing how underdogs often find themselves where they are meant to be, despite the struggles faced.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name is a meaningful process, and selecting one that embodies the spirit of the underdog can serve as a source of inspiration. The names listed reflect strength, resilience, and hope, all of which resonate with the stories of those who face challenges yet still rise to greatness.
These names can be a reminder that every underdog has the potential to stand out, succeed, and inspire others. Whether you take inspiration from these names or share them with someone else, may they embody the tenacious spirit that underdogs represent.
If you’re interested in more names that embody different themes, consider checking out names that mean lost or names that mean weak. Each name carries a unique story just waiting to be discovered.