Many names carry deep meanings and stories behind them. Some reflect hope, beauty, or strength, while others have more challenging meanings. One category of names includes those that signify “unwanted child.” These names often come from difficult historical or cultural backgrounds, making them sensitive topics for many families.
Today, we’ll look at some names that fall into this category. Understanding their meanings can provide insight into different cultures and perspectives on family and acceptance. Let’s explore a few names with this significant and weighty meaning, shedding light on their origins and implications.
Names That Mean Unwanted Child
1. Abandon
The name Abandon directly embodies the feeling of being unwanted, suggesting a child who was left behind.
2. Bastard
This name has a historical context, originally referring to a child born out of wedlock, often associated with being unwanted by societal standards.
3. Derelict
Derelict translates to someone neglected or abandoned, making it a somber name choice for a child seen as unwanted.
4. Zillah
Of Hebrew origin, Zillah means “shade” but can also suggest gloom associated with an unwanted child.
5. Tovah
This Hebrew name means “good,” ironically contrasting its association with being unwanted.
6. Venessa
This name signifies “butterfly,” but can reflect the unattainable beauty associated with being unwanted.
7. Liza
While typically a shortened version of Elizabeth, Liza can take on connotations of being unwanted due to its simplicity and commonality.
8. Mallory
This charming name means “unfortunate” in Old French, making it a poignant name for someone seen as unwanted.
9. Lilith
In Jewish mythology, Lilith is sometimes seen as the first wife of Adam who was cast away, making the name link to someone unwanted.
10. Briar
While it refers to a thorny plant, it symbolizes someone that might not be welcomed or wanted, much like an unwanted child.
11. Tamsin
This unique name means “twin,” but its history links to those who were unwanted siblings in their family structure.
12. Tully
The name Tully means “mound,” but often it has been associated with those not desired—like a forgotten place.
13. Malachai
This name derives from the Hebrew term for “messenger,” but can represent a child seen as unwanted due to their circumstances.
14. Carrion
Referencing the decaying flesh of dead animals, Carrion signifies neglect or abandonment, aligning with the theme of unwanted children.
15. Mara
Mara means “bitter,” reflecting the feelings of those seen as unwanted within family settings.
16. Ines
This name translates to “pure” but can also imply a sense of loneliness and being unwanted.
17. Desdemona
Deriving from Greek, Desdemona means “ill-starred,” highlighting the misfortune of an unwanted child.
18. Philip
While traditionally meaning “lover of horses,” cultural interpretations have led some to see it as a name for an undesirable child.
19. Jabez
Meaning “sorrow,” Jabez is significant because it’s often linked to feelings of being unwanted and painful upbringing.
20. Dismal
This name infers gloominess, typically linked with someone who feels unwanted.
21. Limbo
Limbo refers to a state of neglect or abandonment, making it a stark choice for those perceived as unwanted.
22. Caesar
Historically linked to power, its rarity can symbolize an unwanted child born into a position of limited influence.
23. Chione
This Greek name meaning “snow” can evoke feelings of isolation as if the child is unwanted and drifting away in the cold.
24. Pariah
A direct reference to someone cast out from a group, this name embodies the feelings of being an unwanted child.
25. Shiloh
This biblical name stands for “peace,” yet often has associations with being an unwanted child in certain narratives.
26. Orpheus
A tragic hero whose stories often discuss abandonment, linking it intricately to the feeling of being unwanted.
27. Grieve
This name directly links to sadness and unwanted feelings, making it a unique choice.
28. Kade
Meaning “sturdy,” Kade has connotations of strength, yet also ties into being an unwanted child in tough situations.
29. Vesper
This name implies evening or darkness, embodying the isolation of unwanted children.
30. Sorrow
A straightforward name that embodies the pain felt by children who are unwanted.
31. Hester
A name that carries with it narratives of misfortune and abandonment, making it fitting for an unwanted child.
32. Andrea
This name means “manly,” but it can convey a sense of confusion about identity, as felt by unwanted children.
33. Lila
Meaning “night,” Lila has shades of loneliness often felt by those labeled as unwanted.
34. Despair
Acting as a heavy name that signifies great sadness and the pain of being unwanted.
35. Cricket
A playful name, yet it has associations with loneliness, referring to the quiet chirps of an unwanted child.
36. Calamity
This name means disaster or misfortune, vividly linking to the struggles of unwanted children.
37. Woe
A simple yet powerful name representing sadness and the feelings of being an unwanted child.
38. Lonesome
As the name suggests, it references feelings of isolation often associated with unwanted children.
39. Famine
This name signifies starvation and need, often tied to the struggles faced by unwanted children.
40. Echo
This name implies a call that goes unanswered, much like the feelings of an unwanted child.
41. Gale
Meaning “stormy,” Gale can embody the chaos surrounding the life of an unwanted child.
42. Briony
This name refers to a plant that is often unwanted in gardens, paralleling the struggles of the rejected child.
43. Mourning
A sorrowful name that embodies the deep sadness felt by parents of unwanted children.
44. Grinch
This name associated with someone who doesn’t fit in can resonate with the idea of being an unwanted child.
45. Heath
While it means a landscape of uncultivated land, it’s a symbol of neglect, associated with unwanted children.
46. Ramey
This unique name connotes both land and abandonment, reflecting the feelings of an unwanted child.
47. Doom
A name that embodies unavoidable misfortune tied closely to the essence of being unwanted.
48. Enigma
Signifying mystery, it aligns with the feelings of uncertainty faced by children who feel unwanted.
49. Tempest
Symbolizing storms and turbulence, Tempest can relate to the emotional upheaval of being unwanted.
50. Nyx
In Greek mythology, Nyx represents night and darkness, often symbolizing feelings of isolation as felt by unwanted children.
51. Ash
Referring to the aftermath of fire, Ash reflects the aftermath of being unwanted in family dynamics.
52. Raven
Poorly regarded as omens and shadows, Ravens can symbolize the feelings of being unwanted.
53. Draven
This name suggests loss and darkness and the struggle often faced by unwanted children.
54. Banner
This term signifies a cause that might not be welcomed, linking it to the reality of unwanted children.
55. Faye
This name evokes a sense of fairytale magic which can ironically clash with being unwanted.
56. Hazard
A name indicating danger and risk that resonates with the feelings of unwelcomeness.
57. Shea
This musical name, while attractive, can evoke sentiments of being unwanted when viewed through a specific lens.
58. Tainted
Signifying a flaw or mark, Tainted can symbolize the struggles associated with being an unwanted child.
59. Phantom
A ghostly presence, Phantom indicates the feeling of being unseen and unwanted.
60. Winter
Implying a cold and lonely season, Winter can represent the isolation of unwanted children.
61. Thorn
This strong name represents a prickly existence tied to feelings of abandonment.
62. Penniless
Indicating worthlessness or lack, this name captures the essence of being seen as unwanted.
63. Ruin
This name symbolically represents destruction or a fall from grace associated with being unwanted.
64. Chrysalis
A term for a protective cocoon, it represents transformation that may come from the experience of being unwanted.
65. Luna
While it means “moon,” often it signifies loneliness and longing within the context of being unwanted.
66. Abraxas
This mystical name carries a sense of mystery, aligning with feelings of being unwanted.
67. Cinder
A name that refers to ash and remnants, Cinder reflects the feelings of abandonment and neglect.
68. Dacey
This name implies a fallen tree, symbolizing neglect and carrying the feeling of being unwanted.
69. Harlow
Meaning “army hill,” this name hints at abandonment resembling the struggles of unwanted children.
70. Greer
This name means “watchful” but can also imply a cautious nature born from feelings of being unwanted.
71. Juno
This name of the Roman goddess of marriage carries the irony of unwanted in its historical use.
72. Kite
While embodying freedom, a kite can symbolize the paradox of being unwanted due to their mobility.
73. Whisper
A soft sounds can imply unheard feelings and the struggles of the unwanted child.
74. Shade
This name carries a sense of darkness, embodying feelings of neglect and being unwanted.
75. Vow
A promise often symbolizes commitment, but Vow can highlight the irony of being unwanted.
76. Mist
This ethereal name refers to something unclear or hidden, often feeling like an unwanted presence.
77. Thorny
Representing difficulty and obstacles, this name signifies the challenges of being unwanted.
78. Zenith
At its highest point, Zenith can depict an inverse relationship to being unwanted.
79. Midnight
This name suggests darkness, representing the feelings of being unwanted and forgotten.
80. Rune
A term for mysterious symbols, it captures the enigmatic nature often tied to unwanted children.
81. Solemn
This name signifies seriousness and sadness, embodying the emotions of being unwanted.
82. Crypt
This name relates to a burial chamber, representing neglect and abandonment associated with being unwanted.
83. Grime
This name suggests dirt or filth, which can resonate with feelings tied to being unwanted.
84. Cornelia
This name means “horn,” but can imply a child that is unwanted similar to being a ‘horn in the side.’
85. Gideon
A Hebrew name meaning “feller of trees,” it contains elements of loss relevant to unwanted children.
86. Wicked
This name invokes feelings of misfortune and connection to being unwanted.
87. Scarlet
Often associated with sin, Scarlet reflects the stigma of being unwanted in a family.
88. Dread
This name signifies fear and anxiety, linking to the plenty of feelings surrounding unwanted children.
89. Gruesome
Evoking horror, this name symbolizes the fear associated with being unwanted.
90. Dusty
A name that suggests neglect and the remnants of an abandoned life.
91. Sundown
Similar to the end of the day, Sundown relates to fading away or being unwanted.
92. Dryden
This name means “from the dry valley,” symbolizing abandonment or neglect.
93. Zed
Though short and catchy, it can symbolize conclusion and the end of a lifecycle, mirroring an unwanted child’s story.
94. Soot
A product of decay, this name signifies neglect and abandonment.
95. Absinthe
This name is associated with a bitter drink, capturing the essence of being unwanted and misunderstood.
96. Havoc
Meaning chaos, this name portrays the emotional turmoil related to unwanted children.
97. Dust
A common element representing neglect, it resonates with feelings of being unwanted.
98. Ember
This name parallels the remnants of a fire, linking to past experiences of being unwanted.
99. Shadow
}A name suggesting darkness and unwelcomeness, aptly symbolizing the plight of unwanted children.
100. Specter
Signifying a ghost or spirit, Specter relates to feelings of isolation within those deemed unwanted.
101. Sole
Referencing the bottom layer, it can symbolize feelings of being unwanted in a family setting.
102. Quagmire
A challenging situation can reflect the emotions around being an unwanted child.
103. Sloth
The name of an animal often symbolizes the slow-paced life of children who feel unwanted.
104. Twilight
A name linked to dusk, it indicates endings and feelings tied to being unwanted.
105. Ravenous
This name speaks to hunger and need, connecting with the void unwanted children often feel.
106. Stray
Indicating a lost or wandering creature, Stray embodies the feeling of being unwanted.
107. Wither
Meaning to dry up or decay, it links clearly with the essence of being unwanted.
108. Ruin
This name signifies destruction, relating closely to the situation of unwanted children.
109. Feral
Referring to wild or untamed creatures, it implies a sense of being unwanted in household settings.
110. Dire
This name can symbolize desperate situations similar to those experienced by unwanted children.
111. Abysmal
This name suggests something that is incredibly bad, embodying the struggles of unwanted children.
112. Soulless
A name with heavy meaning, representing feelings of neglect and being unwanted.
113. Colder
This name embodies the emotional frost often felt by parents of unwanted children.
114. Doomed
Signifying inevitable failure, it aligns closely with the life of unwanted children.
115. Torn
This name indicates conflict and emotional distress experienced by unwanted children.
116. Haunted
Evoking memories of abandonment, this name symbolizes the feelings tied to being unwanted.
117. Thirteen
The traditionally unlucky number resonates with perceptions related to unwanted children.
118. Graceless
A name that reflects an absence of elegance or charm, often linked with feelings of being unwanted.
119. Tainted
This name suggests that something has been spoiled, linking closely to feelings of being unwanted.
120. Barren
A name that implies emptiness, reflecting the sadness and rejection surrounding unwanted children.
121. Fool
A name that signifies folly and carelessness, mirroring the neglect of unwanted children.
122. Tidal
This name symbolizes the ever-changing and sometimes neglectful waves of life for unwanted children.
123. Cursed
Implying misfortune, Cursed resonates with the painful feelings associated with being unwanted.
124. Phantom
A ghostly name suggesting being unseen—a profound reflection for an unwanted child.
125. Wraith
This name denotes a ghostly figure, often unnoticed, paralleling the children’s emotions who feel unwanted.
126. Delinquent
Strongly tied to being unwanted, this name suggests rebelliousness and rebellion from conventional family structures.
127. Evoke
To summon memories or feelings, this name could resonate with the feelings of those unwanted.
128. Vile
This name conveys something morally reprehensible, mirroring the perception of an unwanted child.
129. Misty
This name can invoke feelings of obscurity and being unwanted, reminiscent of fog and confusion.
130. Errant
Implying wandering or straying, this name resonates with unwanted children who often feel out of place.
131. Forsaken
This name directly represents abandonment, making it a poignant choice for an unwanted child.
132. Gloom
Signifying a state of partial darkness, Gloom reflects emotions surrounding being unwanted.
133. Weep
Capturing sadness and sorrow, this name resonates with feelings of an unwanted child.
134. Scorn
Indicating disdain, this name can symbolize the struggles faced by those regarded as unwanted.
135. Mourn
A name that embodies sadness, often felt by families when dealing with unwanted children.
136. Deplorable
Referring to something deserving of regret or condemnation, it links closely to the stigma of unwanted children.
137. Struggle
This name denotes hardship and conflict, paralleling the lives of unwanted children.
138. Distress
Implying emotional pain, this name can signify the plight of being unwanted.
139. Abyss
A deep or seemingly bottomless chasm representing isolation—reflecting the feeling of being unwanted.
140. Fragment
This name suggests incompleteness, resonating with the sense of being unwanted in a family.
141. Void
This name indicates emptiness, symbolizing the feelings of being unwanted.
142. Unloved
A bittersweet name that directly refers to feelings of being unwanted in personal relationships.
143. Rejected
This name speaks volumes of the dismissal and pain associated with being unwanted.
144. Griever
This name embodies emotional loss and resonates with the cycle of unwanted children.
145. Sour
This name directly refers to bitterness, suggesting feelings tied directly to the perception of being unwanted.
146. Dissolved
Reflecting the fading away of recognition, it connects to the experiences of unwanted children.
147. Shunned
A term that directly signifies being rejected, capturing the essence of an unwanted child.
148. Barren
This name signifies lifelessness or emptiness, resonating well with feelings of being unwanted.
149. Shabby
This name implies worn out or neglected, perfectly embodying the essence of being an unwanted child.
150. Graves
A term associated with death and endings, it resonates with the dark feelings encountered by those deemed unwanted.
Final Thoughts
Names that signify “unwanted child” often carry a weight of history and emotion, reminding us of the complexities surrounding family dynamics and societal norms. Each of these names tells a story, highlighting the struggles, sadness, and resilience associated with being seen as unwanted. While some may invoke feelings of pain, they also open discussions about acceptance and understanding.
Exploring these names encourages us to reflect on the meaning behind our choices and the cultural significance they hold. Whether a parent is deciding on a name or simply contemplating the stories behind them, it is crucial to approach them with sensitivity and respect. Some names, like the ones dwelling in abandonment, provoke strong emotions, emphasizing the need for compassion.
If you found these names intriguing, consider exploring related topics such as names that mean abandoned or names that mean ugly. Each journey into names reveals that behind every name is a story waiting to be understood.