Choosing a name can be a fun yet challenging task. If you love the ocean, you might want to consider names that have a meaning connected to it. Rare names that signify the vastness and beauty of the sea can give your child a unique identity tied to nature. These names reflect the strength and calmness of ocean waves, offering a sense of adventure.
Today, we will share some rare names that mean ocean or are inspired by it. From unique options for boys and girls to unisex choices, you’ll find a variety of beautiful names that celebrate the spirit of the sea. Let’s surf through these enchanting names together!
Rare Names That Mean Ocean
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. Marinus
Marinus is a rare Latin name meaning ‘of the sea’. This name has a unique flair that can make your child stand out while still having a direct connection to the ocean.
6. Bidda
Bidda is an uncommon name meaning ‘sea’ in some African tribes. Its rarity gives it a special quality, making it a beautiful option for ocean lovers.
7. Raina
Raina means ‘queen’ and is often associated with rain and water. This feminine name can evoke thoughts of the ocean and its gentle waves.
8. Nereus
In Greek mythology, Nereus is considered the ‘Old Man of the Sea’. Naming your child Nereus brings a connection to oceanic legends and deep waters.
9. Aegir
Aegir is a Norse god associated with the ocean. This name can carry a powerful connotation, ideal for a child destined for greatness.
10. Cordelia
Cordelia means ‘heart’ and is often said to derive from ‘the sea’. It’s a classic name with a link to oceanic beauty.
11. Kai
With a meaning of ‘sea’ in Hawaiian, Kai is a short and sweet name that has gained popularity across cultures.
12. Darya
This beautiful name means ‘sea’ in Persian and can be an elegant choice for girls, evoking imagery of vast ocean horizons.
13. Maren
Maren derives from Latin and translates to ‘of the sea’. This lovely name is unique and reflects a deep connection with oceanic themes.
14. Talise
The name Talise means ‘lovely water’. It’s a charming and distinctive name bringing to mind the beauty of flowing water and the ocean.
15. Edda
Edda means ‘great grandmother’ and is often tied with tales of the ocean in Norse literature. It carries a weight of history and mystique.
16. Marisol
Marisol combines ‘sea’ and ‘sun’ in Spanish, making it an evocative name that relates to warm, sunny days by the ocean.
17. Heather
Heather connects to the sea through its meaning of a plant growing in coastal areas. It’s a nature-inspired choice that hints at ocean settings.
18. Zale
Zale means ‘sea strength’ in Greek. It gives a powerful nod to the ocean’s vastness and resilience.
19. Yara
This name means ‘small butterfly’ in Arabic, and is associated with a water goddess, giving it an elegant oceanic connection.
20. Nero
Nero means ‘water’ in Latin, making it a strong and simple name with an oceanic touch.
21. Maris
Maris is a Latin name meaning ‘of the sea’. It’s a delicate and classic choice that beautifully ties to ocean themes.
22. Mira
Mira can mean ‘ocean’ in some cultures, giving it a lovely flow. It’s perfect for parents looking for something unique yet meaningful.
23. Morgan
This name has Welsh origins and translates to ‘sea-born’ or ‘sea chief’. It’s a strong name that indicates an oceanic heritage.
24. Cora
Cora is derived from the Greek word for ‘maiden’, but often associated with sea-related interpretations due to folklore.
25. Lir
Lir is rooted in Irish mythology as the god of the sea, making it an evocative choice with mythological depth.
26. Ondine
Ondine means ‘a wave’, and is a name from German folklore describing water spirits, tying it directly to the ocean.
27. Miraida
Miraida means ‘ocean’, making it a melodious name that is indeed rare.
28. Ishka
Ishka means ‘water’ in some Celtic languages, giving it a beautiful sound that resonates with natural elements.
29. Kaimana
This Hawaiian name means ‘power of the ocean’ and carries strength and significance for ocean enthusiasts.
30. Nerina
Nerina is a beautiful name that means ‘sea nymph’. It’s whimsical and imbued with maritime charm.
31. Talia
Talia means ‘dew from God’ in Hebrew but can also signify freshness akin to the essence of the ocean.
32. Livia
Livia, while traditionally Roman, has interpretations linked to ‘life’ which is often connected to oceanic environments.
33. Mei
Mei translates to ‘beautiful’ in Chinese and is often used in contexts celebrating nature, including oceans.
34. Seamus
An Irish name meaning ‘supplanter’, it has ties to myths about the water and sea gods.
35. Morwenna
Morwenna means ‘waves of the sea’ in old Cornish, making it a perfect representation of ocean beauty.
36. Thames
Named after the iconic river that flows into the sea, Thames evokes memories of water and connection to the ocean.
37. Adira
Adira means ‘strong’ in Hebrew and can symbolize the strength of the ocean’s waves.
38. Amani
Amani means ‘peace’ and can echo the serenity found along the shore, making it special for ocean lovers.
39. Aquila
This name is derived from Latin and translates to ‘eagle’, linking to the ocean’s majestic creatures.
40. Hali
This short and sweet name means ‘sea’ in Greek, making it an enchanting choice that’s easy to spell and remember.
41. Tethys
Tethys is the name of the ancient Greek goddess of the sea, making it a historical yet rare choice for a baby girl.
42. Misty
Misty brings to mind the soft whiff of saltwater in the air through the haze, evoking images of serene ocean settings.
43. Neil
Neil translates into ‘champion’ and is connected to the sea through various maritime stories and legends.
44. Hespera
This name has connections to ‘evening star’ but can also hint at twilight’s reflections upon the sea, adding to its maritime association.
45. Shira
Shira means ‘song’ in Hebrew and may remind you of poetic ocean sounds, making it a name close to the water.
46. Tamsin
Tamsin relates to ‘twin’ or may be connected to the sea with various interpretations, creating a significant meaning.
47. Lian
Lian means ‘graceful willow’ which gives a beautiful image similar to waves swaying gently on the water’s surface.
48. Niamh
Niamh means ‘bright’ in Gaelic and can evoke pictures of shining sun gleams on the ocean water surface.
49. Selene
Selene, a name linked to the moon, can symbolize its reflection on the ocean, which adds to its mystical connection.
50. Calista
Calista means ‘most beautiful’ and can refer to the stunning scenes one sees when gazing out at the ocean.
51. Vidar
This name means ‘warrior’ and has connections to legends involving oceanic battles, making it a unique yet powerful name.
52. Zuri
Zuri, meaning ‘beautiful’ in Swahili, captures beauty that can be found right at the ocean’s edge.
53. Oleta
Oleta, meaning ‘ocean’ in a rare language, can be a delightful choice that expresses love for the water.
54. Halcyon
Halcyon translates to peaceful, calm weather and often reminds one of serene ocean days.
55. Nymphaea
Nymphaea is a lush term for water lily and ties back beautifully to tranquil lakes that stretch to the sea.
56. Soraya
Soraya means ‘princess’ and can bring a regal touch, akin to the grandeur of the ocean.
57. Marston
Marston means ‘from the town by the lake or sea’, linking it directly to water landscapes.
58. Delmar
Delmar means ‘of the sea’. It’s uncommon and elegantly fits with the oceanic theme.
59. Olwen
This rare name means ‘white footprints’ and can evoke soft sand and ocean waves that touch the shore.
60. Muirin
Muirin means ‘sea warrior’ in Irish and is perfect for families celebrating their Celtic heritage.
61. Keanu
Keanu means ‘cool breeze over the mountains’ in Hawaiian, which can also relate to calming ocean air.
62. Mirae
Mirae in certain cultures means ‘ocean’, making it a stunning and exotic choice.
63. Tani
Tani means ‘to find rest’ and can symbolize the peacefulness found alongside the waves.
64. Tarzan
This name evokes images of jungle waters and rivers meeting the vast ocean horizon.
65. Caelan
Caelan has connections to ‘victorious’ and ties back to images of sailors overcoming ocean challenges.
66. Izumi
Izumi means ‘spring’ or ‘fountain’, which can remind one of fresh water connecting to the ocean.
67. Halahala
This name signifies an ancient goddess connected to the seas, enriching your child’s identity with oceanic legends.
68. Shalhevet
Meaning ‘flame’ in Hebrew, it mirrors the beautiful colors of sunsets reflected on ocean waters.
69. Vespera
Vespera means ‘evening star’ and can recall images of night skies above the calm sea.
70. Cole
Cole has a modern feel and can be viewed metaphorically as the coal-black depths of the ocean.
71. Xanthia
Xanthia is a unique name meaning ‘yellow’ but is often tied to warm beach sands and ocean spirits.
72. Alaya
This beautiful name means ‘dwelling’, possibly suggesting a life lived in relation to oceanside peacefulness.
73. Ianto
Ianto means ‘the sea’ in Welsh and provides a culturally rich option directly tied to the water.
74. Coral
Coral directly connects to ocean ecosystems, making this name a lovely tribute to oceanic beauty.
75. Seabrook
This name indicates ‘by the sea’, making it a wonderful option for those who cherish coastal living.
76. Balaram
Balaram means ‘strong’, evoking power akin to ocean currents and tides.
77. Talise
Talise resonates with beauty, meaning ‘beautiful water’, a perfect blend for lovers of the sea.
78. Gitana
Gitana means ‘gypsy’, which can reflect wanderlust, often connected to traveling by the ocean.
79. Linnea
This name means ‘twinflower’ and is often related to flowing rivers meeting the sea.
80. Mojave
This name ties to the Mojave Desert but can infuse images of desert waters finding their way to the ocean.
81. Celine
Celine means ‘heavenly’ and evokes calming feelings like those found on peaceful ocean days.
82. Swan
Swan brings forth images of grace, much like water birds gliding across ocean surfaces.
83. Maren
This enchanting name means ‘ocean’ in Latin and is perfect for anyone looking for something serene yet meaningful.
84. Arista
Arista means ‘harvest’ but has interpretations connected to beauty found along coastlines and the sea.
85. Serrana
This name means ‘mountain dweller’ but can represent shores where mountains meet the sea.
86. Gaea
Gaea means ‘earth’, but as one sees shores meeting oceans, the connection to water becomes vivid.
87. Tiberius
This rare name ties to rivers which then flow into the vast sea, enriching its meaning with an oceanic link.
88. Astra
Astra means ‘star’ and can reflect starry nights above calm seas, evoking tranquil ocean memories.
89. Marcellus
Marcellus is tied to Mars, the god of war, symbolizing powerful ocean battles and mythological connections.
90. Azura
Azura is inspired by blue hues of the sea, making it a beautiful choice for any child aimed to bring joy and peace.
91. Dorys
Dorys means ‘gift’ in Greek and can symbolize the bounty of life the ocean provides.
92. Tali
Tali means ‘dew from God’, echoing fresh mornings by the ocean shore where dew meets the water.
93. Walden
Walden is a name of literary significance but encompasses themes similar to those of the ocean’s tranquility.
94. Thalassa
Thalassa means ‘the sea’ in ancient Greek, making it a direct homage to oceans, perfect for lovers of mythology.
95. Ione
This name means ‘violet flower’ but is often connected to tranquil settings by the sea.
96. Marella
Marella embodies the meaning of ‘sea’, providing a melodic and ocean-flavored name.
97. Carey
Carey translates to ‘dark’ or ‘from the fort’, often associated with maritime history and oceanic tales.
98. Shai
Shai means ‘gift’ in Hebrew but beautifully echoes life and bounty found along the ocean’s shores.
99. Vida
Vida means ‘life’, hinting at the vibrant ecosystems thriving in the ocean depths.
100. Naida
Naida means ‘water nymph’ and perfectly fits for those who enjoy enchanting ocean stories.
101. Lila
Lila means ‘night’ in Arabic, often associating with the ocean’s breathtaking night-time views.
102. Zara
Zara translates to ‘blooming flower’ which could evoke the beautiful flora found in ocean ecosystems.
103. Anaya
Anaya means ‘caring’ and reflects the nurturing and life-giving properties of the ocean.
104. Callan
Callan means ‘battle’, hinting at tales of resilience against the vast ocean.
105. Kavi
Kavi means ‘poet’ and can symbolize storytelling traditions related to the ocean.
106. Isla
Isla translates to ‘island’, which connects directly with ocean landscapes, making it appealing for ocean lovers.
107. Nimbus
Nimbus relates to clouds that bring rain, often feeding rivers that flow out to the sea.
108. Lune
Lune means ‘moon’, reflecting its impact on ocean tides, creating a sweet connection to water.
109. Shaiya
Shaiya translates to ‘gift of God’, representing the ocean’s precious gifts to humanity.
110. Kailani
Kailani means ‘sea and sky’ in Hawaiian, offering a direct tie to coastal beauty and the ocean.
111. Pintail
Pintail refers to a species of duck often found in coastal areas, further embodying the relationship with the sea.
112. Zinnia
Named after a flower, Zinnia can create beautiful associations with coastal gardens by the sea.
113. Callidora
Callidora means ‘gift of beauty’, reflecting the stunning vistas the ocean can offer.
114. Vela
Vela means ‘sails’ in Latin and relates beautifully to ocean adventures.
115. Selina
Selina means ‘moon’ and connects harmoniously with the night sky reflected on ocean waves.
116. Fanola
Fanola means ‘white’ and can refer to the foamy white caps of waves, emphasizing ocean themes.
117. Melaina
Melaina means ‘dark’ but can also refer to the dark, mysterious depths of the ocean.
118. Marina
Marina directly relates to ‘sea’, making it a straightforward yet lovely name choice.
119. Clarissa
Clarissa means ‘bright’, evoking the shining light reflected on ocean waters under the sun.
120. Jeriah
Jeriah translates to ‘greatly exalted’, symbolizing the vastness of the ocean.
121. Kalani
Kalani means ‘the heavens’ in Hawaiian, implying a connection to the sky above the sea.
122. Ula
Ula means ‘gem’ and can signify the precious treasures we find within the depths of the ocean.
123. Oceane
Simply meaning ‘ocean’, Oceane is a beautiful name choice directly reflecting your connection to the sea.
124. Vesper
Vesper translates to ‘evening’, bringing images of sunset tides rustling along the shore.
125. Samira
Samira means ‘entertaining companion’ and signifies the stories and moments shared by the sea.
126. Cerys
Cerys means ‘love’ in Welsh and can symbolize the love for the ocean and its mysteries.
127. Merida
Merida means ‘one who is of the sea’ in Spanish and is a vibrant name with a nautical touch.
128. Avalon
Avalon is tied to the mystical isle, adding an enchanting allure related to ocean-themed stories.
129. Sabine
Sabine means ‘from the Sabines’ but often evokes thoughts of serene rivers that flow towards the ocean.
130. Grier
Grier means ‘watcher’, hinting at the watchfulness of the waves upon the coast.
131. Darcel
Darcel means ‘dark’, often linking to the ocean’s mysterious elements.
132. Jetty
Jetty refers to structures built out to sea, blending function with a strong connection to water.
133. Elysia
Elysia means ‘blissful’ and resembles the calmness that the ocean can offer.
134. Maelstrom
This powerful name represents turbulent sea waters but can also symbolize the beauty found in chaos.
135. Almira
Almira signifies ‘princess’ and connects back to regal seas and ocean treasures.
136. Taiga
Taiga refers to a dense forest, but can also evoke thoughts of watery ecosystems in natural reserves.
137. Ahri
Ahri means ‘noble’, excellently reflecting the majesty of the ocean and its treasures.
138. Anouk
Anouk means ‘grace’ and hints at ocean gracefulness and fluidity.
139. Cambria
Cambria denotes ‘wales’, tying the name to regions along the coastlines.
140. Esmé
Esmé means ‘esteemed’ and can capture the majestic and dignified nature of the sea.
141. Alia
Alia means ‘exalted’, reflecting the overall grandeur associated with deep ocean waters.
142. Livia
Livia means ‘blue’, and naturally hints at the deep blue of ocean waves.
143. Eirlys
Eirlys is a lovely name meaning ‘snowdrop’ in Welsh while drawing visuals similar to ocean blooms.
144. Thalia
Thalia means ‘to flourish’, symbolizing thriving life found throughout oceans and their ecosystems.
145. Endora
Endora means ‘light’, mirroring refractions seen in sunlight through ocean waters.
146. Inara
Inara means ‘ray of light’, which ties beautifully with light reflecting on ocean waves.
147. Kalypso
Kalypso relates to the legendary nymph, making it a mythologically rich choice connected to the sea.
148. Lavina
Lavina means ‘purity’ while hinting at the pure beauty often seen in ocean landscapes.
149. Cadenza
Cadenza refers to a musical term and can further signify ocean waves connecting rhythm and nature.
150. Zephyr
Zephyr means ‘gentle breeze’, often associated with breezes rising from the ocean.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a rare name that means ocean for your child may offer them a beautiful connection to nature. Whether it’s a name derived from old mythologies, languages, or even unique interpretations of ocean-related themes, these names richly embody the spirit of the seas. Each name tells a story of adventure, serenity, and majesty that the ocean provides.
Consider how a meaningful name rooted in oceanic themes can influence your child’s identity, providing them with uniqueness and charm. Embrace the waves of creativity as you navigate through these enchanting options.
For more inspiration, feel free to explore names that mean ocean or discover names that mean sea or ocean. The vast selection is sure to help you find the perfect name for your little one.