Unisex names are becoming more popular as people seek unique choices for their children. Some parents are drawn to names that carry special meanings, and names that mean “dark” can evoke mystery and elegance. In many cultures, darkness symbolizes strength, depth, and beauty. Whether you prefer a name with a subtle connection to darkness or something more direct, there are plenty of options available.
Today, we will share a list of unisex names that mean dark. These names not only create an intriguing identity but also come with rich meanings and histories. If you’re looking for a name that stands out and has a powerful significance, keep reading for some inspiring ideas!
Unisex Names That Mean Dark
1. Ash
The unisex name Ash is derived from the ash tree and carries connotations of shadow and darkness, making it a strong choice for parents.
2. Blake
Blake means “dark” or “fair,” making it a versatile name that perfectly fits the theme of unisex names associated with darkness.
3. Darcy
This name has French roots and means “dark one,” which ties directly to the theme of names that signify darkness.
4. Jet
Jet refers to a type of lignite that is black in color, providing a direct connection to darkness and elegance for both boys and girls.
5. Kairi
With its roots in Japanese, this name translates to “sea” but can also evoke imagery of deep waters, linking it to darkness.
6. Nox
Nox is derived from the Latin word for night, making it a striking unisex name that embodies darkness beautifully.
7. Raven
This name is inspired by the black bird known for its dark feathers and mystical associations, making it a great choice for any child.
8. Sable
Sable refers to a dark-brown or black fur and carries an elegant sound that can suit any child regardless of gender.
9. Shade
This name evokes ideas of darkness and coolness, offering an intriguing option for those looking for something unique.
10. Storm
The name Storm evokes powerful and dark weather, providing a strong and edgy option for any child.
11. Ravenna
This name has roots in Italy and is associated with dark beauty, making it an attractive choice for parents desiring a name with depth.
12. Orion
Orion is known as the Hunter in mythology, and with associations to the night sky, it brings notions of darkness and adventure.
13. Ciaran
This Gaelic name means “little dark one,” making it a direct and meaningful choice related to darkness.
14. Zuri
Zuri means “beautiful” in Swahili but also has connections to night and dark skies, making it a lovely option.
15. Bane
Bane can mean “cause of distress” but also gives off a dark, mysterious vibe, perfect for a unisex name.
16. Indigo
This deep color name directly ties to darkness and can evoke thoughts of the night sky, providing a unique choice.
17. Charcoal
A name that embodies darkness literally, Charcoal is a distinctive choice for any child.
18. Onyx
The black gemstone Onyx carries connotations of strength and protection while being a solid, gender-neutral choice.
19. Sable
This name embodies the essence of darkness through its meaning of black fur, making it sophisticated and suitable for any child.
20. Melania
Melania means “dark” in Greek and provides an elegant option that’s rich in history and allure.
21. Kuro
Japanese for “black,” Kuro provides a straightforward and striking choice with connections to darkness.
22. Kenzie
Kenzie is derived from “Kenzie” which means “fire-born,” but when interpreted creatively can suggest a dark yet lively energy.
23. Jetson
Jetson relates to the dark gemstone Jet, making it a modern and unique take on a name that means dark.
24. Tamsin
This modern name means “twin” but is often associated with the dark and mysterious quality of the name Thomas.
25. Kiran
Meaning “ray of light,” Kiran can represent the contrast of light breaking through darkness, offering a unique spin on dark-themed names.
26. Kiera
Kiera directly translates to “dark” in Irish, making it a strong female option that embraces the theme beautifully.
27. Tarek
This Arabic name meaning “morning star” offers a unique duality, representing both light and the deep darkness of night.
28. Blackwood
A surname turned first name, Blackwood directly references dark woods, giving it a nature-inspired darkness.
29. Jett
The name Jett is a modern variant of Jet and embodies darkness while sounding strong and rebellious.
30. Ecliptic
This name references eclipses, which signify the occurrence of light obscured by darkness.
31. Shade
Shade brings a sense of coolness and darkness, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique name.
32. Cigna
This less-common name conveys a sense of darkness while remaining soft and approachable.
33. Ashen
Meaning “light gray,” Ashen carries connections to darkness through the imagery of ashes and shadows.
34. Obsidian
This name refers to the dark volcanic glass, which gives it a strong, elemental feel connecting to darkness and mystery.
35. Vesper
Vesper means “evening star,” bridging the gap between light and dark while embracing the theme of nightwear.
36. Vega
As one of the brightest stars in the night sky, Vega embodies darkness while still shining brightly through it.
37. Tamsin
Tamsin is a modern variation of the name Thomas, which can imply dark roots, offering charm and tradition simultaneously.
38. Tenebris
Meaning “darkness” in Latin, Tenebris remains an elegant choice with a poetic sound.
39. Zane
Zane can mean “God is gracious,” but in its phonetics, it carries a cool, mysterious vibe that relates to darkness.
40. Yara
In Arabic, Yara can mean “small butterfly” but also suggests darkness in some interpretations, giving it dual meanings.
41. Soren
This Scandinavian name means “stern,” offering a subtle yet edgy connection to darkness.
42. Kestrel
Referencing a bird of prey, Kestrel conjures imagery of darkness and freedom flying through the skies.
43. Nyx
In Greek mythology, Nyx is the goddess of night, an ideal name representing darkness directly.
44. Murphy
This name, while often masculine, has become unisex and means “sea warrior,” hinting at the dark waters of the ocean.
45. Dusk
This name directly ties to the time when light gives way to dark, providing a unique choice relevant to the theme.
46. Yarden
Meaning “to flow down,” Yarden can symbolize dark waters flowing gracefully.
47. Orion
This name ties to darkness by evoking imagery of the star-studded sky where Orion shines brightly almost hidden in the dark.
48. Shade
Shade can reference shadowy areas, providing a gentle nod to the notion of darkness while retaining its charm.
49. Kade
Kade is a modern name that has variants meaning “pure,” while often being associated with darkness through its sound.
50. Ravenna
As mentioned before, Ravenna embodies dark beauty, keeping the appeal alive through history.
51. Leocadia
This name means “bright, clear,” yet can also suggest depth, keeping an association with dark beauty.
52. Draven
A unique name that implies dark energy, Draven holds an allure that is both modern and edgy.
53. Tyra
This name means “Thor’s warrior”, carrying a certain strength with deep, dark associations.
54. Zaro
Meaning “dark,” Zaro provides a simple, striking option for those seeking something bold.
55. Elara
Elara ties to the night sky, weaving together notions of space and darkness, making it a beautiful choice.
56. Indigo
A rich blue color reference, Indigo also brings images of twilight skies, directly linking to darkness.
57. Tundra
This geographical reference relates to vast, dark landscapes, providing an earthy connection to the theme.
58. Zara
Zara means “princess,” yet can also imply a hidden depth akin to darkness.
59. Orion
Referring to one of the night sky’s most famous constellations, Orion inherently ties to darkness while representing strength.
60. Jaden
This name blends modern and classic styles, hinting at the depth and richness of dark themes in its roots.
61. Nox
The Latin word for night, Nox is a strong and striking choice that fits perfectly with unisex names embodying darkness.
62. Drakon
Derived from the word “dragon,” Drakon evokes a sense of dark magic and mystery.
63. Ciaran
This name implies darkness and light, a beautiful balance that offers a unique choice for any child.
64. Nocturne
Nocturne relates directly to music inspired by night, providing a cultural connection to darkness.
65. Charcoal
This name encapsulates darkness quite literally, pairing a unique sound with strong associations.
66. Azar
Azar originates from Persian, meaning “fire,” drawing upon the dichotomy of light and darkness.
67. Zephyr
The name Zephyr means “gentle breeze,” which can take on imagery of dusk, hinting at darkening skies.
68. Malina
Meaning “little apple,” Malina can symbolize beauty amid darkness, a softer approach to the theme.
69. Cobalt
This rich blue color name suggests depth and darkness while remaining appealingly modern.
70. Mavi
Meaning “blue” in Turkish, Mavi corresponds to deep blue skies, hinting at evening light fading into the dark.
71. Cime
The name Cime directly illustrates height and darkness, providing a beautiful visual representation.
72. Draven
A strong name that suggests the dark and mysterious side of adventure, Draven fits the concept well.
73. Kenna
The name Kenna conveys “born of fire,” though it also suggests a sense of mystery through its less-than-common usage.
74. Gwyn
The Welsh name Gwyn is associated with fair, yet carries connotations of shadow, a beautiful duality to explore.
75. Devereaux
A name of French origin meaning “from the oak,” it invokes imagery of dark, evergreen forests.
76. Niall
A traditional name that means “champion,” but has subtle ties to dark waters and depth.
77. Esme
Esme suggests “esteemed” or “beloved,” while also carrying an air of mystery that relates to darkness.
78. Lucien
A name with French origins meaning “light,” yet can act as a metaphor for illuminating the darkness.
79. Belladonna
This name refers to the poisonous plant, which is both beautiful and carries associations with darkness.
80. Arlo
A modern name with an origin that can be associated with “army hill,” suggesting shadows and darkened terrains.
81. Eclipse
This name encapsulates the literal merging of light and dark, making it a powerful choice for any child.
82. Sterling
Associated with high quality, Sterling evokes images of shining silver against a dark background.
83. Lotus
The lotus flower blooms at night, hinting at depth and darkness in its closed state.
84. Eclipse
Eclipses represent the engaging interaction between the moon and the sun, a beautiful metaphor for the balance of light and dark.
85. Cinder
This name references the remnants of fire, offering strong connections to darkness through ash and shadows.
86. Thorne
Thorne suggests natural landscapes and dark woods, making it a enchanting name for any child.
87. Kairos
This Greek word means “the right moment,” but can carry connotations of time progressing through night and day.
88. Seraphim
While they are celestial beings of light, the term seraphim can symbolize the complexity of layers, light amidst darkness.
89. Vale
This name offers the idea of a valley, often postulated to be dark and shaded, still carrying an air of beauty.
90. Ember
Referring to the glowing ash from a fire, Ember beautifully connects the light and dark themes through warmth and shadow.
91. Lennox
This Scottish name means “with elm trees,” hinting towards dark woodland landscapes.
92. Kalani
Kalani can mean “the heavens,” yet suggests mystery tied to the night sky and its depth.
93. Corbin
This name, meaning “raven,” directly connects to dark themes through its association with the ominous bird.
94. Vale
A gentle name that offers imagery of valleys, suggesting cool, dark shadows found within hills and forests.
95. Taran
This name means “thunder,” invoking thoughts of dark stormy skies filled with energy and raw power.
96. Robin
Though often associated with brightness, the robin’s connection to dark shadows in gardens makes it a perfect unisex option.
97. Rowan
Referring to the dark tree, this ancient name resonates strongly with darkness while remaining a classic unisex choice.
98. Arwen
Meaning “noble maiden,” Arwen suggests beauty that conveys depth and connection to dark themes.
99. Phoenix
A mythical bird that rises from its ashes, symbolizing transformation through darkness towards light.
100. Anwen
With Welsh origins, Anwen means “very beautiful” while inferring a subtle connection to mystery and darkness.
101. Raven
A name widely used for its powerful associations with the dark bird known for its intelligence and mysticism.
102. Lyric
This name embodies musicality, yet through poetic interpretations can connect to darkness through themes of emotion.
103. Tanwen
This Welsh name means “firelight,” suggesting warmth while retaining an underlying sense of darkness.
104. Nyssa
Meaning “beginning,” Nyssa often implies dark forests, representing growth amidst shadows.
105. Cosima
This name means “order,” but carries an air of mystery that can relate to the theme of darkness.
106. Vale
Pursuing imagery tied to valleys and the cool shadows often found within them, making it a unique choice.
107. Quinn
This name resonates with connotations of wisdom, while also embodying a sense of mystery through its dark sound.
108. Yara
Yara represents “small butterfly,” yet often connects with night imagery, making it a gentle reminder of darkness.
109. Aurelia
Meaning “golden,” this name suggests duality through the contrast of light against darkness.
110. Kyle
This name hints at the dark and mysterious quality of the narrow straits it refers to, a powerful choice.
111. Sumaya
Meaning “high,” while also suggesting depth, Sumaya conveys strength linked to darkness.
112. Ilaria
With meanings tied to cheerful and happy, Ilaria balances between light and dark through its contrasting themes.
113. Stormy
This vibrant name brings thoughts of wild, dark weather, playing directly into the theme of darkness.
114. Vespera
A poetic name meaning “evening,” Vespera creates connections to darkening skies.
115. Raine
A name that evokes aspects of dark rainstorms, providing a beautiful metaphor for the connection to darkness.
116. Ashby
This name suggests “ash tree,” hinting at shadows, lineage, and darkness.
117. Zimri
This unique name may hint at light, but can also weave into themes of darkness when whispered softly.
118. Aislinn
A Irish name that means “dream,” often suggesting a sense of mysterious and dark imagery.
119. Kinley
Meaning “fair warrior,” Kinley conveys a sense of strength while hinting at darker depths within.
120. Liora
A Hebrew name meaning “light,” often symbolizes dualities of light and dark in its sound.
121. Tarek
Tarek traditionally means “morning star,” cleverly entwining notions of both light and darker skies.
122. Zina
This name related to “shining” can evoke thoughts of brightness amidst darkness, providing a dual meaning.
123. Gwendolyn
Meaning “white ring,” Gwendolyn suggests contrasts between light and dark through its rich imagery.
124. Iona
This picturesque name imbues connotations of the dark-centered island, inspired by landscapes and mystery.
125. Ginevra
The elegant name Ginevra derives from an ancient meaning of “fair,” engaging the contrast of dark and light beautifully.
126. Lara
Lara infers connections with nature and darkness, suitable for parents seeking simplicity yet charm.
127. Rhiannon
A beautiful Welsh name linked to the moon, linking to themes of darkness and beauty together.
128. Cruz
A name meaning “cross,” Cruz implies duality while hinting at darker themes of faith.
129. Joan
This classic name holds simplicity, yet requires deep contemplation into light and dark sound blends.
130. Nikko
Meaning “sunshine,” yet creates an air of contrast when connecting to night and darkness.
131. Michi
A Japanese name meaning “path,” Michi can suggest dark paths leading to bright destinations.
132. Darian
Darian implies a “possessor” or “guardian,” hinting at a deeper strength beneath the darkness.
133. Zane
This modern take on a classic name brings forward a sense of uniqueness while portraying a darker essence.
134. Dani
Dani carries an urban, modern feel yet evokes deep emotions that align with dark themes.
135. Quinn
A name that suggests intelligence, Quinn can flow beautifully into darkened realms with connotations of depth.
136. Talia
Meaning “dew from God,” Talia connects beautifully with themes of refreshing darkness during early dawn.
137. Abner
This obscure biblical name means “father of light,” yet conveys dramatic imagery of shadows regarding family.
138. Felix
While meaning “happy” or “fortunate,” Felix can also convey complex feelings associated with brighter and darker sides.
139. Mauve
A beautiful pastel name, mauve embraces dark hues while providing a gentle connection to darkness.
140. Aspen
Liken to dark woods where aspens grow, this name connects beautifully to the natural world while heavy with symbolism.
141. Kenzu
Introducing Japanese elements, Kenzu means “strong and healthy,” brushing essential themes hinting at dark strength.
142. Navarro
This surname-turned-first-name references dark lands, giving an attractive mystical appeal.
143. Ignis
This Latin name means “fire,” which dives into the fascinating portrayals of ashes and darkness.
144. Dalila
As variations come with meanings of dark beauty, Dalila resonates well within the realm of darkened names.
145. Nova
This stellar name means “new,” but can suggest images of beginnings amidst the endless dark universe.
146. Vespera
Later in the day, the evening brings forth a sense of calmness and connective ties to the dark night.
147. Dusty
The worldly name Dusty can hint to color association through its connections to darker ground and shadow.
148. Antonin
This name carries an air of tradition with layered meanings that brush equally with light and darkness.
149. Amaya
In Basque referring to “the end,” Amaya evokes tranquility over darkened themes woven through landscape.
150. Zethra
Zethra is an imaginative name that hints at darkness through creative usage, perfect for any child.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name for your child is a meaningful decision, especially when considering names that invoke darkness. This list of unisex names meaning dark offers a wide variety of options that blend charm, elegance, and depth. Each name carries its unique history and significance, making them not just names, but stories waiting to be told.
Many of these names reflect strength and beauty amidst shadows, allowing parents to choose something powerful and distinctive. Explore various choices before settling on the perfect name that resonates with you and your family’s journey.
If you found this list intriguing, don’t forget to check out more on names that mean dark and delve into even more captivating name themes at names that mean dark and names that mean black or dark.