Choosing a name that mean “moon” can give your child a timeless and mystical connection to the natural world. These names, drawn from various cultures, symbolize wisdom, serenity, and transformation. Whether for boys or girls, they offer a timeless appeal and a unique connection to nature and mythology.
Below are boy’s and girl’s names that mean moon.
Names That Mean Moon for Girls
1. Luna
Luna is Latin for “moon.” It has become popular in many countries, especially after being used as a character in the “Harry Potter” series. Luna evokes images of the moon’s brightness.
2. Selene
Originating from Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon. The name reflects grace and mysticism, making it a classic choice for a girl.
3. Aylin
A Turkish name, Aylin translates to “moonlight” or “halo of the moon.” It has a soft, melodic sound, giving it a gentle and serene feel.
4. Diana
The Roman goddess of the hunt and the moon, Diana has a powerful and elegant aura. The late Princess Diana of Wales helped popularize the name globally.
5. Chandra
In Sanskrit, Chandra means “moon.” It’s common in Indian cultures and has an exotic, celestial appeal.
6. Hala
Hala means “halo around the moon” in Arabic. This short, poetic name is both simple and meaningful.
7. Mahina
From Hawaiian origin, Mahina means “moon.” It’s perfect for those looking for a tropical twist on a lunar-inspired name.
8. Amaris
Amaris means “child of the moon” in Old Irish and Spanish. It has a lyrical and romantic feel.
9. Artemis
In Greek mythology, Artemis is the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and the moon. Strong and independent, this name is perfect for those who admire ancient mythology.
10. Cynthia
Another name linked to the moon goddess in Greek mythology, Cynthia was an epithet for Artemis. It has been a popular name for centuries, combining elegance with tradition.
11. Rhiannon
A Welsh name, Rhiannon means “great queen” but is often associated with the moon and mysticism due to its folklore roots.
12. Esmeray
This Turkish name means “dark moon.” Esmeray has a mystical and somewhat mysterious sound, perfect for someone who values uniqueness.
13. Nokomis
From Native American origins, Nokomis means “grandmother moon” in the Algonquin language. It has a strong, nurturing feel.
14. Livana
In Hebrew, Livana means “white” or “moon.” It’s a soft, poetic name, perfect for those who love a minimalist yet meaningful choice.
15. Hecate
In Greek mythology, Hecate was a goddess associated with the moon and magic. It’s a bold, historic name with a mystical aura.
16. Elara
Elara was one of Zeus’ lovers in Greek mythology, and a moon of Jupiter is named after her. It’s a name that combines both beauty and celestial significance.
17. Aisha
In Arabic, Aisha means “alive” but is also connected to the moon in Islamic poetry and stories. It’s a vibrant, life-affirming name.
18. Phoebe
In Greek mythology, Phoebe is associated with the moon as one of the Titans. It’s a traditional name that has been used for centuries.
19. Qamar
Qamar means “moon” in Arabic. This strong, simple name is commonly used in many parts of the world.
20. Marama
In Polynesian mythology, Marama is the goddess of the moon. The name has a rhythmic, flowing sound, making it appealing and exotic.
Boys Names That Mean Moon
1. Apollo
While known as the god of the sun in Greek mythology, Apollo is also associated with the moon through NASA’s famous lunar missions. The name symbolizes both intellect and adventure.
2. Aylin
Although commonly used for girls, Aylin can also be a masculine name in some cultures, especially in Turkey, meaning “moonlight.”
3. Chandra
A unisex name, Chandra means “moon” in Sanskrit. It’s commonly used in Indian cultures and has a serene quality.
4. Atlas
Atlas was a Titan in Greek mythology who held up the sky. Although more associated with strength, it has been used in connection to celestial bodies like the moon.
5. Jericho
Jericho means “city of the moon” in ancient Semitic languages. It’s an old and historical name with a strong, grounded sound.
6. Kale
A short and sweet Hawaiian name, Kale means “strong” but is also linked to a lunar crater named after a Hawaiian king. The name is easy to say and unique.
7. Hilal
Hilal means “crescent moon” in Arabic. It’s commonly used in Islamic cultures and represents new beginnings.
8. Qamar
Used for both boys and girls, Qamar directly translates to “moon” in Arabic. It’s simple, elegant, and timeless.
9. Badar
In Arabic, Badar means “full moon.” This name conveys completeness and brightness, making it a strong choice.
10. Tarek
Tarek means “he who knocks at the door” but also has associations with the morning star and the moon. It’s common in Arabic-speaking countries and has a strong, bold tone.
11. Mani
In Norse mythology, Mani was the personification of the moon. This short, unique name carries ancient Viking vibes.
12. Jerah
In Hebrew, Jerah means “moon.” It’s a less common name with biblical roots, making it both spiritual and celestial.
13. Arion
In Greek mythology, Arion is connected to the night sky, which indirectly links it to the moon. It’s a strong, unusual name.
14. Elio
Elio means “sun” in Italian, but it can also be symbolically connected to the moon. It’s a warm, bright name for a boy.
15. Iah
In ancient Egyptian mythology, Iah was a deity of the moon. The name is simple, yet filled with history and meaning.
16. Luan
Of Portuguese origin, Luan means “moon.” It’s a gentle and lyrical name, ideal for those looking for something light.
17. Oberon
Oberon is the king of the fairies in Shakespeare’s works but also the name of a moon of Uranus. This strong, regal name is great for someone who values creativity and history.
18. Anningan
A unique Inuit name, Anningan is the name of the moon in their mythology. It’s a rare and culturally rich choice.
19. Tuncay
A Turkish name, Tuncay means “bronze moon.” It’s a strong and unique name with a distinct sound.
20. Purnama
From Indonesian and Malay, Purnama means “full moon.” It’s an uncommon name, yet it carries a peaceful and complete meaning.
Gender Neutral Moon-Inspired Names
1. Rakel
- Meaning: “Innocent or ewe,” but often associated with the moon through Nordic mythology.
- Origin: Norse
Rakel has a gentle, mysterious feel, perfect for those looking for a unique moon-inspired name.
2. Tsuki
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Japanese
Tsuki is a short and simple name, directly referencing the moon in Japanese culture.
3. Mahrukh
- Meaning: “Face of the moon.”
- Origin: Persian
Mahrukh conveys beauty and elegance, associated with the moon’s serene qualities.
4. Nishtha
- Meaning: “Devotion,” but often linked with the moon due to its calm nature.
- Origin: Sanskrit
This Indian name reflects peacefulness and commitment, like the steady phases of the moon.
5. Soma
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Sanskrit
Soma is widely used in Indian mythology as the name of the moon god, making it an ancient yet modern name.
6. Yerazig
- Meaning: “Little dream” or “moon dream.”
- Origin: Armenian
This poetic name has a dreamy, otherworldly quality, making it a subtle yet meaningful choice.
7. Jaci
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Native American (Tupi-Guarani)
Jaci is short, strong, and carries an indigenous connection to the moon.
8. Hanwi
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Lakota
Hanwi is the name of the moon goddess in Lakota mythology and can be used for any gender.
9. Túran
- Meaning: Associated with the moon through mythology.
- Origin: Etruscan
Túran is a rare, ancient name with a connection to lunar deities.
10. Metztli
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Aztec (Nahuatl)
Metztli was the Aztec moon god, a strong and distinctive name for any gender.
11. Koray
- Meaning: “Ember moon.”
- Origin: Turkish
Koray has a fiery yet calm meaning, reflecting the beauty of the moon during twilight.
12. Sayari
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Swahili
This African name is simple and celestial, perfect for a gender-neutral choice.
13. Aysel
- Meaning: “Moon flood” or “moonlight.”
- Origin: Turkish
Aysel has a poetic meaning, evoking images of a moonlit sky, and is a great neutral name.
14. Lua
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Portuguese
Lua is a straightforward, elegant name that directly translates to “moon” and works well for any gender.
15. Indu
- Meaning: “Moon.”
- Origin: Sanskrit
Indu is a short, beautiful name often used in Indian cultures, symbolizing the light and serenity of the moon.
These names offer a broad range of cultural origins and meanings, all connected to the moon and suitable for any gender.
Names That Mean Moon FAQs
How do I choose a moon-related name that fits my child?
When selecting a moon-related name, consider the cultural origin, meaning, and sound of the name. Think about whether you want a traditional name, like Diana or Cynthia, or something more unique, like Metztli or Esmeray. You might also consider how the name resonates with your personal values or family heritage. Choosing a name that is easy to pronounce and works well with your last name is also important.
Can a moon name have symbolic or spiritual significance?
Absolutely. Moon names often carry deep symbolic or spiritual meanings. For example, various traditions commonly link the moon to cycles, intuition, and renewal. In astrology, the moon governs emotions and instincts.
Names like Artemis, Chandra, or Mani connect to ancient mythologies, where the moon represents feminine power, guidance, or enlightenment. A moon name can carry additional layers of meaning depending on your beliefs or values.
Can moon names reflect personality traits or symbolism?
Yes, moon names often reflect personality traits such as calmness, wisdom, or mysticism. The moon is frequently associated with reflection, intuition, and change, so names like Hanwi or Sayari might symbolize these qualities.
Depending on the cultural background, moon-related names may also signify creativity, emotion, or peacefulness, giving them rich, symbolic layers.
Can moon-inspired names be shortened into nicknames?
Yes, many moon-related names can easily be shortened into appealing nicknames. For example, Metztli could be shortened to “Metz,” Aysel could become “Ays,” and Koray could be shortened to “Kor.” These shortened versions still retain the lunar connection while offering a more casual or playful option.
A Summary Of Names That Mean Moon
Names that mean “moon” provide a deep connection to the celestial body that has fascinated humans for millennia. Whether you prefer something traditional, like Luna, or unique, like Tuncay, there’s a moon-inspired name for everyone. Each name carries its special meaning and story, linking it to different cultures and traditions around the world.