No, it is most certainly not a traditional choice, nor is it very common, but one thing can’t be denied: Names that mean death would definitely be striking and unique.
Death is often a taboo topic or treated with unbearable sadness and solemnity in Western cultures. However, in other cultures, death is actually perceived as a celebration of life; It is also viewed as a way to connect to the realm of the spiritual.
Some names that mean death are expectedly dark, but there are many names that mean death that are names of gods and goddesses related to death, and names that carry meanings that are more celebratory.
Baby Names That Mean Death
These 68 names that mean death would make for very unique and very memorable names for your baby boy or baby girl.
Boy Names That Mean Death
Adding a macabre meaning to names takes a courage for parents and for the name bearer they have to own their entire life. However, it’s not always grim but there are some power and awe associated with names that mean death. Here are some of the names we list down below. Keep reading.
- AH PUCH
The name Ah Puch is a unique, two-word name. It is actually the name of the one who was known for being the god of death of the Mayans.
- ANDULBAITH
Andulbaith is a name that is of Urdu and Arabic roots. It is said to carry the meaning of “slave of one who raises death” and “servant of resurrecting”.
- AJAL
Of names that mean death, Ajal is one that leans on the shorter side, and it has the meaning of “specified period of the term, an hour of death”, “death”, “fate or destiny”. This four-letter name is Arabic in origin.
- ANUBIS
Anubis is a name that hails from Egypt. This name was among the names of the god of death in ancient Egypt.
- ATHANASIUS
Among the names that mean death, one of the longer and more complex ones is the name, Athanasius. This name is of Ancient Greek roots, and it carries the meaning of “death” or “immortal”.
- AZRAI
The name Azrael is a name that means death that has roots in Hebrew and Israeli. This name has the meaning of “angel of death”.
- BALADAN
The name Baladan is said to have hailed from Israel. Baladan has the meaning of “the son of death”.
- CAIN
When looking at names that mean death, one that always makes this list is Cain. This is the name of a character in the Bible who in cold blood, killed his own brother, an act which made him become known as the first murderer.
- CHARON
Charon is a name that is rooted in Greek mythology. It is said that in Greek mythology, this was the name of the one who operated the ferry bringing the newly dead through the River Acheron and into Hades.
- CLAY
Clay is a name that is dual of German and English origins. This name carries the meaning of “one who is subjected to death” or “mortal”. A variation of this name is “Claeg”, which is another English moniker with the same meaning.
- DEARIL
The name Dearil is of both Scottish and German roots. This name has the distinct meaning of “call of death”. Interestingly, Dearil is also said to mean “red-haired”.
- ERNESH
The name Ernesh carries a multitude of meanings. It can mean “sincere”, “determined”, and “honest”. It can also mean “battle of the death”. Ernesh is a name that stemmed from India.
- HADES
Another name that is prominent when it comes to names that mean death would be the name Hades. This ominous name hailed from Greek mythology and was the name of the dark god of the underworld.
- JAVARAYA
Javaraya is a gentle-sounding name with the meaning of “god of death”. This name is said to have stemmed from India.
- JEREMOTH
Jeremoth is another name that has a gentle tone to it. It carries the meaning of “one that fears death” or “one who rejects death”. This name is of Israeli origins. An alternative is the name “Jerimoth” which is also an Israeli name.
- KALAKUTA
Kalakuta is a name that has a certain intricateness to it. This name is of Sanskrit origin, and it is said to have the meaning of “potion of death”.
- KALARAJA
A name that sounds similar to “Kalakuta” but has a different meaning is the name Kalaraja. This name is also of Sanskrit roots, and it carries the meaning of “lord of death”.
- KALAYAVAN
Kalayavan is a name that has a harmonious tone, underneath which belies the meaning of “horrible as death”. This name is Indian in origin.
- KEK
The name Kek is Egyptian in origin. This name is said to carry with it the meaning of “god of darkness”.
- LEFU
When looking at names that mean death that is short and unusual, the name Lefu is one that is not at all common in the present day. This four-letter moniker is said to have meant death in African culture.
- MABUZ
The name Mabuz hails from Scotland. This Scottish moniker carries with it the unique meaning of “ruler of death castle”.
- MARAT
The name Marat is of Sanskrit roots. It has the very intricate meaning of “life, death, and rebirth cycle of reincarnation”.
- MERRIPEN
Merripen is a name that is said to be of English gypsy origin. The name Merripen has the dual meaning of “death” or “life”.
- METHUSAEL
Methusael is a Biblical name that means death. This Israeli moniker carries the meaning of “he who demands his death”. A similar-sounding name is “Methuselah” which is also a Biblical name that has the meaning of “to bring death”.
- MRITHUN
A complex and memorable name that means death is Mrithun, which is of Indian origin. This Indian name has the meaning of “made of Earth” as well as “lord of death”. A variation of this is the name “Mritunjay” which is an Indian name that means “one who can conquer death” or “victory over death”. The Sanskrit names “Mritunjoy”, “Mrityunjai”, and “Mrityuanjaya” also mean “victorious over death”.
- OSIRIS
The name Osiris comes from Egyptian mythology. In it, this was the name of the one who is the judge of the underworld and the god of the dead.
- RASHN
The name Rashn is said to be the Modern Persian variation of “Avestan Rashnu” which means “justice”. A Yazata who bestowed judgment upon the souls of the dead in Zoroastrianism was named Rashn.
- SAMAEL
When looking at all names that mean death, one that stands out is the name Samael, as this is the name of a fallen angel who is better known by many as the Grim Reaper himself.
- SEPHTIS
The name Sephtis is said to have hailed in Persia. This name carries with it the meaning of “eternal death”.
- THANATOS
Thanatos is a name that stemmed from Old Greek. The name Thanatos holds the meaning of “death” or “he who brings death”. A shorter variation of this is the Greek name “Than”.
- YAMA
Yama is a name with duality in its meaning. In Sanskrit, this name means “twin”, but at the same time, Yama is also the name of the god of death in Hindu.
- YAMAJIT
The name Yamajit is of Indian roots. It is said to be among the many names signifying Lord Shiva as the conqueror of death.
Girl Names That Mean Death
It’s a common understanding that names of girls are generally associated with such meanings such as delicate, or beauty. Adding names that hints toward death makes them curious and shroud it with mystery. Here is the list of names for girls that mean death.
- ADALIAH
The name Adaliah is an Israeli name that is said to carry with it the intricate meaning of “one that draws water, poverty, cloud, and death”.
- ANGERONA
Of names that mean death, one that has a certain regal nature to it is the name Angerona. This is a name derived from Roman mythology, wherein it was the name of the Roman goddess of silence, death, and the winter solstice.
- ATROPOS
Atropos is a name that is rooted in Greek mythology. This name has the meaning of “inflexible” and “inevitable”. In Greek mythology, the one named Atropos would pick the manner one would face death and then would cut the life thread of the being.
- ABIBA
The name Abiba originated in Morocco. It means “the firstborn child after the grandmother has died.” It sounds cute and has a lyrical tone to it. If you want to honor the death of your loved one, you can choose this name. Some other variations of this name are Abieba, Abibah, Abeiba, Abeeabah, and Abeaba.
- ACHLYS
Achlys has its roots in the Greek language. It sounds ancient and has a mythical vibe to it. According to Greek mythology, the personification of doom and misery was Achlys. Also, she was a demon who used to cloud over the eyes of the dead. The name holds the meaning of death mist. You can also choose some other variations, such as Achlus and Akhlys.
- AMAIA
Amaia has its roots in Basque culture. It is a beautiful name with a certain elegance that you cannot ignore. It holds the meaning of the end. In 2021, Amaia was 640 in the U.S. on the list of the most popular names. A famous personality with this name is Amaia Montero Saldias. She is a Spanish singer.
- ASAKA
The name Asaka has its roots in the Japanese language. It holds the meaning of a beautiful death. It sounds cute and has a feminine vibe to it. You can choose this name if you are into sweet names, just like your baby girl.
- BASHEMATH
The name Bashemath is said to have stemmed from Isreal. This name carries with it the meaning of “confusion of death”.
- CHIWA
Chiwa is a name that hails from Africa. It is an uncommon name that has the meaning of “death”.
- CLOTHO
Clotho is a name that has roots in Greek mythology. In it, this was the name of the one who is responsible when it comes to spinning the thread of life.
- DABRIA
The name Dabria is said to be of English origin. This English moniker carries with it the meaning of “angel of death”.
- DEYANIRA
Of names that mean death, one that has a powerful and regal vibe is the name Deyanira. This name is rooted in the epic tragedies found in Greek mythologies. Deyanira means “man destroyer”.
- ERESHKIGAL
When looking at names that mean death, one that has a complexity to it is the name Ereshkigal. This name has the meaning of “lady of the great earth,” — and in Sumerian mythology, this is the name of the goddess of the underworld and death.
- ERNALINE
The feminine-sounding Ernaline is a name that has both Norweigan and Celtic roots. Ernaline has the meaning of “capable”, “serious”, or “battle to the death”.
- FREYJA
The lovely name Freyja is said to be a name that is given to the lady of beauty, love, and death. This name is of Scandinavian and Norse origins.
- HECATE
Among names that mean death, one that is a stands out is the name Hecate, because in Greek mythology, this is the name of the goddess who is associated with crossroads, witchcraft, demons, tombs, and the underworld.
- ILAMATECUHTIL
Perhaps one of the more complicated and unforgettable names that mean death is the name Ilamatecuhtil. This is an Aztec name that has the meaning of “Aztec fertility” as well as “death goddess”.
- KEKET
The name Keket is said to have originated in Egypt. This name carries with it the meaning of “goddess of darkness”.
- KHAALIDA
The name Khaalida is of Arabic origin. This name is said to have the meaning of “immortal” or “deathless”. A variation of this name is “Khalida”.
- LACHESIS
The name Lachesis is said to mean “one who is responsible for the length of time each being had to live.”
- LEFU
Lefu is a name that hails from Africa. This African baby girl’s name carries with it the meaning of “death”.
- LIBITINA
The name Libitina is derived from Roman mythology. In it, this is the name of the Roman goddess of death and funerals.
- LORALAI
Of all the names that mean death, a beautiful one is a name Loralai, which is of German roots. In German legends, this is said to be the name of the siren who would sit on a rock and lure sailors towards their deaths with her mesmerizing singing. A few equally lovely variations are “Loralie” and “Loreley”.
- LOUHI
The name Louhi is said to have stemmed from Finnish mythology. In it, Louhi was another moniker of Loviatar, who is the death goddess.
- MARA
Mara is a name with a gentle nature about it. This name is said to have been derived from “Marah”, a Hebrew name with the meaning of “sorrow” or “bitterness”. In Swedish, the meaning of Mara is “nightmare”. In Sanskrit, Mara has the meaning of “death”.
- MARAMA
In Maori, the name Marama is said to mean “moon”. It is said that in Polynesian and Maori mythology, Marama is the name of the goddess of the moon and death.
- MORANA
A name that sounds similar to “Marama” is Morana, a name that is of Slavic roots. This name is said to mean “goddess of winter and death”.
- MORRIGAN
When looking at names that mean death, one that has a stately air about it is the name Morrigan. This name is of Irish roots, and it means “goddess of death and war”. It can also mean “great emperor queen”.
- NAENIA
Naenia is a name that in Latin has the meaning of “incantation”. This is said to likewise be the moniker of the Roman goddess of funerals.
- NEPHTHYS
Nephthys is the name of the wife of Seth, a desert god. It is said that this was also the name of an Egyptian goddess who was associated with death, mourning, and the air.
- OMISHA
The name Omisha is of Hindi origin. This name is said to have the meaning of “spirit of birth and death”.
- PERSEFONI
Persefoni is a name with roots in Old Greek. This Greek name has the meaning of “bringer of death”. The name Persefoni is popular in Homeric tales as well as Greek mythology.
- SHIVANI
The name Shivani is said to have originated in India. This name carries with it the meaning of “life and death”.
- TANDA
The name Tanda has origins in Native America. This name holds the meaning of “the seer of life and death”.
- THANA
The name Thana is of Arabic origins. This name is said to carry with it the meaning of “death”.
- VALDIS
Valdis is a name that has roots in Old Norse. It is said to have been derived from the Old Norse words “valr” which means “the dead,” and “dis” which means “goddess”.
Unisex Baby Names That Mean Death
Baby naming is something different at this time and age. Parents are more innovative in naming their newborns than during the time of their ancestors. These days, when infants are named after a saint, a biblical figure, or after a grandparent’s name, it is daring and different.
When it comes to naming infants, rules no longer exist. Social taboos are now outdated, and it is alright to be bold and go for names that mean death. Whatever your reasons are, unisex names that mean death are venturesome and distinctive. Read on to find some gruesome baby names that may mean dark for boys and girls.
But give credit to the light.
- ACHYLS
Achyls is a unisex name of Greek origin that means “darkness.” It is one of the figures portrayed in Hercules’ Shield, an epic poem that manifests sorrow. Achlys is also mentioned in Homer’s Iliad as a mist that blinds the eyes of mortals, leading to their deaths. In its lighter meaning, this name suggests an extroverted and adventurous person. These qualities will inspire your baby to become naturally independent.
- AERON
This Welsh name means “mountain of strength,” and it is associated with the goddess of war and death. Aeron, in Celtic mythology, is the God of slaughter and unjust violence. Even if your little bundle of joy is given a name such as this, he will still choose peace over war, and the baby’s strong will to do what is right, will be the child’s best asset.
- AZRAEL
In Jewish and Islamic religions, Azrael is one of the archangels who watches over the dying. The meaning of this name is “angel of death,” and it is of Hebrew origin. While it may sound terrifying, Azarael means “helped by God” in Hebrew. The biblical Azrael assists God by fetching the souls of the dead to find peace.
 Baby Azrael will be a good friend and will always reach out to those in need.
- FIREFLY
Firefly is a unique gender-neutral name originating in Japan, meaning “to lead the dead into the afterlife.” To the ancient Japanese, the ghostly light of a firefly is thought to be the reincarnated form of soldiers’ souls who have died in wars. But the positive interpretation of a firefly is a metaphor for love. Baby Firefly is a beautiful name that suggests a generous person with a nurturing character.
- GOKE
A unisex name that has a Chinese origin. Goke means “black” and is associated with death. However, the name’s deeper meaning denotes a diplomatic and peaceful person. Baby Goke will be inspired to become a kind-hearted and philanthropic individual.
- HAKUMEI
In the Japanese language, where this word came from, Hakumei means “short life,” an unfortunate condition resulting from unfortunate consequences. But then, this name has an equally enthralling meaning: pure. From the Japanese root word Haku, this is a river spirit in the guise of a white dragon. This giant white dragon has run errands and performed different tasks for other creatures, a character that Baby Hakumei will certainly have.
- HIZUMI
A unisex name of Japanese origin, Hizumi means “harmful” and is associated with death. However, behind its negative connotation, the name Hizumi suggests something that is bright and clear, like the sun. The sun is essential for our health and well-being and is a mood booster. Baby Hizumi reminds you of being the sunlight in your life.
- KAIDEN
A very rare name of Japanese origin meaning “stairwell,” or sometimes it may also mean “a scary story.” During the Edo Period in Japan, a Kaiden is a narrative of ghostly or scary stories, something that is strange. The hidden meaning of the name Kaiden, though is companion and warrior. It implies Baby Kaiden grows strong with a clear motivation of what he wants to do in life, to persevere with a purpose.
- LEFU
It is a South African name of African origin, meaning “sickness” or “death,” and is an ill omen. However, people with the name Lefu have a strong personality and will be able to have a highly fruitful life in their own manner.
- OMEGA
In Greek origin, Omega is a unisex name meaning “the end” because this is the last letter in the Greek alphabet. It is often perceived as a symbol of completion. People who bear the name Omega are optimistic, kind-hearted, and always ready to extend a helping hand to those in need. This name is perfect if your child is the youngest, as parents always save the best for the last, the apple of everyone’s eye in the family. Baby Omega will be inspired to become an adventurous and spiritual person.
- RAVENA
Coming from the Old English word “hraefu,” this is a gender-neutral name that means “dark-haired” or “wise.” It may also imply the blackbird, which is associated with death. However, the raven is known for its distinct croaking voice. Even though the raven is considered a bad sign when you see one, Baby Raven is going to inspire renewed energy in your life.
- SHADE
In Arabic, where this name originated, Shade means “in the shadow,” a reminder of darkness. The variation of Shadi in Arabic translates to “happiness” and a “seeker of knowledge” in English. Your Baby Shade will be someone who can be a shield or cover, just like a tree that protects us from the sun. It implies the ability to influence others and create his own path to success.
- SHINIGAMI
In Japanese culture, where this name originated, a shinigami is a deity that entices humans to their deaths. The meaning of this name is “dark god,” and it is described as a monster of darkness. But unlike its grim meaning, a person with this name Shinagami doesn’t make things evil. Baby Shinigami can conquer darkness and will possess a good fortune in life.
- YANI
A unisex name that means “darkness” in Japanese origin, the name Yani also means “Yahweh is merciful” in Greek. This name signifies a calm and detail-oriented individual. Baby Yani will be inspired to “think outside the box” and be a strong-willed person.
Conclusion
Baby-names that mean death may be viewed by many as out of the norm, or decidedly untraditional. But these names can actually have powerful and intricate meanings and would make for very unique and unconventional name choices for your little one.
If you are an adventurous parent who opts to give your baby an uncommon name, feel free to choose from this list of unisex baby names that mean death. We are all different in one way or the other, no two sets of parents have the same choices when it comes to selecting a name for their newborn.
Hi, I am Claudia, I run TheQueenMomma’s content creation team, personally focusing on topics which add joy to people’s life. You would usually see me writing on topics like Jokes, Riddles, Truth & Dare as well as Baby Names etc.
In my professional career, I have a Bachelor’s and Master’s in sociology and specialize in media and crime. Once I finished my education, I began my career working as a journalist, reporting on various topics like crime, justice and family law. Even though I valued journalism, I came to the realization that I wanted to have a more immediate impact in people’s lives as well as bring joy to them.