Put aside your concerns about names meaning black being associated with evil and discover the shining virtues embedded in our list of beautiful black names.
Black usually refers to a healthy dark complexion or the mysterious allure of pitch-black hair. There is great beauty in dark physical characteristics, which is evident in the many black names inspired by nature’s birds and animals. The raven, blackbird, black bear, and black fox are all rooted in mythology and are associated with some of the most delightful black names for boys and girls.
Let’s jump right in and unravel a few mysteries!
100 Beautiful Names that Mean Black for Boys and Girls
Don’t be left in the dark! Discover our enlighting list of 100 beautiful names that mean black.
Abnus
Abnus is an old Persia name related to ebony wood. Ebony is dense enough to sink in water, making it useful for home building. With an appealing almost black interior color plus the functional characteristics of ebony, Abnus takes on a universally desired dynamic.
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Ebony, dark wood, black wood
- Pronunciation: AB-nus
- Popularity: Abnus is widely used in Arabic and other Muslim countries.
Adham
Adham is an Arabic masculine name that stems from a cultural attachment to horses. Adham, meaning “dark” or “black,” comes from the darkness of the black stallion, a prized possession among Arab people. Adham is very close to Adam, the first man in the Bible.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Dark, black
- Pronunciation: AD-ham
- Popularity: Adham is mostly used in Arabic countries but is not very popular.
Adriana
Adriana is the feminine form of Adrian or the Roman Adrianus. Adriana relates to darkness or blackness through physical appearance. However, a bronze-toned complexion or pitch-black hair is not a prerequisite to using Adriana for your new bundle of joy. Adriana is filled with light and laughter among girl names that mean black.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Of Adria, of the Adriatic, dark
- Pronunciation: ah-dri-AN-a, a-DHRYA-na
- Variations: Adriane, Adreana, Adrianna
- Popularity: Adriana is a popular girl’s name across the globe.
Adriyan
Adriyan is the Slavic and Hindu variant of Adrian, referring to a dark or black person from the Adriatic region. This is odd in India because there are Indians of all skin tones. Still, it is understandable among the mostly pale-skinned Slavic people. Adriyan could be a charming name for a lily-white boy born with dark black hair.
- Origin: Latin, Bulgarian, Russian, Hindu
- Meaning: Black, of Adriatic
- Pronunciation: a-DREE-yan
- Variations: Adrian
- Popularity: Adriyan is fairly well used in Slavic countries and among Hindu people.
Angus
Angus is a proud Scottish boy’s name, belonging to a Scottish breed of black cattle. In this way, Angus is associated with black by default. The Scottish Celtic god Angus Og helped his people acquire his wisdom and intelligence, making Angus a revered name in Scotland.
- Origin: Celtic, Scottish
- Meaning: One strength, singular, only choice
- Pronunciation: ANG-gas
- Variations: Aonghas
- Namesakes: Angus Young, an Australian musician, lead guitarist, and co-founder of the rock band AC/DC.
- Popularity: Angus ranked #58 in Australia in 2021 and #61 in Scotland in the same year.
Ashvat
Ashvat originated as a Hindu masculine name relating to a strong black horse and was adopted by many other Indian religions. Today Ashvat is common among Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Oriya, and Tamil. Ashvat might be mistaken for a Persian or Arabic name due to a common appreciation for black horses.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindu
- Meaning: Black horse, strong, holy tree
- Pronunciation: ASH-what
- Variations: Ashwath
- Popularity: Ashvat is a widely popular name in India but less so elsewhere.
Axenus
Axenus typically falls into the category of names meaning black by referring to a person’s geographical origin. This is a common trait of many ancient names that tag a person’s identity to their location. Axenus is a powerful name and could easily be associated with a dark warrior or war.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: From the Black Sea
- Pronunciation: Ak-seh-nus
- Popularity: Axenus is not a common name but is widely used in Brazil.
Balmore
Balmore derives from an old Scottish surname taken from a place name. Balmore is more common as a surname in the U.S. and Scotland than as a first name. Balmore has a connection to coal, and the “black hill” reference points to early discoveries of coal deposits in the Balmore region.
- Origin: Scottish, Gaelic
- Meaning: He who comes from the dark black hill
- Pronunciation: BAL-more
- Popularity: Balmore is not a commonly used first name.
Bhramara
Bhramara derives from Hindi mythology and relates to the need for enlightenment. It is believed that Lord Shiva’s wife took the form of a bumble bee to go out and search for the truth, hence the meaning “wanderer” and “large black bee.” Bhramara has a deep meaning that resonates on different levels with everyone.
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: Wanderer, large black bee
- Pronunciation: bh-RAM-ara
- Popularity: Bhramara is not a very common name.
Bisman
Bisman has several spelling variations with additional meanings, including “wonderful” and “house full of happiness.” Bisman is a short, strong name with a cool modern feel and fits the bill of black names for boys. Bisman can be adapted to a girl’s name by dropping the “n” at the end, creating Bisma.
- Origin: Indian, Sikh, Punjabi
- Meaning: Black, dark blue
- Variations: Bisma, Bismeet, Bismal, Bismun
- Popularity: Bisman is widely used among Sikh and Punjabi people but not very common worldwide.
Blackwell
Blackwell originated as a locational surname for people living near places called Blackwell in England in the Derbyshire, Durham, and Worcestershire counties. This ancient surname is recorded as “Blacheuuelle” in the 1086 Doomsday Book for Derbyshire. Blackwell is one of the names that mean black, which remains a unique and rare first name.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Black stream, dark stream
- Pronunciation: BLAK-wehl
- Popularity: Blackwell is not a commonly given first name.
Blake
Blake derives from the Old English word “blaec,” meaning “black.” Blake was also used as a nickname for someone with pale hair or skin, possibly linking to the word “bleak.” Besides being a prominent surname, Blake was a masculine given name before becoming popular as a gender-neutral name.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Black, dark, bright, shining, pale
- Pronunciation: BLAYK
- Namesakes: Blake Tollison Shelton, an American country singer, and judge on The Voice USA, who made his debut in 2021 with his hit song Austin.
- Popularity: Blake ranked #205 in the U.S. in 2021 and is popular in many English-speaking countries worldwide.
Blakely
Blakely stems from an old English surname with the elements “black” and “leah,” meaning “woodland clearing.” Blakely is a cute and refreshing feminine name with a modern flair. Two popular nicknames options include Blake and Lee, and when combined, it goes back to the beautiful Blakely.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Dark wood, clearing
- Pronunciation: BLAYK-lee
- Variations: Blakeley
- Popularity: Blakely ranked #154 in the U.S. in 2021 and is a popular name.
Blakeney
Blakeney derives from a habitational name from Gloucestershire or Norfolk. Each location has the element “black, dark” and “eg,” meaning “island.” Blakeney is a small coastal village in Norfolk, England. Perhaps Blakeney carries dark secrets from the mysterious Black Island, making black names even more alluring.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the Black Island
- Pronunciation: BLAYK-nee
- Popularity: Blakeney is a rare first name.
Branwen
Branwen derives from Welsh mythology as the daughter of Llr. In the Second Branch of the Mabinogi, she was mistreated by her husband, the king of Ireland, and died of grief shortly after her rescue.Branwen is an unusually beautiful name in the line-up of black names for girls, referring to the mysterious black raven.
- Origin: Old Welsh
- Meaning: Blessed raven
- Pronunciation: BRAN-wehn
- Popularity: Branwen is widely used in English countries but not popular.
Brenna
Brenna might be a variant of Brenda or the feminine form of Brennan, but its origin remains uncertain. Brenna could have derived from the Old English “Brom Dun” or the Irish “Breanainn” of Lombardian origin. Raven black hair is stunning in any light as the sheen or fleeting glitter catches the eye. Brenna is one of the punchier feminine names that mean black.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Raven, black-haired
- Pronunciation: BREHN-ah
- Popularity: Brenna is widely popular, but last featured on the U.S. popularity list in 2017 at #994.
Caliban
Caliban is a melodic Romanian male name derived from the Spanish word “canibal,” meaning “cannibal.” Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” featured Caliban as the deformed son of a witch. To add to this, in Arabic, “ya Kalib” means “you dog” and is a nasty insult. But Caliban is above name-calling, and Calli or Kalli are strong nicknames to silence the naysayers.
- Origin: Romanian
- Meaning: Black
- Pronunciation: KAL-e-ban
- Variations: Callan, Calman, Calaman
- Popularity: According to popular name lists, Caliban is not a common name.
Catahecassa
Catahecassa was the name of an 18th-century Shawnee warrior and chief. Like other indigenous American tribes, the Shawnee named their children after unusual or notable events at the time of birth. Catahecassa is a deeply traditional name in the ways of the Shawnee people, holding different significance to western names meaning black.
- Origin: Shawnee Indigenous American
- Meaning: Black hoof
- Pronunciation: KA-TA-HE-kassa
- Popularity: Catahecassa is a rare name.
Ceara
Ceara is said to derive from the Latin word “serra,” meaning “saw, to saw.” In Gaelic, Ceara means “black, bright, famous.” Cearra is a common alternative to Ciara, and in the U.S., it’s Sierra with a different pronunciation.
- Origin: Irish, Gaelic
- Meaning: Black, bright, famous
- Pronunciation: KYAR-a, KEER-a
- Variations: Cearra, Ciara, Ciera, Cierra, Sierra
- Popularity: Ceara is widely used in many western countries but is not popular.
Cedron
Cedron is a biblical name known as “the brook Kidron” referring to the brook below the eastern wall of Jerusalem. Also known as “the black torrent,” where Asa burned the obscene idols of his mother. The valley became the common cemetery in the time of Josiah. Although not spiritual, the valley was littered with tombs on the banks of the brook and is a sacred place for the Jewish people.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Black, sad
- Pronunciation: Ke-dron, keh-THRONE
- Popularity: Cedron is widely used in Israel but not popular elsewhere.
Charna
Charna derives from a Slavic word meaning “black,” referring to black hair. Charna is used in different countries and languages, especially those with some connection to the Hebrew culture and language. Charna is a refreshing name given to baby girls born with pitch black hair, which is adorable.
- Origin: Yiddish
- Meaning: Dark, black
- Pronunciation: SHHAR-na
- Popularity: Charna is not very common globally but fairly well used in Israel.
Chernobog
Chernobog derives from the Slavic “cherno,” meaning “black,” and “bogu,” meaning “god.” Chernobog is one of the most popular Slavic gods associated with the cult of Chernobog. Chernobog, the god of bad fate, is worshipped by the Polabian Slavs and is one of the more well-known yet rare names meaning black.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: God of darkness, black god
- Pronunciation: CHE-rr-no-BOG
- Popularity: Chernobog is a rarely used name.
Chogan
Chogan is commonly used in mythology and often interpreted as a symbol of sorcery and mystique. The association with warlocks, witches, and other celestial beings suggests that Chogan may have supernatural powers. Chogan is also the name of a lesser-known goddess worshipped in India. Chogan is a modern-sounding male name and a gem among black names.
- Origin: Siksika Native American
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: cho-GAN
- Popularity: Chogan is widely used in Christian countries but is not a popular name.
Ciar
Ciar derives from Irish mythology and literally means “black.” Although used as a unisex name, Ciara is a more popular choice for girls. Ciara was a nun who established a monastery in Tipperary in the 7th-century. The popular soldier’s marching song, “It’s a long way to Tipperary,” was written by an Irish worker in London who was missing his home. Ciar is a beautiful name and reminder of home.
- Origin: Old Irish
- Meaning: Black
- Pronunciation: KEER
- Popularity: Ciar is widely used in western countries but not overly popular.
Ciaran
Ciaran is the Gaelic masculine form of Ciara of Irish origin. Ciaran derives from the Irish “ciar,” meaning “black,” with a diminutive suffix added to the end. In the U.S., Ciaran is spelled Kiaran, but the Irish / Gaelic spelling is now used more often. Among black names, Ciaran has charm and modern-day appeal.
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: Little dark one, little dark-haired one
- Pronunciation: KEE-ren
- Variations: Kiaran
- Namesakes: Ciaran Hinds, an Irish actor known for his role in the film Excalibur.
- Popularity: Ciaran ranked #766 in England in 2020 and #79 in Ireland in 2017 but is also widely popular in other western countries.
Colby
Colby derives from an English occupational surname, and “black farm” refers to a coal mining town. It could also be a general place name for any coal mining town. Colby could stem from the Old Norse nickname Koli meaning “coal, dark.” Colby stands out among black names as a universal male name used across ethnic and religious lines.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the black farm
- Pronunciation: KOL-bee
- Variations: Kolby
- Popularity: Colby ranked #650 in the U.S. in 2021 and is popular worldwide.
Cole
Cole derives from an Old English surname from the bynames “Cola” and “Charcoal.” Cole relates to the blackness of high-grade coal and is commonly given to babies with dark features. Cole is a short snappy name with a deep history of hard work and progress.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Swarthy, coal black
- Pronunciation: KOL
- Popularity: Cole is widely popular in western countries.
Colt
Colt is an English first name and surname derived from the English word for a young male horse. Samuel Colt was the creator of the Colt handgun, made popular during the Wild West days. Colt is a relatable name with some notable macho appeal!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Residing in a dark town with no source of light, a young male horse
- Pronunciation: KOLT
- Popularity: Colt ranked #220 in the U.S. in 2021 and is also popular in other western countries.
Corbett
Corbett derives from the Anglo-Norman French and Middle English “corbet,” a diminutive of “corb.” Corbett originally stems from the Latin “corvus,” meaning “crow, raven.” Corbett was initially a surname for someone with a dark complexion or black hair. Today, Corbett is viewed as an aristocratic English given name.
- Origin: Latin, English, French
- Meaning: Black raven
- Pronunciation: KOR-bet
- Variations: Corbet
- Popularity: Corbett is widely used in English-speaking countries but is not very popular.
Cush
From ancient biblical texts, Cush refers to the Ethiopian people, specifically their dark complexion or blackness. In the English Anglo-Saxon culture, Cush was a surname given to a person who made leather armor for the knight’s legs. Cush was later used as a trades name for a shoemaker. Cush is an unusual name with a mixed bag of meanings; the perfect choice for your little man.
- Origin: Ancient Hebrew, English
- Meaning: Ethiopians, blackness, leatherworker, shoemaker
- Pronunciation: KUSH
- Variations: Kush
- Popularity: Cush is a rare name worldwide.
Delaney
Delaney derives from the Gaelic surname O’Dubhshlaine meaning “the black river,” referring to the river Slaine. Delaney is also an Irish surname meaning “dark challenger.” In contemporary times, Delaney is viewed as a jaunty and melodic unisex name.
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: Black river, dark challenger
- Pronunciation: di-LAYN-ee
- Variations: Delanay, Dahlia, Delaynie, Delia
- Popularity: Delaney ranked #269 in the U.S. and is a widely popular name.
Dolan
Dolan is a shortened Anglicized form of the Gaelic O’Dubhlain. The element “dubh” means black” and “slan” means “challenge.” Dolan is one of the many neutral names that mean black as it relates to black hair. Dolan is also a gentle name but retains the masculine quality of being bold and courageous.
- Origin: Gaelic,Irish
- Meaning: Black-haired, dark, bold
- Pronunciation: DOH-lan
- Popularity: Dolan is a widely used name but not very popular.
Donovan
Donovan derives from the Irish surname O’Donndubhain composed of two elements, “donn,” meaning “brown,” and “dubh,” meaning “dark, black.” Donovan is a well-recognized and admired Irish name around the world. Donovan complies with black names for boys but is a more regal and soft name.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Dark warrior
- Pronunciation: DAHN-a-van
- Popularity: Donovan ranked #423 in the U.S. in 2021 and is popular in many other English-speaking countries.
Doug
Dough is the short form of Douglas, derived from the Scottish “dubh” meaning “dark” and “ghlas” meaning “stream, river.” Douglas was one of Scotland’s most powerful families during the Middle Ages. Doug is a fun name with serious undertones making it one of the ideal names meaning black.
- Origin: Gaelic, Scottish
- Meaning: Dark, black, black water
- Pronunciation: DUG
- Popularity: Dough ranked #739 in the U.S. in 2021 and is widely popular worldwide.
Doyle
Doyle derives from the Irish surname O’Dubhghaill, from the given name Dubhghall. Doyle could also be a derivative of O’Doyle, the Anglicisation of the Irish O’Dubhghaill. Doyle is a rare yet welcomed first name to anyone with Irish blood as it holds the mark of home.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Black stranger
- Pronunciation: DOI-yal
- Namesakes: Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle, a British physician and author of the Sherlock Holmes mystery stories.
- Popularity: Doyle is a widely used surname but rare as a first name.
Dubhan
Dubhan derives from the Old Irish Dubán. Dubhan was created from “dub,” meaning “dark, black,” combined with a diminutive suffix. Dubhan is more common as a surname than a first name and was used by a few early saints.
- Origin: Old Irish
- Meaning: Little dark one, dark, black
- Pronunciation: DUBH-an
- Popularity: Dubhan is not a very common name around the world.
Dubthach
Dubthach derives from the Irish “dub,” meaning “dark, black,” but the second element is of unknown meaning. The 6th-century Bishop of Armagh held this ancient name which is also recorded in Irish legend as the companion of Fergus mac Roich. Dark or black refers to skin complexion and hair color, which is in line with other names created from “dub, dubh.”
- Origin: Old Irish
- Meaning: Dark, black
- Pronunciation: DUB-th-ach
- Popularity: Dubthach is a rare Irish name.
Duncan
Duncan derives from the name Donnchadh meaning “brown warrior, dark head.” Duncan is the most popular male first name in Scotland and was also the name of a powerful Scottish clan. Duncan carries the pride of the Scots and is a charming warrior name to add to the collection of names meaning black.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Dark warrior
- Pronunciation: DUNG-ken
- Popularity: Duncan ranked #978 in the U.S. in 2020 and is very popular in Scotland and other English-speaking regions worldwide.
Dwayne
Dwayne derives from the Gaelic surname O’Dubhain where “dubh” means “dark, black.” Dwayne is linked to the church of Dubhan that was influential during Medieval times but now lies in ruin. Dwayne has a modern flair and is an attention-grabbing name.
- Origin: Irish, Scottish
- Meaning: Dark-skinned, dark-haired, of dark complexion, dark one, black
- Pronunciation: DWAYN
- Variations: Duane, Dwain, Dwaine, Dwane
- Popularity: Dwayne is widely used in English-speaking countries but not very popular.
Ebonique
Ebonique is an ultra-feminized form of ebony that places this eloquent name into a new league. Ebonique radiates style and glitz and could well be used as a stage name. In contemporary times Ebonique should get a big boost with the increased focus on boldness.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: Black, black wood
- Pronunciation: EHB-ah-neek
- Popularity: Ebonique is widely used but not popular.
Ebony
Ebony derives from the Latin “hebenus” and from the Greek “ebenos,” meaning “ebony, intense blackness.” Ebony also comes from the Hebrew root “eben,” possibly from the Egyptian “hbnj,” referring to wood as hard as a stone. Ebony is a musical name frequently associated with the slogan “black is beautiful.”
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Intense blackness, hardwood
- Pronunciation: EHB-an-ee
- Popularity: Ebony is widely popular in central and southern Africa, Scandinavian countries, and the U.S. Ebony also ranked #507 in England in 2020.
Edhem
Edhem is of Bosnian, Arabic origin and refers to a person with a dark complexion. Edhem is a common Muslim boy’s name and is considered a neutral name. Edhem is an easy name to remember and even easier to pronounce.
- Origin: Arabic, Bosnian
- Meaning: Dark-skinned, black
- Pronunciation: ED-hem
- Popularity: Edhem is widely used but not very popular outside Muslim communities.
Esmeray
Esmeray derives from the Turkish “esmer,” meaning “dark,” and “ay,” meaning “moon.” Esmeray sounds romantic as it relates to a black night sky with a faint moon. Esmeray is a delicate and mysterious feminine name, a gorgeous choice among black names for girls.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Dark moon
- Pronunciation: ES-me-rye
- Popularity: Esmeray is widely popular in Muslim countries.
Fabron
Fabron is an occupational surname derived from the Old French word “fevre,” meaning “blacksmith.” In recent times Fabron has become a unisex first name but is yet to catch on. Fabron is a lovely flowing name that falls beautifully among black names.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Blacksmith, young blacksmith
- Pronunciation: FA-bron
- Variations: Favre, Favreau, Fevre, Fabre, Faure
- Popularity: Fabron is not a widely used name.
Ferrari
Ferrari derives from the Latin “ferrarius,” a derivative of “ferrum,” meaning “iron.” Ferrari is now a household name thanks to the Maranello-based automaker who wanted a strong name for their sports car. Interestingly, Ferrari is Italy’s third most common surname and is a racy name for our modern times.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Blacksmith, ironworker
- Pronunciation: fehr-RA-ree
- Variations: Ferrero
- Popularity: Ferrari is a widely used first name but not very popular.
Ferrer
Ferrer in Catalan descends from Ferrari and refers to a blacksmith or ironworker. Ferrer is often given in honor of Saint Vicente Ferrer, the patron saint of builders. Ferrer is a strong name that promotes hard work and makes a good choice for your baby boy.
- Origin: Latin, Catalan
- Meaning: Blacksmith, ironworker
- Pronunciation: FE-re-er
- Popularity: Ferrer is widely used in Spanish and French regions but is not popular.
Huyen
Huyen is a Sino-Vietnamese name meaning “deep, profound, mysterious, black.” Possibly referring to physical features like hair color as some shades of black hair is truly awe-inspiring. Huyen is also one of the more common surnames in Vietnam. Although unisex, as a first name, Huyen is mainly given to girls.
- Origin: Vietnamese
- Meaning: Jet black
- Pronunciation: HWYUN, HWYUNG, WYUNG
- Popularity: Huyen is a trendy name in Vietnam and fairly popular in other parts of Asia.
Inali
Inali is a stunning Native American name mainly used by the Cherokee people. In the Cherokee history of 1801, Black Fox was announced as the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation by the council of chiefs to succeed Little Turkey. Inali was revered as a wise and beloved man by his people.
- Origin: Cherokee American
- Meaning: Black fox
- Pronunciation: EE-nah-lee
- Variations: Enoli, Enola
- Popularity: Inali is not a commonly used name.
Inola
Inola is a Cherokee Native American girl’s name with the same meaning as Inali and Enoli. Inola is a beautiful nature-inspired name, and the black fox has incredible characteristics for a little girl to emulate. Inola is pronounced the same as the English Enola, but the meanings are worlds apart. Inola has substance and is a fresh take on the aged Enola.
- Origin: Cherokee American
- Meaning: Black fox
- Pronunciation: EE-no-la
- Popularity: Inola is a rare name compared to the English Enola.
Jemisha
Jemisha is a Hindu feminine name meaning “Monarch of the night” or “queen of the darkness.” Jemisha is a favored Hindu name, leading to the understanding that she may be a benevolent queen. The black of night may sound scary to some people, but it also carries an aura of beauty and intrigue.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindu
- Meaning: Queen of night
- Pronunciation: je-MISH-ah
- Popularity: Jemisha is a widely used name among Hindu people.
Jetta
The Latin meaning of Jetta derives from a black gemstone called “jet.” Jetta also means “home-ruler,” taken from Henriette, also meaning “home-ruler.” Jetta is the short version of Henriette. Jetta is a proud female name among other stylish names meaning black.
- Origin: Danish, Latin
- Meaning: Home ruler, jet black
- Pronunciation: YEH-ta
- Popularity: Jetta is an uncommon name across the world.
Kali
Kali is the Hindu goddess of destruction and the wife of Shiva. She is usually depicted with black skin and four arms, holding a severed head with a sword in hand. Kali is seen as the fierce side of the goddess Devi, representing wrath and destruction. In reality, Kali is a relatable name often used as a nickname without much thought to the Hindu meaning.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Goddess of destruction, the black one
- Pronunciation: KAH-lee
- Popularity: Kali is widely popular and ranked #283 in the U.S. in 2021.
Kara
Kara is mostly a girl’s name with numerous origins and meanings. Only the Ottoman Turkish people used Kara as a boy’s name, meaning “black, dark,” which translates to “courageous.” Kara is also an Italian girl’s name meaning “beloved, dear,” and the Irish and Old Norse meaning is “wild stormy one.” Kara is one of the names meaning black with a diverse cultural range of meanings, giving Kara an international flair.
- Origin: Turkish, Latin, Italian, Irish, Old Norse
- Meaning: Dark, black, courageous, beloved, dear, wild stormy one
- Pronunciation: KAHR-ah
- Variations: Cara
- Popularity: Kara is popular worldwide and ranked #767 in the U.S. in 2021.
Karuppan
Karuppan is a Hindu name that celebrates dark complexions in the same way Lord Krishna is celebrated. Lord Krishna is a dark-skinned god, viewed as “all-attractive.” Karuppan is a melodic male name that takes on the likeness of Lord Krishna.
- Origin: Hindu
- Meaning: One who is dark, black is beautiful, one who is black
- Pronunciation: KA-RUP-PAN
- Popularity: Karuppan is widely used among Hindu people.
Kass
As a boy’s name, Kass stems from the East German surname Kass which derives from the Czech “kos,” meaning “blackbird.” As a girl’s name, Kass is the short version of Kassandra, meaning “catcher of men, shining upon men.” Kass is a sweet unisex name that can bridge boundaries between cultures.
- Origin: German, Czech
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: KASS
- Variations: Cass
- Popularity: Kass is widely used in Europe but not very popular.
Kaval
Kaval originates in India and is a surname and first name. The Kaval surname is widespread in New York City, Turkey, and other countries. As a first name, Kaval is a popular boy’s name among Hindu people. Interestingly, the kaval is a flute played in Armenia, the Balkans, and Turkey, giving this endearing name a musical note.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Dark-skinned, black toned
- Pronunciation: ka-VAL
- Popularity: Kaval is a common name among Indian people.
Kerry
Kerry derives from the Gaelic “Ciaran” or “Ciarraighe,” known as the kingdom of Ciar or county Kerry. Ciar is the son of Fergus mac Roich, who gave his name to county Kerry. Kerry is like a fresh morning breeze in our modern times and can be seen as an ambassador name for black names.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Dark, dark-haired clan, black-haired
- Pronunciation: KEHR-ee
- Variations: Keri, Kerri, Kerrie, Carrie, Cerise, Cherri, Cherry
- Popularity: Kerry is a fairly popular name in western countries.
Kerwin
Kerwin is an Irish surname and first name of Gaelic origin. In 1940, in the U.S., most people with the surname Kerwin were blue-collar workers, and 19% of the women were teachers. Kerwin has a certain charm as a first name and can be a classier version of the conventional Kevin.
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: Baby with black eyes
- Pronunciation: KUR-win
- Variations: Kerwen, Kervin, Kirwin
- Popularity: Kerwin is widely used in the U.K. but not very popular.
Kiara
Kiara is a beautiful blend of the Irish Ciara and Italian Chiara. Ciara derives from “ciar,” meaning “dark, black,” and Chiara means “bright, clear.” Kiara takes on the Irish meaning but specifies raven-black hair, giving credence to this stunning yin and yang name with complimentary meanings.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Woman with raven-black hair
- Pronunciation: kee-AHR-ah
- Variations: Keara, Keira, Kiarra, Kiera
- Popularity: Kiara is popular in English-speaking countries and ranked #332 in the U.S. in 2021.
KoKo
Koko stems from the Native American Blackfoot Tribe of Montana, Alberta, and Canada. Koko is also of Japanese origin and means “stork” or “night,” which also alludes to black. Koko is a sassy girl’s name that may sound more like a nickname which is perfectly normal in our modern times.
- Origin: Native American, Japanese
- Meaning: Night, black foot, stork
- Popularity: Koko is widely used but not very popular.
Kolbjorn
Kolbjorn is a typical Old Norse name used in Sweden as a surname and first name. The Kolbjorn surname can be traced to the U.S., where many Kolbjorn military veterans are recorded. It appears that the ferocity and might of the black bear lives on in this traditional name.
- Origin: Swedish
- Meaning: Black bear
- Pronunciation: KOL-be-yorn
- Popularity: Kolbjorn is more common as a surname than a first name.
Krishna
Krishna derives from the Sanskrit word “Krsna,” meaning “black, dark, dark-blue, the all attractive.” Krishna is the Hindu god believed to be an incarnation of the god Vishnu. In some Hindu traditions, Krishna is usually depicted with blue skin and regarded as the supreme god. Krishna is known as a virtuous and compassionate god.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindu
- Meaning: Black, dark, dark-blue, the all-attractive
- Pronunciation: KURSH-nu, KRISH-nah
- Popularity: Krishna is a popular name among Hindu people.
Kulya
Kulya’s association with “sugar-pine nuts burnt black” could be based on the Native Americans’ love for roasted sugar-pine nuts. We can easily understand how tribe members could have burnt the nuts as they were distracted by the excitement of a new baby’s arrival. Kulya is also a Russian boy’s name derived from the Latin Aquila, meaning “eagle.” In both cases, Kulya is representative of different cultures and might be the hidden gem you’re looking for.
- Origin: Miwok Native American, Russian
- Meaning: Sugar-pine nuts burnt black, eagle
- Pronunciation: COOL-ya, KUL-ya
- Popularity: Kulya is a commonly used name in Russia.
Lerola
Lerola is said to also derive from Brazildue to the early Spanish influence in South America. Lerola inspires freedom and mystery and is a melodic choice among the many black names for girls meaning “blackbird.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: le-ROLA
- Popularity: Lerola is an uncommon name worldwide.
Li
Li is a common Chinese unisex name with a twist. If a boy is given the name Li, the meaning is “powerful”; for a girl, the meaning is “pretty.” Li is also one of Asia’s most common surnames, with the variant Lee, which means “plum, plum tree.” Li remains a charming name regardless of the meaning.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Black, stand, establish, pretty, powerful
- Pronunciation: LEE
- Popularity: Li is a trendy name in Asia and other countries worldwide.
Licarayen
Licarayen derives from Mapuche “likan,” a type of black stone, and “rayen,” meaning “flower.” According to legend, Licarayen was a maiden who sacrificed herself to stop the wrath of the evil spirit of a volcano. Licarayen is a heavenly nature-inspired name and, although a long name, deserves a second thought.
- Origin: Mapuche Native American
- Meaning: Stone flower
- Pronunciation: LEE-kah-rye-YEN
Lonan
Lonan derives from the Old Irish “lon,” meaning “blackbird,” combined with a diminutive suffix. Lonan belonged to many early saints and therefore has a strong spiritual connection. The “blackbird” relates to hair color resembling the blackbird’s shiny black feathers.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little blackbird
- Pronunciation: LUW-nan
- Popularity: Lonan is a fairly popular name in English-speaking countries.
Lyla
Lyla derives from an Arabic/Persian romance story and means “night.” The dark of night is the ultimate blackness and is not necessarily evil, just filled with the beauty of the unknown. Lyla is often given to girls born at night but more so for the sheer charm of this sweet feminine name.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Night, born at night
- Pronunciation: LAI-lah
- Variations: Laela, Leyla, Leilah, Lyla, Laila,
- Popularity: Lyla is very popular globally and ranked #110 in the U.S. in 2021.
Makvala
Makvala derives from the Georgian word “maqvali,” meaning “blackberry.” Makvala is another splendid nature-inspired name that joins the ranks of black names. As a girl’s name, Makvala represents the sweet rewards found in nature names.
- Origin: Georgian
- Meaning: Blackberry
- Pronunciation: MAK-va-lah
- Popularity: Makvala is fairly common in Georgia but not so elsewhere.
Maroochy
Maroochy derives from an Australian Aboriginal language, either Kabi Kabi or Terrubal. Black swans are rare and extremely beautiful, making Maroochy a heartfelt name for a baby daughter. Maroochy grows on you the more you say it and could offer some funky nicknames.
- Origin: Aboriginal Australian
- Meaning: Black swan
- Pronunciation: ma-ROO-chee
- Popularity: Maroochy is a rare name worldwide.
Mayon
Mayon is the Sangam Tamil name for their black god, also known as Lord Krishna in Sanskrit literature. Mayon resonates with the virtuous qualities of Lord Krishna but also has inner courage and fortitude to protect in the same manner as Lord Krishna. Mayon is a noble-sounding boy’s name and will make an excellent choice for your baby boy.
- Origin: Indian, Sanskrit, Tamil
- Meaning: Black god
- Popularity: Mayon is widely used among Hindus and Christians but is not very popular.
Melanie
Melanie derives from the Greek “melania,” meaning “blackness,” and “melas,” meaning “dark.” Melanie is the French version of Melania, which the English later used. Melanie was also a Roman saint who gave all her wealth to charity in the 5th-century, a powerful gesture of grace.
- Origin: Greek, French
- Meaning: Dark, black
- Pronunciation: MEHL-a-nee, MEH-la-nee
- Variations: Melany, Mellony
- Namesakes: Melanie Richards Griffith, an American actress known for her role in the film Working Girl.
- Popularity: Melanie ranked #129 in the U.S. in 2021 and is popular worldwide.
Melanthios
Melanthios derives from Greek mythology, composed of the elements “melas,” meaning “black, dark,” and “anthos,” meaning “flower.” This was the name of an insolent goat herder killed by Odysseus in Homer’s epic the Odyssey. Melanthios has roots in early history and can produce some interesting nicknames if chosen.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Black, dark, flower
- Pronunciation: ME-lan-thi-os
- Popularity: Melanthios is a very rare name.
Merel
Merel might be confused as a variant of Meryl, but the two names are worlds apart. Meryl is Gaelic, meaning “bright sea,” while Merel is Dutch, meaning “blackbird.” Merel is a fascinating addition to black names for girls because it has the charm of the blackbird and homely familiarity.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: MEH-rel
- Popularity: Merel ranked #81 in the Netherlands in 2020 and is fairly popular in a few other countries.
Merle
Merle derives from the Celtic “muir geal / Muireall,” composed of two elements, “muir” for “sea” and “geal” for “bright.” The word “merle” means “blackbird,” which oddly has no connection to the origin. Merle, has the charm of the blackbird, and one can see how two different names can come together beautifully.
- Origin: Celtic, English, French
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: MURL
- Variations: Merial, Muriel, Merrill
- Popularity: Merle is fairly popular in western countries.
Mirla
Mirla is another beautiful example of a blackbird expressed in different languages. Mirla is also of English origin and is a variant of Meryl, meaning “shining sea.” Mirla is a gorgeous French feminine name and should make it onto your shortlist of names that mean black.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Blackbird
- Pronunciation: MIR-lah
- Popularity: Mirla is very popular globally.
Morris
Morris is an English variant of the French Maurice derived from the Latin Mauritius or Maurus. The Romans used Morris to name dark-skinned Africans. Morris is another name referencing complexion to identify a group of people from a geographical area. Morris is an unlikely ghetto name even if it represents a very small make of car, the Morris Minor.
- Origin: Latin, French, English
- Meaning: Dark-skinned, black, drew out, Moorish
- Pronunciation: MAWR-is
- Variations: Maurice
- Popularity: Morris is fairly popular in western countries.
Mustanen
Mustanen derives from “musta,” the Finnish word for the color black. Mustanen is a Finnish surname that is also used as a first name. Mustanen is widespread in Finland and Russia and refers to a person of dark complexion or black hair.
- Origin: Finnish
- Meaning: Black
- Pronunciation: MUS-ta-nen
- Popularity: Mustanen is more widely used as a surname than a first name.
Nerissa
Nerissa is an Italian feminine name meaning “black-haired” but also has Greek roots. The Greek meaning is “from the sea” and derives from the Greek “Nereis,” meaning “nymph, sea spirit.” Nerissa is a fresh take on Melissa and should prickle your interest a bit.
- Origin: Italian, Greek
- Meaning: Black-haired, from the sea
- Pronunciation: ne-RIS-ah
- Popularity: Nerissa is not a very popular name
Nigel
Nigel stems from Latin, Old Danish, and Celtic languages, and the common theme is dark complexion or black hair. Nigel also derives from the Gaelic Neill, from “nel” meaning “cloud” or “niadh” meaning “champion.” The Vikings adopted the Gaelic name and used it in Scandinavia and France before finally going to England.
- Origin: Latin, Gaelic, English
- Meaning: Dark complexion, raven-haired, black, dark, champion
- Pronunciation: NIE-jel
- Variations: Nagel, Nigella, Neil, Nigellus
- Popularity: Nigel is fairly popular in western countries.
Nisha
Nisha derives from the Dravidian Tamil “nisha,” meaning “night, mid-night,” the blackest part of the night. In Hindu mythology, Nisha was the twin sister of Ziarre, the goddess of the day. Nisha also means “courage, spirit, morale, resolution” and is a soft feminine name with an international feel.
- Origin: India, Sanskrit
- Meaning: Dark, night
- Pronunciation: NEE-sha
- Popularity: Nisha is widely popular in India and other English-speaking countries.
Noir
Noir is French for “black.” People in northern France originally used Noir as an ethnic nickname for those from southern France, Spain, Italy, or North Africa. Its association with darkness could have come from nightshift workers.
- Origin: French, English
- Meaning: Black
- Pronunciation: NOR
- Popularity: Noir is not a very commonly used name.
Nox
Nox derives from the Latin “nox,” meaning “night.” Nox is a Roman and Greek mythological name for the goddess of the night, which relates to blackness. Nox is considered a variant of the Scottish masculine Knox, but the two names are unrelated. Nox is a fancy unisex name with modern appeal, ideal for your very own dark angel.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Goddess of the night, of the night
- Pronunciation: NOKS
- Variations: Knox
Onyx
Onyx is one of the gemstone names suited to boys and girls alike. Onyx derives from the English word for a gemstone that can be black, red, or other colors. Onyx is originally from the Greek “onyx,” meaning “claw, nail.”
- Origin: Greek, English
- Meaning: Black gemstone
- Pronunciation: AHN-iks
- Popularity: Onyx is popular in the U.S. and ranked #406 in 2021.
Pittiulaaq
Pittiulaaq is an Inuit Native American name drawn from nature and is the name of the sea bird species, Cepphus grylle. It’s understandable why this nature-inspired name is so rare, but you can change that if you are looking for an unusual or unique name.
- Origin: Inuit Native American
- Meaning: Black guillemot
- Pronunciation: PIT-tieu-LAK
- Variations: Pitseolak, Pitsiulaaq
- Popularity: Pittiulaaq is a rare name.
Quintisha
Quintisha is a Latin girl’s name meaning “Quintessa essence.” Originating from Botswana, Quintisha means “black and proud.” With such a bold meaning, one could imagine Quintisha being very popular among African Americans. Quintisha was last recorded in the U.S. in 1997. Since record-keeping began, there have been 40 people recorded with this delightful name globally.
- Origin: Latin, African
- Meaning: Black and proud
- Pronunciation: KWIN-tee-sha
- Variations: Quintessa, Quintella, Quentessa,
- Popularity: Quintisha is a rarely used name across the globe.
Raven
Raven derives from Anglo-Saxon roots meaning “dark-haired person” and the ancient Germanic “hraban” meaning “raven.” Raven is a nature-inspired name after the raven bird, symbolizing pride among African-American and Wiccan people. Many cultural traditions incorporate the black raven as a source of mystical power.
- Origin: Old English, Old Germanic
- Meaning: A thriving person, a dark-haired person, blackbird
- Pronunciation: RAY-ven
- Variations: Ravenna
- Popularity: Raven ranked #409 in the U.S. in 2021 and is popular worldwide.
Regin
In Old Norse, Regin was a mythical blacksmith, possibly making Viking weapons and armor. The Latin origin gives a statelier meaning: “ruler’s advisor.” Regin may be pronounced differently, but the English pronunciation would sound like “region” unless emphasis is placed on the “Re.”
- Origin: Old Norse, Latin
- Meaning: Mythical blacksmith, ruler’s advisor
- Pronunciation: REY-gin
- Popularity: Regin is not a common name
Risna
Risna is of Arabic origin and is mostly used by Islamic people, favored for its virtuous meaning. Risna is a catchy modern name and one of the more adorable black names for girls.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: A wise and black-haired dark woman
- Pronunciation: RIS-nah
- Popularity: Risna is a fairly popular name among Islamic people.
Roisin Dubh
Roisin Dubh features in an Irish legend and song from the 16th-century. In Irish Roisin means “rose,” and Dubh means “black.” The Dubh part could be seen as a middle name and Roisin as the first name. Either way, Roisin Dubh is an unusually charming name that could quickly grow on you.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Rose, black rose
- Pronunciation: ro-SHEEN DUV
- Variations: Rosheen
- Popularity: Roisin Dubh is not a very common name, but Roisin ranked #40 in Ireland in 2019.
Sable
Sable derives from an English word and means “black” after the animal’s rich black fur coat. Sable is native to Northern Asia in the Slavic region. If you’re a nature lover, you may find Sable an attractive name for your little one.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Black
- Pronunciation: SAY-bil
- Popularity: Sable is not a common name.
Shyam
Shyam is the masculine form of Shyama and is the alternative name for the Hindu god Krishna, depicted as a dark blue colored god. Shyam derives from the Sanskrit “syama,” meaning “black, dark-colored, dark blue, brown, grey, green, sable, or having a swarthy complexion.” Shyam is a spiritual name recognized as one of the virtuous black names.
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: Dark, black, blue
- Pronunciation: SHE-yam
- Variations: Shyamal
- Popularity: Shyam is very popular in India.
Siavash
Siavash stems from Persian mythology and is the name of a prince in the epic of Shahnameh. Siavash literally means “the one with the black horse” or “black stallion.” Historically, horses had great value, and black stallions were usually reserved for royalty. Siavash is a powerful manly name, among other names meaning black.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Possessing black stallions
- Pronunciation: SIA-vash
- Popularity: Siavash is a widely used name in Arab countries.
Sinopa
Sinopa is a charming girl’s name of Blackfoot Native American origin meaning “fox, black foot.” Sinopa is a typically beautiful nature-inspired name that makes your blood race. If you love nature, you won’t hesitate to shortlist this rare feminine name.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Fox, black foot
- Pronunciation: SI-no-PAH
- Popularity: Sinopa is not a common name worldwide.
Smith
Smith derives from the Old English “smitan,” meaning “to smite, to hit.” Smith is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world. The meaning actually speaks of metalworking or being a blacksmith.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Metal worker, blacksmith
- Namesakes: Smith Hempstone, a U.S. ambassador to Kenya, journalist, and author, most famous for his role in advocating free and democratic elections in Kenya.
- Popularity: Smith is a very popular surname but not a common first name.
Sullivan
Sullivan stems from the Irish surname “O’Suileabhain,” derived from the Irish “suil,” meaning “eye,” and “dubh,” meaning “dark, black.” Sullivan got a head start in the 1930s through the film “Sullivan’s Travels” and has been popular ever since.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Black-eyed one
- Pronunciation: SUL-ah-van
- Variations: Sully
- Popularity: Sullivan ranked #373 in the U.S. in 2021 and is widely popular in other English countries.
Tamesis
Tamesis stems from Celtic mythology and is the goddess of fresh water. Tamesis is specific to the River Thames in England, which sometimes appears dark, almost black. Black streams and rivers are common in the U.K. due to mineral deposits.
- Origin: Celtic, English
- Meaning: One who is dark
- Pronunciation: TAM-e-sis
- Popularity: Tamesis is not a common first name.
Umbra
Umbra derives from Latin “umbri.” The Umbri were a tribe in ancient Italy descended from an ancient Gaulish tribe. Umbra is one of the unusual girl names that refer to black shadows and is a rare gem among names that mean black.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: Shadow
- Pronunciation: UM-bra, OOM-bre
- Variations: Umbria
- Popularity: Umbra is popular in Italy but rare elsewhere.
Vennela
Vennela is mainly used by Hindu people and is a gorgeous feminine name depicting the moonlight against the black night sky. There are contrasts we reflect on in life, and Vennela, which sounds like Vanilla, carries this message through so well.
- Origin: Indian, Hindu
- Meaning: Moonlight, light, brightness, black sky
- Pronunciation: VE-ne-LAH
- Popularity: Vennela is a fairly popular name among Hindu people.
Zille
Zille is an Old Testament name with Hebrew and Arabic origins and identical meanings. Zille is also a Nordic name but is rare in Scandinavia. Zille is a sweet feminine name that sounds like a cute nickname and might be a good pick for your shortlist.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Shadow, shade
- Pronunciation: ZIL-e
- Variations: Zilla
- Popularity: Zille is a fairly common name in Arabic and Muslim countries.
Black Names FAQs
What Is the Most Common Black First Name?
Denzel is among the top American black names. Biblical names such as Amos and Timothy rank just as high. Top American black names for girls include Beyoncé, after the singer, and Latoya, also a singer and entertainer.
What Kind of Name is Black?
Black is mostly a surname of English, Scottish, Irish, or French origin. Very seldom is Black used as a first name. In the case of a non-English origin, the surname is most likely to be an Anglicisation. Black is often turned into a nickname like Blackie, as an easy way to address a friend with the surname Black.
What Name Means Black Rose?
Roisin Dubh is an Irish feminine name meaning “black rose.” Roisin Dubh is also an Irish legend and song from the 16th-century. The element “dubh” means “black” in Irish, while Roisin means “rose.” This is an unusual name for others, but to the Irish, Roisin Dubh is a beautiful song of the heart.
