61 Rare Names That Mean Death (With Origins)
If you’re searching for baby names that mean death, this list is all you need. We have 61 options of names that are associated with death in some way.
There are different reasons why someone might choose these names for their baby. These reasons can be personal and different for each individual.
Some possibilities include:
Cultural significance: In certain cultures, names with connections to death may not be considered negative. For example, in ancient Egypt, the name Anubis was linked to death and the afterlife, but it was not thought of as something bad.
Symbolic meanings: Some parents might choose a name with a meaning related to death to symbolize overcoming difficulties or starting new. Death names can signify strength and resilience during challenging times.
Unique choices: Some people like to pick dark names that have unusual meanings to make their child stand out or express their own creativity. Names meaning death would definitely be considered a unique choice.
Personal connections: Sometimes a parent will choose a name that means death because it relates to their family history, an experience they’ve had, or because they feel a connection to a particular culture or historical period.
They like how it sounds: Many times parents choose a name for their baby solely because they like the way it looks and sounds and they don’t pay attention to or care about its meaning.
Let’s dive right into our list of names!
Girl Names That Mean Death
Including (origins) and “meanings”
Since many of the names on this list are associated with ancient mythology, we researched some of their meanings on websites like Windows To The Universe (from the National Earth Science Teachers Association). Just remember that certain names have several meanings in other languages.
Abiba (African) “first child born after the death of grandmother”
The name Abiba is given to the first child born after the grandmother passed away. This name shows that life goes on even after the loss of a loved one and honors the connection between generations.
Achlys (Greek) “death mist”
The name Achlys comes from Greek mythology. In the stories, Achlys is connected to the dark mist that surrounds death and sadness.
Adalia (Hebrew) “one that draws water, poverty, cloud, death; God is my refuge”
Adaliah is a biblical name that appears in the Book of Esther. Adalia is one of the sons of Haman. Haman was an antagonist who sought to destroy the Jewish people.
Agrona (Celtic) “the goddess of war in Celtic mythology”
Agrona is a name from Celtic mythology. Agrona was a goddess of war who represented fighting in battles. Warriors would ask her for strength and victory.
Angerona (Latin) “goddess of anguish”
The name Angerona comes from Latin and is connected to Roman mythology. In Roman mythology, Angerona was a goddess associated with feelings of anguish and distress.
People would pray to her for protection against sorrow and to find relief from emotional pain. The name Angerona itself is made up of Latin words that mean “anguish” and “distress.”
Atropos (Greek) “inevitable; inflexible”
In Greek mythology, Atropos is one of the Fates who control people's destinies. She is the one who cuts the thread of fate, which represents when someone's life will end.
Atropos is like the symbol of death for humans. After she cuts the thread, the person's soul goes to the Underworld for judgment.
Bacia (Ugandan) “Family deaths ruined the home”
Bacia is a girl of Ugandan origin which means death.
Chiwa (African) “death”
Chiwa carries a meaning related to death within the Yao culture in Malawi.
Clotho (Greek) “spinner”
Clotho is one of the three Fates in Greek mythology, along with Lachesis and Atropos. The Fates are considered powerful goddesses who each have a specific role in shaping human life.
Clotho’s role was to spin the thread of a person’s life. She is often depicted with a distaff and spindle, symbolizing her task of spinning the thread that represents an individual's life from birth to death.
Together with her sisters, Clotho plays a significant role in shaping the fate and duration of each individual's life.
Ernaline (Old Norse, Old German) “battle to the death”
Ernaline is a version of the Old Norse name “Erna” and a form of the Old German name “Ernestine” which means battle to the death.
Freyja (Old Norse) “goddess of fertility, love, sex, war, and death”
In Norse mythology, Freyja was a well-known goddess associated with love, fertility, battle, and death. People believed she taught certain heroes how to fight.
In battles, she would ride on her chariot pulled by two large cats, accompanied by her Valkyries who were like warrior maidens and selected the bravest fallen warriors to join Odin in Valhalla.
Freyja is also connected to death and the afterlife. It was said that she took half of the fallen warriors in her realm called Folkvangr, while Odin took the other half to Valhalla.
Hecate (Greek) “goddess of death, magic, witchcraft, and the night”
Hecate was a goddess in Greek mythology associated with death, magic, and the night. She had a special role as a guide for souls transitioning from the earthly realm to the underworld.
Hecate was also seen as a protector of crossroads, where paths intersected, and she could offer guidance to those traveling between worlds. Her knowledge of spells and potions made her highly respected in those practices.
RELATED: Baby Names That Mean Magic
Hel (Norse) “goddess of death”
In Norse mythology, Hel is the goddess of death and the underworld who took care of souls who did not die in battle but instead of natural causes. Hel is not evil, but she has a gloomy appearance and her realm is a dark place that is a neutral home for the dead.
Keres (Greek) “female death spirits”
In Greek mythology, the Keres are female death spirits associated with violent or cruel deaths. They are often depicted as dark, malevolent beings who bring about the deaths of warriors on the battlefield.
The Keres are considered the embodiment of violent death, contrasting with other deities such as Thanatos, who represent a more peaceful or gentle end.
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Libitina (Latin) “goddess of funerals, burials, and death”
In ancient Roman mythology, Libitina was the goddess associated with funerals and death. She was believed to preside over rituals related to mortality and the dead.
Lorelei (Old German, Celtic) “murmuring; rock”
In Germanic legend, Lorelei is a captivating siren who would perch on a rock in the Rhine River. She would lure sailors to their death with her beauty and enchanting voice by causing their ships to wreck.
Mara (Sanskrit) “death” - Mara is also on our list of names with 4 letters
In Hindu mythology and ancient Indian religious texts, “Mara” can be translated to “death” or “the god of death.” In Hinduism, Mara is often depicted as a deity who has the power to end life.
Morana (Slavic) “death; plague”
In Slavic mythology, Morana is the goddess of death, winter, and the cycle of life. The name Morana comes from the Slavic word “mora,” which means “death” and “nightmare.”
In addition to death, Morana is also sometimes connected to plague and disease. This connection has to do with the belief that illness is more prevalent during the harsh months of winter.
Morrigan (Irish) “goddess of death; guardian of the dead”
In Irish mythology, Morrigan is a powerful goddess associated with death and war. She is often depicted as a shape-shifter who can take the form of a raven or crow.
As the goddess of death, Morrigan has a role in guiding and guarding the spirits of the deceased. She is considered a guardian of the dead, watching over the realm of the departed.
In battle, she is known to appear as a crow or raven, flying above the warriors and foretelling their fate. Morrigan's presence is often seen as an omen of imminent death and impending conflict.
Morrigan is also associated with sovereignty and the land. She is seen as a protector of the land and a symbol of its fertility.
RELATED: Baby Names That Mean Protector
Morticia (Latin) “death”
Morticia is believed to have originated from the word “mort” which means death in Latin.
Omisha (Hindi) “goddess of birth and death”
Omisha is a Hindi name that means “goddess of birth and death.”
Persephone (Greek) “bringer of death”
In Greek mythology, Persephone is the daughter of Zeus and Demeter. She was abducted by Hades, the god of the underworld, which resulted in her becoming his wife and the queen of the underworld.
Shivani (Hindi) “life and death”
The name Shivani is often derived from Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Lord Shiva represents various aspects of existence, including creation, preservation, and destruction.
Thana (Arabic) “death”
In Arabic, the name Thana is associated with the word for “death.” Thana is derived from the Arabic root word “thanaa,” which means “to die” or “to pass away.”
Valdis (Old Norse) “goddess of death”
The name Valdis is derived from Old Norse roots. The first part, “Val,” is connected to “Valkyrie,” which relates to the concept of “the dead” in Old Norse. The second part, “Dís,” means “goddess.”
Boy Names Meaning Death
Abaddon (Greek, Hebrew) “destroyer; destruction”
The name Abaddon is of Greek and Hebrew origin. In Greek, it means “destroyer,” and in Hebrew, it means “destruction.”
Abaddon is often associated with the angel of death. In the Book of Revelation (Hebrew Bible), Abaddon is the angel who reigns over the abyss, a place of torment and destruction.
Abdulbaith (Arabic) “servant of the Resurrector”
In Arabic, “Abdul” means “servant” and “Baith” refers to “the One who brings back to life.” So, Abdulbaith signifies someone who serves and believes in the power of resurrection.
Admatha (Persian) “cloud of death; mortal vapor”
In Persian, the name Admatha combines “ad” meaning “death” and “matha” meaning “cloud” or “vapor.”
Ahimoth (Hebrew) “brother of death”
In Hebrew, Ahimoth is composed of two parts: “Ahi” meaning “brother” and “moth” meaning “death.”
The name Ahimoth represents a connection with the concept of death, symbolizing a brotherly relationship with mortality.
Ajal (Arabic) “hour of death”
The name Ajal represents the specific time when someone is meant to pass away. It reminds us that death is a natural part of life and that each person has their own appointed time.
Akuji (African) “dead and awake”
In African languages, Akuji combines two elements: “aku” meaning “dead” and “ji” meaning “awake.”
This unique name suggests a state of being both deceased and awakened.
Ankou (Breton) “servant of death”
Ankou comes from the mythology of Brittany, France. In Breton myth, Ankou is a figure who gathers the spirits of the dead and brings them to hell.
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Anpu (Egyptian) “god of the dead”
Anpu (also known as Anubis) is an important god associated with death and the afterlife in Egyptian mythology. He is an Egyptian deity often depicted as a man or god with the head of a jackal.
Anpu was in charge of the city where the dead were buried and played a special role in the mummification process.
It was also believed that Anpu guided the souls of the dead to the afterlife. He helped determine if the person was deserving of a good afterlife.
Anpu was highly respected and worshipped by ancient Egyptians. He was seen as a protector during the journey to the afterlife.
Anubis (Egyptian) “to decay; god of the dead”
In Egyptian mythology, Anubis (also known as Anpu) is often depicted as a god or man with the head of a jackal. He played a significant role in the rituals surrounding death and burial beliefs of ancient Egypt.
Anubis was considered the guardian and guide of the deceased. He was believed to protect the tombs and assist in the process of mummification.
Anubis would also assist in the process that determined whether an individual was worthy of a peaceful afterlife. His presence and rituals provided reassurance to the people, ensuring that the souls of the departed were properly guided and protected in their journey to the realm of the dead.
Ares (Greek) “god of warfare and courage”
In Greek mythology, Ares is the son of Zeus and Hera. He is the powerful god of warfare and is associated with courage, strength, and the art of battle.
Ares is often portrayed as an aggressive god who enjoys the violence and chaos of battle. He was respected and feared by the Greeks.
Azmaveth (Hebrew) “strong death; a he-goat”
In Hebrew, the name Azmaveth combines “Az” meaning “strong” and “maveth” meaning “death.”
Azmaveth is mentioned in the Bible as one of King David's brave warriors. The name represents strength and power, along with the idea of death.
Azrael (Hebrew) “helped by God”
Azrael most commonly appears in various religious texts as the angel of death who helps transport lost souls of the dead to find peace. Azreal means “helped by God.”
Balor (Irish) “the deadly one” - Balor is also on our list of mysterious names
In Irish mythology, Balor is associated with power and danger. He is a significant figure in Irish folklore often depicted as a giant with a destructive nature.
According to legend, Balor possessed a single, destructive eye that had the power to wreak havoc upon anyone who looked into it.
Claeg (English) “mortal”
The name Claeg is of English origin and means “mortal or one who is subjected to death.”
Dáinn (Old Norse) “died; dead; deceased”
The name Dáinn derives from the Old Norse verb “deyja,” which means “to die.” In Norse mythology, Dáinn is also associated with the concept of death.
Ernesh (Indian) “battle to the death; sincere”
The name Ernesh is of Indian origin and has several meanings such as: “battle to the death; determined; honest; sincere.”
Erysichthon (Greek) “cursed with an insatiable hunger that caused death”
In Greek mythology, Erysichthon was a king who was punished by the goddess Demeter for cutting down sacred trees in a grove.
As a result, he was cursed with insatiable hunger, and no matter how much he ate, he remained unsatisfied. This curse eventually led to his death.
Hazarmaveth (Hebrew) “dwelling of death”
In Hebrew, the name Hazarmaveth combines “hazar” meaning “dwelling” and “maveth” meaning “death.”
Jerimoth (Hebrew) “he that fears or rejects death”
There are several individuals mentioned in the Bible named Jerimoth. For example, there is a Jerimoth mentioned in the Old Testament as the son of Bela, a descendant of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:1). Another Jerimoth is listed as one of the Levites chosen by David to serve in the temple (1 Chronicles 24:30).
The meaning associated with the name Jerimoth “he that fears or rejects death” reflects a sense of overcoming or defying mortality.
Kalabhiti (Indian) “of whom death is afraid; long-lived”
The name Kalabhiti comes from India and has two meanings. The first, “of whom death is afraid,” suggests that the person is strong and can overcome challenges. Second, it means “long-lived,” implying that the person may have a longer life than others.
Kalakuta (Sanskrit) “potion of death”
In Sanskrit, “kala” can mean “time” or “death,” and “kuta” can mean “potion” or “mixture.”
Kalaraja (Hindu) “lord of death”
In Hinduism, the name Kalaraja combines “kala,” meaning “death,” and “raja,” meaning “lord.” Kalaraja refers to a deity associated with the domain of death and the ruler of the cycle of life and death.
Kalayavan (Sanskrit) “as horrible as death”
In Sanskrit, the name Kalayavan combines “kala,” meaning “death,” and “yavan,” which translates to “horrible.”
Kritanta (Indian) “god of death”
The name Kritanta is of Hindi origin and means “god of death”.
Maveth (Hebrew) “death”
The name Maveth comes from “mavet” which means “death” in Hebrew.
Methusael (Hebrew) “who demands his death”
Methusael is mentioned in the Bible as a descendant of Cain, from the lineage of Adam and Eve.
Mors (Latin) “death”
In Roman mythology, Mors was the personification of death, often depicted as a skeleton carrying a scythe.
Mot (Ugaritic) “death”
Mot is a deity associated with death and the underworld in Canaanite mythology.
Sephtis (Persian) “eternal death”
Sephtis means “eternal death” in Persian.
Supay (Incan) “god of evil death; lord of the underworld”
In Incan mythology, Supay is considered the god of death and ruler of the underworld. He is often depicted as an evil deity associated with darkness and suffering.
Thanatos (Greek) “death”
In Greek mythology, Thanatos is the personification of death. He is often compared with his brother Hypnos since they both have ties to sleep and death.
Tuoni (Finnish) “death”
In Finnish mythology, Tuoni is also the name of the realm of the dead.
Dark Names That Are Unisex
Jolon (Native American) “valley of the dead oaks”
The name Jolon is of Native American origin, specifically associated with the Chumash tribe of California. It is derived from the Chumash language.
The name refers to a valley where oak trees, which are considered sacred, have died or are found in abundance. It reflects the cultural and natural significance of the oak trees in the area.
Kek (Egyptian) “god of darkness”
In Egyptian mythology, the name Kek refers to a deity associated with darkness and obscurity. Kek is often depicted as a frog or a frog-headed man.
Letum (Latin) “death; destruction”
In Latin, Letum is often used to refer to the act of dying, mortality, or the end of life.
Shinigami (Japanese) “death god”
In Japanese folklore and mythology, shinigami are supernatural beings or deities closely associated with death.
Shinigami are believed to be responsible for guiding the souls of the dead, as well as determining the time when a person will die.
They are often depicted as wearing black robes or cloaks and carrying tools like a scythe or a fan, symbolizing their role in the realm of death.
Here are more baby name posts to consider:
BOY NAMES LISTS
Edgy Boy Names For Your Tough Little Guy
GIRL NAMES LISTS
Strong Girl Names With Powerful Meanings
NAME LISTS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS
We’d love to hear if you have any favorite baby names from our list. Or maybe you’ve got a name suggestion that you’d like added?
Either way, leave a comment and let us know!
