The moon doesn’t just pull the tide to the shore, control the four seasons, and light up the night—it also provides excellent baby naming inspiration. That tiny glowing orb in the sky is a universal symbol of light and hope. Having fascinated humankind for all time, the moon’s influence on languages around the world is substantial. In fact, some of the dreamiest, most memorable baby names are inspired by the moon.
If you’re in search of a name for your little one, and the night sky is drawing you in, look no further. We’ve rounded up over 60 baby names that mean moon. Beyond popular names that mean moon, like Luna and Atlas, this list of baby names also pulls from ancient texts and mythologies from around the world.
You may also like:
- A Little Wonder: 75 Baby Names That Mean ‘Miracle’
- Baby Zodiac Signs: What Your Child’s Sun and Moon Signs Can Tell You
- From the Heart: 100 Baby Names That Mean ‘Love’
Baby girl names that mean “moon”
What is a new baby girl if not a dash of hope and light? These baby girl names are classic yet mesmerizing, encapsulating just how special welcoming a new baby into the world is.
Aelin
Meaning “off the moon” or “halo around the moon,” Aelin is of Turkish and English origin and is simple yet strong. You may recognize this one as the heroine of Sarah J. Maas’ bestselling Throne of Glass series. As a huge fan of the books, I can say with certainty that any little girl would be lucky to share a name with a fantasy hero like Aelin Ashryver Galathynius.
Ayla
Ayla is an original and beautiful name sure to connect your little one to the world around them. Its literal translation is “halo of light around the moon,” but it also has ties to oak trees and gazelles.
Celicia
Celicia is a girl’s name with countless celestial associations. Translating to “heaven” or “moon,” the name’s unique spelling allows for a rhythmic and romantic feel.
Elly
Though first rising to fame as a nickname, Elly has earned the right to stand on its own. Meaning “torch” or “moon,” every translation of Elly embodies light and hope.
Hilal
Of Arabic origin, Hilal means “crescent moon” and symbolizes new beginnings, light, and renewal—exactly what the moon embodies each night it rises into the sky in preparation for a new day.
Ilona
With Finnish and Hungarian roots, Ilona has several meanings— “shining light,” “moon,” and “torch,” to name a few. If this one rings a bell for you, you’re probably thinking of Ilona Maher, Olympian rugby player and female icon.
Iyla
Literally meaning “moonlight,” this ethereal baby name will bring to mind the guiding light of the moon each and every time you say it.
Kamaria
Parents in search of a moon-inspired baby name other than Luna will love the rhythmic nature of Kamaria. With Persian roots, this is a baby name that will surely help your little one shine.
Mahina
In Hawaiian mythology, Mahina is the name of the goddess of the moon. For a baby who loves to sleep during the day and be lively at all hours of the night, this may be a worthy title.
Nery
Any parents out there know that their baby is the light of their lives, and they deserve a name that reflects this. Nery is a unique choice that means “bright moon,” “my light,” or “my fire.”
Lanie
Stemming from the more vintage name Elaine, Lanie means “brilliant,” “shining,” and “moon,” all worthy adjectives to describe a lively little girl who shines light on those around her.
Lua
While Lua translates to moon, there are countless other reasons to give this title to your little girl. In Roman mythology, Lua was a powerful war goddess who bowed to no one. For a determined little girl with a fiery spirit, there is no better first name.
Runa
With Japanese and Norse origins, Runa has meanings ranging from “moon” to “secret lore.” For a name steeped in history, consider this worthy choice for your little one.
Selena
Selene was the goddess of the moon in Greek mythology, and Selena is the feminine, modern twist on the title. It is also a name proudly worn by several notable celebrities, such as Selena Gomez.
Zira
Zira’s African roots have associations with moonlight and sunrises. What better way to celebrate the way a new baby represents a new chapter in your life?
More baby girl names that mean “moon”
- Amaris
- Ariel
- Cela
- Ila
- Levanna
- Luna
- Masina
- Neoma
- Saleena
- Selie
- Sonoma
- Yana
Baby boy names that mean “moon”
It’s natural to be drawn to the night sky when naming your little boy. Baby boys, after all, bring so much light and joy into our lives—and these names capture that feeling wholly and completely.
Atlas
Atlas is the name of one of Saturn’s many moons. It also translates to “to endure,” a title sure to spawn strength and diligence in your little boy.
Apollo
Though Apollo was the god of the sun and music in Greek mythology, the God’s storied history has a multitude of connections to the stars and the moon.
Arche
Arche is a unique twist on the more common “Archer,” and though not directly meaning “moon,” has associations with cycles and new beginnings—a charming callback to the lunar cycle and all it signifies.
Chander
With Indian roots, Chander at first glance might remind you of the name Chandler from Friends. But Chander stands on its own, with meanings ranging from “moon” to “pleasant” to “shining.”
Dal
In Korean, Dal is the ancient name for the moon. It is short and simple, a charming choice for two astronomy-loving parents and their little one.
Ihan
With both Hebrew and Arabic roots, Ihan has two meanings: “God is gracious,” and “full moon.” No matter which meaning you choose to adopt, a name like this will remind your little one to find the light within themselves.
Jericho
With a wealth of historic roots, Jericho means “city of the moon.” It has maintained its storied history (and fame) as a common name for boys.
Luca
Though literally meaning “light,” Luca is just one letter away from the most notable moon-inspired name, Luna. It’s also a nice shoutout for Disney lovers—the animated film Luca is a fan favorite.
Lucian
Lucian also means “light,” and has been the first name of notable painters and philosophers.
Mani
Mani is a Norse God whose personification is the moon. The name also translates to “jewel,” and is a worthy title for a little boy who is a treasure in his family’s life.
Nox
A short and simple option, Nox is the Latin word for “night.” Though not directly translating to “moon,” Nox has countless celestial ties.
Oberon
Oberon is one of the moons of Saturn. It also translates to “royal bear,” a noble title for a strong little boy.
Rakesh
Rakesh is the Hindu God of the moon. It is also associated with the Hindu God Shiva, who—though originally known as the destroyer—is ultimately the god of transformation. A baby boy with this title can be open to a multitude of exciting opportunities.
Tycho
Tycho itself does not mean moon, but it is the name of a prominent crater on the moon. Though it’s a more unique option, nicknames like “Ty” make this moniker a great option for your new little boy.
Zenith
Zenith means “highest point,” or “peak,” and is already a memorable and cool name for your little one. For those obsessed with the night sky, you may also know that a zenith moon represents the moment when the moon reaches its highest point, directly above the horizon. This is the ideal moment for observers (especially those with a telescope).
More baby boy names that mean “moon”
- Aadhira
- Annigan
- Badar
- Esad
- Luan
- Max
- Muraco
- Samson
- Tariq
- Titan
Gender neutral names that mean “moon”
In 2026, gender neutral baby names will continue to become more and more popular. This list of names that mean “moon” has all the picks you’ll need for a baby girl or boy, from classic options to more unique monikers.
Aiman
With meanings ranging from “blessed” to “beauty of the moon,” Aiman has Arabic roots and is a charming choice for a little boy or girl.
Callisto
Callisto is the second-largest moon of Jupiter, and also translates to “most beautiful.” For a new baby, there is no worthier description than this.
Halil
Though directly translating to “dear one” or “friend,” Halil is an Arabic name that is closely tied to Hilal, a female name meaning “crescent moon.”
Io
In Greek mythology, Io was an Argive princess who caught the eye of Zeus, much to the dismay of Zeus’ wife, Hera, who transformed the young princess into a cow. Her horns were then said to represent the cycles of the moon, later inspiring the name of one of Jupiter’s moons.
Jacy
Of Native American origin, Jacy means “moon” or “creator of plant life.” Simple and stylish, this name is sure to inspire a life spent exploring the outdoors with your little one.
Linus
For members of the true astronomy fandom, Linus is an ideal gender-neutral option. A small asteroid moon that orbits the large M-type asteroid 22 Kalliope, Linus is a name that any of your science-obsessed friends will be enamored by. While your pop culture pals may have the name association with the endearing, blanket-loving Peanuts character.
Mazi
Mazi translates to “protected by the yazata of the moon.” In other words, “protected by the divine being of the moon.” For those who believe in the mythology of the moon, Mazi is a perfect choice.
Nuray
Of Turkish origin, Nuray means “bright moon,” and is a simple yet memorable choice for a little boy or girl.
Orion
You may recognize this one as the name of a famous constellation in the night sky. The name translates to “rising in the sky,” a perfect reference to the beautiful wonders of the lunar cycle.
Sterre
The Dutch word for “stars,” Sterre, may not directly mean moon, but its countless associations with the night sky make up for it. Short and sweet, Sterre is easy to pronounce, yet unique and charming.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Intern
As editorial intern, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content, and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented by contributing to The Everymom.
