"It’s easy to love trends. And they tend to be popular for a reason. Year after year, it’s so exciting to see what trends new parents come up with in the baby name realm. From boy names for girls to buzz terms like “quiet luxury,” it’s almost as if a newborn baby is a muse for creativity when selecting a moniker. And trends tend to be what define eras. Like the Ashleys and Michaels of the ’90s or the resurgence of old-school baby names in the 2020s.
Every now and then, though, it can be really fun to do something totally different. Looking into the past for baby name inspiration is not new. But, there tends to be a limit on how far back we go. That doesn’t have to be the case and is exactly why we wanted to go way back in the history books for this ancient baby names roundup.
Below, we’re diving into the interesting topic of ancient baby names. From Ancient Greece to Ancient Egypt to mythological realms and beyond, most of these baby names haven’t hit the charts since the B.C.’s (well before the introduction of the Social Security Administration). If you’re a history buff about to welcome a newborn or simply love learning about the past, read on for inspiration from our favorite ancient baby names.
Ancient Greek Names
Aeliana
Starting off strong is the gorgeous name for a little girl. Derived from the Roman ancient last names of Aelianus and Aelius, Aeliana is perfect for your new ray of sunshine as it means “sun.”
Andreas
Similar to the more modern Andrea, this version is more intended for a little boy. Fit for a warrior, the name means “strong” and “manly.”
Athena
A name many of us have heard before but may not see on the school roster, it brings to mind a Greek goddess. Athena was known for wisdom, warfare, and craftwork.
Calliope
This adorable title may sound more like a nickname at first glance, but its history makes it even more appealing. Known as a muse in Greek mythology, she inspired poets, musicians, and more, just like your little “beautiful-voiced” girl will do for you.
Cassia
Perfect for nature-loving parents, this Ancient Greek title that also has Latin ties refers to the tree of the same name and means “cinnamon.”
Castor
If you’ll be welcoming a little Gemini in the future, consider naming him Castor—considered to be one of the Gemini twins in Greek mythology. Interestingly, the name means “beaver.”
Cyrus
Perhaps you’re welcoming a baby in the summertime. In that case, why not gift them this name that simply means “sun”?
Damon
Known in Greek mythology for his loyalty and friendship, this masculine name is the perfect mix of strong and soft. It means “one who tames.”
Daphne
While Bridgerton may have put this name back on the map, its history extends farther than even the book series. A nymph in Greek mythology, the highly nature-inspired baby name means “laurel tree.”
Evander
A name fit for a warrior, Evander was said to be a hero in the Trojan War. What’s even better is that you’ll be raising a little one with a name that means “good man.”
Gaia
The Greeks were known for their love of the Earth (and beyond), meaning the nature baby names are a plenty. Gaia—the Greek mother goddess—holds the lovely meaning of “earth.”
Helios
Because your little one is sure to be radiant, consider this ancient baby name. The god of the sun, Helios fittingly refers to the “sun.”
Lazarus
While this masculine name is of Greek origin, its claim to fame has Biblical ties. Like a moniker ready for resurgence, Lazarus was brought back to life by Jesus in the New Testament of the Bible.
Leander
Another mythological figure, perhaps the best part about this name is the meaning of “lion man.”
Orion
If you need a shooting star to choose the perfect baby name, look no further. Known as the son of Poseidon and a mighty hunter, many are familiar with Orion from astrology. His name means “heaven’s light.”
Plato
Raise a distinguished philosopher with this ancient name. Pay homage to one of the greats—Aristocles, AKA Plato—by giving your little one this name meaning “broad-shouldered.”
Zephyr
After a long nine months, bringing home your little one may feel as refreshing as a cool breeze. That’s why it may be fitting to give him this name, meaning “west wind,” inspired by one of the gods of wind.
Ancient Roman Names
Caesar
A name fit for a ruler, Caesar (or Cesar) brings to mind the fierce general of the ancient Roman Empire, Julius Caesar.
Juno
Exceptionally fitting for a baby girl born in June, the name meaning “June” also has ties to Roman mythology as the protector of marriage and women.
Livia
Meaning “blue,” Livia has ties to Roman artwork. The color was used in paintings of their esteemed deities.
Marcellus
Associated with the Roman deity Mars, Marcellus is a fitting title for a “young warrior.”
Minerva
Said to be the Roman goddess of wisdom and invention, a little girl of this name can grow to be quite the achiever. She would also hold a title meaning “intellect.”
Nero
With Latin and Italian ties as well, this name has quite the history. In reference to Ancient Rome, it was seen as a nickname often bestowed upon men of great strength.
Otto
For a little one fit for greatness, perhaps name him after the founder of the Holy Roman Empire: Otto the Great. Plus, it has built-in nickname potential right there!
Severus
While many of us know him from the Harry Potter series, his title actually goes back to Ancient Rome and holds the meaning of “stern.”
Tarquin
Fit for a king, a little boy with this highly uncommon name will share a noble title with two early kings of Rome.
Titus
This was a highly popular name choice for boys in Ancient Rome, and with the meaning of “title of honor,” we understand why!
Valentina
With ties to the holiday of love, a feast celebrating Saint Valentine fell on the same day as the Roman fertility festival. Because of this, the Roman origins of the name have come to be “strong” and “healthy.”
Ancient Egyptian Names
Amon
Sharing the name of a mythological deity may have its perks, not the least of which is the mysterious meaning of “hidden one.”
Cleo
Short for Cleopatra, our list of ancient baby names would be incomplete without this inclusion. Inspired by the queen of Egypt from 51 to 30 B.C., Cleo holds the meaning of “to celebrate”—exactly what you’ll do when you welcome your newborn.
Darius
Nickname your little one “Darius the Great” after the Persian ruler who conquered a large portion of Egypt in 519 BCE. Fittingly, the title means “maintains possessions well.”
Layla
The perfect dichotomy of dark and delicate, Layla has both Egyptian and Arabic roots. It means “night” or “night beauty.”
Khalid
We may know him for his ballads, like Young, Dumb & Broke and OTW, but Khalid’s reign has an extensive history well before the young artist’s voice. Another name with Arabic ties, it’s no wonder this ancient name can still be seen today as it means “immortal” and “everlasting.”
Pharaoh
Give your little one a unique but highly regal title with this name referring to an ancient Egyptian ruler.
Ramses
A little boy of this name will share a moniker with several rulers and pharaohs of ancient Egypt.
Ancient Latin names
Aurelia
With ties to the Roman surname Aurelius and ties to a Roman Emperor, this name has quite the history. It has Latin roots and is fit for a shining little girl with the meaning of “the golden one.”
Amias
Bringing home a little one means experiencing love like you never have before. Because of that, why not gift him this unique name meaning “beloved”?
Felicia
With meanings like “lucky,” “fortunate,” and “happy,” it’s safe to say that’s exactly how you’ll feel welcoming a little girl of this name.
Florentina
A highly poetic name, your little girl is sure to “blossom” with this darling title.
Honoria
Your little girl is sure to bring plenty of “honor” to your family. This feminine title also has ties to the ancient Roman empire as Valentinian III’s sister.
Horatio
Derived from an ancient surname, the Latin name with ties to Shakespeare’s Hamlet means “timekeeper.”
Quintus
Perfect for a family of seven, this name means “fifth.” Perhaps you can bestow it upon your fifth child!
Ancient Mythological Names
Avalon
Those familiar with Arthurian mythology may recognize Avalon as the name of the island King Arthur was brought to after his final battle. For a name that has an interesting story, give your little one this title meaning “island of apples.”
Branwen/Bronwen/Bronwyn
We can see why this name is slowly gaining popularity as it’s as lovely as it is historic. In Welsh mythology, Branwen is the daughter of King Llyr and is known for her incomparable beauty. Though the name may mean “fair,” we know a little girl of this name is sure to be just as beautiful in her parents’ eyes.
Cerridwen
Another inclusion of Welsh origin, Cerridwen was known as the goddess of the underworld. Easily shortened to the sweet Cerri, a little girl with this name would have a title meaning “blessed poetry.”
Itzel
Inspired by the Mayan goddess of the moon, medicine, and love, Itzel holds the lovely meaning of “rainbow.”
Jupiter
Traditionally masculine, Jupiter has recently started making a name for itself for girls as well. While the fifth planet is quickly brought to mind, the name also holds the meaning of “supreme god.”
Loki
Whether you’re a fan of Norse mythology, Marvel, or both, this name may be all the inspiration you need. Sharing a title with the god of mischief, you may be raising a little troublemaker—but we know it’s nothing you can’t handle!
Neptune
Another celestial baby name, in ancient times, Neptune was seen as the “god of water.” This may be an out-of-the-box but fitting choice for a little one being raised near the sea.
Rhiannon
More than just a Fleetwood Mac song, Rhiannon was known for being the Celtic goddess of fertility. The name fittingly means “great queen” or “goddess.” Wouldn’t you love to love her?
Shadrack
While this name may be a mouthful, it’s powerful and can easily be shortened to Shad. It’s brought to our list by the Babylonian god of the moon.
Thor
More than just your favorite Avengers character, Thor has ties to Norse mythology as the god of thunder.
Unique Ancient Baby Names
Abelia
A great alternative to the modern Abigail, Abelia has Hebrew ties and means “sigh” or “breath.”
Arya
We may be more familiar with the alternative spelling of Aria, but this variation has Sanskrit origins and means “noble” or “spiritual.” Game of Thrones fans may find this name especially appealing, as it brings to mind the fierce Arya Stark.
Asha
With an extensive history and ties to Disney’s Wish and Game of Thrones, it’s a wonder why this name hasn’t gained popularity. We think the Swahili, Hindi, and Sanskrit name, meaning “hope” and “life,” is fit for a revival.
Bodhi
With Buddhist roots, this name brings to mind the concept of nirvana with the Sanskrit meaning of “enlightenment.”
Caxton
We’re seeing the similar name Cashton become more and more popular, but it may be a while before Caxton has the resurgence it deserves. The Old Norse and Old English name means “lump settlement.”
Chrysanthe
A name this lovely doesn’t come around very often. It has ties to Ancient Greece and brings to mind the Chrysanthemum flower. Perfect for a November baby—whose birth flower will be the Chrysanthemum—this name holds the lovely meaning of “golden flower.”
Engjell
Coming from the Albanian word for “angel,” this highly unique title goes way back and brings to mind winged supernatural beings.
Rufus
Believed to be more than 2,000 years old, Rufus has Latin ties and hasn’t been a popular choice since the 1980s. It’s especially fitting if you’re welcoming a little “red-haired” one.
Wolfgang
Dating all the way back to the 8th century is this ultra-cool and edgy baby name. Slowly seeing a revival, Wolfgang has yet to make it to the top 1,000 list. But, with the meaning of “way of the wolf,” we’d be surprised if it never did.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!