"I’m a lifelong Star Wars mega-fan. The first movie I saw in the theaters was Return of the Jedi. So when I was pregnant and it came time to name my son, I really wanted a Star Wars baby name.
My husband was less than thrilled and we went back and forth on several options. I really wanted Luke, but we compromised on Lucas. Little did he know that Lucas was also an homage to the man who created it all—George Lucas. My son is now 8 and deep into the throws of a Star Wars obsession. Every time we watch a Star Wars movie and the screen shows the “Lucasfilm” logo, his face lights up. And I definitely call him Luke for short.
Funny enough we also had the name Finn on our short list. It’s a family name but no one would have know that we had chosen it for its relation to FN-2187. Ultimately we chose the name based on a number of factors, but for me, the subtle nod to Star Wars is something that means a lot. Those who aren’t Star Wars mega-fans may not understand the appeal of a baby name inspired by a galaxy far far away. But if you grew up idolizing these characters and universe like I did, this list is for you!
There are so many cute Star Wars baby names for your little padawan and the references don’t have to be too obvious. There are many subtle nods that don’t involve naming your child Yoda.
From Anakin to Wicket, Ewan and Hayden, here are some of my favorite Star Wars-inspired baby names. May the force be with you!
Star Wars Baby Names A-Z
Ahsoka: We love brave Snips and her relationship with Anakin. While the name Ahsoka Tano was created specifically for the Star Wars universe, it has origins in Sanskrit and means “without sorrow.”
Anakin: George Lucas invented the name Anakin, inspired by his friend Ken Annakin. In the over 40 years since Star Wars, Anakin has become a popular name, ranking number 543 on the list of the most popular baby names in the United States.
Annie: This is the sweetest subtle reference to Star Wars (and maybe even Father of the Bride!). Annie means “grace” or “favor”.
Jyn: Jyn Erso from Rogue One carries another moniker that was invented specifically for the Star Wars universe. This spelling has no established meaning but is similar to the Chinese name Jin which means “spirit.”
Kira: While Han Solo’s first love in Solo spells her name a little bit differently (Qu’ira), it’s the same pronunciation as the classic Kira. This beautiful nature name can mean “sunbeam” or “leaf.”
Lando: Lando Calrissian is definitely in my top five favorite Star Wars characters. While traditionally a nickname for Orlando or Rolando, Lando on its own is such a powerful name. After all he was the original pilot of the Millenium Falcon.
Leia: One of my good friends who is also a Star Wars super fan named her daughter Leia. And I’m not lying when I tell you if we had a girl that would have been her name. Hey, if you have boy and girl twins and don’t name them Luke and Leia I consider it a crime. Leia is the Hebrew form of Leah and means “light-giving.”
Lucas: So here is where I become suspect. After all, I chose this name for my only child. Lucas is of Greek origin and means “bringer of light.” And a nickname for Lucas? You guessed it…Luke. So Luke and Leia basically share a name meaning. I do not think this is a coincidence. Also, Lucasfilm is pretty cool!
Luke: Again, Luke is the short form of Lucas, sharing the same meaning. You can’t convince me that it’s not the coolest name to give your child. I also love how the character names of the two main heroes in the originals were so simple. Luke and Leia.
Owen: Luke’s Uncle Owen Lars had a small but pivotal role in the rebellion and future of the galaxy. The name is of Welsh origin and means “young warrior.”
Padmé: I always thought Padmé was a name made up by George Lucas. Turns out he took the word from Sanskrit—specifically a Buddhist mantra “Om mani padme hum.” It means “lotus.”
Poe: Of the new characters, Poe Dameron is probably one of my favorites. He’s a brave pilot that reminds me of Han Solo’s transition from rogue to hero. It’s also a fairly unusual name.
Ren: So this is where it gets interesting. Ren (as in Kylo Ren) is also a name that means “lotus.” I do not believe in coincidences in the Star Wars universe.
Rey: We got a strong name when it came to episodes 7-9. Rey is a Latin name that means king, but in Star Wars world it’s a young heroine who rescues the galaxy. It’s also a name that has been climbing the popularity charts since those movies came out.
Rose: Finn’s love interest Rose Tico definitely earns her spot on this list. And Star Wars baby names aside, Rose is such a beautiful girl name that of course means “rose” as in the flower.
Wicket: I admit I’m partial to Ewoks. They’re cute and cuddly just like a little baby. Now just imagine a little baby Wicket in kindergarten! That’s such a cute name with such a special tie to one of Return of the Jedi’s little heroes.
Roberta Correia, Editor-in-Chief
Roberta is an editor with 10+ years experience in content strategy and brand building. Before joining The Everymom she was Editorial Director at Brides and previously served as Digital Editor at Women’s Wear Daily. She grew up in Brazil and currently calls Brooklyn home with her son, Lucas.