The Harry Potter series of books and films never fail to captivate young audiences. Many of us grew up enjoying the books and eventually the movies. The characters in the wizarding world have such unique and colorful names. Severus Snape, for instance, was created by a stroke of genius. We decided to round up some of the very best names from the Harry Potter series to share with you as potential baby names.
These appellations are not going to appeal to all but the unique options they present are hard for many fans of Potter to pass by. We’re hoping names like Myrtle and Minerva stage a comeback after years of disuse. Further, we want foreign names like the French name, Fleur, to finally land on some American birth certificates. Discover all the best Harry Potter names below with insights into their popularity and what each name means. Many will surprise you!
Harry
The boy who loved! Harry is an English diminutive form of Henry, meaning “estate ruler.” The name is currently much more popular in the UK with it being the seventh most popular name for baby boys born today.
Hermione
Hermione is a name of Greek origin that is related to Hermes, meaning “messenger.” The name has gone virtually unused in the US but you will here it much more frequently in England and especially Germany today. Harry’s best friend and the most clever character from the books would be an unusual option for a baby girl today.
Ron
Ron is Harry’s sidekick. You might think Ron is just a short form of Ronald, but you would be wrong! Ron is a standalone Norse name that means “ruler.’s counsel” Ron was once a popular given name in the US but that. has not been the case for decades. It could be time for a comeback!
Albus
Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore sure has one heck of a name. Albus comes from Latin and means “white” and “bright.” Albus has never been a popular option in the US so it would be a rather colorful choice for a baby boy born today.
Severus
You may think that a name that sounds this severe was made up by Rowling but Severus is an established name of Latin origin that indeed means “stern.” Although Snape wore it well, it is a lot of name for a baby boy to pull off today.
Minerva
Minerva names the Roman goddess of wisdom which gives this Latin name the meaning, “intellect.” Minerva McGonagall is a Witch and Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts. The name was once a popular choice for baby girls in the US but that has not been the case since the 1970s. We think it’s charming but we understand if new parents find it to sound dated.
Rubeus
Chances are you know him as Hagrid but the character’s first name is Rubeus. Pronounced ROO-bee-us, this appellation will likely throw many Americans. The name is of Latin origin and means “of the bramble bush,” according to Nameberry.
Draco
Harry’s nemesis and antagonist throughout the Harry Potter series, Draco Malfoy sure has a dramatic name. Draco is a rare Greek name that comes from Latin (usually it’s the other way around). The name means “dragon.” Malfoy might have doomed any potential for this name to take hold. It’s extremely rare in the US today.
Neville
Neville Longbottom is timid and shy at the start of the Harry Potter series but he undergoes a transformation into a strong-willed character. Neville is a name of French origin that means “new town.” Despite the name belonging to a British Prime Minister, it is not popular in the UK or the US. We have a soft spot for this dusty name and we think more parents should give it a shot.
Sirius
As with Severus, Sirius feels like a name for someone who lacks a sense of humor. Sirius is not some random spelling of serious, however. Sirius is a Latin name from Greek that means “burning.” This name has never and likely will never be a popular choice for a baby boy born in the US or UK.
Cho
Cho Chang is a Seeker for the Ravenclaw Quidditch team. Cho is a name of Japanese origin that means “butterfly.” While well-used in Japan the name remains rare in the US and UK. We think it’s a delightful option for a baby girl.
Luna
We have Harry Potter’s friend, Luna Lovegood to thank for the meteoric rise of the name Luna in the US and UK. It was the 11th most popular name for girls in the most recent baby name data in the US. The name belonged to the Roman goddess of the moon and she was the personification of the celestial body. Luna originated in Latin and means “moon.”
Ginny
A classic nickname for Virginia, Ginny is one of the Weasley clan in the Harry Potter books and movies. Ginny was a mildly popular given name in the US from the 1940s to the 1980s. It’s been forty years since it was popular.
Argus
A name belonging to a grumpy caretaker at Hogwarts, Argus is a rare name in the US and UK. It is of Greek origin and means “watchful guardian.” We’re not sure this appellation will ever take off but it could be a great alternative to Angus.
Ariana
Albus Dumbledore’s sister was given a sweet name in Ariana. Ariana is a top-100 name for girls in the US today. It is an Italian form of Ariadne which comes from Greek and means “most holy.”
Lucius
Lucius comes from Latin and means “light” which is ironic given it is the name given to Draco’s father who is a follower of Voldemort. Lucius is a fantastic name so don’t let the Harry Potter books scare you away from it. It was once a popular choice but it fell from fashion in the 1960s and has not returned to favor.
Helga
Helga is a name belonging to a founding member of Hogwarts. Helga is a popular name across Europe today but it has not been used in the US with regularity for over 100 years! It’s a Scandinavian name that means “holy” and “blessed.”
Cedric
One of the true greats from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Cedric Diggory was also given a fabulous name. Cedric is a name of Celtic origin that means “boundary.” Cedric is a top-1000 name for baby boys born in the US today. There’s so much to love!
Emmeline
Emmeline Vance was a witch in the Harry Potter series, a member of the order of the phoenix. Emmeline is a beautiful name of Old French and German origin that means “work.” It is likely related to Amelia. Emmeline is a top-1000 name for baby girls today and it only recently made it on the charts in 2014.
Arthur
Arthur Weasley was given such a stately name. Arthur is of Celtic origin and means “bear.” The name has been popular in the US since records begin for baby names in 1880. This name is popular across the UK and Europe more broadly.
Myrtle
A name belonging to a ghost of Hogwarts, Myrtle has a vintage, grandma-name charm. The appellation was last popular in the 1960s. The name originated in Greek as a name for a shrub with pink or white aromatic berries.
Charles
Another one of the Weasley brothers, Charles was given an evergreen name. Charles is of French origin and means “free man.” A name belonging to the King of England, the name is of course, popular across the UK. But, it also is one of the most popular names for boys in the US, never dropping out of the top 100 for as long as records go back.
Fleur
In the Harry Potter stories, Fleur is a French student who competes in the Triwizard Tournament. Fleur is indeed a French name, meaning “flower.” The name has never been popular in the US. Currently, it’s a red-hot baby name in Belgium and the Netherlands. We think it has so much potential!
Pomona
Professor Sprout’s first name is Pomona. Pomona is a Roman goddess of plenty and fruit trees, hence the name’s Latin root means “apple.” If the name Apple has never sat right with you, try this understated name instead.
James
A name belonging to Harry Potter’s heroic father, James is an English name from the same Hebrew root that brings us Jacob. The appellation means “supplanter.” James is even more popular than Charles in the US, never dropping from the top 20 most popular baby names for boys. The name is popular across the English-speaking world but can be found in countries across Europe.
There you go! Are any of these Harry Potter names fit for a muggle? We sure hope you enjoyed revisiting some of Harry Potter’s characters with us. Many of them have such fabulous names. If you are a big Harry Potter fan, keep reading. We’ve got some amazing Harry Potter-inspired tattoos to share with you as well!
Discover The Best Ideas for Your Harry Potter Tattoos!
The Sirius Sighting
Sirius Black’s sighting looks as if it’s been ripped from one of Hogwart’s most prestigious publications. It’s one of the most inventive and committed Harry Potter tattoos on the list.
The Hermione
Everyone’s fave Hermione Granger has been beautifully imagined in this cool design. The stylized cartonish elements of this make us think of the old Bewitched intro. She brought party supplies and is ready to throw down.
The Hogwarts
“But he was home. Hogwarts was the first and best home he had known.” This amazing yet small imagining of Hogwarts is stunning. It’s one of our favorite Harry Potter tattoos on the list.
Those Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans
How fun is this imagining of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans? This tattoo looks sweet enough to eat! It’s one of the most subtle yet more rewarding Harry Potter tattoos.
The Symbols
This is one of the Harry Potter tattoos that offers some of the most recognizable symbols from the franchise. We love the fine, clean lines of each tiny object.
The Slytherin Cat
You can make just about anything Harry Potter-themed. This adorable portrait of a cat is seen through a Slytherin lense thanks to the cute, greej scarf and other fun details.
The Golden Snitch
Fancy a game of quidditch? The golden snitch is such an exciting object and it’s been faithfully executed in this tattoo.
The Polyjuice
The Polyjuice Potion allows a human drinker to temporarily assume the form of another person. That’s handy! Aren’t the nature-inspired details so fantasitc here. It’s one of the most evocative Harrpy Potter tattoos on the list.
The Deathly Hallows
This incredible watercolor tattoo is another homage to some of the most whimsical aspects of The Deathly Hallows. We love the artist’s use of color and the balanced design.
The Dumbledore Quote
“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light,” this quote tattoo says. The great quote is attributed to Albus Dumbledore and it’s one of the best quote Harry Potter tattoos out there thanks to the great use of the signature font.
The Draught of Peace
This person decided to get a tattoo of The Draught of Peace but it’s done in a Lisa Frank style. Potion designs are popular among Harry Potter tattoos. What a playful and creative way to combine some of childhood’s most beloved things. “The Draught of Peace is a potion which relieves anxiety and agitation,” the person who shared this image also shared. “Its ingredients are powdered moonstone, syrup of hellebore, powdered porcupine quills, and powdered unicorn horn. It should be a turquoise blue when finished and simmered before being consumed.”
The Ron
One of our favorite Harry Potter tattoos happens to be one of the simplest. We find a very understated portraite of little Ron Weasley here wearing his special sweater. What a winner!
The Liquid Luck
A potion for luck has been expertly tattooed between this Potter fan’s shoulders. The fine line and dot work on display here is truly remarkable. We told you potions are popular among Harry Potter tattoos!
The Triwizard Cup
The Triwizard Cup is a shiny cup that is awarded to the winner of the Triwizard Tournament and held as an honor for the victorious school until the next tournament. This is one of the best Harry Potter tattoos inspired by the Goblet of Fire.
The Sorting Hat
The Sorting Hat that separates incoming Hogwarts students into their houses is iconic. Done here in black is a dramatic interpretation we love. If you’re looking for evocative and exciting Harry Potter tattoo ideas, you could do no better!
The Niffler
Does a fantastic beast belong on this list of Harry Potter tattoos? We decided for this beautiful example, yes, that’s fine. We find a very cute portrait of Niffler here that is finished with some fun bejeweled accents.
The Platform
Another exciting element of the Harry Potter world is the Hogwarts express and the magical train platform to get to the boarding school. We love the look of this simple, black ink tattoo. If you’re thinking about getting modestly sized Harry Potter tattoos, something like this would be perfect.
The Pika Potter
We find Pikachu outfitted as Harry Potter in this very playful design that features the best of both worlds. You can style just about any character as Harry Potter if you have an artist with a great point of view.
The Mandrake
By looking at this creature, you just know it has restorative properties. Yes, we would love what looks like an angry ginger root tattooed as well. It’s one of the most lively Harry Potter tattoos on this list that feels unique and inspired.
The Neo-Traditional Harry
Do you love American traditional tattooing? Consider working with an artist who is versed in neo-traditional tattoo design. This stunning take on Harry Potter marries old with new and look one-of-a-kind and very fresh.
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The Slytherin
Everyone’s a Slytherin until they’re not. This neat Slytherin tattoo is complete with green and blue watercolor effect as a background. If you are looking for Harry Potter tattoos that celebrate your specific house, something similar could be right for you.
The Magical Bits
A wand is paired with tiny symbols and significant imagery from the Harry Potter universe in this very charming design. It’s one of our favorite Harry Potter tattoos on this list thanks to all of those tiny dots that make the entire scene look filled with magic.
The Ravenclaw
Okay, so we’re not all Slytherins. This jawdropping Ravenclaw tattoo includes so many elements of the iconic house including The Sword of Gryffindor. If you’re a Ravenclaw, you need one of these Harry Potter tattoos.
The Swear
“I solemnly swear that I am up to no good,” is probably one of the most famous quotes to come out of the Harry Potter universe. Harry hears this little saying from the Weasley twins during his third year at Hogwarts.
The Pixie
Manic pixie HP girls, unite! This cute tattoo of a Cornish Pixie is spot on and captures their mischievous energy. It’s one of the most playful Harry Potter tattoos and a fun reference that fellow fans will appreciate.
The Thestral
The Thestral is a breed of winged horse with a skeletal body, face with reptilian features, and wide, leathery wings that resemble a bat’s. Hermione claims that only those who have seen death and accepted its finality can see the creature. This is one of the Harry Potter tattoos that takes a different approach and imagines a creature from the universe as a Tarot card.
The Dark Mark
Lord Voldemort’s Death Eaters sure are creepy and account for a number of Harry Potter tattoos. This interpretation of the Dark Mark has tons of color and depth that put it a step above many like it.
The Narcissa
Narcissa Malfoy is mother to Draco Malfoy and one of the many colorful characters from the Harry Potter universe. We love when fans decide to go with portraits of more obscure characters from the Harry Potter world as they always turn out wonderfully. What a dream!
The Charm
The Patronus Charm is one of the most powerful charms known to wizardkind. This tattoo, done in an interesting font, belongs to a Harry Potter fan from Mexico. We love this cute, tiny tattoo.
The Dementor
The wraithlike Dementor definitely haunts us. We think this is the definition of nightmare fuel. If you’re interested in moodier Harry Potter tattoos, something like this could be the right move for you.
The Harry
This exquisite tattoo looks just like Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter. The vivid, saturated, romantic colors are a dramatic delight. We love that the mark on Harry’s forehead is featured here.
The Electric Harry
Here’s another one of the Harry Potter tattoos that finds a portrait of Daniel Radcliffe as the wizard. Take a look at the very electric, blue mark on Harry’s head. That’s some excellent artistic license.
The Hedwig
Hagrid’s gift of Hedwig to Harry is one of the most memorable parts of Harry’s story. This tattoo design features the snowy owl dripping with color. Again, it’s another watercolor design that works well and it is one of our favorite Harry Potter tattoos on the list.
The Flying Car
Good old Arthur Weasley was good for something. This flying car tattoo has a touch of photorealism and plenty of style. This is one of the most lively and fantastic Harry Potter tattoos.
The Gryffindor
Bravery and courage are defining qualities of a member of House Gryffindor. This is one of the stunning Harry Potter tattoos that reads like a sigil. Black and grey ink has its virtues!
The Patronus Part II
Remus Lupin taught Harry well and the result was this magical Patronus. Done in a watercolor style this tattoo captures the special moment when 13-year-old Harry pulled it off!
The Flying Keys
The Flying Keys are such a playful and fun aspect of the Harry Potter world. We love the hatching and shading on this tattoo. With the movement lines, it looks like this tattoo could take flight at any moment.
The Specs and Scar
Harry Potter is such a huge character and social touchstone that a pair of circles and a zigzag are all you need to symbolize him. This super sweet tattoo is a great way to show some HP love without going over-the-top. Simplicity is bliss!
The Marauder’s Map
This reincarnation of The Mauraders Map that details all the secrets of Hogwarts is such a fun idea among these Harry Potter tattoos. This fan has an invaluable piece of intel on her arm should she ever be transported there.
The Baby Harry
How cute is this cartoon baby Harry? Again, the watercolor effect is so playful here. We also love the babyface. It’s one of the cutest Harry Potter tattoos on the list.
The Deathly Hallows Pt. 2
The Deathly Hallows symbol comes from three Harry Potter artifacts: the Elder Wand, the Resurrection Stone and the Cloak of Invisibility. We love this interpretation created by black and grey flowers.
The Ravenclaw
Ravenclaws are characterized by wit, learning, and wisdom. This beautiful Ravenclaw emblem makes for fine Harry Potter tattoos. The style of the design borders on traditional without losing the Harry Potter feel.
The Elder Wand
We liked it more when it belonged to Dumbledore! This wand tattoo is ready to cast a spell. We love the craggy design that gives it an almost textured look. It’s one of the more subtle Harry Potter tattoos.
The Tale of Three Brothers
This inspired design combines The Deathly Hallows with The Tale of the Three Brothers. Done in silhouette, it’s a haunting, beautiful design.
The Snape
The tattoo artist who is working on this tattoo shared her work in progress because she was so pleased about how it was coming together. We can’t wait to see the end result! But the likeness of Alan Rickman as Severus Snape is uncanny.
The Sword of Gryffindor
This is the second time The Sword of Gryffindor has made an appearance on the list. This glamorous tattoo really pays close attention to the details. The handle of the sword alone would make a great tattoo! The added floral design compliments the overall design well. Well done!
The Hogwarts Express
This tattoo of Hogwarts Express looks like a study in charcoal. The train has so much detail and highlighting, while Hogwarts in the background seems to fade. It’s one of the most remarkable Harry Potter tattoos to make the list.
The Hermione Cat
This tattoo is ridiculous and somehow perfect. Hermione Granger’s Patronus is an otter. We think if she got a look at this tattoo, that could change. This whimsical tattoo is one of the best Harry Potter tattoos on the list.
The Dobby
Dobby has no master! The tattoo artist has managed to capture the sadness in Dobby’s eyes and for that, we give respect. We love the way the character has been framed in a design that includes a snitch and flowers.
The Hogwarts Pt. 2
This is hands-down the most impressive Hogwarts tattoo we’ve ever seen. How did the artist get so much detail into such a small tattoo? The frame that contains the scene is impossibly complicated itself. It gives you the feeling like you’re looking into another world.
Harry Potter became a pop culture phenomenon because it offered kids an escape to a world that felt both familiar and completely unknown. The books are dark and even broody at times. Many young people connected with the stories of friendship, betrayal, adversity, and above all else, magic. Fandom for the Harry Potter universe has been strong for years. We expect it to last as long as these Harry Potter tattoos. Forever.