Have you ever thought of naming your newborn after a character in one of William Shakespeare’s iconic plays? If so, then this list is for you. If not, then hopefully I can change your mind by the end of this list.
And I feel quite confident that I can achieve that because of all the Shakespeare names there are to choose from. I mean, we’re talking about a man who wrote 37 plays (or 38, depending on who you ask).
In fact, one helpful site run by Shakespeare enthusiasts claims there are around 200 Shakespeare names and characters mentioned throughout his iconic plays, and most of them make for a unique baby name!
RELATED: Victorian Names That Were Popular In the 1800s – But Are Now Making a Comeback!
His titular characters are the obvious choices here, including Hamlet, Romeo, Juliet, Macbeth, Lear, Titus, Henry (or Hal), Othello, Antony, Cleopatra, Cymbeline, Coriolanus, Julius, Pericles, Richard, and Timon.
Of course, you could always go with the legend himself. The name William derives from the Germanic Wilhelm, whose roots wil (“will, desire”) and helm (“helmet, protection”) translate to “resolute protector.”
According to the Social Security Administration, William was the 10th most popular boy name in the US in 2023 and the sixth most popular name since 1924. It was popular back then, and it’s still popular now.
But if William is too common for you, then let’s take a deeper dive into some Shakespeare names tied to some of his greatest characters!
Shakespeare names that are perfect for your little Romeo
Of all the Shakespeare names I can think of, none are more iconic than good ol’ Romeo, one of the titular characters in Shakespeare’s 1597 play Romeo and Juliet.
The name Romeo has Italian roots and is derived from the Late Latin word Romaeus or Romæus, which translates to “a Roman” or “one who has made a pilgrimage to Rome.”
It was somewhat popular in the early 1900s, but nearly fell out of the SSA’s top 1,000 before bouncing back in the late-1990s. In 2023, it hit an all-time high when it was the 293rd most popular name in the US.
With that said, here are 25 other, less-common Shakespeare names that would be perfect for a baby boy!
25. Shylock
Origin: Shylock is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Shylock is derived from the character in William Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice. Its origin is uncertain, but it might have roots in biblical names like Shiloh or Shelach.
Featured Play: The Merchant of Venice
A Jewish moneylender in Venice, Shylock is one of Shakespeare’s most complex characters, torn between his desire for revenge and the prejudice he faces. His demand for a pound of flesh as repayment for a loan makes him a figure of both sympathy and scorn.
24. Iago
Origin: Iago is of Spanish and Portuguese origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Iago is derived from Iacobus, the Latin form of Jacob, meaning “supplanter.”
Featured Play: Othello
The play’s primary antagonist, Iago is a master manipulator who schemes to bring down Othello by preying on his insecurities. His deceit and relentless plotting against those around him reveal the depths of human malice.
23. Falstaff
Origin: Falstaff is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Falstaff comes from the character Sir John Falstaff in Shakespeare’s plays Henry IV and The Merry Wives of Windsor. The name is believed to be invented by Shakespeare.
Featured Play: Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2; The Merry Wives of Windsor
A jovial, boastful, and larger-than-life knight, Falstaff serves as a comic figure and a bad influence on Prince Hal. His charm lies in his wit, love of indulgence, and his refusal to take life seriously.
22. Mercutio
Origin: Mercutio is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Mercutio is derived from the Roman god Mercury, symbolizing swiftness and eloquence.
Featured Play: Romeo and Juliet
Romeo’s quick-witted and playful friend, Mercutio is known for his clever wordplay and imaginative speeches. His tragic death at Tybalt’s hands marks a turning point in the play from light-hearted romance to darker themes of revenge and loss.
21. Prospero
Origin: Prospero is of Italian and Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Prospero is derived from the Latin word prosperus, meaning “fortunate” or “prosperous.”
Featured Play: The Tempest
The exiled Duke of Milan and a powerful sorcerer, Prospero orchestrates the events of the play using his magic. He seeks to restore his daughter Miranda’s rightful place while grappling with themes of power, forgiveness, and control.
20. Horatio
Origin: Horatio is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Horatio is derived from the Roman family name Horatius, meaning “keeper of time.”
Featured Play: Hamlet
Hamlet’s loyal and level-headed friend, Horatio serves as a confidant and remains steadfast throughout the play. He is the one entrusted to tell Hamlet’s story after the tragic conclusion.
19. Edmund
Origin: Edmund is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Edmund is derived from Old English words ēad (prosperity, riches) and mund (protector), meaning “wealthy protector.”
Featured Play: King Lear
The illegitimate son of the Duke of Gloucester, Edmund is ambitious and ruthless. He schemes against his father and brother Edgar, embodying themes of betrayal and the darker aspects of human nature.
18. Caliban
Origin: Caliban is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Caliban is believed to be derived from the Romani word kaliban, which translates to “black.”
Featured Play: The Tempest
A native of the island enslaved by Prospero, Caliban is a complex character embodying themes of colonialism and rebellion. His raw, earthy nature contrasts sharply with the refined world of Prospero and Miranda.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: 60 Old & Ancient Boy Names That Date Back Thousands of Years
17. Orsino
Origin: Orsino is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Orsino is derived from the Latin word ursus, meaning “bear.”
Featured Play: Twelfth Night
The Duke of Illyria, Orsino is in love with the idea of love itself. He pines for Olivia, but ultimately finds true love with Viola, revealing the fluid and whimsical nature of romantic attraction.
16. Tybalt
Origin: Tybalt is of English and French origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Tybalt is a medieval form of the name Theobald, meaning “brave people” or “bold people” in Germanic.
Featured Play: Romeo and Juliet
A hot-headed and aggressive member of the Capulet family, Tybalt is quick to anger and deeply loyal to his family’s honor. His clash with Romeo and Mercutio leads to a chain of tragic events in the play.
15. Petruchio
Origin: Petruchio is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Petruchio is derived from Petrus, the Latin form of Peter, meaning “rock.”
Featured Play: The Taming of the Shrew
A confident and assertive suitor, Petruchio takes on the challenge of taming the strong-willed Katherina. His methods and their relationship dynamics raise questions about marriage and gender roles.
14. Polonius
Origin: Polonius is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Polonius might be derived from the Latin word Polonia (Poland) or polus (pole).
Featured Play: Hamlet
The verbose and meddling chief counselor to King Claudius, Polonius is a source of both humor and tragedy in Hamlet. His advice, though often long-winded, reflects his desire to maintain order and control in the royal court.
13. Claudius
Origin: Claudius is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Claudius comes from the Latin word claudicatio, which means “strong-willed” and is associated with strength and tenacity.
Featured Play: Hamlet
The antagonist of Hamlet, Claudius is the brother of the late King Hamlet and has seized the throne through murder. He is a complex character, capable of both ruthlessness and guilt.
12. Yorick
Origin: Yorick is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Yorick is derived from the Old Norse name Jørg, related to George, meaning “farmer” or “earthworker.”
Featured Play: Hamlet
Though deceased before the play begins, Yorick is remembered by Hamlet in the famous graveyard scene. As the court jester whose skull Hamlet finds, he symbolizes the inevitability of death and the transient nature of life.
11. Benvolio
Origin: Benvolio is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Benvolio comes from the Italian words bene (good) and volio (will), meaning “good will.”
Featured Play: Romeo and Juliet
A peace-loving and level-headed Montague, Benvolio tries to diffuse tension between the feuding families. His efforts to keep the peace contrast with the impulsive nature of characters like Tybalt.
10. Decius
Origin: Decius is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Decius is derived from the Roman family name Decius, meaning “tenth” or “tenth-born.”
Featured Play: Julius Caesar
A member of the conspiracy against Julius Caesar, Decius is the one who persuades Caesar to ignore his wife Calpurnia’s warnings and attend the Senate, leading to Caesar’s assassination.
9. Donalbain
Origin: Donalbain is of Gaelic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Donalbain is derived from the Gaelic name Domhnall, meaning “world ruler.”
Featured Play: Macbeth
The younger son of King Duncan, Donalbain flees to Ireland after his father’s murder to avoid being killed himself. His departure shows his awareness of the danger that surrounds the royal family.
RELATED: 50 Old Last Names to Consider Using for Your Newborn’s Given Name
8. Gonzalo
Origin: Gonzalo is of Spanish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Gonzalo is derived from the Visigothic name Gundisalvus, meaning “battle” or “war.”
Featured Play: The Tempest
A kind and loyal courtier, Gonzalo helps Prospero and Miranda survive their exile. He embodies optimism and wisdom, serving as a foil to the more cynical characters in the play.
7. Laertes
Origin: Laertes is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Laertes comes from Greek mythology, meaning “son of Laërtes” or “father of Odysseus.”
Featured Play: Hamlet
The son of Polonius and brother of Ophelia, Laertes is a passionate and impulsive character. His desire for revenge against Hamlet leads to the tragic duel that marks the play’s climax.
6. Lysander
Origin: Lysander is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Lysander is derived from the Greek words lysis (release) and andros (man), meaning “liberator” or “one who is free.”
Featured Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
A young lover, Lysander is determined to marry Hermia despite her father’s wishes. His struggles and magical misadventures highlight the play’s themes of love and confusion.
5. Oberon
Origin: Oberon is of Germanic and French origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Oberon is derived from the Old High German name Auberon, meaning “noble” or “bear-like.”
Featured Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The king of the fairies, Oberon is both manipulative and caring, using magic to control events in the play. His conflicts with Titania and the lovers create much of the comedic confusion in the story.
4. Philo
Origin: Philo is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Philo comes from the Greek word philos, meaning “friend” or “loving.”
Featured Play: Antony and Cleopatra
A minor character, Philo opens the play by criticizing Antony’s infatuation with Cleopatra. He represents the Roman perspective and the tension between duty and desire in the story.
3. Roderigo
Origin: Roderigo is of Spanish and Portuguese origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Roderigo is derived from Roderick, a Germanic name composed of hrod (fame) and ric (power), meaning “famous ruler.”
Featured Play: Othello
A gullible and lovesick Venetian, Roderigo is manipulated by Iago into attempting to win Desdemona’s love. His tragic end reflects the consequences of Iago’s deceit.
2. Vincentio
Origin: Vincentio is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Vincentio is derived from the Latin vincere, meaning “to conquer.”
Featured Play: The Taming of the Shrew
The father of Lucentio, Vincentio’s arrival in Padua creates a comedic misunderstanding in the play. He represents authority and the social order in the story’s resolution.
1. Shaw
Origin: Shaw is of English and Scottish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Shaw is derived from the Old English word sceaga, meaning “dweller by the wood” or “thicket.”
Featured Play: Richard III
Ralph Shaa was a 15th-century English clergyman known for his role in supporting the claims of Richard III during the Wars of the Roses. In 1483, Ralph Shaa delivered a sermon in which he proclaimed that Edward IV’s children were illegitimate, thus supporting Richard III’s claim to the English throne.
Shakespeare names that are perfect for your little Juliet
Let’s take a break from the boys and browse through some Shakespeare names for girls, starting with Juliet, one of the most famous romantic heroines of all time.
The name Juliet is derived from the Latin name Julia, which is the feminine form of Julius. It translates to “descendant of Jupiter” or “youthful,” but can also mean “soft-haired” or “downy.”
Despite its rich history, Juliet wasn’t that popular of a name throughout the 1900s, but has started to pick up steam in recent decades. It peaked in 2016 and 2017, when it was the 228th most popular girls name.
It was the 292nd most popular girls name last year.
Juliet Capulet is the central female character in William Shakespeare’s renowned tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. She falls deeply in love with Romeo Montague, a member of her family’s rival house.
While there are literally dozens of Shakespeare names to choose from for your baby girl, here are 25 of our favorites!
25. Beatrice
Origin: Beatrice is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Beatrice is derived from the Latin name Beatrix, which means “bringer of joy” or “blessed.”
Featured Play: Much Ado About Nothing
A witty, intelligent woman with a sharp tongue, Beatrice is known for her lively banter with Benedick. Their love story unfolds through playful arguments and hidden affections, making her one of Shakespeare’s most beloved heroines.
24. Viola
Origin: Viola is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Viola comes from the Latin word for “violet,” a type of flower.
Featured Play: Twelfth Night
Disguised as a man named Cesario, Viola navigates the complexities of love and identity in Illyria. Her loyalty, intelligence, and unrequited love for Orsino make her a central figure in this romantic comedy.
23. Rosalind
Origin: Rosalind is of Old German origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Rosalind is derived from the Old German words hros (horse) and lind (soft, tender), but later became associated with the Latin word rosa (rose).
Featured Play: As You Like It
The play’s protagonist, Rosalind disguises herself as a boy named Ganymede after being banished. She is resourceful and playful, guiding Orlando in matters of love while exploring her own emotions.
22. Ophelia
Origin: Ophelia is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Ophelia comes from the Greek word ophelos, meaning “help” or “aid.”
Featured Play: Hamlet
A tragic figure, Ophelia is caught between her love for Hamlet and her duty to her father, Polonius. Her descent into madness and eventual death reflect the play’s themes of grief and loss.
21. Titania
Origin: Titania is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Titania is derived from the Greek Titan, referring to the mythological giants.
Featured Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The queen of the fairies, Titania is proud and strong-willed, especially in her conflict with Oberon over a changeling boy. Her enchantment with Bottom adds to the play’s comedic chaos.
20. Cordelia
Origin: Cordelia is of Celtic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Cordelia is believed to be derived from the Celtic word creda, meaning “heart” or “daughter of the sea.”
Featured Play: King Lear
The youngest daughter of King Lear, Cordelia is known for her honesty and loyalty. Unlike her sisters, Goneril and Regan, she refuses to flatter Lear insincerely, which leads to her disinheritance and tragic fate.
19. Ariel
Origin: Ariel is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Ariel is derived from the Hebrew words ari (lion) and el (God), meaning “lion of God.”
Featured Play: The Tempest
A spirit bound to serve Prospero, Ariel uses magic to carry out his master’s bidding. Ariel longs for freedom and is essential in orchestrating the events that lead to reconciliation and forgiveness on the island.
18. Katerina
Origin: Katerina is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Katerina is derived from the Greek katharos, meaning “pure.”
Featured Play: The Taming of the Shrew
Also known as Katherine or Kate, she is the headstrong and fiery “shrew” whom Petruchio attempts to tame. Her transformation and the dynamics of her relationship with Petruchio have sparked much debate about gender roles.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Old Money Baby Names Are Making a Comeback in a Big Way
17. Hermia
Origin: Hermia is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Hermia is derived from the Greek god Hermes, associated with messengers and travelers.
Featured Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Hermia is in love with Lysander and defies her father’s wishes to marry Demetrius. Her determination and passion drive much of the play’s romantic confusion in the forest.
16. Desdemona
Origin: Desdemona is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Desdemona is derived from the Greek word dysdaimon, meaning “ill-fated” or “unlucky.”
Featured Play: Othello
A noblewoman of Venice, Desdemona is Othello’s devoted wife, whose love for him is genuine and deep. Her innocence and virtue are ultimately no match for Iago’s manipulation, leading to her tragic death.
15. Emilia
Origin: Emilia is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Emilia is derived from the Latin Aemilia, meaning “rival” or “eager.”
Featured Play: Othello
Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s maid, Emilia is pragmatic and outspoken. She reveals the truth about Iago’s schemes, even at the cost of her own life, highlighting themes of loyalty and betrayal.
14. Hero
Origin: Hero is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Hero comes from the Greek word hērōs, meaning “demi-god” or “heroic.”
Featured Play: Much Ado About Nothing
A gentle and quiet young woman, Hero is falsely accused of infidelity on her wedding day to Claudio. Her story explores themes of reputation, honor, and forgiveness.
13. Goneril
Origin: Goneril is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Goneril is likely invented by Shakespeare for the character in King Lear, who is known for her ambition and ruthlessness. Its exact derivation is unclear, but it has an old English sound.
Featured Play: King Lear
The eldest daughter of King Lear, Goneril is ruthless and power-hungry. She betrays her father’s trust and schemes against her sister Regan, ultimately meeting a tragic end.
12. Regan
Origin: Regan is of Irish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Regan comes from the Irish word ríogán, meaning “little king” or “descendant of the king.”
Featured Play: King Lear
Lear’s middle daughter, Regan is as ambitious and cold-hearted as Goneril. She participates in the betrayal of her father and vies for power, showing little remorse for her actions.
11. Bianca
Origin: Bianca is of Italian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Bianca comes from the Italian word for “white” or “pure.”
Featured Play: Othello, The Taming of the Shrew
In Othello, Bianca is Cassio’s lover who is jealous of his attentions to others. In The Taming of the Shrew, she is Katerina’s more desirable sister, sought after by many suitors.
10. Tamora
Origin: Tamora is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Tamora is derived from Tamar, meaning “date palm” or “palm tree.”
Featured Play: Titus Andronicus
The queen of the Goths and a vengeful character, Tamora is driven by a desire to destroy Titus and his family. Her ruthless pursuit of power and revenge fuels the play’s bloody and tragic events.
9. Aliena
Origin: Aliena is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Aliena is derived from the Latin word alienus, meaning “foreign” or “stranger.”
Featured Play: As You Like It
Aliena is the name Rosalind’s cousin Celia adopts when they flee to the Forest of Arden. She remains loyal to Rosalind, showcasing the strength of their friendship.
RELATED: Traditional Old Man Names That Are Making a Comeback in 2024
8. Calpurnia
Origin: Calpurnia is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Calpurnia is derived from the ancient Roman family name Calpurnius.
Featured Play: Julius Caesar
The wife of Julius Caesar, Calpurnia tries to warn her husband of his impending fate after having ominous dreams. Her concern reflects themes of fate and forewarning.
7. Dionyza
Origin: Dionyza is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Dionyza is derived from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and revelry.
Featured Play: Pericles, Prince of Tyre
The wife of Cleon, Dionyza plots against Marina, Pericles’ daughter. Her jealousy and cruelty make her a minor antagonist in this lesser-known play.
6. Dolabella
Origin: Dolabella is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Dolabella is derived from the Latin words dolus (pain, deceit) and bellus (beautiful).
Featured Play: Antony and Cleopatra
A loyal follower of Caesar, Dolabella becomes a sympathetic figure toward Cleopatra after Antony’s death, embodying the shifting loyalties and political intrigues of the play.
5. Imogen
Origin: Imogen is of Celtic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Imogen likely comes from Innogen, an Old Celtic name meaning “maiden” or “daughter.”
Featured Play: Cymbeline
The daughter of King Cymbeline, Imogen is one of Shakespeare’s most resilient and resourceful heroines. Her unwavering love for Posthumus and her journey of disguise and survival form the heart of the play.
4. Isidore
Origin: Isidore is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Isidore comes from the Greek Isidoros, meaning “gift of Isis,” referring to the Egyptian goddess.
Featured Play: Timon of Athens
While we don’t know much about Isidore, a character named “Isidore’s Servant” appears briefly as one of the creditors of Timon in Timon of Athens. The servant is sent by Isidore to demand repayment of debts from Timon when he faces financial ruin.
3. Lavinia
Origin: Lavinia is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Lavinia comes from Roman mythology and is the name of a character in Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus. Its origins are linked to Lavinium, an ancient Roman town.
Featured Play: Titus Andronicus
The daughter of Titus, Lavinia suffers horrific violence at the hands of Tamora’s sons. Her tragic fate symbolizes the brutal nature of revenge and loss within the play.
2. Leonine
Origin: Leonine is of Latin origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Leonine is derived from the Latin word leo, meaning “lion-like” or “brave.”
Featured Play: Pericles, Prince of Tyre
Leonine is a minor character ordered by Dionyza to kill Marina. Although he initially obeys, he fails to follow through, leading to Marina’s survival.
1. Margery
Origin: Margery is of English origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Margery is derived from Margaret, meaning “pearl” in Greek.
Featured Play: Henry VI
Queen Margaret of Anjou is the queen of Henry VI and leads the House of Lancaster in the civil war. She is a Cassandra-like prophetess who curses the nobles for their role in the downfall of the House of Lancaster.
Will you revive any of these Shakespeare names?
William Shakespeare is one of the greatest playwrights and poets of all time, with many of his works being considered some of the most iconic pieces of literature, even 400 years after his death in 1616.
With that said, it’s no surprise to see so many parents using his characters as inspiration for their child’s name. After all, he was known for using unique names, and there are nearly 200 to choose from.
For those who want a name with a story behind it, especially one that hints at drama, adventure, and emotion, then look no further than Shakespeare’s vast repertoire and roster of iconic characters.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Check Out Our Baby Name Generator for More Unique Baby Name Ideas!
And if Shakespeare names aren’t what you’re looking for, then head over to our Mamas Uncut blog to browse thousands of more unique baby name ideas. And don’t forget to check back daily for more!