Whimsical baby names are some of the most charming on the naming market. These delightful appellations appeal to parents who value a sense of adventure and aren’t afraid to take risks. What makes a whimsical baby name? These names contain a child-like curiosity that follows a baby through life. Unique, nature-inspired, or fitting of a fairy tale, these names are far from ubiquitous and stand out in a crowd.
We decided to round up our favorite whimsical baby names, starting with girls and then boys, but be sure to read over both categories as there are several unisex options in the mix. These magical and playful names pack a punch, and you would be wise to add a couple of them to your list of possible names for your little baby on the way. Discover a lively name for your child below!
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With A
- Arria – A name of Latin origin, meaning “thin,” a character with the name played a role in a tragic ancient myth
- Anouk – A popular French or Dutch form of the name Anna, from Hebrew, meaning “grace”
- Abra – A feminine form of the name Abraham, from Hebrew, meaning “father of multitudes”
- Avril – A French form of April with the same springtime meaning
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With B
- Bebe – A diminutive from of Beatrice or any other B-name, also a French term of endearment, meaning “baby”
- Bex – A diminutive form of Rebecca with an edge, meaning “to bind”
- Breah – A name of Old English or Welsh origin, meaning “from the hill”
- Byrd – An English surname-name meaning “bird”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With C
- Cosima – An Italian feminine form of Cosmo, from Greek, meaning “order”
- Carys – A gorgeous Welsh name, meaning “love”
- Channing – An English or Irish unisex name, meaning “wolf cub” or “of the Cana people”
- Cyan – A delightful color name that works just as well for boys as it does for girls, meaning “green/blue color”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With D
- Devi – A unisex name of Sanskrit origin, a goddess name, meaning “divine”
- Deja – A name of French origin, meaning “again”
- Dorit – A great literary name if spelled Dorrit, a short form of Dorothea, meaning “gift of the ocean” OR of Hebrew origin, meaning “this generation”
- Dot – A diminutive short form of Dorothy or Dorothea, meaning “gift of the ocean”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With E
- Elodie – A French name from German, meaning “foreign riches”
- Emmylou – A combination name from Emmy + Lou or German and French origin, meaning “universal” + “renowned warrior”
- Eowyn – A literary name from The Lord of the Rings, meaning “shieldmaiden”
- Enya – A name of Irish origin, meaning “fire”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With I
- Ireland – The country takes its name from Old Irish Ériu, a goddess in Irish mythology, meaning “flowing water”
- Izetta – A name of Irish origin, historically found in the Appalachian region, meaning “famed beauty”
- Ioni – A name of Greek origin, meaning “violet stone”
- Isby – An Amish diminutive form of Elizabeth, from Hebrew, meaning “pledged to God”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With J
- Jovana – A Serbian female form of John, from Hebrew, meaning “God’s gracious gift”
- Jamilla – A name of Arabic origin, meaning “beauty” and “grace”
- Joni – A unisex English name and form of John, meaning “God’s gracious gift”
- Joneva – A name of French origin, meaning “juniper tree”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With M
- Maple – An English tree name originating in Latin, meaning “cloth”
- Mahalia – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “tender affection”
- Marceline – A French form of Marcel, meaning “little warrior”
- Merle – A unisex name of French origin, meaning “blackbird”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With O
- Opal – A name of Sanskrit origin that’s quietly on the rise today, meaning “gem”
- Ozara – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “treasure”
- Ombra – A name of Italian origin, meaning “shadow”
- Orestilla – A name of Latin origin, meaning “from the mountains”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With P
- Padget – A unisex occupational name of English and French origin, meaning “page”
- Poet – An English word name for a writer
- Penny – A short form of Penelope from Greek, meaning “weaver”
- Peony – A Latin flower name, meaning “healing”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With R
- Rosenwyn – A name of Cornish origin, meaning “white rose”
- Rune – A name of German and English origin, meaning “secret”
- Revel – An English word name meaning “to rejoice”
- Rhapsody – A French term from Greek, meaning “enthusiastic expression” or “epic poem meant for recitation”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With T
- Tempest – A unisex word name of English origin, meaning “storm”
- Thalia – A name of Greek origin, meaning “to flourish”
- Tarot – A French name, meaning “card game”
- Turquoise – A French name, meaning “Turkish stone”
Whimsical Baby Names for Girls That Start With Z
- Zemora – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “branch”
- Zosia – A form of Sophia, from Greek, meaning “wisdom”
- Zendaya – A name of Shona origin, meaning “to give thanks”
- Zarina – A name of Persian origin, meaning “golden chalice”
RELATED: 25 Fairy Tale Baby Names for Girls with Plenty of Whimsy and Charm
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With A
- Astor – A Provencal name, meaning “hawk” OR an Icelanding name, meaning “god of thunder”
- Azel – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “reserved”
- Artemis – Originally belonging to a Greek goddess, this name has potential for both girls and boys, meaning “butcher” or “Apollo’s twin”
- Akiro – A name of Japanese origin, meaning “bright boy”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With D
- Dov – A Hebrew name, meaning “bear”
- Delmar – A Spanish name, meaning “of the sea”
- Durango – A Spanish/Basque name meaning “water town”
- Doyle – A name of Irish origin, meaning “black stranger”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With E
- Elio – An Italian and Spanish name, from Greek, meaning “sun”
- Eden – A unisex name of Hebrew origin, meaning “pleasurable place”
- Eliseo – A Spanish and Italian form of the Hebrew name, Elisha, meaning “my salvation is God”
- Eldon – A name of English origin, meaning “sacred hill”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With G
- Gemini – A name of Latin origin, meaning “twins”
- Garnet – A jewel name from French, meaning “pomegranate”
- Giovani – An Italian form of John, from Hebrew, meaning “God is gracious”
- Gabin – A French name from Latin, meaning “from Gabium”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With H
- Hero – A unisex name of Greek origin, meaning “demi-god”
- Honor – An English word and virtue name
- Horace – A name that once belonged to an Ancient Latin clan, meaning “timekeeper”
- Hidalgo – A name of Spanish origin, meaning “nobleman”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With J
- Janus – A name of Latin origin, belonging to a god of transitions, meaning “doorway”
- Juniper – An English name from Latin, belonging to the tree, meaning “young”
- Joss – A unisex name and short form of the English name Jocelin, meaning “happy one”
- Jinx – An English word name, meaning “bad luck”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With L
- Loki – A unisex name from Norse mythology, meaning “mischief”
- Lander – An English name from German, meaning “territory”
- Laszlo – A name of Hungarian origin, meaning “superb ruler”
- Leaf – A unisex nature name that you can also spell Lief
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With M
- Miro – A name of Slavic origin, meaning “peace”
- Manju – A name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “pleasant”
- Midnight – An English word name
- Moss – An English name meaning “of Moses”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With O
- Orion – A Greek mythology name, meaning “boundary”
- Osias – A name of Greek origin, meaning “salvation”
- Oz – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “strength”
- Oberon – Shakespeare’s King of the Fairies, of English origin, meaning “noble” or “like a bear”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With R
- Rumi – A unisex Japanese name that can mean “beauty” or “flow”
- Reon – A name of Maori origin, meaning “language”
- Rye – An English diminutive form of Ryder, meaning “cavalry” or “messenger”
- Rogue – An English and French word name
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With S
- Spike – An American nickname-name
- Saturn – A Roman mythology name belonging to the god of agriculture
- Scipio – A name of Latin origin, meaning “staff”
- Seamus – An Irish form of James, from Hebrew, meaning “supplanter”
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With Y
- Yannis – A Greek form of John, from Hebrew, meaning “gift of God”
- Yew – A splendid tree name
- Yoshi – A unisex name of Japanese origin, meaning “respectful”
- Yordani – A form of the name Jordan, found in Cuba and South America, from Hebrew, meaning “flowing down”
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 25 Fairy Tale Baby Names for Boys Fit for Your Little Prince Charming
Whimsical Baby Names for Boys That Start With Z
- Zvi – A name of Hebrew origin, meaning “deer”
- Zolten – A name of Hungarian origin, meaning “ruler”
- Zeus – A name from Greek mythology belonging to the king of the gods
- Ziga – A name of Slovenian origin, meaning “victorious protector”
There you go! Now you have some amazing whimsical baby names to add to your shortlist. For even more baby name inspiration, keep reading. We’ve got zodiac-inspired names to share with you as well!
Zodiac-Inspired Baby Names for Girls
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Those born under the sign of the ram are fiery, bold, go-getters. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac making names like Una or Prima great options that reflect the sign being first. Further, the element for this sign is fire, making names with meanings that relate also appropriate. Enya is a great Irish option that means “fire.” Other possibilities include the Hebrew (unisex) name, Jubilee which means “ram’s horn” and the Persian name, Roxana, which means “dawn.”
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Folks born under the sign of the bull are often strong and grounded as the symbol suggests. We’re dealing with an earth element here which means that plenty of nature-inspired options could totally work. Chloe is a Greek name that means “young, green shoot.” Gaia is a mythical earth goddess name that could also be a winner for you. One last colorful option for Taurean babies is Terra a name of Latin origin that means “earth.”
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Geminis are a hard sign to pin down. They are eclectic and their outlooks are varied for the sign of the twins. We suggest the English, feminine form of Thomas, Thomasina, as the Aramaic root of the name means “twin.” In addition to the twin theme, names that also celebrate the sign’s air element work well. Celeste is a name that means “heavenly.” Zephyr is a unisex Greek name that means “west wind.” Aura is another Greek name that means “a gentle breeze.”
The color yellow is also associated with the sun which could offer some distinct possibilities. Zari is a Persian name that means “golden.” Buttercup is a Gemini name that speaks for itself!
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancers are born under the sign of the crab. Thus, the moon which rules the sign, and the sea are common symbols for the water sign. Luna and Selene are two popular moon goddess names today. A less traveled option is the Turkish name Ayla which means “halo” or “moonlight.” For a name that makes a splash, go with the Celtic classic Cordelia which means “daughter of the sea.”
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Leo baby names have lots of appealing inspirations: lions, gold, and the sun, to name the three main Leo symbols. Further, the sign’s element is fire making hot names a great possibility. Aurelia is a name that means “the golden one.” Orla is another possibility and it is of Irish origin and means “golden princess.” Ariel is of Hebrew origin and means “lion of God.” Finally, Leona is a Latin appellation that means “lioness.”
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
People born under Virgo are often dependable, practical, and fiercely loyal to the ones they love. Names relating to the earth, purity, and wisdom are also great Virgo baby names as they highlight the sign’s element and the symbol of the sign, the virgin or maiden. Cora is our top pick for a Virgo girl as it means “maiden” as does the Celtic name Imogen. For a dusty yet storied appellation, go with Agnes which means “pure.” For an earthy spin, go with Ceres who is the Roman goddess of agriculture and fertility.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Libra babies grow up to be balanced and fair. Thus, Harmony (Alaina is an Irish name that means the same) and Justice are top picks and both are unisex. Libras also are governed by Venus which tends to make them big flirts and very romantic. This is another air sign of the zodiac so names that are breezy are also great. Nasima is our top pick in this regard. The name is of Arabic origin and means “breeze” and “fresh air.”
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Strongwilled and magnetic, Scorpios are associated with the water element and are governed by Pluto. Red is commonly associated with the sign so names like Scarlett and Ruby will serve you well. The Choctaw name Talullah would be a colorful option that can be taken to mean “leaping water.”
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Adventure seems to be hardcoded into every Sagittarius’ core. One of the most free-spirited signs of the zodiac, Sagittarius is associated with its symbol the archer as well as the fire element. Ivara is a German name for girls that means “archer” or “yew tree.” Ember is the French form of Amber and it means “burning piece.” The sign is governed by Jupiter. Thus, the name Callisto would be great as it belongs to one of the planet’s moons. It also happens to mean “most beautiful” which is not bad!
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Those born under the goat are members of the hardest working and most trustworthy zodiac sign. These folks are governed by the earth element and are often driven to the point of being stubborn (just like a goat). Amina is a gorgeous option of Arabic origin that means “trustworthy” and “faithful.” Another Arabic option, Mira is taken to mean “female ruler” or “queen.” The popular name Amelia contains a German root that means “work” or “industrious.” Hermione is a distinct possibility too as its Greek root means “earthly.”
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Names for Aquarian babies reflect the sign’s symbols of water and air. It is governed by the air element but the symbol for the sign is the cupbearer so there’s a water connection as well. Brooke works as a connection to the flowing cup. Nixie is a German name that means “water nymph.” Finally, Nahla is an Arabic option that means “a drink of water.”
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pisceans are known for their creative, gentle, and loving nature so names that reflect those qualities will be an excellent fit. Further, the sign is governed by water and its symbol is two fish. Ruth is a name of Hebrew origin that means “compassion.” This is fitting as Pisceans are some of the most sensitive and sympathetic signs of the Zodiac. Marina and Maren are names of Latin origin that mean “from the sea.” All are beautiful options!
Zodiac-Inspired Baby Names for Boys
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Now to Zodiac names for boys! Those born under the sign of the ram are fiery, bold, go-getters. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac making names like Primo and Ace fitting options. Lesser know, Ichiro is a Japanese option that means “first son.” If you would like to lean into the fiery element of the sign, Ignatius is a name with the meaning.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Boys born under the sign of the bull are often strong and grounded as the symbol suggests. We’re dealing with an earth element here which means that plenty of nature-inspired options will totally work. Fintan is a name of Irish origin that means “white bull.” If you’re into earthy options, Dion is a French name from Greek that means “child of heaven and earth.” Seb is an Egyptian option that means “God of the Earth.”
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Geminis are a tricky sign to pin down. They are eclectic and their outlooks are varied for the sign of the twins. Thomas works well as its Aramaic root means “twin.” Further, Rome or Roman are also possibilities as the founding myth of Rome is based on the twins (Romulus and Remus). To honor the sign’s element you could go with the underused Native American name (that happens to be unisex), Coro. It means “wind.”
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancers are born under the sign of the crab. Thus, the moon which rules the sign, and the sea are common symbols for this water sign of the zodiac. Kai is a popular name today that is of Hawaiian origin and means “sea.” Luan is a Portuguese name for boys that means “moon.” Finally, Badar is an Arabic or Hindi name that means “full moon.”
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Leo baby names have lots of appealing inspirations: lions, gold, and the sun, to name the three main Leo symbols. Further, the sign’s element is fire making spicy names a great possibility. Cyrus and Elio both mean sun. Ari is a unisex name that means “lion of God” in Hebrew. Leander is a stylish name of Greek origin that means “lion-man.” Rawr!
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Folks born under Virgo are often dependable, practical, and fiercely loyal to the ones they love. Names relating to the earth, purity, and wisdom are also great Virgo baby names as they highlight the sign’s element. Ezra is a name of Hebrew origin that means “help” and Adam is also Hebrew in origin but means “son of the red earth.” Raymond is a name of German origin that means “wise protector.”
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Libra babies grow up to be balanced and fair. Thus a name like Isaeus (pronounced ih-ZAY-us) that means “equality” is a solid choice. The sign is governed by Venus which means that Librans tend to be obsessed with romance and beauty. The Arabic name, Jamal, means “beauty.” Finally, the element for the sign is air so a name like Neil that means “cloud” is a great pick.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Strongwilled and magnetic, Scorpios are associated with the water element and are governed by Pluto. Red is commonly associated with the sign so the name Phoenix which means “dark red” is a good choice. This is one of the zodiac’s water signs and so a name like Brooks is swell as well. Octavio also works here, meaning “eighth son.”
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Adventure seems to be hardcoded into every Sagittarius’ core. One of the most free-spirited signs of the zodiac, Sagittarius is associated with its symbol the archer as well as the fire element. That makes the name Archer a fitting pick. If Archer is too on the nose, go with the German name Ivo which means “archer” or “yew wood.” Kymani hints at exploration as the Eastern African name means “adventurous traveler.”
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Those born under the goat are members of the hardest working and most trustworthy zodiac sign. These folks are governed by the earth element and are often driven to the point of being stubborn. Giles is a name of Greek origin that means “young goat.” Could we have found an appellation more fitting? Clay is a rich earthy name that is a warm choice. Lastly, Ephraim highlights their sense of hard work, the Hebrew root of the name means “productive.”
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Names for Aquarian babies reflect the sign’s symbols of water and air. It is governed by the air element but the symbol for the sign is the cupbearer so there’s a water connection as well. Calder is an English name that means “rocky water.” Lian is a German or Chinese name that means “waterfall.” Moses is a cherished Egyptian name that means “delivered from water.” Each of these names makes a splash!
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pisceans are known for their creative, gentle, and loving nature so names that reflect those qualities will be an excellent fit. Further, the zodiac sign is governed by water and its symbol is two fish. Koi, Pike, and Fisher all tow the fishing line. If you’re looking for a name that celebrates a winning quality that many Pisces possess, go with the Irish name Finn which means “fair.”
We hope you enjoyed these baby names for astrology-obsessed parents!