Boy and Girl Names That Mean Ocean

By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024

Are you looking for the perfect name for your child? If you feel a strong connection to the ocean or just love its beauty and mystery, consider choosing an ocean-inspired name.

There are many options to explore, with names that mean “sea” or “ocean,” as well as those influenced by nautical themes and myths.

Imagine your child carrying a name that reflects the vastness and wonder of the sea.

For both boys and girls, there is a treasure of names inspired by the ocean, filled with meaning and depth.

Let’s dive into some of these unique names and their beautiful significance.

Girl Names That Mean “Ocean” or “Sea”

Asherah

Asherah is a name of Hebrew origin meaning “Lady of the sea.” This name is linked to an ancient Semitic mother goddess who was worshipped in Israel.

Cordelia

Of Celtic origin, Cordelia translates to “daughter of the sea.” This name gained prominence through Shakespeare’s King Lear.

Darya

Darya is a lovely name meaning “sea” in Persian. Its soothing sound makes it a beautiful choice for a girl.

Derya

Derya means “ocean” in Turkish. Its unique and melodious sound has made it popular in Turkey.

Itsaso

This Basque name means “ocean.” Its simplicity and beauty are hard to ignore.

Kailani

Kailani, a Hawaiian name, translates to “sea and sky.” The blend of water and air elements makes this name dreamy and spiritual.

Manami

Manami is a Japanese name that means “beautiful ocean.” Japanese names often reflect natural beauty, and this one is no exception.

Mar

A Spanish-origin name, Mar means “sea.” This straightforward, powerful name is favored in Spanish-speaking countries.

Marisol

Marisol combines the Spanish words Mar (sea) and Sol (sun). This name evokes images of sunlight glistening on the ocean.

Maristela

Derived from Latin, Maristela means “star of the sea.” This celestial and oceanic name is both luminous and graceful.

Meri

Meri is a Finnish name meaning “sea.” Its short and cheerful sound makes it quite appealing.

Mira

Mira is a Sanskrit-origin name meaning “ocean.” It also has celestial connections, as it shares its name with a notable star in the Cetus constellation.

Muirenn

This old Irish name means “born of the sea.” Muirenn is tied to Irish mythology, being the mother of the legendary Finn MacCool.

Muirgel

Muirgel is a Gaelic name that translates to “bright sea.” It carries historical significance, being the name of a sixth-century Irish saint.

Océane

A popular French name, Océane means “ocean.” It has been a favored choice in France for many years.

Yōko

This Japanese name means “ocean child.” Yōko Ono, a renowned multimedia artist, is a well-known bearer of this name.

Boy Names That Mean “Ocean” or “Sea”

Hải

This Vietnamese boys’ name directly translates to “ocean.” The Vietnamese language has a profound connection with nature, often reflected in names like Hải.

Heremoana

Of Maori origin, Heremoana means “beloved ocean,” and reflects the Maori people’s strong connection with the sea.

Kaito

This is a Japanese boys’ name that means “ocean soaring” or “ocean flying.” It’s a popular choice in Japan, bringing to mind images of freedom and grandeur.

Malik

An Arabic name, Malik means “ocean” or “king.” It’s a compelling choice if you’re seeking a name with depth and royal connotations.

Marinus

Of Latin origin, Marinus is a strong sea-themed name that means “of the sea.” It was the name of many early Christian saints, giving it a historical gravitas.

Muir

This unique boys’ name of Scottish origin means “sea” or “moor.” Muir is a great choice if you’re seeking a simple, yet meaningful name.

Murchadh

An old Irish name meaning “sea warrior,” Murchadh holds a strong connection to Irish folklore, in which Murchadh was a mythological warrior.

Pelagius

Here’s a Greek boys’ name that means “of the sea.” It was the name of a Christian theologian whose teachings sparked a major controversy in the fifth century.

Tengiz

Of Georgian origin, Tengiz is a boys’ name that means “sea.” It’s derived from an ancient Turkic word, showcasing the cultural integration within the Georgian language.

Yōsuke

This Japanese name uniquely translates to “ocean assistance.” Yōsuke is a common name in Japan, often chosen for its positive connotations of helpfulness and support.

More Boy Names That Mean “Ocean” or “Sea”

Kai

Kai is a popular name that has roots in Hawaiian culture. It means “sea” and is short and easy to pronounce.

Dylan

Dylan is of Welsh origin and means “son of the sea.” It captures a sense of strength and calmness.

Caspian

Caspian comes from the Caspian Sea. It sounds royal and adventurous.

Morgan

Morgan is a unisex name from Welsh mythology. It means “sea-born,” making it a versatile choice.

Beck

Beck is a short and strong name. It has roots in Old Norse and means “stream.”

Gender-Neutral Names That Mean “Ocean” or “Sea”

Adetokunbo

This unique baby name translates to “came from across the sea” in Yoruba. The name reflects the rich oral tradition of the Yoruba people from West Africa.

Deniz

A popular Turkish name for boys and girls, it directly translates to “sea.” It’s a common choice in Turkey, appreciated for its simplicity and connection to nature.

Hai

The Chinese name Hai means “sea.” The use of nature-based names in China reflects the traditional belief in the harmony between humans and nature.

Kai

This name has origins in many cultures and bears different meanings. In Hawaiian, Kai is a gender-neutral name that means “sea.” It’s a short and unique name that has gained international popularity, especially as a baby boys’ name in the United States.

Kaimana

Of Hawaiian origin, this name means “power of the sea.” It reflects the Hawaiians’ respect and admiration for the power and majesty of the sea.

Moana

A beautiful Polynesian name meaning “ocean” or “sea.” It gained popularity after the release of Disney’s film Moana.

Morgan

This name of Welsh origin means “sea circle.” It’s a popular choice in Wales and has also gained popularity in other English-speaking countries.

Ocean

What better way to honor your love of the ocean than by selecting this direct girls’ and boys’ name starting with the letter O. Meaning “ocean” in English, it’s straightforward and reflective of the beauty of nature.

Tasi

This Chamorro name translates to “ocean.” It’s commonly used in Guam and the Mariana Islands, regions that are part of the larger Micronesian culture.

Yang

In Chinese, this is a unisex name that means “ocean.”

Ocean or Sea Names for Girls

Adrianna

Adrianna evokes the beauty and elegance of the Adriatic Sea, situated between Italy and the Balkan Peninsula. This name brings a touch of natural grace to a classic girl’s name.

Aqua

Aqua, meaning water in Latin, is a gentle and calming name inspired by the ocean. It embodies the soothing qualities of the sea.

Aegle

Linked to the stunning Aegean Sea between Greece and Turkey, Aegle is a Greek name that means “light.” It’s a lovely name reflecting the sea’s beauty.

Bay

Bay is a simple yet meaningful name that recalls serene coastlines and tranquil waters. It’s a versatile choice for any girl.

China

Inspired by the China Sea, this name reflects the rich history and culture of East Asia. It’s a unique choice with a powerful connection to the ocean.

Coral

Coral is named after the vibrant Coral Sea off the northeast coast of Australia. This name captures the radiant beauty and diversity of coral reefs.

India

India commemorates the vast Indian Ocean, which is the third largest in the world. This name is also enriched with the cultural diversity of the country.

Kara

Kara draws from the majestic Kara Sea off Siberia’s northern coast. It carries the cold, striking beauty of the Arctic region.

Medina

Medina is reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea, invoking images of sunlit coasts and ancient civilizations. It’s an elegant name for a girl.

Pacífica

Inspired by the vast Pacific Ocean, Pacífica translates to “peacemaker” in Spanish. It merges the grandeur of the ocean with a message of peace.

Sandy

Sandy conjures up images of warm, sandy beaches. This charming name is perfect for anyone who loves the ocean.

Ocean or Sea Names for Boys

Aden

Inspired by the Gulf of Aden, this name finds its roots between Yemen and Somalia. It is also an English variant of the Irish names Aiden and Aodhán, meaning “little fire.”

Adrian

Derived from the Adriatic Sea, which lies between Italy and the Balkan peninsula, Adrian merges ancient charm with the calming presence of the sea.

Aegean

Named after the Aegean Sea, situated between Greece and Turkey, Aegean also has historical significance tied to Greek mythology.

Atlantic

This name reflects the vastness and power of the Atlantic Ocean, the second-largest ocean on Earth.

Caspian

Inspired by the world’s largest inland body of water, the Caspian Sea, Caspian is a unique choice that also appears in the Chronicles of Narnia series.

Dune

This name evokes the sandy formations shaped by natural forces, representing the adaptable and dynamic essence of the sea.

Hudson

Whether it’s the Hudson Bay, Hudson Strait, or Hudson River, the name Hudson carries a sense of exploration and has been growing in popularity since the mid-1990s.

Pacificus

Meaning “peacemaker” in Latin, Pacificus is inspired by the world’s largest and deepest ocean, the Pacific. It combines the vast beauty of the sea with a sense of tranquility.

Ross

The name Ross draws from the Ross Sea in Antarctica and a region in northern Scotland, evoking images of pristine icy landscapes or rugged coastlines.

Timor

Reflecting the Timor Sea, located north of Australia and south of Indonesia, this name brings a touch of exotic allure.

Nautical and Ocean-Themed Names

Brendan

This Irish boys’ name pays homage to Saint Brendan, the patron saint of sailors. Brendan symbolizes the spirit of adventure and the ocean’s majesty.

Eric

Meaning “ever ruler” in Old Norse, Eric the Red was a tenth-century Norse navigator. He was the first Viking to discover Greenland, making this name a great option for a future explorer.

Finn

Of Irish origin, meaning “fair,” Finn also draws parallels to the fin of a fish.

This gives the name a subtle nautical touch.

Fisher

An English name that symbolizes the timeless profession of fishing, Fisher has deep connections with the sea.

Grace

Inspired by Grace O’Malley, the legendary Irish pirate queen, Grace embodies strength, independence, and adventure.

It also carries a touch of elegance and poise due to its name as a virtue.

Isla

A Scottish name meaning “island,” Isla evokes images of tranquil, secluded islands surrounded by vast seas.

James

This classic boys’ name embodies the spirit of Captain James Cook, the famed British explorer who charted many areas of the Pacific.

James was also popular among many Scottish kings throughout history.

Jeanne

Jeanne honors Jeanne de Clisson, the French pirate known for her vengeance against the French king and nobility.

It’s a strong French name for a fierce young lady.

Jessica

Inspired by Jessica Watson, the Australian sailor who, at 16, attempted a Southern Hemisphere solo circumnavigation.

This name acts as an inspiration for all young women to embody courage and determination.

Marina

A Latin name meaning “of the sea,” Marina resonates with the beauty and tranquility of the ocean.

It’s also a popular baby girl name in the United States.

Navy

Reflecting the naval forces that traverse the world’s oceans, this name signifies strength, honor, and bravery.

It’s suitable for both boys and girls.

Nerissa

A Shakespearean name from The Merchant of Venice derived from Nereus, a sea nymph in Greek mythology.

Nerissa holds a touch of ancient marine mystique.

North

Symbolizing guidance and the journey of life, North refers to the North Sea and the compass direction.

This name works well for both boys and girls.

Olive

The name Olive, connected to Popeye the Sailor’s love interest, adds a playful nautical touch.

Stella

A Latin name that means “star,” Stella reflects the age-old practice of navigating the seas using celestial bodies.