Elf Names for Girls and Boys

By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024

Elves are often seen in folklore and fairy tales as magical beings. They have a mysterious and ethereal charm that captures the imagination.

Many people are fascinated by their enchanting nature and the magic they represent.

Whether they are from beloved stories or rich lore, elves continue to inspire with their unique names.

This article will explore a variety of elf names, including those from nature and fantasy.

Both male and female names will be covered, as well as gender-neutral options.

For fans of J.R.R. Tolkien or anyone who appreciates the beauty of these mythical creatures, these names offer a touch of magic and mystery.

Elf Names for Girls

Alara

In Turkish tradition, Alara means “elvin” or “water fairy.” This beautiful name belongs to a water goddess from Turkish mythology.

Alba

A German name that directly translates to “elf.” Alba is both simple and enchanting for a little girl.

Alfhild

Rooted in Old Norse, Alfhild means “elf battle.” This strong name comes from Norse mythology and is perfect for a historically rich choice.

Aoibheann

This lovely Irish name is pronounced Ee-van or Ay-veen and means “beautiful” and “blessed.” Aoibheann offers grace and charm.

Elara

A Greek name meaning “bright, shining one.” Elara is also one of Jupiter’s moons, named after a mythological character from Greece.

Elfreda

Originating from Middle English, Elfreda stands for “elf strength.” This name blends magic with power and resilience.

Elfie

For those wanting a straightforward elvish name, Elfie is a cute and simple choice. It’s a diminutive form of Elfriede and Elfreda, from German origin.

Finella

In Irish Gaelic, Finella means “fair-shouldered one.” This name is also associated with a fairy queen in Irish folklore.

Niamh

Pronounced NEEV, this Irish name means “bright” or “radiant.” In Irish mythology, Niamh is the daughter of a sea god.

Síofra

Another enchanting Irish name, Síofra means “elf” or “sprite.” This name carries a playful and whimsical vibe.

Cool Elf Names for Boys

Ailill

Ailill is a traditional Irish name that means “elf.” It’s a simple and charming choice for your little boy.

Alberich

In German, Alberich means “elf king.” In mythology, Alberich is a sorcerer dwarf, adding an interesting mythical dimension to the name.

Alf

Derived from Old Norse, Alf translates to “elf.” It was also the name of a king in Norse mythology, making it a great option if you seek a name rooted in folklore and royalty.

Alfred

This Old English name means “elf counsel,” combining a magical element with wisdom and guidance.

Buddy

A simple and friendly name, Buddy is recognized by the endearing elf character from the movie Elf.

Dobby

This name brings to mind the devoted house elf from the Harry Potter series, making it a perfect choice for fans of the franchise.

Ernie

Known from the small and hard-working elf character in Keebler cookies commercials, Ernie brings a touch of nostalgia.

Gandalf

Deriving from Old Norse, Gandalf means “wand elf.” J.R.R. Tolkien famously used this name for the powerful wizard in his novels, making it an intriguing choice.

Hermey

Tied to the TV holiday special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Hermey is an elf who dreams of being a dentist. It’s a unique and memorable name.

Keijo

This Finnish name translates to “elf” or “fairy,” offering a magical and wistful charm that would suit any little boy.

Gender-Neutral Elven Names

Albrun

This German name means “elfin brown.” It is ideal for a child with elf-like features and dark hair.

Ariel

Ariel has Hebrew origins and means “lion of God.” Known as a magical spirit from Shakespeare’s The Tempest, this name also connects to the main character in The Little Mermaid, adding a magical touch.

Aubrey

Aubrey is a form of Alberich, which means “elf ruler” in German. This name suits both boys and girls, and in recent times, it has become popular for baby girls.

Avery

In Old English, Avery translates to “ruler of the elves.” It is a variation of Alberich and Alfred.

Eldar

Eldar is the name given to the first elves in Tolkien’s novels, meaning “god resides” in Hebrew. This unisex name evokes a sense of mysticism and fantasy.

Ithil

While not typically used as a name, Ithil is a Sindarin word for the moon.

In Tolkien’s works, elves are described as beings born under the moonlight. Ithil carries a celestial beauty and mystery rooted in elven lore.

Kaelan

This Irish name means “slender,” making it fitting for a graceful and agile elf.

Lorien

Lorien is both a character and place in Tolkien’s novels, known as an elven city of beauty and tranquility. The name signifies the “land of gold.”

Wood Elf Names

Elowen

Elowen means “elm tree” in Cornish. It’s a pretty name for girls that reflects the stories and nature of the elves.

Calen

Calen, in Sindarin, means “green.” This name can be used for any gender and brings to mind the color and life of nature.

Fauna

Fauna is a delightful name for female elves, connected with the enchantment and splendor of nature. It was also the name of a Roman goddess.

Flora

Flora is a charming flower name for girls, linked with elf-like qualities. Named after the Roman goddess of flowers and spring, it has a whimsical and natural feel.

Galion

Galion is a name found in Tolkien’s The Hobbit, belonging to a Wood-elf. It is a nice choice for those fond of elven tales.

Legolas

Legolas is well-known from The Lord of the Rings. He is a prince of the Silvan elves of Mirkwood, and his name means “green leaf” in Sindarin. This name is great for those fascinated by nature and adventure.

Mirkwood

Mirkwood is a region from Tolkien’s Middle Earth inhabited by wood elves. It is an intriguing name for both boys and girls.

Nellas

Nellas is a wood-elf’s name from Tolkien’s The Silmarillion. She resides in the forest and cherishes all creatures and growing things. This name is perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Oropher

Oropher, meaning “tall beech tree” in Sindarin, was an Elven King of the Woodland Realm in The Silmarillion. It is a strong and regal name for boys.

Silvanus

Silvanus, a Latin name meaning “of the woods,” refers to a Roman god of the forest. This name has an elf-like essence suitable for those who love the woods.

Sylvie

Sylvie, the French form of the Latin Silvius, means “of the woods.” It is an elegant and unique name for girls, suitable for describing a woodland elf or fairy.

Fantasy Elf Names for Girls

Aideen

Aideen is a beautiful Irish name meaning “jealousy.” Despite its unique meaning, it holds enchanting ties to Irish mythology and is also the name of an elf in The Witcher series.

Amarië

Amarië signifies “blessed lady” and is found in Tolkien’s fantasy realm. This graceful elf name perfectly suits a young girl.

Aredhel

Aredhel translates to “noble elf” in Sindarin, one of Tolkien’s fictional languages. Aredhal is also known as Ar-Feiniel, meaning “The White Lady (of the Noldor).” This name brings elegance and nobility.

Arwen

Arwen is a famous half-elven character from Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings series. Her name is filled with elven beauty and could be a striking choice.

Celebrían

Celebrían means “silver queen” and is a character in Tolkien’s Middle Earth. She is the mother of Arwen and the daughter of Galadriel, making this name rich with elven heritage.

Eärwen

Eärwen translates to “sea maiden” in the Quenya language. It evokes images of the mystical sea, making it a beautiful elven name.

Elanor

Elanor is a pretty name meaning “star sun” in Sindarin. It is also the name of a flower and the daughter of Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings, a delightful option for a sun elf name.

Elbereth

Elbereth means “star-queen” in Sindarin. She is a powerful queen and goddess in Tolkien’s novels, also known as Varda, adding a sense of grandeur to the name.

Elenwë

Elenwë means “star person” in Quenya. This name belongs to a golden-haired elf from Tolkien’s works, making it a perfect choice for a little star.

Galadriel

Galadriel is the name of a powerful elf queen in Tolkien’s novels. Her name translates to “crowned with a radiant garland,” signifying light and beauty.

Idril

Idril is another of Tolkien’s elf names meaning “sparkling brilliance.” It is an excellent name for a bright and shining girl.

Lúthien

Lúthien translates to “enchantress” or “daughter of flowers” in Sindarin. Known as the most beautiful elf ever, it’s a lovely name for a little flower.

Tauriel

Tauriel, created by Peter Jackson for The Hobbit movie trilogy, means “young woman of the forest” in Sindarin. It’s the name of a wood-elf, perfect for nature lovers.

Fantasy Elf Names for Boys

Aegnor

Aegnor was a character in Tolkien’s The Silmarillion known for his fiery spirit. This name is strong and evocative, perfect for a boy with a bold personality.

Argon

In Tolkien’s world, Argon was an elf renowned for his bravery. The name Argon means “high commander,” making it a powerful choice.

Beleg

Beleg, an elf and skilled archer from The Silmarillion, is a name that means “great” and “mighty.” It signifies strength and precision.

Caranthir

Caranthir, known as “the dark,” was an elf in The Silmarillion. This name carries an air of dark elegance and mystique.

Celeborn

Celeborn, an Elvish character from the Lord of the Rings, means “silver tree.” This serene and majestic name offers a unique choice.

Celebrimbor

Celebrimbor, an elf craftsman in Tolkien’s works, created the three rings of power for the elves. This rare and unique name means “silver fist” in Sindarin.

Daeron

Daeron was a minstrel and the chief loremaster of King Thingol in The Silmarillion.

This name is ideal for those who appreciate music and lore.

Elu

Also known as Thingol or Elwë Singollo, Elu was an elf king in Tolkien’s novels.

The name means “star man” and “greycloak,” bringing a majestic and mystical essence.

Elrond

Elrond, a significant character in Tolkien’s stories, was the Lord of Rivendell, a half-elf, and the father of Arwen.

His name carries a sense of wisdom and leadership.

Eöl

Eöl, known as the dark elf in Tolkien’s tales, exudes a mysterious charm.

This name has a cool, enigmatic quality.

Fëanor

Fëanor was a prominent warrior and creator of the Silmarils in The Silmarillion.

His name means “spirit of fire,” making it a powerful and passionate choice.

Finarfin

Finarfin, a high elf in The Silmarillion, was known for his wisdom and gentle heart.

He became the third King of Noldor, embodying kindness and intelligence.

Gil-galad

Gil-galad, meaning “star of radiance” in Sindarin, was the last High King of the Noldor in Middle-earth.

This name shines with elegance and a celestial aura.

Here are even more elvish names to inspire you:

Galdor

Galdor, an elf from Tolkien’s writings, is a strong name that carries a sense of protection and guidance.

Glorfindel

Glorfindel, known for his bravery in The Lord of the Rings, embodies courage and strength.

This name radiates nobility.

Haldir

Haldir, a elf guardian of Lothlórien, is a name associated with vigilance and loyalty.

It’s perfect for a protective and faithful personality.

Legolas

Legolas, the famous elf from The Lord of the Rings, stands for agility and sharpness. This name carries a sense of keen perception and agility.