Nature Inspired Baby Names
By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024
Nature Baby Names for Boys
Aiden
Aiden is derived from the Old Irish name Áedán, meaning “little fire.”
It’s also rooted in Irish mythology and was the name of a seventh-century saint. This name fits a spirited and lively little boy.
Ash
Ash is often a short form of Ashley, but it can also stand for the ash tree or the ashes left after a fire.
It’s a simple and strong nature-inspired name.
Aspen
Aspen refers to a tall, slender tree with white bark.
The name comes from the Old English word æspe. This could be a fitting name for a nature-loving family.
Bear
The name Bear directly references the animal. With German origins meaning “the brown one,” it captures the strength and mystery of the bear.
Fans of the constellation Ursa Major might find this name appealing.
Chase
Originally a nickname for a hunter in Middle English, Chase later became a popular given name.
It’s a strong, action-oriented name that evokes the spirit of pursuit.
Clifton
Clifton was once a surname indicating someone lived near a cliff.
The name can be shortened to Cliff and offers a unique nature-inspired option.
Cypress
Cypress is a unisex name derived from the tall, slender cypress tree, known for its variety and elegance, especially those found in Tuscany, Italy.
Dean
In Middle English, Dean means “valley.”
It’s a serene and simple choice for those who love the natural beauty of valleys and mountains.
Ewan
Ewan has Scottish origins and means “born from the yew tree,” an evergreen known for its longevity and resilience.
It’s an excellent name symbolizing endurance.
Falconer
Falconer refers to a keeper of falcons, birds of prey found around the world.
It’s a unique profession-based name with a strong nature connection.
Forest
Originally a surname for those living near a forest, Forest became popular as a given name after the film Forrest Gump.
It signifies the lush, green forests.
Glenn
Glenn, meaning “valley” in Gaelic, originated as a Scottish surname.
It makes a tranquil and straightforward name for a boy.
Hawk
Hawk could have started as a nickname for someone resembling the bird of prey.
Alternatives include Hawke and Hawkins, evoking images of strength and keen vision.
Heath
Heath originates from those living near heaths, shrublands common in Great Britain.
It’s a name with a wild, rugged charm.
Hudson
Hudson is derived from the Old Irish name Aodh, meaning “fire.”
It was a surname indicating “son of Hugh.” Hudson is also a famous river in New York.
Hunter
Hunter started as a surname for those in the profession of hunting.
It’s a stylish, unisex name with a strong connection to nature.
Jasper
Jasper is named after the colorful gemstone, coming in red, yellow, brown, and green.
It could be a perfect match if you love gemology or if your son is born in March.
Leaf
Leaf straightforwardly refers to the leaves of trees and plants, symbolizing growth and nature.
An alternative spelling is Leif, which means “heir” in Old Norse.
Leo
Leo is short for Leopold but can stand alone to represent the lion, a zodiac sign, and a constellation.
It’s a powerful choice with connections to wildlife, astronomy, and astrology.
Lindon
Lindon, or Lyndon, has Old English roots meaning “linden tree hill.”
Known for its ornamental trees and delicate honey, it’s an elegant name choice.
Marsh
Marsh stems from a surname meaning someone who lived near a marshland.
As a standalone name, it carries a unique, earthy vibe.
Orion
Orion is named after a hunter in Greek mythology and a famous constellation.
It also means “light of the heavens” in ancient Akkadian.
Phoenix
Phoenix refers to the mythical bird in Egyptian and Greek myths, symbolizing rebirth and immortality.
The name means “dark red” in Greek, reflecting its fiery character.
Rai
Rai is a Japanese name meaning “lightning” or “thunder.”
It’s a striking and unique choice for those who love the power and beauty of storms. An alternative spelling is Ray, meaning “a beam of light.”
Raven
Raven, meaning “a crow,” comes from an Old English word.
Revered in American Indian and Norse mythology, it’s a name filled with mystery and modernity.
Ridge
Ridge comes from the word for a mountain’s elevated part.
It’s a name with a solid sound and evokes images of rugged landscapes.
River
River refers to a flowing body of water, deriving from an Old French word.
Its popularity surged in 2020 and is used almost equally for boys and girls.
Robin
Robin, sometimes a diminutive for Robert, can also refer to the red-breasted robin known for its distinctive eggs.
It’s a versatile name used for both boys and girls.
Sawyer
Sawyer means “sawer of wood” and has Middle English origins.
Popularized by Mark Twain’s character Tom Sawyer, it holds a rustic charm.
Stone
Stone simply means a rock, symbolizing strength and durability.
It’s a strong and straightforward name for a boy.
Talon
Talon refers to the claw of a bird of prey and means “anklebone” in Latin.
It reached its peak popularity in 2006 and evokes images of strength and agility.
Weston
Weston, meaning “west” and “enclosure,” was originally an English surname.
It’s become a popular given name, peaking in 2020.
Wolf
Wolf, often a nickname for German names like Wolfram or Wolfgang, directly references the fierce animal.
It’s a strong, nature-inspired choice.
Woods
Woods, another term for the forest, makes a straightforward and earthy name. A good nickname for this could be Woody.
Nature Baby Names for Girls
Amber
Amber refers to a yellowish brown stone created from tree resin. Often found around fossils, it comes from the Arabic word “anbar” and became popular in the late 19th century.
Autumn
This name is inspired by the fall season. It has Latin origins from the word “autumnus” and has been used since the 1960s for girls.
Barkha
In Sanskrit, Barkha means “rain.” It’s a unique name to consider, especially if your baby girl is born on a rainy day.
Blossom
Blossom comes from an Old English word that means flowering.
It’s a fitting choice for a little girl who will blossom as she grows up.
Brook
Originally a surname for people who lived by brooks, Brook has become popular as a first name.
While it can be used for both boys and girls, the spelling “Brooke” is more common for girls.
Calla
Calla refers to calla lilies, known for their long, tube-like shapes and a variety of colors.
The name has Greek origins and means “beauty.”
Coral
With Spanish origins, Coral refers to marine life that forms reefs.
It’s also used in jewelry, often in the color coral pink. Variants include Coralie and Coraline.
Crystal
Derived from the Greek word meaning “ice,” Crystal is the name for clear glass. This name has been used for girls since the 19th century.
Dawn
Dawn signifies the early morning light when the sun begins to rise.
It’s a vivid and beautiful name for a girl.
Dove
Representing peace, love, and harmony, Dove is inspired by the white bird known for its gentle nature.
Fawn
Meaning “young deer,” Fawn is an adorable name for a little girl.
Fern
Fern refers to a type of feathery plant found in forests.
It’s a lovely and solid-sounding name for a girl.
Flora
In Latin, Flora means “flower.”
It also refers to the Roman goddess of flowers and the spring season.
Gale
When spelled as Gail, it’s often a short form of Abigail. As Gale, it represents a strong wind.
Hana
In Japanese, Hana means “flower.”
It’s pronounced HA-NA and is similar to the name Hannah.
Hazel
Hazel refers to the hazel tree and can also be used if a girl has hazel-colored eyes.
Holly
This name comes from the holly bush, known for its spiky green leaves and red berries.
It’s popular around Christmas time.
Ivy
A name inspired by the climbing plant with small leaves, Ivy is a timeless choice.
It also brings to mind Ivy League schools, adding an element of aspiration.
Jade
Jade is a pale green stone used in jewelry and carvings. Variations of the name include Jada and Jayde.
Kalani
In Hawaiian, Kalani means “sky” or “heavens” and can also mean “royal one,” a regal choice for a baby girl.
Lark
Lark is a name taken from a type of songbird.
It’s fitting if you love birds and music.
Layla
In Arabic, Layla means “night.”
The name, which can also be spelled Laila, originates from a 12th-century Persian poem.
Lian
Lian is a unisex name in Chinese, meaning “lotus” or “waterfall.”
It’s both versatile and unique.
Meadow
Meadow refers to a field and evokes images of beautiful natural landscapes, making it a lovely name for a girl.
Petal
Petal refers to the part of a flower or a leaf in Greek.
It makes for a charming and delicate name for a baby girl.
Rina
In Japanese, Rina means “white jasmine.”
It’s a simple, elegant name associated with the fragrant flower.
Saba
In Arabic, Saba means “morning.”
It can also be spelled Sabah, offering a bright beginning to a girl’s life.
Samantha
Derived from the male name Samuel, Samantha possibly draws inspiration from a Greek word meaning “flower.”
Savannah
This name comes from the Native American Taino language and means a large grassy plain. It gained popularity in the 19th century.
Skye
Taken from the Old Norse word for the skies, Skye is a unisex name but is more commonly used for girls.
Soleil
In French, Soleil means “sun.” Though not commonly a name in France, it’s a sunny choice for a girl’s name.
Stella
Stella means “star” in Latin. Featured in popular literature, it became a well-known name in the 19th century.
Summer
Summer is the English word for the warm season. This name has been in use since the 1970s and regained popularity in recent years.
Tamala
This name of African origin means “dark tree.” It’s melodious and can pair well with Kamala for twin girls.
Terra
Terra is an alternative spelling of Tara, which means “elevated place” in Gaelic. In Latin, it means “land” or “earth.”
Willow
Willow refers to the willow tree. The willow tree is famous for its elegant, drooping branches often found near water.
Wren
Wren is the name of a small songbird. It offers a delightful option for a nature-themed girl’s name.