Fish Names

How to spruce up Fisher or Beau? This French surname-name might be an option for a parent unafraid of the unusual. The name derives from Barbel, a type of fish, which is how it became a surname for some fishermen.

If you're German and you love to fish -- then maybe.

A Dorothy nickname name with a measure of nostalgic charm. Kids will associate it with the funny fish character voiced by Ellen DeGeneres in the Pixar animated instant classic Finding Nemo.

A modern version of the dated Betty. You might want to consider varying Elizabeth, too, to the Italian Elisabetta.

One celebrity baby Pilot put this occupational choice into the pool -- together with the middle name Inspektor, something we wouldn't advise following.

With the tide coming in on a new wave of word names, this one just might catch on, especially for parents who relish sun, sand, and surf. Forest lovers can spell it Beech, like the tree.

Highly unusual water name -- and actor Colin surname -- with a Scottish burr. Firth derives from the Old Norse word fjord.

This adorable fish name debuted on the baby name charts in 2020, inspired by a young girl character in the Netflix movie Love and Monsters. Minnow resembles well-established girl names Minnie, Willow, and Marlowe.

A sweet and clear Hopi name with a lovely natural meaning to match.

Traditional Cherokee choice that would make a one-of-a-kind baby name today.

Has too many slangy connotations to be considered.

Thorfin is a strong masculine name with deep Norse roots, derived from the powerful god Thor and 'finnr' meaning 'finder' or 'wanderer.' Historically, it was borne by notable Viking leaders including Thorfinn Karlsefni, who led expeditions to North America. The variant Thorfinn is slightly more common, with Thorfin offering a more streamlined version. The name evokes images of Viking strength, exploration, and Norse mythology, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and powerful associations. Though rare in modern usage, Thorfin has maintained a consistent presence in Scandinavian countries and regions with Norse heritage. Its distinctive sound and spelling make it memorable, while its historical connections provide substance and character, making it an uncommon yet meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with ancient strength.

Soul fans may wish to use this unusual name as a reference to singer Jimmy Ruffin and his younger brother David, one of the lead members of The Temptations.

One-of-a-kind water-related choice.

fuhgeddaboutit.

Over-the-top glitzy. Sparkle debuted in 1976 and peaked in 1979 when it was given to 124 baby girls. Since then, it has only been given to a small handful of girls most years in the US. Pretty Amaryllis, Swedish Tindra, and Greek Maira all have sparkly meanings, while Sparky feels closer to Sparkle but more in line with the likes of Ziggy, Goldie, and Stevie.

Suggests the salty, windswept air of the seashore.

Bobo was the name of one of the most famous clowns in American circus history, who performed from the 1920s until the 1970s. But that's not the only reason this makes a less-than-optimal nickname.