Arthurian Theme Names
- Alistair
Origin:
English spelling of Alasdair, Scottish version of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
With many British names invading the Yankee name pool, the sophisticated Alistair could and should be part of the next wave. It debuted in the US Top 1000 in 2016. You have a triple choice with this name--the British spell it Alistair or Alastair, while the Scots prefer Alasdair--but they're all suave Gaelic versions of Alexander. Adopted by the lowland Scots by the seventeenth century, the name didn't become popular outside Scotland and Ireland until the twentieth century.
- Arthur
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
" bear"Description:
Arthur, once the shining head of the Knights of the Round Table, is, after decades of neglect, now being polished up and restored by stylish parents, inspired perhaps by the new generation of royals. Arthur has led the list of possible names for the young British princes, chosen as a middle name for Prince Louis, son of William and Catherine, Prince and Princess of Wales.
- Aurelius
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"the golden one"Description:
Since Aurelius was given the supermodel seal of approval by Elle Macpherson, it has joined Augustus as an ancient Roman name that feels usable today. Slightly mystical and magical, Aurelius is grounded by its similarity to rising stars Aurora, Aurelia, and Atticus, and its golden aura is certainly appealing.
- Avalon
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"island of apples"Description:
Avalon, an island paradise of Celtic myth and Arthurian legend--it was where King Arthur was taken to recover from his wounds-- and also the colorful capital of the California island of Catalina-- makes a heavenly first name. Actress Rena Sofer and British musician Julian Cope used it for their daughters.
- Accalon
- Anir
- Argante
- Astolat
- Balin
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"mighty sword"Description:
Unusual Asian option, and also the name of the Dwarf Lord from Lord of the Rings.
- Blaise
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"to lisp, stammer"Description:
As modern as it sounds, Blaise is an ancient Christian martyr name. In Arthurian legend, Blaise is the name of Merlin the Magician's secretary. Its relation to the word and name Blaze gives it a fiery feel. Amanda Beard named her baby boy Blaise Ray.
- Blanche
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"white"Description:
Blanche, which originated as a nickname for a pale blonde and then became associated with the notion of purity, was in style a century ago, ranking in the double digits until 1920. She then had to fight the stereotype of faded Southern belle, a la Blanche DuBois in Tennessee Williams's A Streetcar Named Desire and Blanche Devereaux in TV's Golden Girls. Now all three of the Golden Girls--Blanche, Rose and Dorothy--could be ready for revival, with Blanche sounding like a stronger, simpler alternative to Bianca.
- Bran
Origin:
Diminutive of BrandonMeaning:
"broom-covered hill"Description:
A little heavy on the fiber content; we prefer Bram. But Bran is also the Celtic god of the underworld, whose symbol is the raven.
- Bruin
Origin:
English or DutchMeaning:
"bear or brown"Description:
Bruin is the Old English term for bear, taken from the Dutch word meaning brown. Bruin might be a sports fan's choice or an animal name in hiding. As a kind of hybrid of Roone and Bruno, it's definitely got some cool.
- Bedivere
- Clarine
Description:
Clarine is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the Latin word 'clarus' meaning 'clear, bright, or famous.' It's related to the name Claire and evokes the sound of the musical instrument clarinet, suggesting a melodious, harmonious quality. Clarine enjoyed modest popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in France and French-speaking regions, though it has remained relatively uncommon. The name has a delicate, refined sound that conveys both classical elegance and sweet simplicity. With its soft consonants and flowing pronunciation, Clarine carries a timeless charm that feels both vintage and fresh. It might appeal to parents seeking a name with French sophistication that remains distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell.
- Caelia
- Cerdic
- Elaine
Origin:
French and ScottishMeaning:
"bright, shining light"Description:
This old Scottish form of Helen has had quite a history, going from appearing as one of the shining heroines of the Arthurian legends, the princess who fell in love with Sir Lancelot and became the mother of Sir Galahad, referred to as 'Elaine the fair' and 'Elaine the lovable', to being the name of the most famous of New York's celebrity restaurants, to being the archetypal New York neurotic on Seinfeld.
- Evaine
Description:
Evaine is a feminine name with medieval and Celtic undertones. It may be a variant of Yvaine, which appears in Arthurian legends, or related to names like Evan or Eve. The name carries an ethereal, mystical quality that evokes images of ancient forests and medieval tales. With its soft sounds and unusual letter combination, Evaine strikes a balance between being recognizable and distinctive. Though rare in modern usage, the name appeals to parents drawn to names with literary or mythological connections. Its elegant sound and spelling make it feel both timeless and fresh. The name may also appeal to those seeking Celtic-inspired names that aren't as common as Erin or Siobhan.
- Enide