52 Legendary Names from Comics, Games, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy

From superheroes to starship captains, these 52 names from your favorite fandoms are perfect for babies, pets, characters, nicknames, and more!

Looking for the perfect names for your baby, your next RPG character, or even a new pet? Whether you’re a lifelong geek or just love a good sci-fi or fantasy adventure, the right name can add a touch of legendary magic. That’s where Naming Your Little Geek: The Complete List of Comic, Game, Sci-Fi and Fantasy Names by Scott Rubin comes in! With nearly 1,100 names pulled from iconic fandoms, this book is the ultimate resource for finding a name that’s both meaningful and undeniably cool.

To get you started, we’ve pulled 52 of the most legendary names from comics, games, sci-fi, and fantasy—so whether you’re naming a tiny hero, a magical creature, or a new alter ego, there’s something here for every fan.

Boy Names

1. Artax /ˈärtæks/

Blamed by some for ruining the collective childhood of an entire generation, Artax was the trusty horse of hero Atreyu in The Neverending Story. He’s best known for the scene in the film in which they travel through the Swamps of Sadness . . . and when Artax can’t go any farther and tragically dies! All of that aside, it’s a pretty cool name and will absolutely stand out on the playground. At some point, though, your son (and his classmates) will see the movie, so you’ll have to deal with the inevitable fallout, both for naming him after a horse and for the character’s bleak demise.

Artax, The Neverending Story by Michael Ende, 1979 [Novel]

2. Biggs /bɪɡz/

A loyal friend, daring pilot, and stalwart Rebel are ways to describe Biggs Darklighter from Star Wars Episode IV and the Expanded Universe. After growing up on Tatooine and honing his skills alongside best friend Luke Skywalker, Darklighter attended the Imperial Academy before defecting to the Rebellion. He was at the briefing on Yavin 4, during which Luke compared their mission to shooting womp rats, and though excited to be flying with his friend, Biggs would not survive the attack on the Death Star. Biggs has a tremendous legacy throughout the Star Wars universe, which will help offset the shock a son with that name will feel at seeing the end of A New Hope.

Biggs Darklighter, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, 1977 [Film]

3. Clifford “Cliff” /ˈklɪfɝɹd/

While Clifford comes from Old English for, you guessed it, “ford by a cliff,” it’s a high-flying name, all thanks to one character: the Rocketeer! Cliff Secord was an already exciting stunt pilot by day before he found an experimental jetpack that he used to fight criminals and supervillains in the pages of comics and in the 1991 film by the same name. Name your son Clifford and he’s sure to take flight, though you might want to enforce calling him Cliff as soon as possible to avoid comparisons to a certain big red dog.

Clifford “Cliff” Secord (the Rocketeer), Starslayer, Pacific Comics, 1982 [Comic Book]

4. Dwalin /ˈdwɔlɪn/

Next up in the cavalcade of Thorin’s Company dwarves from J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is Dwalin, whose name is an adaptation of “Dvalin” from the Norse Poetic Edda. Brother to Balin, in the book he’s described as wearing a gold belt and green hood with a lengthy blue beard. The film adaptations of The Hobbit mark out Dwalin as the tallest of the dwarves, with a bald head and tattoos. He is ferocious in debate and battle, and while preferring the war hammer, he always carries with him an assortment of weapons. A Dwalin in your family will be aggressive but not a bully, caring deeply for his loved ones and defending his home. Put his love of hammers to good use with training in carpentry and construction.

Dwalin, The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien, 1937 [Novel]

5. Eren /ˈərɪn/

Eren is a Turkish name with a root meaning “saint,” and Eren Yeager is one of the main characters in the worldwide manga/anime phenomenon Attack on Titan. After witnessing one of the enormous creatures killing and eating his mother, Eren dedicates his life to destroying the Titans, and to make that mission a reality, he joins the military Survey Corps and the elite Special Operations Squad. However, despite the boy’s hatred for the giants, mankind’s greatest weapon against them is his ability to transform into one of them and to control them.

An Eren in your family will be highly intelligent and driven—even at a young age—but with a temper that can easily turn to obsession, so make sure to challenge him and give him appropriate hobbies. He’ll go to any lengths to stick up for his family, and don’t be surprised if he grows to be bigger and taller than you expect.

Eren Yeager, Attack on Titan, Bessatsu Shonen Magazine, Kodansha, 2009 [Manga]

6. Fox /fɑks/

The word “fox” stretches back through Middle and Old English, while the first instance of it being used as a last name comes from England in the thirteenth century. More recently Fox has become a cool given name, and it’s used by two fan-favorite characters in the world of geek entertainment who both came onto the scene in 1993 (coincidence, or conspiracy?).

Video game fans looking for adventure in the Lylat System have come to know the name Fox McCloud, the anthropomorphic vulpine hero of the Star Fox game series. McCloud is an ace pilot of the Arwing craft and leads his fellow Star Fox team members Slippy Toad, Peppy Hare, Krystal, and Falco Lombardi. The character probably best associated with the name Fox is, of course, FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder of The X-Files. What you might call a man with a mission, Mulder is relentless in his search for aliens, conspiracies, and the like. He is driven, focused, and obsessed, but also emotional and reckless, all of which contributed to the FBI pairing him with the logical and reserved Dana Scully.

Fox is a very cool name for a son (or daughter) and will bring with it insatiable curiosity and the drive to learn what’s out there. Your Fox may be charismatic and want to fly, or focus on discovering hidden truths. It’s recommended for an only child, so nothing a sibling does early on will create an obsession for him.

Fox McCloud, Star Fox, 1993 [Video Game]

Special Agent Fox William Mulder, The X-Files, 1993 [Television]

7. Glen, Glenn /ɡlɛn/

Glen/Glenn has a very pastoral origin, coming from the Gaelic word for a “narrow valley between hills.” The most popular Glenn in pop culture is the one in The Walking Dead, featured both in the comic book and the TV adaptation. Coming together with Rick and the group near Atlanta, Glenn was already an expert scavenger, and his skills get him in and out of dangerous situations to get much needed supplies. Generally an optimist (as much as one can be in the post-apocalyptic world), he finds true love with Maggie and a reason to fight and find safety. Give your son a quiet nobility and a hope for the future by naming him Glenn. He’ll also be sneaky, stealthy, and great at finding hidden treasures at yard sales.

Glenn, Chrono Trigger, 1995 [Video Game]

Glenn, The Walking Dead, Image Comics, 2003 [Comic Book]

8. Hikaru /hɪˈkɑɹuː/

A popular Japanese name that means “to shine,” Hikaru appears in dozens of anime and manga series. The most iconic was Hikaru Ichijyo, the hotshot young pilot who gets swept up into a space war. He was visiting his friend Roy Focker when the SDF-1 Macross launched, and while on board he joined the UN Spacy to take the fight against the Zentradi and eventually became a commanding officer. If that story sounds familiar, you might be thinking of Rick Hunter and Robotech, the American series that utilizes the original Macross animation.

There’s another Hikaru who looms large in the world of geeks, and that’s the former Lieutenant and later Captain Hikaru Sulu of Star Trek! He first helmed the Enterprise in the original series and that crew’s first five films before branching out to command the USS Excelsior in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (in the more recent reboot films he’s back to a young helmsman). Sulu was a popular and charismatic officer with a sharp sense of humor and a quick wit. His years of experience only added to that, and by the time he became captain he shared a close working relationship with his crew and could joke with them in lighter moments.

Hikaru is a cool name for a son who likes to go fast; he’ll be a natural-born pilot and navigator, always looking to go higher. You can also nickname your Hikaru “Rick.”

Captain Hikaru Ichijyo, Macross, 1982 [Anime]

Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu, Star Trek, 1966 [Television]

9. Iolaus /ˈioʊlʌs/

Forever known as a loyal friend and helper to the more famous hero, Iolaus in Greek mythology was the nephew of Herakles and his companion through travels and travails. Iolaus notably helped his uncle by taking care of equipment and travel, but he also participated directly in some of the labors, such as when he cauterized the decapitated necks of the Lernaean Hydra to prevent the heads from re-growing. Iolaus was a key character in the TV show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, there appearing as the titular hero’s best friend and companion. Though less physically imposing and skilled than Hercules, he was a hero in his own right with excellent hunting skills. Naming your son Iolaus won’t necessarily guarantee all the glory for your son, but he will be a great team player whose efforts will be appreciated and highly successful.

Iolaus, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, 1995 [Television]

10. Jun /d͡ ʒuːn/

The multi-functional name Jun is used by both boys and girls (see the Jun entry in the girls’ “J” section for an example) and has a ton of derivations in different languages. For the Halo: Reach character Warrant Officer Jun-A266, a Spartan sniper in the UNSC’s Noble Team, the name might be a reference to a Chinese spelling that means “military” or to the Hindu deity Arjuna who is a masterful archer. Whatever his specific inspiration, this Jun was a superior shot and scout as well as a survivor who made it through the Fall of Reach and retired from the front lines to serve as trainer and recruiter.

Whether or not your culture is one of the many that uses the name Jun, you should consider giving it to your son; he’ll have excellent hand-eye coordination (for video games or actual shooting) and a determined spirit, always watching out for his friends and family.

Warrant Officer Jun-A266, Halo: Reach, 2010 [Video Game]

11. Kato /ˈkeɪtoʊ/

In some cases the name Kato can be a variant of the Latin Cato, which comes from a word meaning “intelligent”; there is even an African derivation for Kato meaning “second of twins.” And while the name immediately brings to mind the martial artist assistant/partner to the pulp hero Green Hornet, it’s actually the character’s last name (which in Japanese can mean “wisteria” or “increase”). Different incarnations of the property depicted Kato as belonging to a variety of Asian ethnicities, though no matter from whence he hailed he was always a powerhouse of fighting ability and mechanical skill, maintaining the iconic Black Beauty car when not engaged in daring exploits

Name your son Kato and he’ll be a quiet boy with huge potential and a loyal friend good with his hands and machines. It won’t hurt to enroll him in martial arts classes early on, and he’ll be able to change the oil in your car before he can walk.

Kato, The Green Hornet, 1936 [Radio Show]

12. Lennier /lɛˈnɪɹ/

One of the many unique characters on Babylon 5, Lennier was a Religious Caste Minbari serving as Ambassador Delenn’s assistant aboard the titular space station. A highly educated and stoic individual, Lennier was a dutiful aide before stepping up and becoming a Ranger to fight the good fight. Name your son Lennier (with easy nicknames “Len” or “Lenny”) and he’ll value education, religion, and a path in service to others.

Lennier, Babylon 5, 1994 [Television]

13. Mace /meɪs/

A word that can refer to a bludgeoning weapon, a spice related to nutmeg, or a self-defense spray, Mace is also a tough-sounding name for no-nonsense heroes in space. Chris Evans played the engineer Mace in 2007’s Sunshine, nobly sacrificing himself on a mission to reignite the sun. But the name will forever belong to the inimitable Samuel L. Jackson for his portrayal of Jedi Master Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequel films. A ranking member of the Jedi Council alongside Yoda, Windu cut an imposing figure and was nearly unbeatable in combat while wielding his unique purple-bladed lightsaber. Mace is a bold choice for a son’s name, but with it your boy will have a serious demeanor and a career or hobbies involving travel to distant places. Cultivate any interests he may have in engineering or diplomacy and don’t be surprised if his favorite color is purple.

Mace, Sunshine, 2007 [Film]

Lord Mace Tyrell, A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, 1996 [Novel]

Mace Windu, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, 1999 [Film]

14. Norrin /ˈnɔɹɪn/

Does your family enjoy surfing as well as superheroes? Do you like the color silver and wish to lavish it on your son? Then Norrin is the perfect name for you!

When tasked with drawing a herald for the planet-devouring entity Galactus in the Fantastic Four comic, Jack Kirby created a sleek, hairless, and powerful-looking man that flew through space on what looked like a surfboard. Together with Stan Lee, Kirby would flesh out the character’s background, giving life to the Silver Surfer. Once an astronomer from the advanced culture living on the planet Zenn-La, Norrin Radd sacrificed his life and freedom for that of his home when Galactus arrived to consume it. In exchange for Galactus sparing Zenn-La, Radd became the creature’s herald, seeking out food sources for its endless ravening hunger. No mere mortal could serve the godlike entity thusly, and so Galactus transformed Norrin into the Silver Surfer with a dose of the Power Cosmic.

While his fateful bargain with Galactus would haunt him over the years, Silver Surfer has been a powerful force for good in the universe, and his name would be a fine one to pass on to the next generation in your family.

Norrin Radd (Silver Surfer), Fantastic Four, Marvel Comics, 1966 [Comic Book]

15. Obould /ˈoʊbuld/

If there’s anything that R. A. Salvatore’s Forgotten Realms novels have taught us, it’s that race does not determine personality, intelligence, or ambition. And while Drizzt Do’Urden, the goodly drow, may epitomize this the best, so too does King Obould Many-Arrows. A relatively recent (as the series goes) adversary to the ranger, Obould is an orc king who stands out not only for his physical strength and fighting prowess, but also for his cunning and ability to see the importance of nation-building, trade, and peaceful coexistence. His work would establish the Kingdom of Many-Arrows, a prosperous and sustainable community of orcs that is actually NOT at war with its neighbors!

If yours is a family that values strength and bravado but you want your future generations tempered by calmer thought, maybe Obould would be a good addition. He’ll grow to be a strong and wise leader, probably preferring the color green and practicing archery as a hobby.

King Obould Many-Arrows, The Thousand Orcs by R. A. Salvatore, 2002 [Novel]

16. Panthro /ˈpænθɹoʊ/

Can you possibly guess the feline inspiration for Panthro, heroic warrior and mechanic of the ThunderCats? Of course it’s the panther, and the mighty Thundaran embodies the noble creature’s intelligence as well as its ferocity in his role as the team’s inventor and tech master, building weapons and vehicles. And despite his keen intellect and absolute focus on warfare, Panthro enjoyed a good laugh and held his friends and family above all else. Even if yours is a family that loves kitties and engineering, the name Panthro might not be ideal for a son—but it sure is fun for a cat.

Panthro, ThunderCats, 1985 [Animation]

17. Quentin /ˈkwɛntɪn/

An ideal name for your fifth child is Quentin, as it comes from the Latin word for “fifth.” Even if you’re not approaching half a dozen kids, you might be interested in using the name, as it’s been applied to some interesting and nuanced heroes over the last few years and across different media. In Marvel Comics, the telepathic and telekinetic X-Man Quentin Quire is one of the most powerful mutants on Earth; The Magicians tells the tale of Quentin Coldwater, who learns magic and gains access to a fantastical realm; and on TV’s Arrow Quentin Lance tirelessly serves his city and helps the Green Arrow in the police department and the mayor’s office.

The only pitfalls with a child named Quentin is interest in magic or the Wild West, as you wouldn’t want the kid turning out like Spider-Man’s illusionist nemesis Mysterio (Quentin Beck) or plantation owner Quentin Turnbull, who terrorizes Jonah Hex.

Quentin Beck (Mysterio), The Amazing Spider-Man, Marvel Comics, 1964 [Comic Book]

Qui-Gon Jinn, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, 1999 [Film]

Quentin Collins, Dark Shadows, 1966 [Television]

Quintavius “Quentin” Quire (Kid Omega), New X-Men, Marvel Comics, 2003 [Comic Book]

Quentin Coldwater, The Magicians by Lev Grossman, 2009 [Novel]

Detective Quentin Lance, Arrow, 2012 [Television]

Quentin Travers, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 1999 [Television]

Quentin Turnbull, Weird Western Tales, DC Comics, 1974 [Comic Book]

18. Rell /ɹɛl/

There are some unsubstantiated claims that the name Rell comes from roots for “thunderer,” but geeks know it both as a fantastical and far-future moniker.

In the sci-fi video game Warframe, players learn the sad tale of Rell, a differently-abled child aboard the Zariman Ten-Zero who was outcast from the others and eventually bonded with a Harrow Warframe in an attempt to save everyone from the Void. Long, long ago in the totally rad ’80s film Krull, Rell was a mythical cyclops who joined Prince Colwyn’s quest to defeat the Beast. Cyclopes in that world had the special ability to foresee their own deaths, and yet Rell valiantly sacrificed himself to help his friends complete their mission. In both worlds Rell was an outcast, never fully integrating with society and yet striving to protect and save it.

While the name is certainly uncommon, it’s a noble one that will bring a boy a strong sense of empathy and altruism—even if he isn’t the most social.

Rell, Krull, 1983 [Film]

Rell, Warframe, 2013 [Video Game]

19. Slade /sleɪd/

An old Saxon place name, the tough-sounding Slade has had various meanings in different locales, including “valley,” “forest glade,” or “slope of hill.” Characters who go by this name appear only in comic books, with a couple of minor examples, like the mobster who killed Daredevil’s father and the strange cross-dimensional Avengers ally Moonraker (Slade Truman).

By far the most famous Slade is Slade Wilson, better known as DC Comics’s Deathstroke the Terminator. A former US Army soldier, Wilson was given advanced training as well as experimental procedures that made him stronger, faster, and tougher than any normal man—though the fallout of the kidnapping of his son left Slade with compromised morals and one fewer eyeball. Deathstroke would become a famed mercenary and assassin, not to mention one of the top fighters in the world, able to take on foes like Batman and entire teams of heroes at once. Over the years, Deathstroke has always looked out for himself, though on occasion he’s worked alongside do-gooders when a truly evil threat to Earth has appeared.

Name your kid Slade and he’ll be a rough-and-tumble kid; just keep him away from secret military experiments and he’ll stay on the straight-and-narrow.

Slade, Daredevil, Marvel Comics, 1964 [Comic Book]

Slade Truman (Moonraker), Force Works, Marvel Comics, 1995 [Comic Book]

Slade Wilson (Deathstroke the Terminator), The New Teen Titans, DC Comics, 1980 [Comic Book]

20. Thufir /ˈθuːfɝ/

To guarantee a boy will grow up to have an analytic mind with the processing power of a supercomputer, consider giving him the name Thufir. A creation of Frank Herbert, Thufir Hawat was a Mentat and Master of Assassins for House Atreides in Dune. His mental conditioning made him superhumanly smart and able to calculate, deduce, and derive with the best of them, and he was fiercely loyal to the Duke, Jessica, and Paul.

Thufir Hawat, Dune by Frank Herbert, 1965 [Novel]

21. Uatu /uːˈɑtu/

Forever watching and never interfering is Uatu, a giant alien residing on the moon and overseeing events on Earth in Marvel Comics. Just one of a race of intergalactic Watchers, he is sworn to remain outside and separate from that which he sees—though time and time again Uatu has broken his vows and intervened to save humanity and the world with his cosmic powers. His name is reminiscent of other sci-fi monikers like Klaatu and Quato, and if you give it to a child, then he’ll be smart and wise, a little bit standoffish, and a wallflower. He may also go bald early, so prepare for that.

Uatu the Watcher, The Fantastic Four, Marvel Comics, 1963 [Comic Book]

Uatu Jackson, The Amazing Spider-Man, Marvel Comics, 2011 [Comic Book]

22. Vash /væʃ/

A manga and anime classic, Vash the Stampede (also known as the Humanoid Typhon) is the star of the Trigun franchise. At once one of his world’s greatest gunfighters and a pacifist, Vash carries the weight of a bounty over his head, as well as the responsibility of taking care of those who get caught in the crossfire of people attempting to collect it. Oh, and he’s also a cyborg and a being called a “Plant,” meaning he’s effectively immortal and can transform his body into a weapon of unimaginable destruction. Despite it all, Vash is a kind, childlike soul who channels his loneliness into protecting others. Vash would be a pretty unique name to give to your boy, but with it he, too, will be compassionate and confident and an expert shot. He’ll also have a thing for wearing red. See also Vash in the girls’ section

Vash the Stampede (the Humanoid Typhon), Trigun, Monthly Shonen Captain, Tokuma Shoten, 1995 [Manga]

23. Wan /wɑn/

If you’re hoping for a boy who’s streetwise, quick-thinking, and a good driver, then consider giving him the name Wan. While it isn’t spoken in the film itself, additional background materials provide Wan Li as the real name of famed Indiana Jones sidekick “Short Round.” A Chinese orphan living on the rough streets of Shanghai, “Shorty” could find just about anything anyone wanted and put his small size, quick fingers, and quicker reflexes to good use as a pickpocket and getaway driver. He had the adventure of a lifetime working for Dr. Jones, freeing children from the grip of the evil Mola Ram.

Wan Li (Short Round/Shorty), Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, 1984 [Film]

24. Xander /ˈzændɚ/

Alexanders are great (see the “A” section), but some rebels go for the sleeker Xander instead. These include skateboarder and lazy Rock Porium manager Xander Bly, who fights evil as the Green Mystic Ranger; billionaire businessman and amateur superhero Awesome X (Xander Crews) on Frisky Dingo; and the xXx franchise’s extreme sports international spy, Xander Cage. Most popular among geeks is most likely Xander Harris, one of the Slayer’s so-called “Scooby Gang” on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. A normal human boy with no special powers or training, Xander nevertheless was always around to help out in investigations or just for moral support, and his down-to-earth courage and humanity served as an anchor for Buffy and the more powerful members of their group.

Whether you name your son Alexander and call him Xander or go directly for the “X” name, he’ll probably be a rule-breaker and dance to the beat of his own drum. He’ll be charismatic and have lots of friends, though, and may join a group of positive kids out to save the world.

Prince Xander, Fire Emblem Fates, 2015 [Video Game]

Prince Xizor, Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry, 1996 [Novel]

Xander Bly (Green Mystic Ranger), Power Rangers Mystic Force, 2006 [Television]

Xander Cage, xXx, 2002 [Film]

Xander Crews (Awesome X), Frisky Dingo, 2006 [Animation]

Alexander “Xander” Harris, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 1997 [Television]

Xander Payne (Mr. X), Mega Man, Archie Comics, 2012 [Comic Book]

25. Ynyr /ˈinɪɹ/

When evil rears its ugly head, only the bravest souls step up to fight it, and so it was when the “Old One” Ynyr appeared to help Prince Colwyn save the world in 1983’s Krull. A character in many ways reminiscent of Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ynyr was an old man hidden away who aided a young man, teaching him about his powers, guiding him through dangers so he could face the final evil, and sacrificing himself along the way. Colwyn’s mentor was incredibly long-lived and knowledgeable in many areas, including the history and geography of his world, medicine, magic, and epic weapons.

Ynyr is also a real-life Welsh name (with an uncertain derivation possibly from the Latin word for “honor”), but you don’t have to be from Wales to give it to your son; he’ll be a wise boy and grow to be a patient and compassionate mentor. Pronunciation will be a fun game!

Ynyr, Krull, 1983 [Film]

26. Zeb /zɛb/

If your family makes ’em big, tough, and honorable, then you might choose the name Zeb for your next kid (and teach him the expletive “karabast!”). Zeb is pretty functional, being a short form for a variety of real-world names including Zebadiah and Zebulon, though in a galaxy far, far away, it’s the preferred moniker of the gigantic Lasat warrior Garazeb Orrelios. Formerly a Captain of the Lasan Honor Guard before their homeworld was lost and his people decimated, Zeb struck out on his own, doing whatever damage he could to the Galactic Empire. And while he was certainly capable of mayhem, Orrelios’s mission became much bigger when he became a member of Hera Syndulla’s crew aboard the Ghost. The Lasat was a determined rebel fighter, blasting and bashing his way through endless Stormtroopers with glee.

Garazeb “Zeb” Orrelios, Star Wars Rebels, 2014 [Animation]

Girl Names

27. Adi /ˈædi/

Adi is another name with variations in multiple ancient languages, specifically “jewel” or “ornament” in Hebrew and “original” or “the first” in Sanskrit. Hardcore Star Wars fans know the background character in the prequel films as Adi Gallia, a Tholothian Jedi Master whom we become familiar with in the Expanded Universe of comics and Clone Wars animated series. Adi excelled at diplomacy, piloting, and maintaining the high standards of the Jedi High Council, a body on which she served with distinction. Adi is a name not likely to be recognized as coming from a source like Star Wars, so if you’re looking for a stealthy geek name, this could be one for you.

Adi Gallia, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, 1999 [Film]

28. Bonnibel /ˈbɑnɪbɛl/

Related to bonne in French, Bonnibel is a Scottish name meaning “good” and “fair.” While its more familiar version, Bonnie, doesn’t seem to show up in geek culture, there is a very popular Bonnibel in Adventure Time’s Princess Bubblegum! Known by nicknames including Peebles and P-Bubs, the Princess is a brilliant scientist, fair ruler of the Candy Kingdom, and sometime love interest of the hero Finn and Merceloine. In fact, there’s very little Bubblegum can’t do, although at times she’s a little too high-strung for her own good. Bonnibel is an awesome and adorable name for your daughter and one that instills a quest for knowledge and discovery as well as diplomacy and a royal bearing. Don’t be surprised when she wants everything in pink, and make sure to have plenty of candy on hand.

Princess Bonnibel Bubblegum, Adventure Time, 2010 [Animation]

Bonnie Harper, The Craft, 1996 [Film]

29. Chiana /ˈtʃiːɑnɑ/

While it has real-world roots in Native American traditions, the name Chiana comes to us by way of the stars and the epic television show Farscape. Just one of the incredibly unique characters from that universe, Chiana is a distinctly independent Nebari on the run from her people’s rigid government. Judged by many to be wild and uncontrollable, the gray-skinned girl epitomizes the free spirit and always acts in the moment and according to her desires. She is also a fighter and a survivor, escaping from the clutches of those who would capture her time after time. Chiana is a very pretty name, and with it will come a strong personality with a drive toward independence and self-reliance. As her parents, you may not always get along with her, but at the same time, you’ll be confident that she can look out for herself.

Chiana, Farscape, 1999 [Television]

30. Daenerys /dɛˈnɛəɹɪs/

Already a name that’s achieving popularity around the world, Daenerys comes from George R. R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones and the HBO show adaptation. The woman of many nicknames is the last descendant of the ruling Targaryen family and seeks to reclaim her legacy, but in a roundabout way she travels to distant lands and conquers them. Daenerys is also a great beauty blessed with silver-blonde hair and purple eyes (physical attributes that run in her family). She’s caring and compassionate, wise, and—last but not least—she owns the last three known dragons in the world!

The name isn’t so popular (yet) that if you give it to your daughter, she’ll meet others with it in her class, but at the same time, it’ll be recognizable to many. Daenerys, and its nickname Dany, is recommended for families with blonde genes, aspirations of royalty, and a love of reptiles. [Note: “Khaleesi,” while it could be used as a name, is one of Daenerys’s titles and Dothraki for “queen.”]

Daenerys Targaryen, A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, 1996 [Novel]

31. Éowyn /ˈiːoʊwɪn/ or /ˈiːwɪn/

A shieldmaiden of Rohan with royal blood, Éowyn is sister to Éomer in the Lord of the Rings trilogy by J. R. R. Tolkien. Her name is composed of Old English elements for “war-horse” and “delight,” a solid basis for a character of her horse-loving people. Not content to sit on the sidelines, Éowyn dressed as a man and rode with her fellow warriors to participate in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. Her presence would be crucial as she stood up to the Witch-king of Angmar (who could not be killed by any man) . . . and killed him. After healing from her wounds and the influence of the Nazgul, Éowyn gives up her martial pursuits and relocates to Ithilien with her husband Faramir.

An Éowyn in your family will not be content to stay at home and be a perfect little lady, preferring to go out and get her hands dirty. She’ll have some wild exploits and prove that she can do what no man can do, and after great accomplishments will still settle down with love and a family. And who can ask for a better fate than that?

Éowyn, The Two Towers by J. R. R. Tolkien, 1954 [Novel]

32. Farore /ˈfæɹoʊ/, /fæˈɹoʊə/ or /ˈfɛɚɔɹ/

The Legend of Zelda games take place (mostly) on the world of Hyrule, a verdant land created by three goddesses, including Farore. In addition to her membership in that elite group, she is the creator of life and the patron of winds, children, musical instruments, and bravery; her connection to the latter provides Link with the Triforce of Courage. Name your daughter Farore to give her divine grace, a bold spirit, and a deep connection to the world around her. She will also gravitate toward wind instruments, be patient with kids, and prefer the color green in her clothing (and maybe even hair).

Farore, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, 1992 [Video Game]

33. Guenhwyvar /ˈɡwɛnwɪvɑɹ/

Fantasy icon Drizzt Do’Urden has a lot of friends and allies, but none are as devoted or have been with him as long as Guenhwyvar (whose name means “shadow” in high elven and is similar to the Welsh Gwenhwyfar). An animal spirit from the Astral Plane, the massive black panther is summoned every other day by means of a magical device called a Figurine of Wondrous Power. Guenhwyvar previously belonged to an evil wizard and suffered under his control, but she has since lived in harmony with the noble ranger Drizzt. Guenhwyvar, no matter how you decide to pronounce it, is a beautiful fantasy name and would be great for a strong but quiet daughter who is incorruptibly good and a friend to animals. It can also be a somewhat “stealthy” geek name, if you call her by the obvious nickname Guen.

Guenhwyvar, The Crystal Shard by R. A. Salvatore, 1988 [Novel]

34. Hilde /ˈhɪldʌ/ or /ˈhɪldiː/

A classic European name, Hilde (Old Norse for “battle”) is related to Hilda and sometimes a short form of Hildegarde (“battle stronghold” in Old German). The name doesn’t appear in a lot of geeky properties, but it does show up in some Japanese works, which follows the trend of Germanic-inspired characters and names in anime and manga. Hilde Schbeiker was a giant robot pilot in Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, joining the OZ Space Army as a volunteer and later going on spy missions. In the Souls video game series, Hildegard “Hilde” von Krone is a European knight-like character from “Wolfkrone” who wears full-body armor and wields a spear and short sword.

If you name a daughter Hilde (or a related name like Hilda or Hildegarde), there’s a good chance she’ll be tough and a fighter. Whatever outlet she chooses for her energy and aggression will involve some sort of heavy equipment—like armor or pads in full contact sports.

Hilda Spellman, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Archie Comics, 1971 [Comic Book]

Hilde Schbeiker, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, 1995 [Anime]

Hildegard “Hilde” von Krone, Soulcalibur IV, 2008 [Video Game]

35. Ilia /ˈaɪliʌː/

It may sound like the Slavic “Ilya” (an Eastern European variant of Elijah), but Ilia is the name of a Starfleet officer from the faraway world of Delta IV in Star Trek: The Motion Picture. A last-minute addition to the crew of the Enterprise after a freak transporter accident, Lieutenant Ilia served as navigator en route to a mysterious cloud in space. Her contact with V’Ger would prove fatal, though the probe essentially resurrected her in an artificial duplicate (with the same memories and personality)—all part of the machine’s deep need to find its Creator. Ilia does just that with the help of Captain Decker, and they ascend together as a new enlightened lifeform.

Ilia is a very pretty name for a girl who is introspective, good at directions, and able to heal with her hands. She will have a rapport with machines as well and may choose an extreme haircut—or cut it all off.

Lieutenant Ilia, Star Trek: The Motion Picture, 1979 [Film]

36. Jaina, Jayna /ˈdʒeɪnʌ/

Jaina and Jayna may be considered variations on Jane (from John and by extension the Hebrew for “God is gracious”), but Jaina is also a Hindi name meaning “kind” or “good character.” The latter is the inspiration for the Batman villainess White Rabbit, a crazy escape artist who splits from the seemingly normal philanthropist Jaina Hudson. The other ladies with these names are heroes in their respective fantasy and science-fiction worlds, including Warcraft’s top sorceress and Alliance supporter Jaina Proudmoore; the Wonder Twin Jayna, who can assume the shape of any animal; and from the old Star Wars Expanded Universe Jaina Solo Fel, daughter of Han Solo and Leia, powerful Jedi Master, and expert pilot.

In either Jaina or Jayna form, the name is perfect for an adventurous girl who will lead a very interesting life. She may form a close bond with a brother (especially if they are twins), be a friend to animals, delve into the arcane, or learn to soar above the clouds.

Jayna, The All-New Super Friends Hour, 1977 [Animation]

Jaina Solo Fel, The Last Command by Timothy Zahn, 1993 [Novel]

Jaina Hudson (White Rabbit), Batman: The Dark Knight, DC Comics, 2011 [Comic Book]

Jaina Proudmoore, Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, 2002 [Video Game]

37. Katma /ˈkɑtmɑ/

An alien and member of the Green Lantern Corps in the pages of DC Comics, Katma Tui came from the same planet as the on-again, off-again Lantern and villain Sinestro. Like him, Katma had purple skin and dark blue hair but differed in her wholly altruistic and loving nature. She served the Corps with distinction and ingenuity and later fell in love with (and married) Earth GL John Stewart. The name Katma is definitely unique with an exotic sound, though with the nickname “Kat” it’s flexible too. Name your daughter Katma to give her a loving heart, a strong sense of duty, and a clever wit.

Katma Tui, Green Lantern, DC Comics, 1964 [Comic Book]

38. Luna /ˈluːnə/

In ancient times the Romans knew the moon as Luna, which corresponded to both the astronomical body and the goddess associated with it. As such, countless characters with that name are imbued with lunar traits or inspirations—like Sailor Moon’s talking cat who helps Sailor Moon and bears a moon icon on her head; the video game Dota 2’s servant of the Dark Moon, Luna the Moon Rider; My Little Pony’s royal overseer of nighttime and dreams; and Marvel Comics’s daughter of the mutant Quicksilver and Inhuman Crystal, who was born on the moon. A Luna in your family will be a shining jewel, a night owl with wisdom beyond her years. Lunas are often fierce and independent, standing out from the crowd like the moon among the stars.

Luna, Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon, Nakayoshi, Kodansha, 1992 [Manga]

Luna the Moon Rider, Dota 2, 2013 [Video Game]

Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic, 2010 [Animation]

Luna Lovegood, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K. Rowling, 2003 [Novel]

Luna Maximoff, Fantastic Four, Marvel Comics, 1982 [Comic Book]

Luna Romy (It Girl), The Atomics, Image Comics, 2000 [Comic Book]

39. Meredith /ˈmɛrɪdɪθ/

A fun unisex name that doesn’t get as much attention as it should, Meredith comes from uncertain Welsh roots that can be traced to “great (or splendid) ruler” or “sea lord.” Characters with that name range from heroes and mothers to corporate executives and serial killers and can be found all across the popular geek genres.

TV examples include Claire Bennet’s biological mother and pyrokinetic Meredith Gordon on Heroes, Teen Wolf’s institutionalized banshee and secret killer the Benefactor Meredith Walker, and Dr. Meredith Fell secretly using vampire blood to heal people on The Vampire Diaries. In the L. J. Smith novels upon which that last series is based, Meredith Sulez is an elite hunter-slayer from a long line of vampire hunters. In Marvel Comics Meredith Quill is the tragic mother of Star-Lord Peter Quill, and in the film Prometheus, the ice cold (and possible android) Meredith Vickers heads the doomed Weyland Corp expedition to LV-223.

There’s no telling how a Meredith in your family will turn out, but the odds are she’ll have a love of the supernatural, especially vampires and werewolves.

Dr. Meredith Fell, The Vampire Diaries, 2011 [Television]

Meredith Gordon, Heroes, 2007 [Television]

Meredith McCall, Iron Man, Marvel Comics, 1970 [Comic Book]

Meredith Quill, Marvel Preview, Marvel Comics, 1976 [Comic Book]

Meredith Teresa Consolacion Maria Sulez, The Awakening: The Vampire Diaries Volume I by L. J. Smith, 1991 [Novel]

Meredith Vickers, Prometheus, 2012 [Film]

Meredith Walker, Teen Wolf, 2013 [Television]

40. Neytiri /neɪˈtɪɚɪ/

Is yours a family of nature lovers, in tune with Earth and all of its plants and animals? Then you might consider the name Neytiri for your princess.

Introduced to the world in James Cameron’s 2009 epic Avatar, Neytiri was a Na’vi from the planet Pandora, home to an incredibly diverse and interconnected ecosystem. The daughter of clan Omaticaya’s leader, Neytiri embodied the spirit and fire of her people coupled with a youthful curiosity and willingness to learn new things. She interacted with the Avatars and through Grace Augustine’s program met Jake Sully, the man who would become her mate and a mighty warrior for the Na’vi. Through the destruction of her home, the gathering of the tribes, and the final triumphant battle, Neytiri displayed implacable resolve and an absolutely unshakable drive to protect her loved ones.

With Avatar and its sequels its only source, Neytiri will stand out as a sci-fi name to those who are familiar with the franchise, but it sounds exotic and comes from a great character. Expect a daughter so named to be very concerned about the environment and a big fan of the color blue.

Neytiri te Tskaha Mo’at’ite, Avatar, 2009 [Film]

41. Okoye /oʊˈkɔɪjeɪ/

A Nigerian name notating the day on which a child was born, Okoye is a household name among Marvel Comics fans and especially those who enjoy the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In that world, Okoye is a member of Wakanda’s Dora Milaje, a team of elite warrior women and special forces in service to the king. The Black Panther film brought Okoye to the big screen and promoted her to general, and she’s been kicking butt ever since. Name your daughter Okoye and she too will be a fighter, known for her loyalty and dedication to her clan and family.

Okoye, Black Panther, Marvel Comics, 1998 [Comic Book]

42. Peri /ˈpɛɹi/

Peri is a name that appears in various cultures around the world, and even in Persian and Armenian mythology as winged creatures, like fairies. In the British television series Doctor Who, an American girl named Peri (her full name was the ridiculous and invented Perpugilliam) Brown became a companion of the time traveler in 1984. At the time, Peri was a college student studying botany, but of course the promise of amazing adventures with the Doctor took precedence over school. Ms. Brown joined the Fifth Doctor and stayed through his transformation into the Sixth, encountering Cybermen, Daleks, the Master, and more. A Peri in your family will share this companion’s love of travel and adventure and may even have an interest in plants.

Perpugilliam “Peri” Brown, Doctor Who, 1984 [Television]

43. Quinn /kwɪn/

Geek culture has few examples of female characters with “Q” names, but one exception goes by an Irish one that originally meant “descendent of Conn (chief).” Quinn is a highly skilled ranger from the kingdom of Demacia in the game League of Legends. Dedicated to justice and the defense of her homeland, the woman known as “Demacia’s Wings” joined the army and fights as an independent ranger-knight with the help of her bonded eagle known as Valor. Name your daughter Quinn and you can expect her to be an avid outdoorswoman who enjoys physical activities and will not back down from a noble fight. Get her a plush eagle and she’ll have a friend for life.

Quinn, League of Legends, 2013 [Video Game]

44. Riri /ˈɹiːɹiː/

A brilliant, spunky technophile is what you’ll get if you name your daughter Riri, after Ms. Williams from Marvel Comics. As a fifteen-year-old MIT prodigy, Riri follows Tony Stark’s lead and builds her own handmade power armor suit, becoming a member of the superhero community as Ironheart. She catches the attention of her mentor and gains his blessing, going on to improve her designs, join the Champions, and fight evil of many shapes and sizes as a defender of Earth.

Riri Williams (Ironheart), Invincible Iron Man, Marvel Comics, 2016 [Comic Book]

45. Stass /stæs/

Not quite Stacy, Stass is another name from the stars, in this case the Star Wars prequel films. A replacement for Episode I’s Adi Gallia due to actress availability and filming across the world, Stass Allie was also a Tholothian Jedi Master serving on the High Council. While her film appearances were brief, the Expanded Universe of comics, novels, and more fleshed out her story with dual specializations in diplomacy and healing.

Stass Allie, Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, 2002 [Film]

46. Trillian /ˈtɹɪliən/

If you’re looking for a truly out-of-this-world name that will take a young girl on amazing adventures to meet the most interesting people in the galaxy, look no further than Trillian. Created by Douglas Adams for The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Trillian is the nickname of Earth human Tricia McMillan, an astrophysicist who journeys to the stars with ex-Galactic President Zaphod Beeblebrox. She is the mother of the last human Random Dent, and after crazy adventures she begins a career as a reporter on the Sub-Etha network.

Tricia “Trillian” McMillan, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, 1979 [Novel]

47. Ursa /ˈɚsʌ/

Ursa is Latin for “bear” and has been used for three very different characters who began their careers on film and in animation. The first is a brutal Kryptonian warrior and lackey of General Zod who first appeared in the classic 1978 Superman: The Movie. Ursa went on to fight the Man of Steel in Superman II and decades later made the leap into the pages of DC Comics, where she’s continued to cause mayhem along with the General and their son Lor-Zod. In Avatar: The Last Airbender, Ursa was a noble in the Fire Nation who was married to Ozai and with him had Zuko and Azula; she also lived a second life thanks to the Mother of Faces and had a daughter Kiyi with her true love, Ikem/Norem (it’s complicated). This Ursa is best-known for her love of her children—despite their radical tempers and sometime troubling ambitions.

Most recently, Star Wars Rebels introduced Ursa Wren, a Mandalorian clan leader who put the safety of her people above all else and was not afraid to pick up a weapon herself to defend them. Wren was also mother to Rebel Sabine Wren, and despite a long animosity between them, they reconciled at the end of the series and together fought the Empire and helped preserve the Mandalorian legacy. Ursa would definitely be a unique name for a little girl in this day and age; with it she will have a powerful maternal instinct balanced with a fighting spirit and urge to protect her own. Make sure to stock plenty of bear stuffed animals for her, as that will be her favorite.

Ursa, Avatar: The Last Airbender, 2006 [Animation]

Ursa, Superman: The Movie, 1978 [Film]

Ursa Wren, Star Wars Rebels, 2017 [Animation

48. Vala /ˈvɑlːɑ/

Vala does have some real-world usage as a Swedish name coming from Old Norse for “fortune teller,” but its appearance in the Stargate TV franchise is purely sci-fi. Vala Mal Doran (you can tell she’s morally ambiguous with “Mal” in her name) is a saucy, mischievous ex-Goa’uld host and con woman who encounters the Stargate Command team from Earth. At first she is scheming and selfish, trying to get ahead with various schemes, but she comes to understand and support the humans’ mission, helping especially to stop the advance of the Ori. Surely if you were to name a girl Vala she would have only the character’s better attributes, being quick-thinking and a smooth talker. [Note: In J. R. R. Tolkien’s stories of Middle-earth, the Valar (singular Vala) are ancient deities.]

Vala Mal Doran, Stargate SG-1, 2004 [Television]

49. Winry /ˈwɪnɹiː/

Sounding something like a mix between Wendy and Winter, Winry is an invention of Hiromu Arakawa’s from the world-famous Fullmetal Alchemist franchise.

A good friend to the Elric brothers, Winry Rockbell is a skilled mechanic with a love for machines of all kinds. She frequently repairs and upgrades Ed’s automail prosthetics (particularly his arm) and looks for ways to improve her skills and become an engineer. Winry is a good and true friend to the brothers, helping them on their journey as she falls in love with Ed, finally marrying him and starting their own family in the epilogue to the manga.

Outside the sphere of manga/anime fans, the name Winry is fresh and new; give it to your daughter and she’ll be a born grease-monkey, taking apart and putting back together everything from toys to engines before you know it. Cultivate that interest and she may one day become an expert in the field of prosthetics.

Winry Rockbell, Fullmetal Alchemist, Monthly Shonen Gangan, Square Enix, 2001 [Manga]

50. Xena /ˈziːnə/

To make sure your daughter will be brave, adventurous, independent, and love leather, consider naming her Xena! Possibly related to the Greek “stranger/outsider” root “xenos,” the warlord first appeared on the TV show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys before getting her own successful spin-off series. Xena’s life was almost as chaotic as her friend Hercules’s, going from a noble warrior to pillaging pirate and murderer then embarking on a path of redemption and fighting evil. An unstoppable warrior whose favorite weapon was the disc-like chakram, the Warrior Princess was an inspirational character that paved the way for future female TV heroes and gave girls a rough-and-tumble role model for their play.

Princess Xena, Xena: Warrior Princess, 1995 [Television]

51. Yuna /ˈjunə/

An international unisex name that pops up all around the world, Yuna has many meanings in different languages, including “dark river” (Brazilian), “hibiscus flower” (Japanese), and “night” (Okinawan). There weren’t many characters with this name in geek media until the year 2000; over the course of two years, two ladies appeared in notable video games from Japan. The millennium brought Mega Man Legends 2’s android Mother Unit Yuna; tasked with protecting Terra, she helped Mega Man confront the Elysium Mother Unit Sera and ascended to the heavenly body with them as a trio in the

end. Then in 2001, the Final Fantasy franchise introduced the healer and summoner Yuna, whose mission was to end the menace of the gigantic monster known as Sin. A little girl with the name Yuna will have a strong impulse to make the world a better place, mediating issues and making peace along the way.

Yuna, Final Fantasy X, 2001 [Video Game]

Yuna, Mega Man Legends 2, 2000 [Video Game]

52. Zatanna /zəˈtænə/ or /zəˈtɑnə/

A name that’s pure magic, Zatanna comes from DC Comics and first appeared in 1964. The daughter of a famous stage magician, Zatanna Zatara followed in his footsteps both on and offstage . . . both are Homo magi, beings of incredible magical power!

Zatanna has been combating supernatural and magical threats to Earth and beyond for decades, sometimes on her own and sometimes with teams including the Justice League, Justice League Dark, and Sentinels of Magic. She is one of the most powerful magic users in the world, and heroes (and even villains) from all over seek out her help when things take a turn for the paranormal. Her magic is achieved by speaking it aloud and backwards, leading to very interesting word bubbles as she uses her immense power.

Zatanna is a beautiful, exotic name that’s perfect for a magical girl with hidden talents, a flair for showmanship, and the ability to speak words backwards.

Zatanna Zatara, Hawkman, DC Comics, 1964 [Comic Book]

Discover More Fantastical Names for Your Little Geek

^{Excerpt from Naming Your Little Geek by Scott Rubin.}