Today, we’re sharing a sparkling topic with you all – “Baby Names That Mean Light”.
Whether you’re expecting a little one or just love exploring beautiful names, you’re in the right place.
These names, rich in meaning and culture, symbolize brightness, hope, and joy for your new baby.
Whether you’re searching for a baby girl or baby boy or a gender-neutral name, you’ll find plenty of options here – in alphabetical order! And each is a unique name full of promise and beauty.
Let’s dive in!
Abner (Hebrew origin)
Meaning “father of light,” Abner has ancient roots and is known for its strong, yet illuminating connotation. It’s a powerful choice for a baby boy.
Aiden (Irish origin)
Meaning “little fire” or “bright,” Aiden is a popular name that has Irish roots. It’s a great option for parents looking for a name that represents a beam of light. This name has surged in popularity, bringing a modern feel to ancient symbolism.
Akari (Japanese name)
In Japanese, Akari means “light” or “brightness.” This beautiful name is a perfect choice for parents who admire Japanese origin names. It captures the essence of both simplicity and elegance, reflecting the beauty of Japanese culture.
Alina (Slavic)
Alina, a Slavic name, means “bright” and “beautiful.” It’s a brilliant name for your little girl, signifying a bright light. This name is often associated with grace and sophistication, making it a timeless choice.
Anwar (Arabic name)
Anwar, of Arabic origin, means “brighter,” “luminous.” It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a meaningful and traditional name. This name carries with it an air of intellect and distinction.
Apollo (Greek mythology)
Derived from Greek mythology, Apollo, the god of light, is an ancient yet modern name. It reflects a ray of light and is a perfect name for parents interested in Greek roots. Apollo’s association with music and arts adds a creative flair to this name.
Aruna (Sanskrit origin)
Aruna means “dawn” in Sanskrit. It’s a name that evokes the beauty and promise of the early morning light, making it a poetic and serene choice.
Aurora (Latin origin)
Meaning “dawn,” Aurora is the Roman goddess of the morning light. It’s a poetic and beautiful name, synonymous with the first light of day.
Belenus (Celtic origin)
In Celtic mythology, Belenus was a god of sun and light. The name carries an ancient charm and is associated with power and brilliance.
Blaine (Scottish origin)
Blaine, meaning “yellow” in Gaelic, can be associated with the light, especially the warm tones of the sun. It’s a unique and modern-sounding name.
Chiara (Italian origin)
Meaning “light” or “clear,” this Italian name is a popular choice for a baby girl, echoing the beautiful light of Italy. Chiara has been a favorite for centuries, known for its lyrical sound and clarity.
Ciana (Italian origin)
Derived from the Italian word “chiaro,” meaning “light” or “clear,” Ciana is a melodious and radiant name. It’s a lovely choice, echoing the romance of Italy.
Clara (Latin origin)
Meaning “bright” or “clear,” Clara is a name of Latin origin but widely used in English-speaking countries. It’s a classic choice, known for its elegance and light-filled connotation.
Cynthia (Greek origin, used in English)
Another name for Artemis, the Greek moon goddess, Cynthia implies a connection to the soft, reflective light of the moon. It’s a name with both classical and lyrical qualities.
Dawn (English name)
Dawn, symbolizing the first appearance of light, is a feminine name that captures the essence of a bright new day. It brings to mind serene mornings and new beginnings, making it a hopeful and refreshing choice.
Diana (Latin origin, used in English)
While primarily associated with the Roman goddess of the hunt, Diana is also linked to the moon, often seen as a symbol of light in darkness. It’s a name of elegance and mystique.
Elaine (French origin, used in English)
Similar to Helen and Ellen, Elaine means “bright, shining light.” It’s a name of romance and chivalry, often found in Arthurian legends.
Eleanor (Greek origin)
Though its exact origins are debated, Eleanor is often associated with the Greek “eleos,” meaning “light.” It’s a classic, regal name with a timeless appeal.
Eleonora (Greek origin)
Similar to Eleanor, Eleonora also resonates with the concept of light. It’s a more elaborate version, often chosen for its elegance and classical feel.
Eliora (Hebrew origin)
This Hebrew name means “God is my light.” Eliora is a unique name that carries spiritual and bright significance. It’s a powerful choice for those seeking a name with deep religious roots and a luminous feel.
Ellen (Greek origin, used in English)
A variant of Helen, meaning “the bright one” or “torch,” Ellen carries a similar luminous quality. It’s a softer, more understated version of the Greek original.
Finn (Irish name)
Derived from an Irish origin, Finn means “fair” or “bright.” It’s a beautiful choice for a baby boy, symbolizing a bright star. This name is steeped in Irish folklore, giving it a mystical and charming quality.
Helen (Greek origin)
Meaning “the bright one” or “torch,” Helen is a name of Greek origin. It’s famously borne by Helen of Troy, known for her stunning beauty and radiance.
Hikari (Japanese name)
In Japanese, Hikari means “light.” This gender-neutral name is a brilliant choice for parents who appreciate Japanese origin names. It’s a popular choice in Japan, known for its strong yet simple elegance.
Iliana (Greek origin)
A beautiful name meaning “ray of light” in Greek. Iliana is a feminine name that reflects the brilliance of Greek origin. It’s often associated with beauty and radiance, making it an attractive choice.
Ilona (Hungarian origin)
Derived from the Hungarian word for “light,” Ilona is a name rich in charm and elegance. It’s a beautiful choice, often associated with grace and luminosity.
Jyoti (Hindi name)
Meaning “light” or “flame,” Jyoti is a popular name in India, symbolizing much light and hope. This name has a traditional vibe yet feels contemporary, making it versatile and appealing.
Kirana (Sanskrit name)
Kirana, a beautiful name from Sanskrit, means “beam of light.” It’s a unique baby name choice with deep roots. This name is often admired for its lyrical sound and its association with light and enlightenment.
Leo (Latin origin)
Leo, meaning “lion,” is often associated with the sun and light due to the lion’s symbolic connection to these elements in many cultures. It’s a strong, radiant name choice.
Liora (Hebrew origin)
Meaning “light unto me,” Liora is a lyrical and expressive name. It’s a delightful choice, resonating with warmth and joy.
Lucas (Latin origin)
From the Latin word for light, Lucas is a familiar classic name that’s an excellent choice for your bundle of joy. It’s a name that has stood the test of time, offering both a sense of history and modern appeal.
Lucia (Latin origin)
Lucia, derived from the Latin word “lux” meaning light, is a timeless and elegant choice. This Latin name is celebrated for its grace and has been borne by numerous saints and historical figures.
Lucy (English origin)
Derived from the Latin “lux,” meaning light, Lucy is a timeless and popular name. It’s beloved for its simplicity and enduring charm, often associated with brightness and vivacity.
Lux (Latin origin)
A succinct and powerful name, Lux directly translates to “light” in Latin. It’s a modern and bold choice for parents seeking a short yet meaningful name.
Meira (Hebrew origin)
Meira, meaning “one who illuminates,” is a beautiful Hebrew name for a girl, signifying a bright shine. This name carries a sense of wisdom and insight, often chosen by parents looking for a name with depth.
Niamh (Irish origin)
Pronounced “Neev,” this beautiful Irish name means “bright” or “radiant.” In Irish mythology, Niamh was a goddess, known as a figure of beauty and brightness.
Nura (Arabic origin)
This Arabic name means “light” and is a perfect name for a baby girl representing a source of light. Nura is a name that exudes warmth and brightness, ideal for a beloved daughter.
Oran (Gaelic, Scottish name)
Meaning “light” or “pale,” Oran is a unique name from Celtic origin, ideal for those seeking a different name. This name is often associated with peace and tranquility, reflecting the serene landscapes of Scotland.
Phoebe (Greek mythology)
Inspired by the Greek mythology of the Titan associated with the moon, Phoebe means “radiant, shining one.” It’s a name that combines ancient lore with a sense of timeless beauty.
Ray (English origin)
Direct and bright, Ray is an English name meaning “beam of light.” It’s a straightforward yet evocative choice, resonating with simplicity and clarity.
Rayan (Arabic name)
Rayan, an Arabic name, means “gates of Heaven.” It’s a popular choice, signifying a bringer of light. This name is known for its spiritual depth and celestial connections.
Robert (Germanic origin)
Robert, with roots in old Germanic elements, means “bright fame.” It’s a traditional name with a noble ring, suggesting both brilliance and distinction.
Roshan (Persian origin)
Roshan is a popular name in Persian-speaking countries, meaning “bright” or “light.” It carries a sense of enlightenment and clarity.
Samson (Hebrew origin)
Although not directly meaning light, Samson, whose name means “sun,” is often associated with strength and brightness. It’s a strong, historical name with a luminous twist.
Sana (Arabic name)
Meaning “brilliance” or “brightness,” Sana is a beautiful name with Arabic roots, suitable for a radiant baby. It’s a name that’s both elegant and meaningful, often chosen for its poetic sound.
Siraj (Arabic origin)
Meaning “lamp” or “light,” Siraj is a name with a luminous and guiding symbolism. It’s a popular choice in Arabic-speaking countries, known for its warmth and clarity.
Sorcha (Gaelic origin)
Pronounced “SUR-kha,” this Gaelic name means “bright, shining.” It’s an enchanting choice, reflecting the mystical and poetic nature of Gaelic culture.
Stella (Latin origin)
Meaning “star,” Stella directly connects to the theme of light, evoking images of the night sky illuminated by stars. It’s a name that’s both poetic and celestial.
Uri (Hebrew origin)
Uri means “my light” in Hebrew. It’s a simple yet profound name, often chosen for its brevity and deep significance.
Zain (Arabic origin)
Zain, an Arabic name, means “beauty” and “grace.” It’s a great choice for parents looking for a bright and beautiful name. This name is often admired for its simplicity and profound meaning.
Zohar (Hebrew origin)
Zohar, a mystical name, means “light” and “brilliance” in Hebrew. It’s a distinctive choice, often associated with spiritual depth and enlightenment.
The light of your life deserves a name that’s as special as they are.
I hope this list of names has offered you a bright choice in finding the perfect name for your new bundle of joy.
Whether you’re drawn to an ancient Greek name, a unique Hebrew name, or another light-filled, remember each option carries its own unique light.
Stay tuned for more collections of names and insights into the world of parenting and family fun!
With love,
Calie
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
