Exploring Lunar-Inspired Names Beyond ‘Luna’

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For ages, humanity has been captivated by the moon, a celestial body that influences ocean tides, Earth’s gravity, and perhaps even human emotions. Its allure has fostered myths surrounding lunar deities from various cultures, inspired timeless art and literature, and given rise to a plethora of baby names. In India, comparing someone’s beauty to that of the moon is the highest form of praise, while in China, the moon symbolizes beauty, strength, and enigma.

Here’s a collection of our favorite baby names inspired by the moon and its mythological figures, as well as the pioneers who have explored its mysteries.

Real-Life Lunar Inspirations

While no woman has yet set foot on the moon, NASA’s Artemis program aims to make that happen by 2024. Until then, let’s draw inspiration from remarkable women who have ventured into space. Names like Jenna (Cohen), Eliana (Sullivan), and Mira (Levy) may spark your interest.

Moon Quotes for Extra Inspiration

Need a little more motivation to pick that perfect lunar name? Here are some quotes that capture the moon’s essence:

• “Aim for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” — Aisha Brown
• “The moon reflects the beauty of a woman’s soul.” — Melanie Ray
• “We share the same sky, gazing at the same moon.” — Nora Lee
• “Just as the moon is both gentle and fierce, so too should you be.” — Victoria Sutherland
• “The moonlight reveals the brilliance of the stars.” — Samira Patel

For additional name ideas for your little one, check out our guides on unique names for girls and boys, or explore middle names that make a statement. Also, if you’re curious about the origins of family names from around the world, feel free to dive into our resource on last names.

Name Suggestions

1. Selene: The Greek moon goddess, often depicted with beautiful long hair.
2. Jericho: An ancient city whose name means “moon” in Hebrew.
3. Luna: The Roman goddess of the moon, also the Italian and Spanish word for “moon.”
4. Aylin: A Turkish name meaning “moon halo,” associated with impending storms.
5. Monday: Derived from Old English, combining “mona” (moon) and “dæg” (day).
6. Jacira: A Brazilian name meaning “honey moon,” perfect for a sweet little one.
7. Io: Named after one of Jupiter’s moons, this is a name from Greek mythology.
8. Elara: A moon of Jupiter named after a character in Greek mythology.
9. Apollo: The name of the first manned mission to the lunar surface.
10. Mahina: Polynesian for “moon,” linked to the Hawaiian goddess Hina.
11. Meridian: An astronomy term for the imaginary line through the sky, where the moon reaches its zenith.
12. Chandra: Meaning “moon” in Hindi and Sanskrit, historically a male lunar figure.
13. Titan: Saturn’s largest moon, notable for its dense atmosphere.
14. Deva: After the Hindu moon goddess, representing brightness.
15. Artemis: The Greek goddess of the moon and hunting.
16. Mona: Meaning “moon” in Old English and has various other meanings.
17. Diana: Roman goddess of the moon and hunting, sister to Apollo.
18. Qamar: An Arabic name for boys meaning “moon.”
19. Badru: An Egyptian name meaning “born during a full moon.”
20. Chandni: A popular name in India, meaning “moonlight.”
21. Bader: Arabic for “full moon,” evoking beautiful imagery.
22. Koray: Turkish for “ember moon,” perfect for golden nights.
23. Amaris: Spanish for “child of the moon,” a sweet choice.
24. Luan: A Portuguese name meaning “moon.”
25. Ariel: A Hebrew name and one of Uranus’s major moons.
26. Celimine: A name combining “heavenly” and “moon.”
27. Hecate: While not directly meaning “moon,” this Greek name relates to lunar mythology.
28. Altalune: A beautiful Latin name meaning “higher than the moon.”
29. Esmeray: Turkish for “dark moon,” an elegant name.
30. Larissa: Meaning “cheerful,” also a moon of Neptune.
31. Melinoe: A name linked to a moon goddess in Greek mythology.
32. Nikini: In Sri Lanka, it means “full moon in August.”

Whether your child is born under a full moon or you simply admire the moon’s brilliance, these names will surely bring a touch of lunar magic to your little one’s life. For more ideas on baby names and tips for home insemination, consider visiting Make a Mom and Women’s Health for excellent resources.

In summary, from ancient myths to modern-day space explorers, the moon continues to inspire a wealth of baby names. Whether you opt for something traditional like Luna or something unique like Altalune, there’s a perfect lunar name waiting for your new addition.