Names That Mean Moon or Stars: Celestial Baby Names Full of Magic and Wonder
When you search for “names that mean moon or stars,” you’re likely drawn to the beauty, mystery, and calm power of the night sky. For centuries, people have looked upward to the heavens for inspiration — the moon for its soft glow and cycles of renewal, and the stars for their eternal sparkle and guidance. Naming a child after these celestial wonders carries symbolic meaning: light in darkness, timeless beauty, and a connection to something larger than life.
Whether you’re seeking a name that feels mystical and romantic or one that captures the wonder of nature and the cosmos, there are countless beautiful names inspired by the moon and stars. From ancient mythological origins to modern celestial-inspired choices, this list explores baby names that shine as brightly as the night sky.
Why Names That Mean Moon or Stars Are So Timeless
Moon and star names have universal appeal because they represent mystery, magic, and emotional depth. The moon has long been tied to femininity, rhythm, intuition, and change — a symbol of cycles and rebirth. Meanwhile, stars symbolize hope, destiny, and eternal brilliance.
These celestial names appear across cultures and mythologies — from Greek and Roman to Arabic, Japanese, and Native American traditions — showing how deeply humans have always felt connected to the night sky. Choosing a name that means moon or stars is more than an aesthetic decision; it’s a poetic expression of wonder, love, and cosmic beauty.
Girl Names That Mean Moon
Moon-inspired names often have soft, luminous sounds and meanings related to reflection, serenity, and the divine feminine. Here are some of the most beautiful girl names that mean “moon.”
1. Luna (Latin origin)
One of the most popular moon names today, Luna literally means “moon” in Latin. It evokes both strength and tranquility and was the name of the Roman goddess of the moon.
2. Selene (Greek origin)
Selene was the ancient Greek goddess of the moon, known for driving her chariot across the night sky. The name feels elegant, mysterious, and timeless.
3. Artemis (Greek origin)
The Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and moon. Artemis represents independence and grace — a powerful, mythological name for a modern girl.
4. Ayla (Turkish / Hebrew origin)
Meaning “halo of light around the moon” or “moonlight,” Ayla is a soft, radiant name with a global charm.
5. Chandra (Sanskrit origin)
A traditional Indian name meaning “moon” or “shining,” Chandra is associated with the moon god in Hindu mythology and represents beauty and brightness.
6. Mahina (Hawaiian origin)
Translating to “moonlight,” Mahina has an exotic, soothing quality that makes it ideal for those drawn to nature-inspired names.
7. Rhiannon (Welsh origin)
Linked to the Welsh goddess of fertility and the moon, Rhiannon means “great queen” or “divine.” It’s lyrical and steeped in Celtic mythology.
8. Esmeray (Turkish origin)
A rare and enchanting name meaning “dark moon,” Esmeray carries an air of mystery and strength.
9. Amaris (Hebrew / Spanish origin)
While it can mean “promised by God,” Amaris also translates to “child of the moon” in some interpretations. It’s both mystical and modern.
10. Tsukiko (Japanese origin)
This Japanese name means “moon child,” combining elegance with a serene, poetic quality.
Boy Names That Mean Moon
Moon-inspired boy names tend to be strong and dignified while still carrying an air of mystery. These names often come from mythology, nature, and astronomy.
1. Jericho (Hebrew origin)
This ancient name means “city of the moon.” It has biblical significance and a bold, resonant sound.
2. Chandrakant (Sanskrit origin)
Meaning “beloved of the moon,” this Indian name reflects grace and devotion, often given to boys born under the moon’s influence.
3. Badar (Arabic origin)
Translating directly to “full moon,” Badar is a classic Arabic name representing beauty, completeness, and radiance.
4. Qamar (Arabic origin)
Meaning “moon,” Qamar is a poetic and strong name common in Arabic-speaking cultures. It reflects brightness and spiritual purity.
5. Apollo (Greek origin)
Though primarily associated with the sun, Apollo was also connected to light, music, and prophecy — the counterpart to Artemis, goddess of the moon.
6. Jerico (Variant of Jericho)
A shorter variation that carries the same celestial and spiritual meaning with a modern twist.
7. Ilkay (Turkish origin)
Meaning “new moon,” this name symbolizes new beginnings and hope — a perfect choice for a child born at a transformative moment.
8. London (English origin)
While not directly meaning moon, London derives from an ancient Celtic word associated with the “moon river,” tying it to lunar imagery.
9. Indu (Sanskrit origin)
Meaning “bright drop” or “moon,” this simple yet elegant Indian name symbolizes purity and light.
10. Jeran (English origin)
A modern and rare name derived from lunar roots, representing calmness and intuition.
Names That Mean Star for Girls
Star names symbolize hope, brilliance, and destiny. They shine brightly across languages and histories, often representing guidance and dreams fulfilled.
1. Estelle (French origin)
Derived from the Latin stella, meaning “star,” Estelle feels elegant and classic.
2. Stella (Latin origin)
Directly translating to “star,” Stella is a radiant and timeless name that continues to shine in popularity.
3. Astra (Greek origin)
Meaning “star,” Astra sounds ethereal and strong — perfect for someone destined to stand out.
4. Danica (Slavic origin)
This name means “morning star,” symbolizing renewal and new beginnings.
5. Tara (Sanskrit origin)
In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Tara means “star” and represents compassion and guidance.
6. Seren (Welsh origin)
Translating to “star,” Seren is a modern yet gentle name, popular in the U.K. and full of celestial grace.
7. Vega (Arabic origin)
Named after one of the brightest stars in the sky, Vega shines with cosmic brilliance and modern flair.
8. Maris (Latin origin)
Meaning “of the sea” but also connected to Stella Maris (Star of the Sea), one of the titles for the Virgin Mary.
9. Sidra (Arabic origin)
Meaning “like a star” or “lotus tree,” Sidra combines celestial and natural beauty.
10. Estrella (Spanish origin)
The Spanish version of “star,” Estrella is romantic, melodic, and radiant.
Names That Mean Star for Boys
Star-related names for boys often reflect power, leadership, and destiny. They’re perfect for parents drawn to names that symbolize guidance and ambition.
1. Leo (Latin origin)
Associated with the constellation Leo, meaning “lion.” This name represents strength, leadership, and brilliance.
2. Orion (Greek origin)
Named after the legendary hunter in Greek mythology and one of the most recognizable constellations, Orion feels heroic and cosmic.
3. Sirius (Greek origin)
Known as the “Dog Star,” Sirius is the brightest star visible from Earth, representing brilliance and loyalty.
4. Castor (Greek origin)
One of the twin stars in the Gemini constellation, Castor symbolizes brotherhood and immortality.
5. Altair (Arabic origin)
Meaning “the flying one,” Altair is a bright star in the Aquila constellation, symbolizing freedom and power.
6. Pollux (Greek origin)
The other Gemini twin, Pollux means “very sweet.” Together with Castor, it represents eternal friendship and celestial unity.
7. Rasalas (Arabic origin)
Meaning “head of the lion,” Rasalas is a star in Leo, giving it a strong and noble meaning.
8. Izar (Basque / Arabic origin)
Meaning “star,” this short, elegant name has both European and Middle Eastern roots.
9. Rigel (Arabic origin)
Meaning “foot of Orion,” Rigel is one of the brightest stars in the night sky — a name full of strength and wonder.
10. Sterling (English origin)
Though not a direct star name, Sterling means “genuine” and “high quality,” evoking brilliance and value, much like a shining star.
Gender-Neutral Names That Mean Moon or Stars
If you prefer a unisex option, these names work beautifully for any gender, combining cosmic charm with versatility.
- Nova – Latin for “new star,” symbolizing rebirth and discovery.
- Sky – A simple yet poetic name evoking vastness and peace.
- Celeste – Latin for “heavenly” or “of the sky.”
- Indigo – Associated with twilight skies and mystical energy.
- Solstice – Reflecting balance between light and dark, a name filled with natural and cosmic symbolism.
- Hoshi – Japanese for “star,” short and full of meaning.
- Arden – Meaning “valley of the eagle,” often linked to freedom and the open sky.
- Caelum – Latin for “heaven” or “sky,” a name that feels both intellectual and celestial.
- Zenith – Meaning “the highest point,” symbolizing aspiration and greatness.
- Galaxy – A bold, modern name that captures wonder and imagination.
Choosing the Perfect Celestial Name
When choosing a name that means moon or stars, think about the emotion and image you want it to evoke. Do you want something serene and luminous like Luna, powerful like Orion, or mysterious like Esmeray?
You can also pair moon and star names together for a symbolic combination — for example, Luna Vega (moon and star), Selene Orion (moon goddess and constellation), or Nova Estelle (new star and star).
No matter which name you choose, celestial names carry a timeless magic. They remind us that, just like the moon and stars, your child’s light will always shine — steady, beautiful, and unique in the vast sky of life.
