Black cat names with meaning

Unique Names

If you’re looking for some unique names for your black cat, you’re in the right place. Black cats have a unique beauty, so it’s only right to find a special, unique name to match.

Here, you’ll find an array of black cat names with meanings, to help you and your furry friend find that perfect name.

More Name Inspiration to Explore…

Ancient Names

If you have a black cat, you may want to give it a name that matches its ebony coloring and that could be meaningful. Ancient names can offer a special connection to historical figures, gods, and goddesses.

Some ancient names hold special meanings or represent certain values or represent certain traits that are perfect for cats in various cultures including Greek, Egyptian, Norse, and Roman mythology.

Below are some of the most unique black cat names with their origin for your inspiration:

Persephone (Greek): Queen of the Underworld
Orpheus (Greek): God of Music
Ulysses (Roman): Legendary Warrior
Ashes (Norse): Concealed by Shadows
Agamemnon (Greek): War Hero
Helios (Greek): God of the Sun
Thanatos (Greek): Personification of Death
Jaguar (Mayan): King of the Jungle
Fenrir (Norse): Powerful Wolf
Isis (Egyptian): Goddess of Magic

Mythology-Inspired Names

Black cats have an often-misunderstood reputation, but they’re simply beautiful animals that deserve unique, meaningful names. One of the most fascinating ways to find the perfect moniker is to draw inspiration from mythological characters who embody strength and connections with the unknown.

Here are some mythology-inspired names you might consider for your black cat:

Anubis: Known as one of the most powerful gods in Egyptian mythology, Anubis was associated with mummification and protecting the dead in the afterlife.
Bastet: She was a feline goddess in ancient Egypt typically represented as a black cat. But she could also change her form into any type of carnivore.
Tebechet: This Egyptian goddess was often depicted with a black cat’s head or body, although she also sometimes appeared as a half-human, half-feline creature.
Nephthys: Osiris and Isis’s sister was an Egyptian goddess associated with protection from misfortune and malevolent forces. Her symbol was often a black kite bird or galagos (also known as ‘bush babies’).
Freya/Frigg: Most known for her role as Norse goddess of fertility and love, Freya/Frigg was closely connected to cats – she possessed both magical cats and boars that helped transport her across land and air when needed.
Loki/Leviyatan: The thing about Norse god Loki is this – while he wasn’t exactly well liked by many gods because of his trickery and mischievousness, he could shape shift into various forms – including that of a black cat! The same can be said for Leviyatan from Jewish mythology – only he took on many more forms than Loki ever could!

Nature-Inspired Names

If you’re looking for black cat names with an outdoorsy feel, then nature-inspired names are perfect! From names of flowers, trees, and plants to the body of water and the sky – you’ll find all sorts of unique name options.

Here are some nature-inspired black cat names that may be suitable for your new pet:

Onyx – Derived from the gemstone onyx; it’s known for its durability and distinctive colored bands.
Adira – A Hebrew name meaning “strong” or “noble”.
Jade – Refers to the precious green stone; associated with good luck.
Midnight – An obvious choice, but dark and mysterious all at once!
Ebony – A luminous black wood; symbolizes strength and beauty.
Raven – An elegant black bird known for its intelligence; commonly used as a name in literature.
Shadow – Referring to a silhouette or partial darkness that follows you around everywhere you go.
Sooty – Describes something covered in soot or dirt; exotic sounding!
Ink – Used as a writing medium that is derived from dark liquid.

Popular Names

When it comes to naming a black cat, there are many options to choose from. There are the traditional names like Midnight, Sooty, or Panther, but there are many more modern and unique names too. Not only that, but many of these names have a meaningful significance to them.

In this article, we will explore some of the most popular black cat names and explain the meaning behind each one:

Names From Popular Culture

When searching for the perfect name for your beloved black cat, many people look to popular culture.

These are some of the most iconic cats in movies, books, and TV shows—and you can use them to give your cat a strong identity!

Simba: This is the name of the main protagonist in the classic Disney movie The Lion King. It means “lion” and has come to be widely adopted as a pet name.
Socks: Although this is a nickname originally given to former US President Bill Clinton’s pet cat, Socks also happens to be an old English word that means ‘black and white striped’—a perfect description for your furry feline friend!
Garfield: This orange cartoon character doesn’t look anything like a black cat, but he has become one of the most recognizable names from pop culture thanks to Jim Davis funny comic strips. Plus, it means “spear ruler” so you can give your furry friend a regal title.
Onyx: This is an ancient Greek word meaning “claw” or “claw or talon”—which no doubt evokes images of agile leaping cats. Onyx would make a great name for both males and females.
Blackberry: For fans of technology or nature, Blackberry might be an appropriate choice for your dark furred kitten (or even an adult). This can also be spelled with one B as in BlackBerry, but either way it makes reference to the berries of the same spectral color!
Midnight: This commonly used idiom implies late at night when darkness is all around—the perfect time for cats prowling about! It is often used for both male and female cats with deep coats, though you may opt for Moon if you have a silver haired kitty on your hands instead.

Names From Literature

Names from literature can be a great way to choose a name for your black cat that has significance and character. Books are always full of memorable characters, so here is a small selection of classic and more modern names from important literary works featuring black protagonists.

From classic literature:

Jane – Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
Heathcliff – Wuthering Heights, by Emily Bronte
Roderick – The Monk, by Matthew G. Lewis
Phineas – Phineas Finn, by Anthony Trollope
Miss Haversham – Great Expectations, by Alfred Dickens
Lockwood – Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte

From modern literature:

Amos & Kareem – The Five Heartbeats, by Robert Townsend
Nana Popo – The Color Purple, by Alice Walker
Madeleine Elizabeth Barbarin or ‘Mouse’ – Brown Girl Dreaming” ,by Jacqueline Woodson
Willie Beech – Goodnight Mister Tom, by Michelle Magorian
Tishka – Valley of the Moon ,by Melanie Gideon

These are just some examples from the world of literature; you may come across many other fitting names in your own reading list.

Names From History

If you are searching for memorable black cat names with strong historical references, look no further.

There are several great ideas to choose from that have been used through the centuries to commemorate powerful figures and events in history.

Historical Names:

Alexander – Greek, meaning “defender of men”
Boadicea – Celtic warrior queen
Hannibal – Roman conqueror and statesman
Cleopatra – Queen of Egypt and last pharaoh of Ptolemaic Dynasty
Napoleon – French emperor
Julius Caesar – Roman dictator who changed the course of Europe
Attila – Barbaric leader of the Huns in 4th century who threatened Rome
Ivan – Russian ruler known as Ivan the Terrible
Charles Dickens – Celebrated English writer
Tutankhamun – Egyptian pharaoh famously known as King Tut

Traditional Names

If you’re looking for a traditional name for your black cat that has special meaning, look no further. Here we will discuss some traditional names for black cats that have a rich cultural background to them.

From Ancient Egyptian gods to African deities, you are sure to find the perfect name for your beloved black cat.

Names From Countries

Throughout a variety of different cultures and countries, there has historically been a superstition surrounding black cats and their ability to bring good luck (or bad luck). Whether they be seen as lucky or unlucky, there is still an undeniable level of mystique and intrigue regarding black cats, particularly when it comes to naming them.

To emphasize the importance of the protection black cats have traditionally enjoyed in certain parts of the world, here are some unique names from countries all over the globe that you can choose for your own black cat companion.

Names from Countries:

Asia
- Inari (Japanese)
- Nina (Filipino/Chamoru)
- Sachi (Japanese)
Africa
- Nandi (Zulu)
- Rono (Swahili)
United Kingdom
- Casper/Caspar (English)
- Henrietta/Henryetta (English)
Scandinavia
- Grimm/Grymm (Swedish)
- Odin/Odinn (Scandinavian origin)
Europe
- Tristan/Trisán (French; also Slavic root meaning “sad”)
- Dmitriy (Slavic; meaning “earth lover”)

Names From Religions

Many religions around the world have traditions and stories which involve black cats. These religions include Christianity, Islam, Hebrew, Nordic and Egyptian religion. The names from these religions can be used to name a black cat in hopes that their cat will hold some of the qualities mentioned in their stories.

Here are some of the popular traditional names for black cats:

Christianity:
- Cain (meaning “acquired”)
- Uriel (meaning “God is my light”)
- Shadow (symbolizing protection)
- Raven (symbolizing magic)
- Inanna (a goddess associated with dark energy)
- Lilith (the first woman created by God)
Islam:
- Fasadiya (meaning She Was Faithful or Loyalty Bound)
- Fadwa (meaning Name of a Poem By Ka’b Bin Zuhayr a Muslim Poet)
Hebrew:
- Shalom (meaning peace or welcome)
- Malka / Malkah (queenly; royal)
Nordic:
- Garmr (named after a wolf guardian of their realm)
Egyptian religion:
- Mafdet (named after an ancient Egyptian goddess associated with justice and executioner.)

Names From Languages

When choosing a name for your black or dark-colored cat, consider looking for inspiration in the names of different languages.

Here are some traditional names in different languages with special meaning or significance that make excellent names for a black cat:

Greek:
- Midas – from Midas, the King of Phrygia; endowed with the power to turn all he touched into gold
- Omega – derived from omegá, meaning “great”
Japanese:
- Kuroneko – means “black cat”
- Mikkabu – means “three flat feet”; popular among fishermen as a sign of luck and good fortune
Spanish:
- Negro – means “black”; often seen as a lucky charm amongst sailors and travelers
Irish:
- Cailín – translated as “girl”
Egyptian:
- Bastet – also known as Bast, this goddess symbolized protection against evil spirits

Cool Names

Looking for a cool name for your black cat? Black cats are mysterious and magical, so your cat deserves a name that reflects its character and beauty. Here are some cool black cat names with meaning that you can choose from.

Whether you’re looking for something fun or something with a little more gravitas, you’re sure to find a great name for your furry friend.

Shadow
Midnight
Raven
Onyx
Cinder
Smoke
Soot
Ash
Coal
Jet

Names From Movies

Black cats in movies often have very unique and fitting names. From the witchy Salem in Sabrina the Teenage Witch to Mr. Tinkles in Cats & Dogs, these movie cats have captured our hearts and imaginations with their cool names.

Black cats are known for having a mystical presence, so finding the perfect name that is befitting of your feline should come easy when looking to films for inspiration.

Here is a list of our favorite movie-inspired black cat names:

Salem (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)
Mr. Tinkles (Cats & Dogs)
Binx (Hocus Pocus)
Magic (The Incredible Journey)
Lucifer (Cinderella)
Tao (Little Buddha)
LeFou (Beauty and the Beast)
Grimalkin (Warrior Cats Series)
Crookshanks (Harry Potter Series)
Isis (Rollerball 1975 film series)

Names From Music

When it comes to naming your black kitty, let your favorite musicians and their songs be your inspiration. As music has the power to evoke emotion, you’re sure to choose a fitting name for your feline companion.

Here are some of our favorite ideas for black cat names with meaning from the world of music:

Ace – From Guns ‘N Roses
Snoop – From Snoop Dogg
Bowie – After David Bowie
Alba – From Alba Longa by Mariza
Lola – After The Kinks song
Bob Dylan – After Bob Dylan
Mozart – After Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Cherubrock – The Smashing Pumpkins song
Bessie – Named after “The Empress Of the Blues” Bessie Smith
Adele – After Adele

Each of these names is sure to reflect the character and personality of its namesake – perfect if you prefer creative black cat names with meaning!

Names From Video Games

If you are looking for unique names for your black cat, there are some great monikers inspired by video games. From classic games like Super Mario Bros. to modern favorites such as Assassin’s Creed.

Here are some cool cat names for your four-legged companion:

Mario: The name of the mascot of Nintendo’s Super Mario Bros., Mario is a classic name for cats.
Shadow: A strong name from the Sonic the Hedgehog series recently revived in Sonic Forces and Sonic Mania.
Link: The hero from The Legend of Zelda series, the link between worlds from Navi the fairy.
Cloud: The spiky-haired protagonist of Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII, Cloud Strife is recognizable enough to make a great cat name.
Pacman: An arcade game icon and one of the most beloved video game characters around, Pacman is perfect for cats with a mischievous streak!
Aiden: Inspired by Ubisoft’s hit game Assassin’s Creed, Aiden Pearce has succeeded in leading players through exciting gameplay and intriguing storylines – the perfect inspiration for an adventurous feline!
Trevor: From Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto 5, Trevor Philips has a bit of an attitude – just like your mischievous kitty!
Lara/Lola: Inspired by Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft – one of gaming’s first female protagonists – this classic video game heroine makes a great name whether you choose Lara or its similar alternative Lola.

Meaningful Names

Naming your new black cat doesn’t have to be difficult, find the perfect name for your companion with the following list of meaningful cat names. Pick a name that works for your cat and reflects who they are. From powerful and inspirational names to cute and funny choices, everyone can find something suitable for their pet here.

Let’s take a look at some of the best names for cats with a deeper meaning:

Names With Positive Meanings

When it comes to choosing a special name for your black cat, why not combine a color and a meaningful name? Whether you are looking to name your new furry friend after an important figure or superpower from history or mythology, we’ve compiled some unique and thoughtful names to help you find the perfect moniker.

Many of these names have positive meanings associated with them, so you can feel good about giving your beloved pet a meaningful title.

Aesop: Wise and intelligent
Athena: Goddess of wisdom
Benedict: Blessed
Ebony: A beautiful dark wood
Felicia: Happy or lucky
Indigo: The deep shade of blue
Jasper: A precious stone known for its strength and protection properties
Maverick: A nonconformist who stands up for what’s right.
Nova: Meaning “new star” in Latin, this is the perfect way to honor your little night light!
Ophir: Meaning gold in Hebrew, this is a befitting name for any precious kitty!
Othello: The brave warrior in Shakespeare’s play
Shadow/Shade: Perfect for any lovely pantherlike feline!
Sooty/Soot: A favorite comic strip cat

Names With Negative Meanings

Though it’s perfectly natural for pet owners to want to find a name with positive connotations, there are also black cat names with negative meanings that some pet owners find appealing.

Whether you and your furry companion have seen hard times together or you simply find the anti-social edge of something naughty attractive, you might appreciate these names as they have meanings such as:

Shadow: A dark figure that lurks in the background or follows without permission.
Fang: A sharp tooth used to harm or scare off enemies.
Cobweb: Often associated with decay and neglect.
Razor: Sharp enough to put a sharp edge on an object or cut through something easily.
Ashes: What’s left after destruction, burning, or death.
Scarecrow: A figure used to frighten away birds or other animals – can be a symbol of banishment.
Nyx/Nyxx: The goddess of night in Greek mythology – represents darkness and mystery.

By giving your black cat one of these meaningful names, your kitty is sure to attract attention wherever she goes!

Names With Neutral Meanings

When naming a black cat, it is important to find a name that is meaningful and reflective of the new family member’s personality.

Names with neutral meanings often provide the perfect balance between distinction and mystique.

Names that fit this category typically include strong words (ex. Power), nature words (ex. Oak), items from mythology (ex. Loki), or anything else that has significance to you and your pet.

Here are some examples of names with neutral meanings for your black cat: