Dragons are one of those cool as hell things that have captured the human imagination for centuries. We’ve got them showing in myths and legends from way back when – and in places all over the world. And we’re still seeing them show up in movies and books and video games today.
Though we don’t have any modern day reports of people seeing dragons in the sky, it seems like they’ve historically been revered and feared by people. Dragons have some to symbolize power, wisdom, and elemental forces.
With that in mind, if you’re looking to name a dragon, then you gotta go with dragon names that reflect these things. From the majestic European dragons and the benevolent spirits of Asian lore to the symbolic creatures of Middle Eastern myths, dragon names should resonate with the power and mystique of these ancient legendary beings.
Maybe you’re writing a fantasy novel, naming your character in a video game, or even just a stuffed plush dragon – whatever the reason, understanding the origins and meanings behind these names can enhance their allure and depth. Each dragon name encapsulates a story, offering a glimpse into the mythology and thought of the civilization from whiich it sprung.
Mythical & Legendary Dragon Names
Here I’ve got ya a list with some awesome dragon names along with their meanings and cultural origins.
- Fafnir: A name rooted in Norse mythology, it belonged to a dwarf who transformed into a fearsome dragon.
- Tiamat: In Babylonian myths, Tiamat is a dragon associated with the sea, embodying chaos and creation.
- Ladon: A hundred-headed dragon from Greek mythology tasked with guarding the golden apples in the Garden of the Hesperides.
- Quetzalcoatl: This name comes from Aztec mythology and refers to a feathered serpent god, often associated with the wind and air.
- Ryujin: In Japanese folklore, Ryujin is the dragon god of the sea, controlling tide and rain.
- Nidhogg: Derived from Old Norse and meaning “malice striker,” this dragon gnaws at the root of the World Tree, Yggdrasil.
Dragons are usually seen in images or described with serpentine or reptilian traits, whiich is reflected in some of the names that have come down to us through the ages:
- Draco: This name, coming from Latin, simply means “dragon” or “serpent.”
- Viper: While typically the name for a snake, ‘viper’ conveys the deadly nature of mythical dragons.
- Leviathan: Originally a Biblical sea monster from Hebrew tradition, it has become synonymous with any large sea creature, including dragons.
These names only scratch the surface of the extensive list of legendary dragons that populate our myths and stories.
Famous Dragon Names in Literature and Media
From the fire-breathing Smaug of Middle-earth to the classic 80’s kdis movie flight through the skies with Falkor, dragons have captured our imagination for what seems like forever. Each name we got for ya below carries a legacy that reflects their characteristics, origin stories, or the cultures from whiich they emerge.
Dragons in Classic Literature
In the domaine of classic literature, dragons not only are these wicked powerful symbols but also serve to test the mentilty of heroes.
- Beowulf: An unnamed dragon, hoarding treasures and meeting its fate at the hands of the titular hero.
- Fafnir: A dwarf turned dragon in the Norse Völsunga saga, slain by Sigurd.
Dragons in Modern Fantasy
Modern fantasy literature has breathed new life into dragons. These book authors often give ’em complex personalities and roles.
- Smaug: “The Hobbit” features this clever and greedy dragon who hoards vast wealth.
- Eragon: The titular dragon rider’s dragon, Saphira, bonds deeply with her human partner in Christopher Paolini’s Inheritance cycle.
Anime and Manga Dragon Names
Dragons in anime and manga are seen with storied backgrounds and super profound powers.
- Shenron: From “Dragon Ball,” this mystical dragon grants wishes when all the Dragon Balls are gathered.
- Haku: In “Spirited Away,” he is a river spirit who takes on the form of a dragon.
Film & Television Dragon Names
Dragons on the big and small screens range from fearsome beasts to lovable friends.
- Falkor: The luckdragon from “The NeverEnding Story” who helps the protagonist on his quest.
- Maleficent: While primarily known as an enigmatic fairy, she turns into a dragon in the climactic battle in Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty.”
Video Game Dragons
Video games offer interactive experiences with dragons, pitting players against or alongside these titanic creatures.
- Alduin: The world-devouring dragon from “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.”
- Spyro: A spunky purple dragon and the protagonist of the “Spyro the Dragon” series.
Elemental Dragon Names
Elemental Dragon Names are exactly what they sound like. Ya gotta know the four elements, right? Well the power of nature and these classic elements are what gets ya these elemental names for these firey beasts.
We got ya fiery names for the most passionate dragons, icy designations for the serene and chilling, names all about the fluidity of water, and some cool name ideas that are 100% about the strength of the earth.
Hot Fire Dragon Names
Fire dragons, often depicted as fire-breathing creatures, symbolize strength, passion, and destruction.
- Pyrothraxis – from ‘pyro’ for fire and a grand-sounding suffix.
- Solflare – combining ‘sol’, Latin for sun, and the burst of a flare.
- Blazeagon – a fiery twist combining ‘blaze’ and ‘dragon’.
- Infernus – Latin for inferno, indicating an intense fire.
- Cinderax – from ‘cinder’, the remains of a fire, and a fierce suffix.
- Scorcharius – reflecting the scorching power of fire.
Cool Ice Dragon Names
Ice dragons are associated with the calm and stoic control over colder domaines.
- Frostfyre – a paradox between ‘frost’ and ‘fire’, unique to ice dragons.
- Wintertide – capturing the essence of the cold season.
- Glacius – Latin for ice, conveying a frozen strength.
- Borealith – hinting at the boreal or northern icy forests.
- Crystalspine – reflecting the icy crystal-like spires on its back.
Sea & Water Dragon Names
Water dragons are fluid and graceful beasties, often associated with ancient symbols like the hydra.
- Hydranox – an allusion to ‘hydra’, suggesting multiple strengths.
- Aqualon – from ‘aqua’, Latin for water, and a majestic suffix.
- Oceanix – representing the vast power of the ocean.
- Riverrush – signifying the speed and force of a rushing river.
Earth Dragon Names
Earth dragons personify the unyielding force and fertile nature of the earth.
- Terragorn – from ‘terra’, Latin for earth, and a powerful suffix.
- Gaianox – after Gaia, the personification of Earth in ancient Greek mythology.
- Rockwyrm – suggesting a dragon that moves through rock and soil.
- Dirtle – a playful combination of ‘dirt’ and ‘turtle’, for a more grounded creature.
Dragon Names by Gender
When you’re deciding on a dragon name, ya might wanna consider the gender for the beastie. Names can have cool themes from things like mythology, or carry deep meanings, or have a fiery ring to them.
I gotcha some dragon names by gender.
Male Dragon Names
For ya male beasties, we got options with attributes like strength and valor. Here’s a list ya can choose from:
- Arman: Originating from the 2015 film “He’s a Dragon”.
- Blaze: Evoking the image of fire and ferocity.
- Drake: An Old English term for dragon.
- Ryujin: In Japanese, this means “dragon god”.
- Ignatius: From Latin, meaning “fiery” or “passionate”.
- Mordred: A Welsh name, meaning “sea fortress”.
Female Dragon Names
Female dragon names just might be sending those vibes of grace, might, or both. Consider these options:
- Kaida: A Japanese name meaning “little dragon”.
- Ryoko: Another Japanese name, meaning “child of the dragon”.
- Tatsuo: Meaning “female dragon” in Japanese.
- Uwabami: Meaning “resembling a small dragon” in Japanese.
- Sancri: Signifies ‘queen of the sea’ in dragon language.
- Mishyca: Means ‘bearer of hope’.
Gender-Neutral Dragon Names
Some names are good options any fire breathing beastie, regardless of gender. Here’s a few to think about:
- Alexstrasza: Named after the dragon queen from Warcraft lore.
- Smaug: The formidable dragon from “The Hobbit”.
- Falkor: The luckdragon from “The NeverEnding Story”.
- Gamma: A name that could represent the birth of a new era or power.
Cute Dragon Names
Do ya wanna go with something a bit softer? Maybe even whimsical? A name like that is perfection for a cute little stuffed dragon.
I’m thinking about baby dragons and little cutesy beasties here.
Love the idea of sweet-sounding dragon names? I gotcha a wee treasure trove of adorable options that are just perfect.
- Bubbles: Evoking the whimsical image of playful soap bubbles.
- Puff: Inspired by the friendly dragon in the song “Puff, the Magic Dragon”.
- Cupcake: As sweet and delightful as the dessert.
- Twinkle: Suggesting a dragon with scales that shimmer like stars.
- Glimmer: Connoting a soft, gentle shine.
- Sprout: For a dragon that’s small and still growing.
- Pixie: A name for a dragon that might have a touch of fairy-like magic.
- Nibbles: Perfect for a dragon with an endearing habit of gently nibbling.
- Wisp: Implies a dragon as light and delicate as a wisp of smoke.
- Pip: Short and peppy, suitable for an energetic little dragon.
- Snuggleflame: For a dragon who loves to cuddle.
- Fluffle: Suggests a dragon with a soft, fluffy appearance.
- Jellybean: Colorful and sweet, just like the candy.
- Squeak: A name for a tiny dragon with a soft, high-pitched roar.
Powerful Dragon Names
When ya hear a name like Bahamut or Tiamat, can’t ya almost feel the ground shake beneath the beastie? I’m talking about powerful dragon names.
These here are names with weight and heritage from all sorts of cultures and mythologies around the world.
- Bahamut: Often associated with immense size and power in Arabic mythology, this name signifies a gigantic fish or a dragon of massive proportions.
- Fafnir: From Norse legend, Fafnir turned into a dragon out of greed and comes to mean “one who grips tightly.”
- Tiamat: In Babylonian mythology, Tiamat is a divine dragon of chaos, perhaps one of the most powerful creatures in ancient lore.
- Ryu: Japanese for dragon, this name denotes strength and is common in folklore.
- Nidhogg: Referring to the dragon that gnaws at the roots of the World Tree, Yggdrasil, in Norse mythology.
- Saphira: With its origins from a Hebrew word meaning “sapphire,” the name carries the connotation of something precious and strong.
- Vritra: Meaning “enveloper,” this Sanskrit name belonged to a dragon or serpent that was a major adversary in early Vedic religion.
- Quetzalcoatl: This name is derived from the Aztec god that was depicted as a feathered serpent, symbolizing power and divinity.
Dark Dragon Names
Looking for dark dragon names with a bit of foreboding, hinting at their ancient and formidable power?
Here’s a list of dark dragon names drawn from various cultures and mythologies to inspire ya.
- Nefarian: “Little black” in Draconic; a name denoting slight stature but profound darkness.
- Onyxia: Evocative of dark, onyx-like scales.
- Sabellian: Derived from “sable,” connotating a deep black color.
- Demona: “A femme fatale with draconic powers”—perfect for a female dragon.
- Falak: “A serpent” from Middle-Eastern legends; suitable for dragons with an ominous presence.
- Hydra: Denotes the many-headed water dragon from Greek mythology.
- Glaurung: Known as “the Father of Dragons” in J.R.R. Tolkien’s works; breathes flames of shadow and death.
- Fafnir: A Norse name meaning “twisted serpent,” epitomizing deceit and destruction.
- Bahamut: An Arabic name for a gigantic mythical fish or sea dragon.
- Vritra: A Sanskrit name meaning “enveloper”; a dragon from Indian mythology who encompasses darkness.
- Morke: Meaning “darkness” in some Scandinavian languages, fitting for a shadowy dragon.
- Erebos: Named after the Greek personification of darkness, suitable for a dragon that personifies night and shadow.
- Chernobog: Slavic for “black god,” resonant with a dragon of dark might and divine power.
Use these names to give yar dark dragon a sense of dread and awe.
Names Based on Physical Attributes
Wanna go with a dragon name that reflects physical characteristics?
Names Based on Appearance and Abilities
Dragons are often named after their striking physical features, whiich can include their size, shape, color, and unique abilities. Here are a few of my faves:
- Blaze: For dragons with the ability to ignite an inferno with their breath.
- Shimmer: Ideal for a dragon whose scales catch the light, creating a dazzling display.
- Glint: For those with scales that glint as if reflecting a myriad of colors.
- Marble: Refers to a dragon with a majestic, imposing appearance akin to carved stone.
- Naga: Sanskrit origins, capturing the ‘serpent’ essence of dragons.
- Orochi: Epitomizes the grandeur of a ‘giant serpent’ in Japanese legend.
Connecting Powers to Names
What about the powers and abilities of a dragon for names inspiration. Here’s a few of my faves:
- Stormbringer: Represents a dragon that commands the winds and rains, creating tempests at will.
- Chaosweaver: For a dragon with the chaotic force of a living cataclysm.
- Inferno: This name suits a dragon with a breath so fiery it can reduce entire forests to ashes.
- Quakestomp: A fitting name for a dragon whose very presence can shake the ground.
Exotic and Creative Dragon Names
Wanna got with a super unique names?
Innovative and Unique Names
Capture its unique personality or powers. Here are some cool ideas:
- Tanwen: Meaning ‘white fire’ in Welsh, a name for a dragon with a pearl-like sheen and fiery breath.
- Attor: An Old English word for ‘poison’ or ‘venom,’ suitable for a dragon with a toxic bite or breath.
Fictional Dragon Names and Invention
Here’s a few ideas from pop culture:
- Dragonite: A powerful and wise dragon, name borrowed from the friendly dragon species in the Pokémon franchise.
- Falkor: From the dragon character in “The Neverending Story” known for his luck and wisdom.
- Glaedr: A homage to the golden dragon in Christopher Paolini’s “Inheritance Cycle” series.
More Dragon Names
Haven’t found a name ya like yet?
Here are a few more dragon name ideas for inspiration:
- Blaze Horizon
- Blazeheart
- Blazetail
- Celestiafire
- Cloud Chaser
- Cloud Fury
- Cloud Walker
- Cloudroar
- Cloudstrike
- Crystal Flame
- Crystal Guardian
- Crystalgaze
- Dark Marauder
- Dark Soarer
- Dark Voyager
- Darkfang
- Darksky
- Darktail
- Darkwhisper
- Darkwing
- Earth Bound
- Earth Fury
- Earth Shaker
- Earthscale
- Earthshard
- Eclipse Hunter
- Ember Dreamer
- Ember Glow
- Ember Guide
- Ember Skies
- Emberfury
- Emberheart
- Emberstorm
- Emberwing
- Fire Heart
- Fire Whisperer
- Firecrest
- Firefang
- Firestorm
- Firewing
- Flame Dancer
- Flame Keeper
- Flame Seeker
- Flame Voyager
- Flameclaw
- Flamefury
- Flamestrike
- Flashfang
- Flashstorm
- Frost Herald
- Frost Sentinel
- Frostbreath
- Frostjaw
- Frostspark
- Gale Force
- Gale Spirit
- Galeclaw
- Galeforce
- Galehorn
- Galewing
- Glaciertail
- Glimmerhide
- Glintscale
- Glittering Scale
- Gloomfang
- Ice Guardian
- Ice Shaper
- Ice Voyager
- Ice Wanderer
- Icefang
- Iceheart
- Iceshimmer
- Icetooth
- Icewing
- Infernoscale
- Iron Feather
- Iron Storm
- Iron Talon
- Iron Wing
- Ironbellow
- Ironflame
- Ironheart
- Ironscale
- Lava Maker
- Lava Walker
- Lavaheart
- Light Bearer
- Light Chaser
- Light Shadow
- Light Wanderer
- Lightflame
- Lightheart
- Lightning Wanderer
- Lightshard
- Lightwing
- Magma Breath
- Magma Fist
- Magma Vein
- Mist Rider
- Mist Weaver
- Mistflame
- Moon Glow
- Moon Guardian
- Moon Shimmer
- Moon Whisper
- Moonclaw
- Moonflare
- Mystic Blaze
- Mystic Flame
- Mystic Torrent
- Mystic Wind
- Mystic Wing
- Night Dreamer
- Night Fury
- Night Tempest
- Night Traveler
- Nightflare
- Nightglow
- Ocean Roar
- Ocean Vortex
- Ocean Whisper
- Oceanfury
- Oceanwing
- Sea Fury
- Sea Serpent
- Seastorm
- Shadow Glide
- Shadow Weaver
- Shadowfrost
- Shadowgleam
- Sky Dancer
- Sky Herald
- Skyflare
- Skyfury
- Skyshard
- Snow Drift
- Snow Seeker
- Snowclaw
- Snowwing
- Solflare
- Star Drifter
- Star Glow
- Star Navigator
- Star Seeker
- Starbreath
- Starshard
- Storm Caller
- Storm Whisper
- Stormeye
- Stormfang
- Stormheart
- Stormscale
- Stormwing
- Sun Chaser
- Sun Drifter
- Sun Fury
- Sun Warden
- Sunscale
- Sunspike
- Tempestwing
- Thunder Guardian
- Thunder Peak
- Thunder Rider
- Thunder Seeker
- Thunderclaw
- Thunderflame
- Thunderheart
- Thunderhide
- Thunderstrike
- Thundertail
- Tide Sentinel
- Tide Watcher
- Tide Whisperer
- Tideclaw
- Tidefury
- Whisperflame
- Whispering Wind
- Whisperwind
- Wild Inferno
- Wild Tempest
- Wildstorm
- Wind Voyager
- Windroar
- Zephyrwing
Now go out there and name that beastie!