Sunshine Awaits: 80+ Radiant Baby Names Inspired by the Sun

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Sunshine Awaits: 80+ Radiant Baby Names Inspired by the Sun

by Sarah Thompson

Updated: July 8, 2021

Originally Published: April 12, 2021

What could be more uplifting than the sun? This magnificent celestial body not only nurtures life but also envelops us in warmth and vitality. Since the earliest days of humanity, the sun has been central to our existence. Almost every culture reveres a sun deity, and across various texts—both ancient and contemporary—the sun symbolizes essential concepts such as life, royalty, and strength. Hence, it makes perfect sense that many parents are opting for baby names that signify the sun. Choosing such a distinctive name reflects a passion for mythology and history, revealing a glimpse of your personality, much like selecting a whimsical fairy or mermaid name.

Fortunately, if you’re on the hunt for a sun-inspired name, there are plenty of fantastic choices available. If none of these resonate, consider exploring names that signify fire. While some options may not work as first names, shorter names like Helio or Ra could make for striking middle names for boys. Meanwhile, names like Liane (which closely resembles the trendy “Lee”) are lovely choices for girls’ middle names.

One standout sun name is Kiran. This name, which can be used for any gender, originates from Sanskrit and means “Sunbeam.” It enjoys popularity in Nepal, Pakistan, and India. We adore this name, particularly for a rainbow baby or a cherished firstborn—it’s simply delightful!

If a name that signifies the sun and nods to a love for Disney sounds appealing, you might like Aurora. Meaning “dawn,” Aurora is notably associated with the Roman goddess of sunrise. Legend has it that morning dew is formed from her tears as she travels across the sky daily. Of course, it’s the enchanting Disney character from Sleeping Beauty that many will recall! Once less common, Aurora has been climbing the popularity ranks and is currently the 40th most popular name in the United States, ensuring your little princess stands out without too much competition.

Boys’ Names That Mean Sun

  • Aarush
  • Apollo
  • Cyrus
  • Cymbeline
  • Gisli
  • Helio
  • Horus
  • Ishaan
  • Kiran
  • Mehr
  • Mehrdad
  • Mehrnaz
  • Mzia
  • Ra
  • Ravi
  • Ravindr
  • Samson
  • Sol
  • Soniva
  • Sulien
  • Surya
  • Taner

Girls’ Names That Mean Sun

  • Aelia
  • Aine
  • Alba
  • Aurora
  • Cyra
  • Dawn
  • Elanor
  • Eldora
  • Ellen
  • Eliane
  • Helen
  • Helia
  • Idalia
  • Kalinda
  • Liane
  • Malina
  • Marisol
  • Naranbaatar
  • Narangerel
  • Narantsetseg
  • Nou
  • Oriana
  • Savita
  • Solana
  • Soleil
  • Sunniva

Names That Mean Sun with Arabic Origin

  • Abraq
  • Alamafruz
  • Anar
  • Anarat
  • Anwaar
  • Anwara
  • Anwari
  • Ashal
  • Asna
  • Atheer
  • Bareeq
  • Bari
  • Bazigh
  • Bazigha
  • Duriya
  • Eleanor
  • Inara
  • Ishraq
  • Mahnoor
  • Zahian
  • Zaufishan
  • Ziya
  • Zoeya
  • Zoraiz
  • Zoreza
  • Zulnoorain

Sun Gods

  • Amaterasu: A sun goddess in Japanese Shinto belief.
  • Arinna: A significant Hittite sun deity in Syria.
  • Freyr: A Norse sun god associated with fertility.
  • Helios: The Greek sun god predating Apollo.
  • Hepa: A Hittite goddess merged with the sun goddess Arinna.
  • Huitzilopochtli: An Aztec sun god.
  • Inti: Inca god and national patron of the Inca state.
  • Kinich Ahau: A Mayan sun god with unique features.
  • Liza: A West African sun god.
  • Lugh: A hero sun god from Celtic mythology.
  • Sol (Sunna): A Norse sun goddess riding in a solar chariot.
  • Surya: A Hindu sun god in a chariot.
  • Tonatiuh: An Aztec sun god.
  • Utu: A Mesopotamian sun deity.

For additional naming inspiration, check out names reflecting your heritage, like African or Dutch names. One-syllable names for boys and unique middle names for girls can also provide fresh ideas. Remember, whatever name you choose, it will bring joy and perhaps a few chuckles. Ultimately, a baby’s name may evolve in significance over time, and there’s always the option for cool nicknames.

For more details on choosing the perfect name, refer to this other blog post or explore Make a Mom’s home insemination kit for expert advice on this journey. Additionally, you can find valuable insights at UCSF’s resource center for pregnancy and home insemination.

Summary

This article presents a curated list of over 80 baby names inspired by the sun, reflecting cultural significance and personal meaning. It highlights the deep-rooted connection between the sun and human history, showcasing names for both boys and girls, along with sun gods from various cultures. It serves as a guide for expecting parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children.