Names with Cunning character
Baby names that carry the quality of cunning.
These names carry cunning as a defining character quality — drawn from their etymology, history, and the people who've carried them. Open a profile for meaning, SSA trends, and feasibility — sort by score, rank, or momentum to narrow the list.
Each name below links to its full profile—meaning, SSA trends, pronunciation, and feasibility.
92 names
◈= unisex (gender-neutral)
- Wylie
Scottish
94Derived from a Scottish surname meaning 'wily' or 'crafty,' suggesting cleverness and cunning. Also associated with the Scottish word for 'wild' or untamed.
- Draco
Latin
94Dragon in Latin. Associated with the constellation Draco and mythological serpents. Symbolizes power, mystery, and ancient wisdom.
- Joab
Hebrew
92From Hebrew Yoʾāv meaning 'Yahweh is father.' Borne by King David's military commander in the Old Testament.
- Mileena
Literary
92Modern creation, likely a blend of 'mile' or influenced by similar names like Milena. Gained recognition through popular culture references.
- Ulises
Greek
91Spanish form of Ulysses, from Greek Odysseus. Associated with the legendary hero of Homer's Odyssey, symbolizing journey and perseverance.
- Alicent
English
84From Latin 'Alice' meaning 'noble', with the -ent suffix suggesting a variant or diminutive form popular in fantasy literature.
- Dodge
English
84From a medieval surname meaning 'to duck or dodge,' originally a nickname for someone agile or evasive. Later popularized as a given name.
- Jafar
Persian
84From Arabic meaning 'stream' or 'small stream'. Also interpreted as 'flowing water' in Persian tradition.
- Loxley
English
84From a place name meaning 'lox clearing' or 'enclosed wood,' originally a surname tied to English geography and later romanticized by the Robin Hood legend.
- Odysseus
Greek
84From Greek mythology, the hero of Homer's Odyssey. The etymology is debated; possibly derived from odyssomai meaning 'to hate' or 'to suffer'.
- Jezabel
Hebrew
84From Hebrew 'Izebel', meaning 'where is the prince' or 'exalted father'. Biblical name of a Phoenician queen, often remembered for defiance and strength.
- Jamien
Hebrew
84Variant of James, from Hebrew Yaakov meaning 'supplanter'. Modern spelling blend of James and contemporary -ien suffix.
- Lupin
Latin
84From Latin lupinus, referring to the lupine flower plant. Also evokes Lupin the literary thief character, blending botanical and literary charm.
- Ulisses
Greek
84From Greek Odysseus, meaning 'wrathful' or 'one who suffers'. Popularized through Homer's Odyssey and the Latin form Ulysses.
- Ketch
English
84A type of sailing vessel with two or three masts. Used as a surname and modern given name, often chosen for its strong, nautical character.
- Circe
Mythological
84Greek goddess of magic and sorcery in Homer's Odyssey. Her name may derive from Greek 'kirkos' meaning 'hawk' or relate to 'kerkezein' meaning 'to shuttle' (weaving).
- Sham
Hebrew
84From Hebrew meaning 'hearkening' or 'listening', also used as a short form of Shamira or similar names in Arabic tradition.
- Corvus
Latin
84From Latin 'corvus' meaning 'raven' or 'crow'. Associated with intelligence, mystery, and dark birds in classical mythology and symbolism.
- Renard
French
84From Old French meaning 'fox', derived from Germanic roots. Famous as the cunning fox character in medieval fables.
- Zeldris
Literary
84A character name from the anime/manga series 'The Seven Deadly Sins', likely inspired by Old English/Germanic roots suggesting strength or nobility
- Foxx
English
84From the English word 'fox', referring to the cunning animal, often used as a surname and modernized as a given name with X spelling.
- Wiley
English
76From an Old English byname meaning 'wily' or 'crafty,' later associated with willow trees. Evolved as a surname before becoming a given name in modern usage.
- Mazikeen
Mythological
76From Hebrew mazzikim (demons). In Jewish tradition, Mazikeen refers to mischievous spirits or demons. Modern usage draws from supernatural and fantasy contexts.
- Yaakov
Hebrew
76From Hebrew 'Ya'akov,' meaning 'he who supplants' or 'heel-holder.' Biblical patriarch Jacob, a foundational figure in Judaism and Christianity.
- Jamian
Hebrew
74Variant of James, derived from Hebrew Yaakov meaning 'supplanter.' Also influenced by the Latin Jacobus, referring to one who follows or imitates.
- Fox
English
72A small canine animal known for cunning and intelligence. Used as a given name to evoke the animal's cleverness, agility, and independent nature.
- Mazakeen
Arabic
70From Arabic meaning 'mighty' or 'strong,' also understood as a variant reflecting divine power and strength in Islamic tradition
- Kraven
English
62A modern invented name, likely influenced by 'craven' (cowardly) with a phonetic twist, popularized by Marvel Comics character Kraven the Hunter.
- Geralt
Literary
62Popularized by the Witcher series as a fictional protagonist name, likely derived from Germanic elements suggesting 'spear' or 'rule'.
- Assane
Arabic
62From Arabic origin, popular in Senegal and West Africa. Associated with strength and nobility in Fulani and Mandinka cultures.
- Yaaqoub
Arabic
62Arabic form of Jacob, from Hebrew Ya'akov meaning 'he who supplants' or 'heel-holder', referencing biblical Jacob who held his twin's heel at birth.
- Sicario
Spanish
62From Latin 'sicarius' meaning 'assassin' or 'dagger-wielder'. Modern usage primarily from the Spanish word for hitman, popularized by crime fiction.
- Varrick
Germanic
62From Old German 'warin' (defender) and 'ric' (ruler). Means 'strong ruler' or 'powerful defender.'
- Reynard
Germanic
62From Old High German elements meaning 'counsel' and 'brave', historically popularized by the medieval fox character Reynard in European literature.
- Bandit
English
62From Old French 'bandit' meaning an outlaw or fugitive. Now used as a given name evoking a bold, roguish spirit.
- Mal
Celtic
55From Old Irish 'mal' meaning 'bald' or 'smooth'. Also used as a diminutive prefix. Short, punchy Celtic name with minimalist appeal.
- Cersei
Literary
55Created by George R.R. Martin for the character in A Song of Ice and Fire. The name may echo 'cerulean' (blue) or Celtic influences, but has no established historical etymology.
- Laban
Hebrew
42From Hebrew meaning 'white' or 'to grow'. In the Bible, Laban is a figure known for his wealth and cunning dealings with Jacob.
- Floki
Norse
42From Old Norse 'flóki' meaning 'expedition' or 'fleet'. Historically associated with Viking exploration and seafaring.
- Anansi
African
42From Akan mythology, Anansi is the spider trickster deity known for wisdom, cunning, and storytelling across West African and Caribbean traditions.
- Mazekeen
Literary
42A modern invented name, potentially blending 'maze' with 'keen', suggesting complexity and sharpness. Notable as a character name in contemporary fantasy.
- Raynard
Germanic
42From Germanic elements meaning 'counsel' and 'hard.' A variant of Reynard, the clever fox of medieval fables.
- Tokala
English
42From Lakota meaning 'big prairie dog.' A nature-rooted name reflecting the plains wildlife central to Dakota culture.
- Bronn
Irish
42From Old Irish 'bronn' meaning 'sorrow' or 'distress.' Popularized by Game of Thrones character Bronn, a cunning sellsword with noble qualities.
- Quinzel
Literary
42Modern invented name, likely inspired by comic book character Harley Quinn. Quinzel combines Quinn with the -zel suffix, creating a contemporary, stylized variant.
- Viserys
Literary
42A High Valyrian name from the fictional world of Westeros. Borne by multiple Targaryen kings, the name carries royal and dragon-lord associations in Martin's fantasy epic.
- Wickham
English
42From Old English 'wic' (settlement) and 'ham' (homestead), referring to a dwelling place associated with a winding or specialized settlement.
- Corvo
English
42From Latin 'corvus' meaning 'raven' or 'crow'. A bold, literary name evoking intelligence and mystery.
- Covin
Celtic
42Possibly from Irish 'coamh' meaning 'hollow' or related to 'Cóemgen.' A rare variant with obscure etymology.
- Crowley
Irish
42From Old Irish 'cruach' meaning 'crowd' or 'heap', also associated with dwelling near a crooked stream or hill
- Odysseas
Greek
42From Greek hero Odysseus of Homer's Odyssey, meaning 'one who suffers' or 'angry one'. Associated with epic journeys and resourcefulness.
- Eredin
Celtic
42From Old Irish meaning 'little red one', associated with the rowan tree and its bright red berries
- Dillinger
Germanic
42From German 'Dilling' (a type of grain or seed) combined with '-er' suffix denoting one who works with or dwells near. Originally an occupational or locational surname.
- Matrim
Literary
42Created name popularized by Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series. No established etymological root; primarily known as a fictional character name.
- Jaimen
Hebrew
42From James, derived from Hebrew Yaakov meaning 'supplanter'. Jaimen is a contemporary phonetic variation popularized in late 20th-century American naming.
- Fenn
Celtic
42From Old English 'fenn' meaning a marshy wetland or fen. Associated with natural water landscapes and earthy origins.
- Ulyses
Greek
42From Greek Odysseus, Latinized as Ulysses. Associated with Homer's hero known for cunning and long journeys homeward.
- Maleficent
Literary
42From Latin maleficent meaning 'doing evil' or 'harmful.' Popularized as a character name in modern fantasy, referring to a powerful sorceress or dark enchantress.
- Viper
English
42From the Latin 'vipera', meaning a venomous snake. Used as a given name for its association with danger, power, and striking beauty.
- Kleopatra
Greek
42From Greek 'kleos' (glory) and 'patēr' (father), meaning 'glory of the father.' Name of the legendary Egyptian queen known for her intelligence and political power.
- Quigley
Irish
42From Irish Ó Coigley, derived from 'coigeal' meaning 'angle' or 'corner', possibly referencing a geographical feature or twisted/crooked shape.
- Wiles
English
42Surname-derived given name from 'wiles' meaning cunning or stratagems, or from Scottish place names. Conveys cleverness and resourcefulness.
- Murdoc
Scottish
42From Old Irish 'Murdach' meaning 'sea warrior' or 'navigator'. Associated with maritime strength and Celtic heritage.
- Zagan
Hebrew
42A demon prince in Jewish medieval demonology, associated with deception and illusion in mystical texts.
- Phox
Greek
42From Greek 'phlox' meaning 'flame,' named after the vibrant flowering plant with bright clustered blooms.
- Sicarii
Latin
42From Latin 'sicarius' meaning 'dagger-man' or assassin. Historical term for Jewish rebels during Roman occupation of Judea in the 1st century CE.
- Raistlin
Literary
42Created by fantasy author Margaret Weis for the Dragonlance series. The name evokes mystical arcane magic and carries an invented elegance without established etymology.
- Reddington
English
42Habitational name from a place with red-colored soil or buildings, or a surname derived from someone with reddish hair or complexion.
- Ulysse
Greek
42From Greek hero Odysseus, Latinized as Ulysses. Associated with cunning, wandering, and the epic journey homeward in Homer's Odyssey.
- Kaeya
Scottish
40From Gaelic 'caorunn', referring to the rowan tree known for its bright red berries, symbolizing protection and magic in Celtic tradition.
- Coyote
Spanish
40From Nahuatl 'coyotl,' a wild canine native to the Americas. Adopted into English and modern US naming as a nature-inspired, indigenous-rooted name symbolizing wildness and adaptability.
- Inari
Japanese
40Inari is a Shinto deity associated with rice, fertility, prosperity, and foxes. The name carries sacred significance in Japanese tradition and represents abundance and divine blessing.
- Iago
Literary
40Iago is the cunning villain from Shakespeare's Othello, derived from Spanish Santiago. The name means 'supplanter' and carries literary weight as one of drama's most complex antagonists.
- Asmodeus
Mythological
40From Hebrew meaning 'creature of destruction' or 'one who destroys'. Chief demon in Jewish/Islamic mythology, later Christianized as a powerful devil figure.
- Fennec
French
40The fennec is a small desert fox native to North Africa, known for its large ears and nocturnal nature. The name references this distinctive animal.
- Jezebel
Hebrew
40From Hebrew 'Izebel', meaning 'where is the prince' or 'not exalted'. Associated with the biblical queen known for her defiance and power.
- Hermes
Greek
40Messenger god in Greek mythology; derived from herma (boundary stone). Associated with commerce, eloquence, and divine communication.
- Izaya
Hebrew
40God is my salvation, derived from the Hebrew name Yeshayahu (Isaiah). A prophetic biblical name with spiritual significance.
- Oberyn
Literary
40Created for fiction; likely inspired by Welsh elements. Character Prince Oberyn Martell from Game of Thrones series.
- Trapper
English
40One who sets traps, historically an occupational surname referring to a person who catches animals for fur or food.
- Rogue
Literary
40A person who acts independently and defiantly; popularized as a modern given name through fiction and pop culture, suggesting boldness and nonconformity.
- Tyrion
Literary
40Created by George R.R. Martin for 'A Song of Ice and Fire,' likely derived from the Targaryen house name with possible influences from Greek 'tyrannos' (tyrant) or Celtic roots.
- Ganon
Irish
40From Old Irish 'Ganán,' meaning 'little red one' or 'small red-haired one,' with associations to fiery temperament.
- Bismarck
Germanic
40From the German place name Bismarck, meaning 'bishop's mark' or 'bishop's domain', referring to land owned by a bishop in medieval Germany.
- Ahri
Celtic
40Scottish name meaning 'little red one,' referencing red hair or the rowan tree's crimson berries
- Aramis
Literary
30Aramis is primarily known as a fictional character from Alexandre Dumas's *The Three Musketeers*, derived from the Aramaic language meaning 'elevated' or 'lofty.'
- Rhaenyra
Literary
30Created for Game of Thrones, likely inspired by Old English 'hræfn' (raven) and Welsh 'rhae' (royal), suggesting 'royal raven' or 'regal maiden'
- Loki
Norse
30The trickster god in Norse mythology, associated with mischief, cunning, and shapeshifting. Modern usage draws from both mythological heritage and contemporary pop culture.
- Sly
English
28Short form of Sylvester, from Latin 'silva' meaning forest. Also used as a nickname meaning clever or cunning.
- Tod
Scottish
28From Old English 'tod' meaning fox, or a bush/clump of vegetation. Used as a Scottish nickname for someone clever or cunning.
- Ulysses
Greek
28From Greek mythology, Ulysses is the Roman name for Odysseus, hero of Homer's Odyssey known for his cunning and long journey home from Troy.
- Voss
Germanic
20From Old Norse 'vöss' meaning 'fox', symbolizing cunning and intelligence
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Popularity data: Social Security Administration, US births 1880–2024
