15 Common Names With Surprisingly Dark Meanings

This post may contain affiliate links.

We hear and use names almost every day. They have been passed down through generations, mostly from parents to children, and hold a special place in our hearts. However, some seemingly innocent names have dark meanings behind them.

In this article, we will explore 15 common names with surprisingly dark meanings.

Claudia

Claudia is derived from the Latin word ‘Claudius,’ which means ‘lame’. It was initially used as a derogatory term for someone who had a limp or deformity. Despite its negative connotation, Claudia has become quite popular in modern times.

Calvin

Close-Up Photo of a Smart Boy Doing a Science Experiment — Photo Credit: Pexels

Who would have thought that the name Calvin, associated with intelligence and creativity, has a dark meaning? It comes from the Latin word ‘calvus’, which means ‘bald.’ In ancient Rome, being bald was seen as a curse and was associated with negative traits.

Cameron

Cameron is a Scottish name meaning ‘crooked nose.’ In ancient Scotland, having a crooked nose was considered undesirable and unattractive. If only people knew the meaning, they would have stopped using it today.

Cecilia

Cecilia is derived from the Latin word ‘caecus’, which means ‘blind’. It was often used to describe someone who was blind or had poor vision. Maybe you know someone named Cecilia, but they probably have no idea what it means.

Mara

Anyone with the name Mara might want to rethink its meaning. It comes from the Hebrew word ‘marah,’ which means ‘bitter.’ In some cultures, it is also associated with death and destruction.

Delilah

thin beautiful lady — Photo Credit: Pixabay

Delilah is derived from the Hebrew word ‘Lila,’ which means night. In ancient times, it was used as an epithet for a temptress or seductress. This dark meaning has not stopped Delilah from being a popular name in modern times.

Brennan

Brennan is an Irish name meaning ‘sorrow’ or ‘teardrop.’ It was often used to describe someone who was born during a time of hardship or suffering. Despite its sad connotation, Brennan has become a well-loved name in many countries.

Mary

The Top 16 Reasons Why Beloved American Staples Suddenly Vanished — Photo Credit:ndrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Mary is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning ‘bitter.’ It was often used to describe someone who had gone through suffering or hardship. Mary has remained a popular name for centuries. Maybe most people associate it with the mother of Jesus and not its meaning.

Mallory

Mallory is a French name meaning ‘unlucky’ or ‘ill-fated.’ In medieval times, it was a nickname for someone who seemed to have bad luck. While it might sound like a unique name, its negative meaning is not something you would want for yourself.

Darcy

Boy and Girl Holding Jack O Lantern Basket on Green Grass Field — Photo Credit: Pexels

What would you say if I told you that Darcy means ‘dark one’ in Irish? This name has gained popularity due to its use in Jane Austen’s popular novel Pride and Prejudice. Today, Darcy is seen as a sophisticated and elegant name rather than having a dark meaning.

Molly

Molly is a Hebrew name meaning ‘bitter.’ It was also used to describe someone who had suffered suffering or hardship. Although its meaning is unpleasant, Molly remains a beloved name for many people.

Portia

Most Bizarre Societal Practices From the Past — Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

You might recognize this name from Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice.’ Portia is derived from the Latin word ‘portius,’ which means ‘pig.’ In ancient Rome, it was often used as a derogatory term for women.

Kennedy

What comes to mind when you hear the name Kennedy? The former US president, right? But did you know this popular name means ‘ugly head’ in Irish Gaelic? It might not seem so appealing anymore.

Chloe

You probably know little girls named Chloe, but does it mean ‘green shoot’ or ‘young green plant’? In Greek mythology, Chloe was a young virgin who died in the spring when flowers and plants bloomed. It does not have such a pleasant meaning for such a beautiful name.

Emily

When you hear the name Emily, what do you think? Maybe a sweet and innocent girl, right? However, this name has roots in Latin and means ‘rival.’ In ancient Rome, it was often used to insult someone, competing for something they did not deserve.