If you are looking for baby names that mean warmth, brightness, and life—you’re in the right place. Whether you’re naming your baby, a character, or something personal, names that mean sun or light always stand out. They bring hope. They feel peaceful. And they carry a meaning that stays close to the heart.
In this list, you’ll find over 250 beautiful names—for boys, girls, and unisex—that all mean light or sun. These names come from different languages, cultures, and stories. Some feel soft and poetic. Others feel bold and full of power. But all of them glow with meaning.
Key Takeaways
- Symbolic Names: Names meaning sun or light symbolize warmth, hope, and positivity, making them a meaningful choice.
- Cultural Depth: These names often have rich cultural and mythological backgrounds, adding depth to their significance.
- Gender Versatility: Options are available for boys, girls, and as gender-neutral names, offering flexibility in choice.
- Modern Appeal: Unique and modern sun-inspired names provide fresh, stylish alternatives.
- Bright Disposition: Names meaning sun or light often reflect a bright disposition, evoking a cheerful and positive nature.
Why Choose a Name That Means Sun or Light?
Names that mean sun or light carry something special—they’re more than just beautiful words. They glow with meaning. If you’re drawn to them, it’s probably because they speak to the kind of energy you hope to bring into the world—or pass on to someone you love. The sun is life sustaining, highlighting its essential and nurturing qualities.
A Name That Carries Emotion and Spirit
Light has always meant more than brightness. It’s a symbol of hope, healing, truth, and new beginnings. Choosing a name that means light is a way of carrying those values forward. It’s like saying, “You are meant to shine, no matter what.” Names associated with light often symbolize a ‘fresh start’ and new beginnings.
In many cultures, the sun represents life, growth, and guidance. In Vedic astrology, for instance, the Sun (Surya) is the soul of all beings—linked to self-confidence and inner power. In Egyptian mythology, Ra, the sun god, stood for strength and creation. These ancient stories remind us just how powerful sun symbolism can be.
The Power Behind the Name
When you choose a name that means sun or light, you’re choosing warmth, clarity, and presence. These names often suit people with bright, bold personalities. People who light up a room. People meant to lead, grow, or heal. Many of these names have roots in ancient cultures, adding depth to their significance.
Think of it this way: light names carry a quiet strength. They feel positive. They uplift. And they often inspire just by how they sound.
Sun and Light Names by Gender
Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual energy of sunlight or the warmth and brightness it symbolizes, a name that means sun or light for your baby girl can feel truly magical. These names carry hope, strength, and a beautiful connection to nature and spirit.
Boy Names That Mean Sun
From mythological sun gods to poetic meanings in ancient languages, these boy’s names feel strong, radiant, and full of light.
- Aarush (Sanskrit) – First ray of the sun
- Surya (Sanskrit) – Sun god
- Elio (Italian/Greek) – Sun
- Helios (Greek) – Personification of the sun
- Cyrus (Persian) – Sun or throne
- Ravi (Sanskrit) – Sun
- Samson (Hebrew) – Bright sun
- Apollo (Greek) – God of sun, music, and poetry
- Mehrdad (Persian) – Given by the sun
- Sol (Latin/Spanish) – Sun
- Haru (Japanese) – Sunlight, spring
- Ishan (Sanskrit) – Sun or lord
- Kem (Egyptian) – Born of the sun
- Savar (Persian) – Morning sun
- Anatole (Greek/French) – Rising sun
- Eleodoro (Spanish) – Gift of the sun
- Taner (Turkish) – Born at dawn
- Beacon (English) – Source of light
- Lior (Hebrew) – I have light
- Dayan (Hebrew) – Light of justice
- Zia (Arabic) – Light, glow
- Levante (Spanish) – Sunrise
- Baskara (Indonesian) – The sun
- Ra (Egyptian) – Sun god
- Suhail (Arabic) – Brilliant, shining
- Inti (Quechua/Inca) – Sun god
- Ori (Hebrew) – My light
- Freyr (Norse) – God of sunlight and fertility
- Uday (Sanskrit) – Rise, to rise like the sun
- Phoebus (Greek) – Bright, shining (another name for Apollo)
Girl Names That Mean Sun
These feminine names are rich in warmth, beauty, and mythology—perfect if you want your daughter’s name to feel like a ray of sunshine. This list of girl’s names that mean sun offers a thoughtful selection that reflects individuality and warmth.
- Aelia (Latin) – Sun
- Solana (Spanish) – Sunshine
- Soleil (French) – Sun
- Kyra (Persian/Greek) – Sun-like, noble
- Sunniva (Old Norse) – Gift of the sun
- Alina (Greek/Slavic) – Light
- Thea (Greek) – Goddess of light
- Tanith (Phoenician) – Sun goddess
- Surya (Indian) – Feminine form of sun deity
- Elaine (Greek) – Shining light
- Lucia (Latin) – Light
- Kalinda (Sanskrit) – Sun
- Arpina (Armenian) – Rising of the sun
- Zia (Arabic) – Radiance
- Nura (Arabic) – Luminous
- Shamsa (Arabic) – Little sun
- Apollonia (Greek) – Female form of Apollo
- Marisol (Spanish) – Sea and sun
- Orielle (French) – Golden
- Chiara (Italian) – Clear, bright
- Elidi (Greek) – Gift of the sun
- Hikari (Japanese) – Light
- Mira (Sanskrit) – Wonderful, also means light
- Soraya (Persian) – Jewel, shining star
- Cira (Italian) – Sun
- Nuria (Arabic) – Luminous
- Eira (Welsh) – Often associated with brightness
- Luz (Spanish) – Light
- Yelena (Slavic) – Bright, shining one
- Dawn (English) – Morning light
- Aurora (Roman) – Goddess of the dawn
- Zaria (Slavic) – Sunrise
- Clarisse (French) – Bright, clear
- Roshni (Hindi/Urdu) – Light
- Noorjahan (Persian) – Light of the world
- Aftab (Persian) – Sunlight
- Chioma (Igbo/Nigerian) – Good light
- Meher (Sanskrit/Persian) – Blessing, sun
- Eos (Greek) – Goddess of the dawn
- Aine (Irish) – Celtic sun goddess
Unisex Names That Mean Light or Sun
These names break all boundaries—they shine with meaning and suit any gender, offering modern, radiant choices with deep spiritual roots. Embracing the trend of using a gender neutral name, these names that mean sun or light are perfect for boys, girls, and those who prefer a non-binary option.
- Noor (Arabic) – Light
- Lux (Latin) – Light
- Ori (Hebrew) – My light
- Halo (English) – Radiant glow
- Ray (English) – Beam of light
- Sunny (English) – Cheerful, sunny
- Sol (Latin/Spanish) – Sun
- Phoenix (Greek) – Symbol of rebirth and sunlight
- Aki (Japanese) – Bright, sparkle
- Dayan (Hebrew) – Light and justice
- Lior (Hebrew) – I have light
- Zephyr (Greek) – Gentle wind, linked to spring
- Blaze (English) – Bright flame
- Cielo (Spanish) – Sky
- Elidi (Greek) – Sun gift
- Sora (Japanese) – Sky
- Rumi (Japanese/Persian) – Beauty and clarity
- Avi (Hebrew) – Sun and air
- Azar (Persian) – Fire
- Sky (English) – Infinite brightness
- Raanan (Hebrew) – Fresh and radiant
- Vesper (Latin) – Evening star, celestial
- Arin (Hebrew) – Mountain of strength and light
- Meher (Persian/Sanskrit) – Sunlight, kindness
- Oriel (Hebrew) – Light of God
- Zion (Hebrew) – Elevated, bright
- Lumen (Latin) – Unit of light
- Rayan (Arabic) – Lush, bright
- Aether (Greek) – Heavenly light
- Elyon (Hebrew) – The highest, shining one
Names That Mean Light (General and Spiritual Light)
These names go beyond just brightness. They carry deep emotional and spiritual meanings—like inner wisdom, divine presence, or the light that guides you through darkness. If you’re looking for a name that represents purity, clarity, or a higher calling, you’ll find it here. These names are often chosen as a given name to reflect spiritual and emotional significance.
Spiritual & Enlightening Light-Inspired Names
- Lucian (Latin) – Light
- Zohar (Hebrew) – Radiance, spiritual light
- Clara (Latin) – Clear, bright
- Nura (Arabic) – Light, divinely illuminated
- Elaine (Greek/French) – Bright, shining light
- Orin (Hebrew) – Light or pine tree
- Chiara (Italian) – Bright, luminous
- Radiya (Arabic) – Content, radiant with light
- Lucius (Latin) – Light
- Liora (Hebrew) – God’s light
- Phoebe (Greek) – Bright, radiant
- Noor (Arabic) – Light
- Aonani (Hawaiian) – Beautiful light
- Eliora (Hebrew) – The Lord is my light
- Ilona (Hungarian) – Light
- Lux (Latin) – Light
- Alina (Slavic) – Bright and beautiful
- Meira (Hebrew) – Light
- Hikari (Japanese) – Light
- Leora (Greek) – Light
- Uriel (Hebrew) – Light of God
- Niamh (Irish) – Radiance, brightness
- Anora (Latin) – Honor and light
- Roshni (Hindi) – Light
- Ayla (Hebrew/Turkish) – Halo of light
- Senna (Arabic) – Brightness
- Jyoti (Sanskrit) – Light, flame
- Lumi (Finnish) – Snow, also evokes lightness
- Nuriel (Hebrew) – Angel of light
- Kiran (Sanskrit) – Ray of light
- Lucinda (Latin) – Illumination
- Akira (Japanese) – Bright, clear
- Eileen (Greek origin) – Light
- Lior (Hebrew) – I have light
- Alba (Latin) – Dawn
- Mahina (Hawaiian) – Moonlight
- Rina (Hebrew) – Joyous light
- Sharik (Arabic) – One who radiates
- Orli (Hebrew) – Light is mine
- Sitara (Hindi/Urdu) – Starlight
Names That Mean Sun in Different Cultures
The sun shines over every land—and every culture has honored it in beautiful, meaningful names. From mythology to everyday language, these names come from different corners of the world and carry powerful symbolism. Some names, like ‘Aurora’ and ‘Solaris’, are of latin name origin and carry meanings related to the sun.
Indian Names That Mean Sun or Light
In India, the sun is revered as a life-giving force, worshipped in many traditions. These names reflect spiritual reverence and cosmic energy.
- Surya – Sun god
- Bhanu – Radiance, sun
- Aditya – Child of the sun
- Prabhakar – Light maker, sun
- Ravi – Sun
- Tejas – Brilliance, glow
- Uday – Rise, rising sun
- Mitra – A solar deity, also means friend
- Divakar – Sun, lamp
- Arka – Sun ray
- Sharanya – Defender, protector of light
- Shweta – White, luminous
- Chaitanya – Consciousness, inner light
- Deepak – Lamp, source of light
- Jyoti – Light
- Ushas – Goddess of dawn
- Tapas – Spiritual heat or light
- Rohit – Rising sun
- Tapan – Burning like the sun
- Vivasvan – Sun god from Hindu scriptures
Japanese Names That Mean Sun
Japan’s relationship with the sun is deeply spiritual—it’s even called “The Land of the Rising Sun.” These names reflect natural brilliance and warmth. Some names, like ‘Sol’, can also serve as a short form of longer names like ‘Solomon’.
- Haruki – Shining sun or springtime
- Amaterasu – Sun goddess in Shinto mythology
- Hikari – Light
- Akari – Light or brightness
- Hinata – Sunny place
- Aki – Bright, autumn
- Asahi – Morning sun
- Teru – Shine, glow
- Daiki – Great brightness
- Kōta – Peaceful light
Greek and Roman Sun Names
In ancient Greece and Rome, the sun was personified as gods who controlled time, life, and vision. These names carry legacy and divine energy. Many of these names are goddess names inspired by sun deities in mythology.
- Helios – Greek god of the sun
- Phoebus – Another name for Apollo, meaning bright
- Apollo – God of sun, music, healing
- Sol – Roman personification of the sun
- Elektra – Shining, radiant
- Aelius – Sun-related Roman family name
- Selene – Goddess of the moon, opposite of the sun, often paired in mythology
- Eos – Goddess of the dawn
- Hyperion – Titan god of light
- Astraeus – Father of the stars and god of dusk
Arabic Names Related to Sun/Light
These names are poetic and often spiritually profound, used to evoke beauty, brightness, and divine presence. Some names, like ‘Shams’, also refer to a pre-Islamic Arabian goddess of the sun.
- Shams – Sun
- Zia – Light, brilliance
- Noor – Divine light
- Nura – Light or radiance
- Radiya – Radiant, content
- Siraj – Lamp, light
- Misbah – Lantern
- Munira – Radiant, shining
- Anwar – Luminous
- Wahaj – Glowing, brilliant
- Sabaah – Morning light
- Diya – Light
- Huda – Guidance, often paired with divine light
- Asrar – Secrets of light
- Saahir – Enchanter, radiant
African & Hebrew Sun Names
These names blend spiritual insight with heritage and warmth—representing protection, energy, and new beginnings.
Many of these names are a ‘unique name’ with deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Hebrew Origin
- Eliora – The Lord is my light
- Ori – My light
- Lior – I have light
- Nuriel – Angel of light
- Orli – Light is mine
- Avner – Father of light
African Origin
- Abeni (Yoruba) – We asked for her, and she came with blessings (implied light)
- Zahra (Swahili/Arabic) – Radiance, flower
- Chidiegwu (Igbo) – God is my light
- Amara (Igbo) – Grace and light
- Nia (Swahili) – Purpose, bright path
- Ayo (Yoruba) – Joy, radiant joy
- Tinashe (Shona) – God is with us (spiritual light)
- Enitan (Yoruba) – One with a story (implies presence and brightness)
- Neo (Tswana/Sesotho) – Gift (of light)
Rare and Unique Names That Mean Sun or Light
Looking for a name that feels fresh and uncommon? These rare gems aren’t just beautiful—they’re unforgettable. Most blogs stop at popular names, but here’s your chance to discover something truly distinctive, with deep meanings rooted in light and warmth. Some names, like ‘Naranbaatar’, translate to ‘sun hero’ and carry powerful solar symbolism.
25 Rare & Unique Names with Sun or Light Meaning
- Sólveig (Old Norse) – Strong house of the sun
- Eleodoro (Greek/Spanish) – Gift of the sun
- Neriah (Hebrew) – Light of the Lord
- Aftab (Persian) – Sun
- Grian (Irish) – Sun
- Eos (Greek) – Goddess of the dawn
- Nayeli (Zapotec) – I love you (evokes radiant affection)
- Lugh (Irish) – Bright shining one, god of light
- Cyra (Persian/Greek) – Sun, throne
- Taner (Turkish) – Born with the morning sun
- Raviya (Sanskrit origin) – Sun-born
- Helia (Greek) – Of the sun
- Sorin (Romanian) – Sun
- Aelia (Latin) – Sunlight
- Samsonia (Hebrew-inspired) – Bright sun
- Sulien (Welsh) – Sun-born
- Alora (African/Latin) – My dream, also evokes light
- Mithra (Persian) – Sun deity, god of light
- Solene (French) – Dignified sun
- Elidi (Greek) – Gift of the sun
- Apolline (French/Greek) – Of Apollo, sun god
- Ziazan (Armenian) – Rainbow, radiant colors
- Hinata (Japanese) – Sunny place
- Sunnifa (Old Norse) – Sun gift
- Chioma (Igbo) – Good fortune, implied brightness
Mythological and Astrological Names Related to the Sun
The sun has always had a divine place in stories and the stars. Many cultures worshipped sun gods and associated zodiac signs with solar energy. If you love names with mythic flair or celestial depth, this list brings power and mystery together. Some names, like ‘Utu’, are rooted in Sumerian mythology and carry ancient cultural significance.
Mythological Sun God Names
- Ra (Egyptian) – God of the sun and creation
- Inti (Incan) – Sun god worshipped in Peru
- Amaterasu (Japanese) – Sun goddess in Shinto belief
- Sol (Roman) – The personification of the sun
- Tonatiuh (Aztec) – Sun god, ruler of heaven
- Helios (Greek) – The sun god who drives the chariot across the sky
- Apollo (Greek/Roman) – God of sun, light, music, and truth
- Surya (Hindu) – God of the sun and health
- Huitzilopochtli (Aztec) – Warrior sun god
- Freyr (Norse) – God of sunlight and prosperity
Astrological Names Inspired by the Sun
- Leo – Ruled by the Sun, represents leadership and radiance
- Helia – Feminine of Helios, tied to Greek solar myths
- Aurelio/Aurelia – Latin for “the golden one,” glowing like the sun
- Solea – Sunlight, derived from “sol”
- Solene – Elegant twist on sun-inspired naming
Each of these names adds an element of mythology, astrology, or solar reverence—perfect if you’re drawn to names with timeless cosmic energy.
Modern Baby Names Inspired by the Sun
Today’s baby names are all about charm and cool confidence. If you want a name that feels sun-kissed and stylish, these trendy options are warm, creative, and totally now. Names like ‘Sunny’ and ‘Ray’ symbolize a ‘little ray’ of sunshine, making them endearing choices.
Trendy & Stylish Sun-Themed Names
- Sunny – Playful, gender-neutral, full of joy
- Blaze – Edgy and bold like a sunbeam
- Solara – Futuristic and radiant
- Ray – Simple, cool, and straight to the point
- Dawn – Evokes a new beginning
- Zayn – Arabic for beauty and grace, shines with style
- Aurelia – A popular favorite with a golden glow
- Phoenix – Symbol of rebirth from the fire
- Halo – Ethereal and modern
- Skye – Open and sun-filled skies
- Goldie – Retro revival name, warm and shining
- Lumen – Latin for light, sleek and fresh
- Soraya – A celestial cluster, radiant elegance
- Nova – Starburst brilliance
- Solaris – Galactic and bold
- Daye – Soft, modern, and sun-drenched
- Soleil – French for sun, chic and graceful
- Auryn – Magical name inspired by golden light
- Zeal – Energy and brightness packed into one
- Elio – Bright, Mediterranean feel
- Sunniva – Northern light vibes
- Ember – Glowing, warm, and powerful
- Lyra – Star constellation that feels light-filled
- Cira – Italian/Spanish roots, meaning sun
- Aeliana – Latin for “sun,” delicate and melodic
These modern names blend personality, purpose, and style, giving your baby a name that’s truly made to shine in today’s world.
How to Choose the Right Name That Means Sun or Light
Choosing a name isn’t just about what sounds good—it’s about choosing energy, meaning, and something your child or character will grow into. If you’re torn between options, here’s a quick checklist to help you make the right call:
1. Cultural Meaning
Think about the roots of the name. Does it reflect your culture or spiritual beliefs? Names like Surya or Amaterasu carry deep traditional energy, while others may feel more modern or neutral.
2. Gender Fit (or Not!)
Are you looking for a distinctly boy or girl name, or would you prefer something unisex? Names like Noor or Lux work beautifully across genders.
3. Nickname Potential
Is there a cute or casual nickname you’d like to use every day? For example, Solara could become Sol, or Aurelia could be Lia.
4. Sound and Spelling
Does the name flow well with your surname? Is it easy to pronounce and spell? Think about how it’ll sound at school, in meetings, or in stories.
5. Astrological or Spiritual Relevance
Are you naming based on a zodiac sign like Leo or a numerology chart? Names tied to astrology or mythology might hold a deeper connection for you.
6. Purpose of the Name
Is this for your baby, a fictional character, a pet, or a persona? Each use may call for a slightly different tone—some light and playful, others bold and commanding.
Tip: Say the name out loud, write it down a few times, and sit with it for a day. The right one will feel like it shines in its own special way.
Conclusion
A name that means sun or light isn’t just a word—it’s a wish. It carries the warmth of a sunrise, the hope of new beginnings, and the quiet strength that shines through even the darkest days. Whether you’re choosing a name for your baby, a character in your story, or something deeply personal, remember this: you’re choosing more than just a sound or syllable. You’re choosing the energy you want them to carry forward—a spark of joy, clarity, and purpose.
Let that name shine with meaning, heart, and light.
Still searching for the perfect name? Try our Online Baby Name Finder to explore even more radiant options made just for you.
