What do you think of when you hear the word “sparkle”?
For girls, it might be a pretty dress or some glittery jewelry. It might be a sports car with a shiny paint job for boys.
Whatever you think of it, one thing is for sure: it’s hard to resist when you see something that sparkles.
The same can be said for baby names. A name that means “sparkle” will surely shine among the rest.
Look no further if you’re looking for a name for your little one with some sparkle. Here are some of our favorites.
Boy Names That Mean Sparkle
Apollo
Apollo is a name of Greek origin, meaning “destroyer” or “to destroy.”
In Greek mythology, Apollo was the god of light, music, and prophecy, which gives the name a radiant and artistic appeal.
Apollo has been used in various cultural contexts, such as the NASA Apollo space program.
Nicknames for Apollo include Ap, Ollie, or Pollo.
Argus
Argus is a powerful boy baby name that was given to various figures in Greek mythology and had Latin roots.
It means “glistening, shining, and sparkling.”
Aurelius
Aurelius is a name of Latin origin, meaning “golden” or “gilded.”
The name’s association with the bright, precious metal gives it a glowing appeal.
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and philosopher, is a famous historical figure with this name.
Nicknames for Aurelius include Auri, Rel, or Eli.
Azhar
Arhar is a Muslim boy name with Arabic origin. It describes someone who is “radiant, sparkling, bright, brilliant, or clear.”
Atanda
A Yoruba name for boys meaning “born to shine brilliantly or born to sparkle.”
In Yoruba culture, Atanda is known as an Oriki which is a sort of praise poetry.
Barak
The definition of Barak in Hebrew is “flash of lightning. Or sparkling light.”
Bhaskaran
Bhaskaran is a modern Indian name. It is derived from the Sanskrit words “light” and “kara,” which signify “creator.”
It translates as the “sparkling, bright, radiant, and luminous light of the Sun.”
Blaise
Blaise is a name of French origin, meaning “to lisp” or “stutter.”
Despite its meaning, Blaise is often associated with the Latin word “blaze,” invoking the image of a bright flame.
Blaise Pascal, the French mathematician, and philosopher is a notable figure bearing this name. Possible nicknames for Blaise include Blaze or Blai.
Brinnan
An Old Norse name derived from the term brand, which means “blade, sword.” It is a derivation of brandl, which means “to flash or sparkle.”
Cyrus
Cyrus is a name of Persian origin, meaning “sun” or “throne.”
The name has a radiant quality due to its connection with light and royalty.
Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Empire, is a famous historical figure with this name. Possible nicknames for Cyrus include Cy or Russ.
Dashiell (Pronounced Dash-sheel)
Dashiell is a name of French origin, meaning “from the heaven.”
The name has a celestial, radiant quality that adds to its sparkling appeal.
Dashiell Hammett, the American author of detective novels, is a notable figure with this name. Nicknames for Dashiell include Dash or Dax.
Elio
Elio is a name of Italian and Spanish origin, meaning “sun.” The name’s association with the bright, life-giving star gives it a luminous quality.
Elio is a part of many written works, such as the character Elio Perlman in André Aciman’s novel “Call Me by Your Name.”
Possible nicknames for Elio include Eli or Lio.
Finn
Finn is a name of Irish origin, meaning “fair” or “white.”
The name has a bright and radiant quality, and it’s often associated with the legendary Irish hero Fionn mac Cumhaill.
Finn has gained popularity in recent years, partially due to the character Finn Hudson in the TV show “Glee.” Nicknames for Finn include Finny or Fionn.
Fulgencio
A Spanish masculine name derived from the Latin word, Fulgentius. It means “dazzling or sparkling or glitter.”
Heimdall
This name is derived from the Old Norse term, “Heimdallr,” a boy name.
It is divided into two parts: “heimr” (home, house, and world) and “dallr” (sparkle, luminous, shining). The name translates to “one who lights the dwelling.”
Hwan
A rare Korean name for boys. Hwan translates as “Bright or sparkle or shine.” It’s more commonly used as a surname.
Jamshid
A Persian name that is common in Muslim countries.
The name Jamshaid refers to a “dazzling or sparkling sunbeam.”
Jasper
Jasper is a name of Persian origin meaning “treasurer” or “bringer of treasure.”
The name is also associated with the beautiful, multi-colored gemstone, giving it a sparkling quality.
Jasper has been used in literature, such as the character Jasper Hale in the “Twilight” series. Possible nicknames for Jasper include Jaz, Jazzy, or Jas.
Leo
Leo is a name of Latin origin, meaning “lion.” The name’s connection to the powerful and majestic animal lends it a radiant charm.
In astrology, Leo is a fire sign, further enhancing its bright quality.
Leo is a character in some writings, such as the character Leo Valdez in Rick Riordan’s “Heroes of Olympus” series. Common nicknames for Leo include Lee or Lele.
Lucian
Lucian is a name of Latin origin, meaning “light” or “illumination.”
The name has a luminous quality, making it a brilliant choice for a boy’s name.
Lucian of Samosata was an author of ancient Rome known for his satire. Possible nicknames for Lucian include Luc, Lou, or Luce.
Munir
Munir is a common Arabic boy’s name, meaning “shining, luminous, or sparkling.”
Orion
Orion is a name of Greek origin, meaning “rising in the sky” or “dawning.”
In Greek mythology, Orion was a legendary hunter, and his name is also associated with the constellation Orion, one of the most recognizable star formations in the night sky.
This celestial connection gives Orion a sparkling appeal. Nicknames for Orion include Ori, Rion, or Ryan.
Love all things space-related? Here are some of the best songs about stars!
Prabhat
A baby boy’s name that comes from Sanskrit heritage.
It symbolizes “dawn light, blazing out, sparkling, glittering, daybreak.”
Phoenix
Phoenix is a name of Greek origin, meaning “dark red.” The name is associated with the mythical bird, the phoenix, which is said to rise from its ashes and symbolizes rebirth and renewal.
This connection to a creature of light and fire gives the name a radiant quality.
The actor Joaquin Phoenix is a popular bearer of this name. Possible nicknames for Phoenix include Nix or Phee.
Rafael
Rafael is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning “God has healed.”
In Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, Rafael is an archangel associated with healing and protection.
The name’s connection to divine light and guidance gives it a luminous charm.
Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, a well-known painter in the Renaissance period, goes by this name. Common nicknames for Rafael include Rafa, Rafi, or Rafe.
Sindri
A male name from Old Norse mythology. The name translates to “sparkling” in English.
This was also the name for the dwarf, Eitri in Norse mythology, who made Odin’s ring.
Sol
Sol is a name of Latin origin, meaning “sun.” The name’s connection to the bright, life-giving star gives it a radiant quality.
Sol is also the Spanish and Portuguese word for “sun,” further emphasizing its luminous appeal. Nicknames for Sol include Solly or Sunny.
Sterling
Sterling is a name of English origin, meaning “little star” or “of high quality.”
The name’s association with both celestial bodies and excellence gives it a sparkling charm.
Sterling K. Brown is a popular name bearer. Possible nicknames for Sterling include Sterl or Star.
Vulcan
Looking beyond the Star Trek overtones, Vulcan is a lovely boy’s name that translates as “to flash, to dazzle or to sparkle.”
He was the Roman god of fire (which gave rise to volcanoes) and metallurgy.
Xander
Xander is a name of Greek origin, meaning “defender of the people.”
The name has a strong, bright quality that makes it a brilliant choice for a boy’s name. Xander is a short form of Alexander, and has gained popularity as a standalone name.
The character Xander Harris in the TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” goes by the name. Common nicknames for Xander include Xan, Zan, or Alex.
Yeong-Hwan
A Korean masculine name that combines two different words.
Yeong means “dive, swim,” and Hwan means “shining, beautiful, dazzle, sparkle.”
Zephyr
Zephyr is a name of Greek origin, meaning “west wind” or “gentle breeze.”
In Greek mythology, Zephyros was the god of the west wind, known for bringing spring and mild weather. The name’s connection to the soft, refreshing wind gives it a bright and uplifting quality.
Zephyr has been used a lot in pop culture, including the character Zephyr in the video game series “Kingdom Hearts.” Possible nicknames for Zephyr include Zeph or Zee.
Zerah
Zerah is mainly a male Hebrew name that implies “brilliance sparkle.” Zerah was Tamar and Judah’s twin son in the Bible.
Zozopyros
The name means “glowing or sparkling.” This was the name of a Persian aristocrat who helped his king Darius take Babylon.
Girl Names That Mean Sparkle
Amaryllis
A girl’s name of English ancestry. It is translated as “sparkle.” The name is taken from the floral name amaryllis.
Akiko
A lovely feminine Japanese name signifying “clear, crystal, sparkling, dazzling.”
Most English speakers pronounce the name incorrectly. It is pronounced ‘AH-kee-ko’ and not ‘ah-KEE-ko.’
Aurora
Aurora is a Latin name meaning “dawn.” It has a bright and luminous feel, fitting for a dazzling name.
In Roman mythology, Aurora was the goddess of the dawn, renewing herself every morning.
The name is also associated with the beautiful natural phenomenon, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).
Disney fans may recognize Aurora as the name of the princess in the classic film “Sleeping Beauty.” Rory can be a possible nickname for Aurora.
Candra
A controversial girl’s name with two different origins- Indonesian and Latin. In Latin, the name connotes “glowing or sparkling.”
Celeste
Celeste is a name of Latin origin, meaning “heavenly” or “of the sky.” It has a celestial, radiant quality, and it’s often associated with the stars and the cosmos.
Celeste has been used in various movies and TV shows, including the character Celeste Wright from the popular series “Big Little Lies.” Cece or Lesley could serve as nicknames for Celeste.
Charnelle
It is one of the rare names of American origin. Charnelle means “one who sparkles.”
Crystal
Crystal is an English name derived from the Greek word “krystallos,” meaning “clear ice” or “rock crystal.”
The name is associated with the glistening, transparent mineral often used in jewelry and decorations.
Crystal has been used in popular culture, such as the character Crystal Carrington from the 1980s TV show “Dynasty.”
Possible nicknames for Crystal include Cris, Crissy, or Tal.
Estelle
Estelle is a name of French origin, meaning “star.” It is a radiant name due to its celestial associations.
Estelle has been used in many literary works, such as the character Estella Havisham in Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations.”
Stella could be a nickname for Estelle, as it shares the same root and meaning.
Gemma
Gemma is an Italian name meaning “gem” or “precious stone.”
It has a shimmering quality due to its connection with valuable gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.
Gemma has gained popularity in English-speaking countries, and one notable bearer of the name is British actress Gemma Arterton.
Gigi or Gem could be potential nicknames for Gemma.
Idril
One of the most beautiful and uncommon Elvish names and a significant figure in The Silmarillion.
The name is derived from the fictitious language Sindarin, which means “sparkle brilliance.”
Inina
An unusual girl’s name, most people with the name are Christians. The name comes from the indigenous people of the Mariana Islands.
It represents “glimmer, a weak intermittent light,” or “sparkling.”
Iris
Iris is a name of Greek origin, meaning “rainbow.” It has a colorful, bright feel that makes it a vibrant name.
In Greek mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow and a messenger of the gods. The name is also shared by the beautiful iris flower.
Popular nicknames for Iris include Irie, Issy, or Rissy.
Iskra
Iskra is generally a female Slavic name that denotes “spark or sparkle.” Iskra Lawrence, a British model, is one of the famous bearers.
Luna
Luna is a name of Latin origin, meaning “moon.”
With its connection to the celestial body that lights up the night sky, Luna has a luminous charm. In Roman mythology, Luna was the goddess of the moon.
The name has been popularized in recent years, partially due to the character Luna Lovegood from the “Harry Potter” series.
Nicknames for Luna include Lulu or Lunie.
Kindle
The name Kindle is derived from American culture and implies “sparkling.”
It is primarily used for infant girls and is a variant of the more popular option, Kendall.
Langalibalele
A Zulu female baby name typifies “when there was sunshine or sparkling.”
Lasma
Lasma is a girl’s name that means “sparkle.” In Latvian, this name is spelled Lama and has one of the most lovely meanings.
Lyra
Lyra is a name of Greek origin, meaning “lyre,” a musical instrument.
Its association with music and the arts gives it a radiant appeal. Additionally, Lyra is the name of a constellation, further enhancing its celestial allure.
Lyra Belacqua is the protagonist in Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series.
Common nicknames for Lyra include Lila or Liri.
Marigold
Marigold is an English name derived from the name of the vibrant, golden flower.
The bright color and cheerful nature of the marigold make it a brilliant choice for a girl’s name.
Marigold has been used in books, such as the character Marigold in L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables” series.
Potential nicknames for Marigold include Mari, Goldie, or Maggie.
Nova
Nova is a name of Latin origin, meaning “new.”
In astronomy, a nova is a cataclysmic nuclear explosion on a white dwarf star, causing it to suddenly brighten. This association with celestial phenomena gives Nova a radiant quality.
The name has gained popularity in recent years as a unique and modern choice for girls.
Noa or Ava could serve as nicknames for Nova.
Opal
Opal is a name derived from the Sanskrit word “upala,” meaning “precious stone.”
It is the name of a beautiful, iridescent gemstone with a play of colors, giving it a shimmering quality. The opal is also the birthstone for October.
Opal has been seen in various texts, such as the character Opal Buloni in Kate DiCamillo’s novel “Because of Winn-Dixie.” Opi or Pali could be potential nicknames for Opal.
Oritsejurenmisa
A female name of Nigerian origin. It means ”God let my star shine” or “let my star sparkle.”
Prakashini
Prakashini is a Tamil girl name that means “Luminous; Shining Forth; Bright.”
Phoebe
A lovely Greek female name with many meanings, including “dazzling, shining, and sparkling.”
See also: Phoebe Middle Names ideas and Nicknames for Phoebe
Phaenna
An irresistible and charming Greek girl name that denotes “the dazzling or sparkling one.”
In several Greek tales, Phaenna is one of the Charities or Graces. In Sparta, she was worshiped alongside Cleta (“famous one”).
Seraphina
Seraphina is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning “fiery” or “ardent.”
It is derived from the word “seraphim,” which refers to the highest-ranking angels known for their brightness and purity.
The name’s association with celestial beings and light gives it a luminous quality.
Seraphina has been used in books and stories such as the character Seraphina Pekkala in Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series.
Potential nicknames for Seraphina include Sera, Fina, or Phina.
Sparkle
A female name of American roots that means “glisten in the light” or “sparkle.” The name also suggests having a pioneering attitude.
Stella
Stella is a name of Latin origin, meaning “star.” It has a bright, celestial quality that makes it a dazzling name.
The name has been used in literature, such as the character Stella Kowalski in Tennessee Williams’ play “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
Elle or Ella could serve as nicknames for Stella.
Tindra
Tindra is a Swedish girl’s name that means “to glitter or dazzle or sparkle.” It is a relatively new name in Sweden and unknown in the United States.
Tinsley
Tinsley is a name of Old English origin, meaning “Tynni’s meadow” or “field belonging to the man named Tynni.”
While the name’s meaning may not be directly related to sparkle, its association with glamour and high-society, such as socialite and television personality Tinsley Mortimer, contributes to its sparkling appeal.
It also calls to mind, the sparkly Christmas decoration that goes by a similar sounding name – Tinsel.
Potential nicknames for Tinsley include Tins or Tinnie.
Twyla
Twyla is a name of uncertain origin, possibly derived from the Old English word “twila,” meaning “twilight” or “dusk.”
The name’s association with the enchanting, dimly-lit time of day gives it a captivating allure.
Twyla has been popularized by the American choreographer Twyla Tharp. Possible nicknames for Twyla include Twy or Lala.
Vairea
A unique name, mostly given to a beautiful baby girl.
The name comes from Samoa background, and it typifies “sparkling water.
Vega
Vega is a name of Arabic origin, meaning “swooping eagle.”
Vega is also the name of one of the brightest stars in the night sky, located in the Lyra constellation.
Its celestial connection lends a shimmering quality to the name.
Vega has been used in various cultural contexts, including the character Vega in the video game series “Street Fighter.” Possible nicknames for Vega include Vee or Gia.
Zara
Zara is a name of Hebrew and Arabic origin, meaning “princess” or “blooming flower” respectively.
The name’s association with royalty and beauty gives it a brilliant quality. Zara has been popularized by Zara Tindall, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, and the global fashion brand Zara.
Possible nicknames for Zara include Zee or Zari.
Zohar
It is a beautiful feminine Hebrew name that means “sparkle, emanating a brilliant light.”
This beautiful name can also be called Zohra, Zohara, or even Zohera.
Zahira
It is of Arabic origin and means “one who is shining, luminous or dazzling.”
Zia
It comes from a Latin background, the name is a lovely female name that typifies “splendor” or “bright” or “radiant” or “sparkle.”
Zia also has roots in Italian, Arabic, and Hebrew, where it is universally defined as brilliance.
Unisex Names That Mean Sparkle
- Ajuremisan – Ajuremisan is an Itsekiri unisex name from Nigeria. It means “let my stars sparkle” or “let my stars shine.”
- Aki – A Japanese unisex name that means “autumn, bright” sparkle.”
- Huang – A Chinese name that connotes “bright, shining, luminous,” which can be used for both males and females.
- Khurshid – A Muslim unisex name of Indian root and connotes ‘shining sun’ that can be translated as “sparkling.”
A rare name in America but common in Muslim nations.
- Taliesin – A Welsh male baby name signifies “shining brow or sparkling brow,” from the Welsh words tal (brow, head) and iesin (shining, radiant).
This pretty and unique name is predominantly used for boys but has been used as a girl’s name in modern times.
Taliesin was the name of a semi-legendary 6th-century Welsh poet and bard who was said to have written the collection of poetry known as the Book of Taliesin.
- Ziya – It is a beautiful, uncommon Turkish male name with an Arabic background with light-related connotations.
The name, which also translates as “sparkle, glow,” has been used as a feminine name in recent years.
Sparkle-Related Names
- Astra – The name Astra is of Latin origin and means “star.”
It is a feminine form of the name Asterius, which was derived from the Greek word for “star.”
- Diamond – The name is derived from the Greek word “Adamas,” meaning “invincible.”
Diamonds have been associated with everlasting love and invincibility for centuries. They are also known for their beauty and sparkle.
If you’re looking for a name with meaning for your little one, consider the name Diamond. It’s strong, beautiful, and unique – just like your child.
- Goldie – Goldie is a beautiful name with a long and rich history.
According to one origin story, the name Goldie comes from the Old English word ‘Gold,’ which means “golden.”
This name was given to girls with blonde hair or a sunny disposition. Goldie also has Jewish roots, derived from the Yiddish word ‘Golda,’ which means “golden.”
Goldie is the perfect choice if you are looking for a name for your baby girl that is both beautiful and meaningful and has ties to the notion of sparkle and light.
- Starla – If you’re looking for a name with some sparkle, you might want to consider the name Starla.
The name Starla has origins in Old English. Starla has several meanings related to stars, including “bright one” and “one who brings light.”
The name Starla is also associated with the word “sparkle.” So if you’re looking for a name for your new baby that has some twinkle and shine, Starla might be the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts on Sparkling Names
If you’re looking for a name with some sparkle, you’re in luck. There are plenty of beautiful names that mean sparkle, shine, or light.
From Arabic to Welsh and everything in between, there are so many stunning options to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a name for your little one that will make them shine, or you just want to find the perfect sparkling name for a character in a story, you’re sure to find something on this list.
If you’re looking for more baby name ideas, take a look at our collection of unique girl names.