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The Cherokees are a Native American tribe with a unique inclination towards a matrilineal society. Their naming traditions include a holy ceremony after a new baby is born. Then, the high priest, who is the eldest woman, chooses a Cherokee name that is closely associated with nature. Cherokee names are usually considered significant and appropriate, representing the culture of the ancient tribe. Sometimes, these names are taken from scriptures but are molded according to the language and culture. Hence, the English translation may sometimes fail to capture the exact essence of the Cherokee name (1).
Ravyne Hawke, a.k.a. Lori Carlson, a poet, artist, writer, and essayist, shares how she got her Cherokee name. She says, “I am both Ravyne Hawke and Lori Carlson. Ravyne Hawke (pronounced Raven Hawk) is my Cherokee name, and the raven and the hawk are my spirit guides (i).”
She describes the incident that introduced her to a shaman who gave her Cherokee name, “I had the chance to join a friend and her daughter at a Cherokee retreat in North Carolina… Afterward, I roamed outside of the tent, and the Shaman spotted me and called me over to her. She looked me dead in the eyes and said, ‘It is time for you to find your spirit guide.’ I nodded in agreement and followed her back to her small tent… She took a ladle and poured a small amount of the brew into a cup, and handed it to me. It was bitter and sweet. A very strange combination. After I’d drunk it all, she told me to stretch out on the pillows and close my eyes. As I lay there, the Shaman spoke softly to me, and after a while, her voice became distant. My body felt heavy at first, and then slowly, I began to feel light as though I were hovering above the tent. Before long, I was soaring through the air and could see through strange, new eyes. I was hunting prey. For a split second, I saw myself in a pool of water. I was a beautiful, majestic hawk. After a while, I settled upon a branch and looked down at my wings. They were no longer the color of hawk wings but a brilliant bluish-black. I let out a long caw caw caw, which startled me at first until I realized that now I was a raven. I don’t know how long I’d slept, but when I came to and told the Shaman all I’d seen, she told me that I was one of the few to be given two powerful spirit animals. She then named me Raven Hawk and taught me everything I needed to know about these two spirit animals. To this day, I remember her teachings and am guided by them (ii)”
Cherokees generally have beautiful nature-inspired and tranquil-sounding names, but if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind name for your little one, check out this list of Cherokee names for boys and girls with wonderful meanings. Keep scrolling for the complete list and pick one that you think will bring a lot of auspicious luck to your newborn.
Cherokee Girl Names, With Meanings
1. Adisila
The name Adisila is a nature-inspired name carrying the beauty of spring as it means “blossom.”
2. Agasga
The verbal name Agasga means “it is raining.”
3. Aiyana
This Cherokee name symbolizes foreverness as it means “eternal bloom.” According to SSA, Aiyana featured among the top 1000 names in the US for several years since 1999 (2).
4. Ama
In Cherokee, the name Ama carries the essence of nature’s vital force, “water.” Apart from being a Cherokee name, Ama is also a popular Akan name and is used among the Akan people of Ghana. It is one of the day names used in their culture and means ‘born on Saturday.’
5. Amatha
The name Amatha would be a lovely choice for a baby girl born in the coastal regions as it means “fish.”
6. Awinita
The adorable name Awinita would hold a special significance in your hearts as it refers to a “fawn.”
7. Ayita
It is an artistic Cherokee name that means “first to dance.”
8. Behita
The name defines the events conspiring after the birth of your baby as it means “beginning of an event.”
9. Catori
This pure Cherokee name is holy as it means “spirit.”
10. Chenoa
If you love animals, then this Cherokee name Chenoa would be great for your baby. It means “white dove,” which symbolizes peace, prosperity, and new beginnings. Besides Cherokee, this name is also used in Spanish. The US town Chenoa in Illinois is also a major influence on this name. Chenoa Maxwell is the name of a well-known American actress and photographer.
Trivia11. Citlali
This is a celestial name appropriate for a baby born during the night as it means “star.” It is a unisexual name. Pronounced as see-CHAL-lee in Nahuatl, this name was quite popular in the US for a few years, ranking among the top 1000 names for girls (3).
12. Cuhtahlatah
The name Cuhtahlatah means “wild hemp.” It is also spelled as Gatûñ’lätï. This name is quite popular among Cherokee people because it is associated with a brave Cherokee woman who fought in the American Revolutionary War. Her actions inspired her people to rally and go to war.
13. Dyani
The name Dyani or Deyani is of Native American origin. This pretty name refers to the gorgeous animal “deer.” It is also spelled as Dayani or D’yani. Some people believe that Dyani is a modern form of Diane.
14. Elu
Simple and perfect, the Cherokee name Elu means “beautiful.” Other meanings for this name include ‘a woman full of grace’ and ‘fair.’
15. Enola
It might remind you of the fictional character Enola Holmes. This name is of Cherokee origin and means “magnolia.” Enola was quite a popular name in the US in the early 20th century (4). It was the name of a Cherokee leader during the Cherokee-American wars. He was also known as Black Fox and was a Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. It appeared in the late 19th century as the name of the protagonist in the book Enola: or Her Fatal Mistake by Mary Young Ridenbaugh. Hence, it is quite well-known in other English-speaking countries, too.
16. Euna
This beautiful and elegant Cherokee name refers to “waterfall.” Isn’t it the perfect name for your little princess? Euna was considered among the most popular US names for girls in the early 20th century with it ranking among the top 1000 names for several years (5). It appeals to English speakers as it sounds quite similar to Oona. Moreover, Euna is also a popular Korean name for girls.
17. Fala
This Cherokee name is unusual as it means “crow.”
18. Galilahi
It is of Native American origin and means “attractive,” perfect for your little cutie.
19. Ghigau
This name primarily means “beloved woman.”
20. Gola
It is a name perfect for a baby born during the cold seasons as it means “winter.”
21. Guwisti
The uncommon unisexual name Guwisti means “sieve.”
22. Hialeah
This name is said to be of Muskogee origin. It derives from the word Haiyakpo, which means “prairie,” thus, giving it the meaning, “beautiful meadow.” Incidentally, Hialeah is also the name of a city in Florida. As it is quite similar to Hailey or Haley, Hialeah can be used as a unique variant to these names.
23. Immokalee
A name that is sure to make your child love nature even more, as it means “tumbling water.”
24. Inola
This pretty name of Cherokee origin means “black fox.” Interestingly, Inola is also a Georgian name derived from Irene and means ‘peace.’
Did you know?25. Istas
Ideal for babies born during the winters as it means “snow.”
26. Kachina
The name Kachina is a name that shines from within as it means “spirit.” In Native American cultures, Kachina are considered to be spirits or personifications of things in the real world. This name is a part of the religious beliefs of the Pueblo peoples.
27. Kamama
Kamama is a name of strength and transformation. In Cherokee, it means “butterfly.”
28. Kasa
The name Kasa is descriptive as it refers to someone “dressed in fur.” It may also mean ‘wearing leather’ in Hopi. Kasa could have started out as a nickname for someone who wore such clothes habitually before becoming a first name itself.
29. Kimi
The name Kimi adds a magical touch to your baby’s life as it means “secret.” Moreover, Kimi is a Finnish name for boys. It is also used as a girl’s name in English and a unisex name in Japanese and Hawaiian. Kimi is used for girls in India as well, albeit rarely.
30. Koko
Originating from the Algonquin tribe, this name means “the night.” Koko may become a favorite among parents because it resembles the name Coco and reminds you of warm chocolate. Koko B. Ware, the professional wrestler from the US, may have made this name more popular all over the world.
31. Lomasi
A charming name for your beautiful baby, since Lomasi means “pretty flower.” Lomasi could also mean ‘well-adorned’ or ‘dressed in gray.’ It refers to a species of bluebird. Incidentally, it is a unisex name.
32. Lulu
It is a name that works well as a first name and nickname. Lulu means “rabbit” and is of Apache tribe origin. Lulu is a name that has seen much popularity in the early 20th century (6). It is popular not only in English and German but also is used quite frequently as an Arabic name. Lulu Kennedy-Cairns, the popular Scottish singer, songwriter, and actor, is one of the most notable persons with this name.
33. Mika
The name Mika refers to a “raccoon.” It is of Sioux origin. Mika is also a Japanese name for girls meaning ‘beautiful fragrance,’ while it is a boy’s name in Finnish and a short form of Mikael.
34. Mitena
This classic and stylish Cherokee name has an astronomic touch to it, as it means “coming moon.”
35. Moana
A name popularized recently due to the Disney animated film of the same name. The name means “bitter,” as per the Zuni tribe. It also has Hawaiian origin, meaning “calm waters.” Moana is used in several Polynesian languages such as Maori, Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, and Tongan. It is also used for boys.
36. Nanye_hi
This name is taken from nature and refers to the bird “heron.”
37. Ninovan
The name is bound to make your baby feel safe, comfortable and bring togetherness in your family as it means “our home.”
38. Noya
Noya is a Cherokee name ideal for a baby born near coastal regions as it means “sand.” It is a unisexual name.
39. Odina
Meaning “mountain,” the elegant name Odina would be suitable for a baby born in hilly regions.
40. Opa
Referring to an “owl,” this Cherokee name symbolizes wisdom. It is of Choctaw tribe origin.
41. Pavati
The name Pavati has a pristine sense to it as it means “clear water.”
42. Pocahontas
It is a name that is known to many Disney fans. It means “playful one” and is of Algonquin tribe origin. Pocahontas was the name of a 17th-century Powhatan woman and the daughter of the chief Wahunsenacawh. She is known for marrying the colonial settler John Rolfe and traveling with him to England.
43. Qaletaqa
Qaletaqa is a traditional and modern Cherokee name worthy of a woman of the future generation. It means “guardian of the people.”
44. Salalai
This is an adorable name for a baby inspired by nature. It refers to a “squirrel.”
45. Scatchwah
This Cherokee origin name refers to the majestic wild animal, “wolf.”
46. Selu
The name Selu means “corn.” If your baby is born near cornfields, then this name would be an appropriate choice for them.
47. Sequoia
It holds a special significance in the Cherokee language. Apart from its meaning “sparrow,” it is also a name of a Cherokee Indian, Sequoyah, who invented a method to write the tribe’s language. Pronounced as sə-KWOI-ə, this name is used for both boys and girls.
48. Soyala
It is a perfect Cherokee name for babies born during the Christmas seasons as it means “the time of the winter solstice.”
49. Tala
Offering the inclusiveness and strength of the elegant wild animal is the name Tala, which means “wolf.” This simple name graces several other languages such as Persian, Tagalog, Romansh, Samoan, Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian.
50. Tanamara
This poetic name of Cherokee origin means “lonely wind.”
51. Tayaneta
It is a name that takes into account the endearing nature of a “young beaver.”
52. Trahlyta
It is a name inspired by the story of Trahlyta, who was a beautiful woman of the Cherokee tribe.
53. Tsistunagiska
The simple, elegant, and traditional name Tsistunagiska means “wild rose.”
54. Tsula
Tsula is a Cherokee name that means “fox.” This name would make your baby girl independent and clever.
55. Unega
The name of Cherokee origin means “white.”
56. Wahya
The name Wahya means “wolf.”
57. Walela
The pretty name Walela means “hummingbird.”
58. Winona
The name Winona is perfect for your first baby girl as it means “firstborn.” It is of Sioux tribe origin. Winona featured among the top 1000 names in the US in the first half of the 20th century. It is making a comeback in recent years, according to the SSA (7). American actor Winona Ryder made it a household name in the US.
59. Woya
Woya is a name of peace and freedom, as it means “dove.”
60. Yano
The simple name Yano means “wolf.”
Popular Cherokee Boy Names, With Meanings
61. Adawosgi
The name Adawosgi is in its verb form and means “he is swimming.”
62. Adohi
Adohi is a nature-inspired name of Cherokee origin and refers to “timber” or “wood.”
63. Amadahy
Being a name from nature, Amadahy carries a sweet essence and freshness of the earth with it. It means “forest water.”
64. Ama-edohi
Meaning “water-goer” or “rainmaker,” this Cherokee name has a refreshing touch to it.
65. Atsadi
This Cherokee name means “fish.”
66. Atsila
It means “fire.”
67. Attakullakulla
Meaning “leaning wood,” Attakullakulla is a name of comfort. It consists of Atta or Ada, which means “wood,” and gulkallu, which means “standing against.”
68. Bidziil
Bidziil means “he is strong.” So, this masculine name would be a symbol of strength for your little guy.
69. Chasse
Perfect for your elder boy as Chasse in Cherokee means “firstborn son.”
70. Chea Sequah
This is a unique name with two words. Chea Sequah in Cherokee means “red bird.”
71. Concotocko
The name Concotocko means “standing turkey.”
72. Cochise
It is an inspirational masculine name that means “renowned warrior chief.”
73. Dakota
The name Dakota refers to the vital relationship we all are intimate about, a “friend.” It originates from the Sioux tribe. Dakota got snapped up by the English-speaking world because of its easy pronunciation and beautiful meaning. In the beginning, Dakota was majorly used for boys after an on-screen character in the soap opera Ryan’s Hope became popular. Over the years, it became common for girls, especially due to actresses Dakota Fanning and Dakota Johnson. Since 1990, this name has been among the top 1000 names in the US (8)
74. Danuwoa
It is a powerful masculine name that defines a leader as it means “warrior.”
75. Degataga
The name Degatage resembles strength as it means “stand firm.”
76. Dustu
This unique name of Native American origin means “spring frog.”
77. Elu
This name of beautiful Native American origin means “graceful.” We would say that this is a name fit for your little prince.
78. Enoli
In Native American, Enoli is an adorable yet unique nature-inspired name, meaning “black fox.” This name may also be spelled as Inali.
79. Enna
Enna is a beautiful Cherokee tribal name that means “waterfall.”
80. Gaagii
Originating from the Navajo tribe, this Cherokee name means “raven.”
81. Gala-gi na
Capturing the essence of nature, this animal-inspired beautiful name means “male deer.”
82. Gawonisgi
It is a name suitable for a leader as it infers to the vocal power needed by them. It means “speaker.”
83. Hania
Originating from the Hopi tribe, this Cherokee origin name is that of bravery and strength. It means “spirit warrior.”
84. Hototo
The name is revolutionary and pleasant at the same time. Originating from the Hopi tribe, it means “warrior who sings.”
85. Istas
Ideal for babies born during the winters as it means “snow.”
86. Illanipi
The name of masculine origin means “amazing man.”
87. Incalatanga
This unique name of Cherokee origin means “double-headed.”
88. Jacy
Jacy is a beautiful celestial name for your baby boy as it means “moon.” This unisex name is also popular in English as a variant of Jessie or Jesse.
89. Jistu
We would say that this Cherokee name would trigger the funny and adorable mischievous side in your baby as it means “trickster rabbit.”
90. Kaiyatahee
This unique name of Native American origin celebrates plant life. It means “corn tassel.”
91. Kamuna
Kamuna in Cherokee means “bullfrog.” It symbolizes transformation and good luck.
92. Kanagatucko
The name Kanagatucko means “stalking turkey.”
93. Koo-wi-s-gu-wi
This traditional Cherokee name refers to a “little white bird,” ideal for your little prince.
94. Kosumi
Meaning “fishes for salmon with a spear,” this is a Cherokee name originating from the Miwok tribe. Incidentally, Kosumi doubles up as a Japanese name for girls and means ‘small and clear.’
95. Kunokeski
This Cherokee origin name means “young tassel.”
96. Leotie
This name Leotie means “flower of the prairie.” Although it has a feminine vibe to it, Leotie is a common unisexual name.
97. Mato
This name represents the adorable and powerful animal of the wild “bear.” It is of Mandian tribe origin. Mato is used as a first name in several other languages including Japanese and Croatian.
98. Mohe
Referring to the strength and agility of the gorgeous animal, Mohe is a Cherokee name that means “elk.”
99. Nahele
The masculine name has Hawaiian origins and it means “forest.”
100. Nakamo
The charming name Nakamo would make your baby rock on with a mic as it means “to sing.”
101. Ohiyesa
This is a name that would inspire your baby towards success as it means “winner.” It has origins in the Sioux tribe.
102. Onacona
Meaning “white owl,” this Cherokee name is a symbol of endurance and wisdom.
103. Ostenaco
The name Ostenaco in Cherokee means “big head.”
104. Oukonunaka
This elegant Cherokee name refers to the majestic “white owl.”
105. Paytah
Offering the strength and agility of one of nature’s elements is the name Paytah. This name originates from the Sioux tribe and means “fire.” Paytah may attract new parents as it sounds quite similar to Peter but has its unique sound.
106. Salonitah
The name would add an adventurous touch to your baby’s life as it means “flying squirrel.”
107. Scolaguta
It means “hanging maw.”
108. Seattle
It is the name of the Lushootseed tribe. The name represents a one in power as it means “man of high status.” Today, Seattle represents one of the biggest cities in the US.
109. Sequoya
It is the masculine version of the feminine name Sequoia. It means “sparrow.”
110. Tahoma
This name marks the beginning of the water cycle and is a name of hope. It is a name originating from the Puyallup tribe and means “giver of the water.”
111. Tayanita
It is the masculine version of Tayaneta and refers to an adorable “young beaver.”
112. Tokala
It means “fox” and originated from the Dakota tribe. This name is a symbol of independence and playfulness.
113. Tooantuh
This name symbolizes the playfulness and agile strength of a “spring frog.”
114. Tsiyi
This Cherokee origin name means “copper.” It also means “canoe.”
115. Tyee
Tyee is the name of power as it means “chief.” It originated in the Chinook tribe.
116. Wapi
This name is the verbal representation of what their life would be. It means “lucky” and is of Sioux tribe origin.
117. Wesa
This simplistic name refers to a “cat” in Cherokee.
118. Wohali
It means “eagle.” The name would bring your child royalty, power, and determination.
119. Yona
Yona is a name that would work as a first name and nickname as it means “bear.” This powerful name would bring wisdom and strength into their life.
120. Yonaguska
This Cherokee origin name means “the bear drowns him.”
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Illustration: Cherokee Names For Baby Girls And Boys With Meanings
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cultural significance of Cherokee names?
Cherokee names are rich with meanings; they symbolize individual identity and reflect the wider Cherokee culture, worldview, and language. Elements of the natural world often inspire these names since nature holds a sacred place in Cherokee culture. The people also believe in spiritual connectedness and ancestral or spiritual guides, which is reflected in their names. Gender roles can also be identified through names, though there are no strict gender norms. Boys may have names that signify strength and leadership, while girls have names related to beauty or nurturing traits. Moreover, clan affiliation plays a huge role in choosing a name as it is a marker of community, familial bonds, and belonging.
2. How do Cherokee baby names differ from names in other Native American cultures?
One of the significant differences found between the names of Native American and Cherokee people is the use of syllabary, a unique system of writing that uses symbols in the place of letters.
3. How have Cherokee baby names changed over time?
During the early days, Cherokee names were inspired by nature or emphasized traits such as bravery, wisdom, and skill. However, over the period, many Cherokees began to adopt European names or adapt traditional Cherokee names to fit European naming conventions.
4. How should I choose a Cherokee baby name that honors my family’s heritage?
Researching different Cherokee names and their origins, considering your family names, and taking advice from elders can help choose a name that honors the family heritage.
Cherokee names are inherently beautiful Native American last names. Interestingly, in the Cherokee culture, a person may change their name multiple times during their lifetime as they evolve and achieve great things. Choosing one of these meaningful names will make your little one stand out and ensure they have an interesting way to introduce themselves when they grow older. If you’re intrigued by the Cherokee culture and believe such a meaningful name would benefit your child, go through our list and take your pick!
Infographic: Cherokee Names For Baby Girls And Boys, With Meanings
The names in the Cherokee tradition are inspired by nature and can make a unique naming choice for your little one. The following infographic includes a list of Cherokee names for boys and girls that you can use as a guide. We suggest you share these names with your friends and family members who might be expecting a baby. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- Cherokee names often reflect the rich culture of the Cherokee people.
- Many Cherokee names are derived from the ancient language and tradition.
- Several names are associated with nature, spirits, and virtues.
- These names are known for their melodious sound.
- Names such as Sequoia reflect the history of the Native American tribe.
- The popularity of Cherokee names have fluctuated in the US over the years.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Ravyne Hawke/Lori Carlson — My Intro for Illumination.https://medium.com/illumination/ravyne-hawke-lori-carlson-my-intro-for-illumination-81299aadedfb
ii.Psychedelics.
https://medium.com/know-thyself-heal-thyself/psychedelics-expanding-consciousness-creativity-and-interconnectedness-a107c1b326d6
References
- Evolution in Cherokee Personal Names.
https://www.lib.utk.edu/cherokee/EvolutionCherokeePersonalNames.pdf - Popularity of name Aiyana.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Citlali.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Enola.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Euna.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Lulu.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Winona.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Popularity of name Dakota.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
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