19 Inuit Boy Names That Their Traditions

A bunch of names as bold and resilient as the indigenous people of Arctic.

Written by N Pravenchandra Singh, MA Specialty: Literature and RelationshipsExperience: 2 years

Praven is an English literature expert. He did his bachelors in English from Delhi University and masters in English from Manipur University. Besides, he holds a certificate in multimedia design and content creation from NIELIT Imphal and presented papers at various national and international conferences.

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Edited by Vidya Tadapatri, MSc (Biotechnology) Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 5 years

Vidya did her post-graduation in Biotechnology from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Her interest in scientific research and writing made her pursue a career in writing, in which she now has over five years of experience. She has done certified biotechnology-related training programs under renowned organizations such as Centre For Cellular & Molecular Biology and Department of Biotechnology.

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Fact-checked by Trisha Chakraborty, MA, BEd Specialty: Child development & educationExperience: 5 years

Trisha worked as a schoolteacher for three years before taking up professional writing in 2021. She completed her masters in English from the University of Calcutta and bachelors in Education from the University of Burdwan.

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Last Updated on Nov 13, 2024

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Inuit boy names stem from the Inuit people, an indigenous group located in the Arctic and subarctic regions of Greenland, Quebec, Nunavut, Labrador, and Alaska. Previously, Inuits were known by the term Eskimo. However, in today’s world, this term is deemed offensive because it was forced upon the indigenous people by their colonizers. In Inuit culture, names carry a particular significance and are not chosen just for aesthetic beauty. Most Inuit names are traditional and reflect what is important to them and their culture. Like many cultures worldwide, Inuits believe that names can shape and influence a child’s personality or future. Inuit names revolve around their environment, native animals, and spirits (1). Babies are also named after their blood relatives, famous hunters, leaders, or other prominent individuals. A document known as the Inuuqatigiit, The Curriculum from the Inuit Perspective, was written in 1996. It perceives the tradition of naming as an essential institution. The purpose of the Inuuqatigiit is to become an educational link between the past and the present. The document upholds the Inuit belief that spirits live on even after death and pass on to the child through their name. There are different ways a child can attain their name. Usually, the elders or family members would advise the parents on choosing a name, but in some cases, names may appear in dreams or visions of the mother. A child’s name can also be determined by the gestures they make. If it resembles the characteristics of a deceased family member, the child may be given their name (1). So, if you wish to honor your Inuit roots or are interested in Inuit boy names, we have included a range of them in our list. Take a moment to explore them.

Name	Gender	Meaning
Amaqjuaq	Boy	The strong one
Inuksuk	Boy	An Alaskan cairn to mark pathways; On the right path
Kumaglak	Boy	Kumaglak is a fictional name featured in "Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner".
Nootaikok	Boy	God of icebergs
Pana	Boy	God who cares for the souls in the underworld before their reincarnation
Panuk	Boy	Island
Pilip	Boy	Inuit form of Philip; Lover of horses
Tekkeitsertok	Boy	God of hunting: Master of caribou
Tiguaak	Boy	The adopted child
Toklo	Boy	He is spontaneous and versatile

Tonraq	Boy	Tiny man
Torngarsuk	Boy	Name of a powerful sky god
Tulimaq	Boy	Rib
Tulok	Boy	Warrior or god of the stars
Tulugaak	Boy	Like a raven; Creator of light
Ujurak	Boy	Variant of Ujarak, meaning rock
Yoskolo	Boy	Breaking off sugar-pine cones
Yotimo	Boy	A yellow jacket used for carrying pieces of meat from the house to the nest
Yutu	Boy	To claw

The meanings of Inuit boy names can be inspired by many things, such as nature, animals, hunters, ancestors, leaders, or any prominent historical figure. According to the Inuit culture, names can also be passed down from deceased family members. The Inuits regard naming with reverence because they believe that names can impact a child’s characteristics and personality. Look at our list of names and choose the one that best reflects your tiny tot’s personality.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How are Inuit children named?

The naming conventions in Inuit culture can vary slightly among different Inuit groups and regions, but some common practices exist. Inuit children are traditionally named by people with deep knowledge of traditional names and their meanings. Names are often used to honor deceased family members and preserve their memory and qualities. Nature, including animals and landscapes, is also a source of inspiration, reflecting a deep connection with the natural environment

2. Can Inuit baby boy names be used by non-Inuit families or individuals?

No strict cultural restrictions exist on who can use Inuit names. Many non-Inuit families appreciate Inuit names' and the beauty, uniqueness, and cultural significance associated with them. Hence, many parents prefer giving their baby a Inuit name. However, it is vital to adopt any cultural name with respect and sensitivity. So research the meaning and cultural context behind the name. It will ensure the name is used appropriately and respectfully.

Infographic: Remarkable Inuit Baby Boy Names

Inuit boy names come from nature, animals, famous leaders, hunters, and more. They reflect the ideals important to the culture. Naming a child is regarded with immense significance among the Inuits. If you wish to pay homage to your Inuit ancestors through your child’s name, we have created an infographic below with a list of masculine Inuit names and their meanings.

notable inuit baby boy names with meanings (infographic)

References

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Project Surname.
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/project-surname

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.