Cherokee baby names are associated with the maternal ancestry.
The Cherokees are a Native American group known for their matrilineal society and cultural practices. One of their customs involves a sacred naming ceremony for newborns, where the eldest woman serves as the high priest and selects a Cherokee name inspired by nature.
Ravyne Hawke, also known as Lori Carlson, is a poet, artist, writer, and essayist. In discussing her Cherokee name, she reveals that she goes by both Ravyne Hawke and Lori Carlson. The name Ravyne Hawke, pronounced as Raven Hawk, was given to her by the Cherokee people, and she considers the raven and hawk to be her spirit guides.
She recounts the experience that led her to encounter a shaman who bestowed upon her a Cherokee name, ‘I had the opportunity to accompany a friend and her daughter to a Cherokee retreat in North Carolina. Afterwards, while wandering outside the tent, the Shaman noticed me and beckoned me over. Meeting my eyes, she declared, ‘It is time for you to discover your spirit guide.’ Agreeing, I followed her to her small tent. Using a ladle, she poured a small portion of a brew into a cup and passed it to me. The taste was a strange mix of bitter and sweet. After finishing it, she instructed me to lie on the pillows and close my eyes. As I lay there, the Shaman spoke softly to me, and gradually, her voice seemed to fade away. Initially, my body felt heavy, but then I began to feel light as if I was floating above the tent. Soon enough, I found myself flying through the air, seeing things through unfamiliar eyes. I was on a hunt. Briefly, I caught a glimpse of myself in a body of water. I appeared as a magnificent hawk. Eventually, I perched on a branch and observed my wings. They had transformed from hawk wings to a dazzling shade of bluish-black. Releasing a long caw caw caw, which startled me until I realized I had become a raven. Unsure of how long I had been in that state, when I regained consciousness and recounted my experiences to the Shaman, she revealed that I had been gifted with two powerful spirit animals. She then named me Raven Hawk and imparted all the knowledge needed about these two spirit animals. Even now, I hold onto her teachings and let them guide me.
Cherokee names are often inspired by nature and have a peaceful sound. If you want a unique Cherokee name for your child, consider this selection of Cherokee names with lovely meanings. Keep reading this post ‘Top Cherokee Names For Baby Girls And Boys’ for the full list and choose a name that you believe will bring good fortune to your baby.
Best Cherokee Girl Names, With Meanings
- Adisila
Adisila is a Cherokee name that is inspired by nature and represents the beauty of spring, as it symbolizes ‘blossom.’
- Agasga
The Cherokee name Agasga translates to ‘it is raining’ when spoken aloud.
- Aiyana
This Cherokee name represents eternity, as it translates to ‘never-ending flower.’
- Ama
The name Ama in Cherokee means the life-giving power of water.
- Amatha
Amatha would make a charming option for a baby girl born in coastal areas since it signifies ‘fish.’
- Awinita
The charming Cherokee name Awinita will have a sentimental meaning to you because it signifies a young deer or fawn.
- Ayita
The Cherokee name is artistic and translates to ‘first to dance.’
- Behita
The Cherokee name describes the occurrences that follow the arrival of your child, as it signifies the ‘start of a happening.’
- Catori
This sacred Cherokee name holds significance as it symbolizes ‘spirit.’
- Chenoa
If you have a fondness for animals, the Cherokee name Chenoa could be a wonderful choice for your child. This name translates to ‘white dove,’ representing peace, success, and fresh starts.
- Citlali
This is a Cherokee name suitable for a baby born at night as it signifies ‘star.’ It is a gender-neutral name.
- Cuhtahlatah
This worCherokee name Cuhtahlatah means ‘wild hemp’ in English.
- Dyani
The Cherokee name Dyani or Deyani comes from Native American roots. This lovely name is associated with the beautiful creature, the ‘deer.’
- Elu
The Cherokee name Elu, which is simple and perfect, signifies ‘beautiful.’
- Enola
It could bring to mind the made-up persona of Enola Holmes. This name comes from the Cherokee language and signifies ‘magnolia.’
- Euna
Isn’t this lovely and graceful Cherokee name just perfect for your little princess, as it means ‘waterfall’?
- Fala
The name Cherokee is unique because it translates to ‘crow.’
- Galilahi
The Cherokee name has Native American roots and signifies ‘charming,’ ideal for your adorable little one.
- Ghigau
Ghigau is considered as a village that is located within Tennessee. The main meaning of this name is ‘dear woman.’
- Gola
This Cherokee name is ideal for a baby born in the colder months as it translates to ‘winter.’
- Guwisti
The rare unisex Cherokee name Guwisti translates to ‘sieve.’
- Hialeah
The name is believed to have originated from Muskogee. It comes from the term Haiyakpo, which translates to ‘prairie,’ therefore, implying ‘beautiful meadow.’
- Immokalee
This name will likely enhance your child’s appreciation for nature, as it symbolizes ‘tumbling water.’
- Inola
The beautiful name of Cherokee descent signifies ‘dark fox.’
- Istas
Perfect for newborns born in the winter months as it translates to ‘snow.’
- Kachina
Kachina is a name that radiates from the inside because it signifies ‘spirit.’
- Kamama
In Cherokee, the name Kamama signifies power and change, representing the transformation of a butterfly.
- Kasa
The name Kasa is fitting because it means someone who is wearing fur.
- Kimi
The name Kimi can bring a special charm to your baby’s life because it symbolizes ‘secret.’
- Koko
Koko is a renowned gorilla known for her ability to communicate using American Sign Language. Coming from the Algonquin people, this name signifies ‘the night.’
- Lomasi
Lomasi is a lovely choice of name for your gorgeous baby as it signifies ‘beautiful flower.’
- Lulu
Lulu is a suitable name for both a first name and a nickname. The name Lulu originates from the Apache tribe and means ‘rabbit.’
- Mika
The name Mika means ‘raccoon’ and is derived from the Sioux language.
- Mitena
The traditional and elegant name Cherokee has a celestial meaning, signifying the arrival of the moon.
- Moana
The name has gained popularity in recent times because of the Disney animated movie with the same title. According to the Zuni tribe, the name signifies ‘bitter.’ It is also of Hawaiian descent, translating to ‘calm waters.’
- Nanyehi
The name originates from the natural world and is related to the bird known as a heron.
- Ninovan
The name will create a sense of security and unity within your family, making your baby feel safe and comfortable as it represents the idea of ‘our home.”
- Noya
Noya is a Cherokee name that is perfect for a baby born in coastal areas because it translates to ‘sand.’ This name is suitable for both boys and girls.
- Odina
The sophisticated name Odina, which means ‘mountain,’ would be fitting for a baby born in mountainous areas.
- Opa
The Cherokee name ‘owl’ represents wisdom and comes from the Choctaw tribe.
- Pavati
The name Pavati is associated with a pure meaning, signifying ‘clear water.’
- Pocohantas
The character of Pocahontas in the Disney animated film. It is a name familiar to numerous Disney enthusiasts. It signifies ‘playful one’ and comes from the Algonquin tribe.
- Qaletaqa
Qaletaqa is a Cherokee name that is both traditional and contemporary, suitable for a woman of the next generation. The name signifies ‘protector of the people.’
- Salalai
This charming name for a baby is inspired by the natural world and is associated with a small mammal known as a squirrel.
- Scatchwah
This name of Cherokee heritage refers to the magnificent creature of the wilderness known as the ‘wolf.’
- Selu
The name Selu translates to ‘corn.’ If your baby is born in an area surrounded by cornfields, naming them Selu would be fitting.
- Sequoia
In the Cherokee language, it has a significant importance. Besides representing the meaning of ‘sparrow,’ it is also the name of a Cherokee Indian named Sequoyah, who developed a writing system for the Cherokee language.
- Soyala
It is an ideal Cherokee name for infants born around Christmas as it signifies ‘the period of the winter solstice.’
- Tala
The name Tala, meaning ‘wolf,’ represents the characteristics of inclusiveness and strength found in the elegant wild animal.
- Tanamara
This name of Cherokee origin, with a poetic feel, translates to ‘solitary breeze.’
- Tayaneta
The name considers the lovable characteristics of a young beaver.
- Trahlyta
The name Trahlyta is derived from the legend of a Cherokee woman known for her beauty.
- Tsistunagiska
The name Tsistunagiska, which is simple, elegant, and traditional, translates to ‘wild rose’ in English.
- Tsula
Tsula is a Cherokee term signifying ‘fox.’ It is believed that giving this name to your daughter will help her develop independence and intelligence.
- Unega
The term derived from the Cherokee language signifies the color ‘white.’
- Wahya
The meaning of the name Wahya is ‘wolf.’
- Walela
The beautiful name Walela translates to ‘hummingbird.’
- Winona
The name Winona is an ideal choice for your first daughter, as it signifies ‘firstborn’ and has roots in the Sioux tribe.
- Woya
Woya symbolizes peace and liberty with its translation as ‘dove’.’
- Yano
Yano is a basic term that signifies the animal known as a wolf.
Popular Cherokee Boy Names, With Meanings
- Adawosgi
The name Adawosgi is expressed as a verb and signifies ‘he is swimming.’
- Adohi
Adohi is a name with Cherokee roots that is inspired by nature and means ‘timber’ or ‘wood’.’
- Amadahy
Amadahaya is a nature-inspired name that embodies the gentle and earthy qualities of nature. The name signifies ‘forest water.’
- Ama-edohi
This Cherokee name, which means ‘water-goer’ or ‘rainmaker,’ has a pleasant and rejuvenating connotation.
- Atsadi
This name in Cherokee signifies ‘fish’.
- Atsila
It signifies the element of fire.
- Attakullakulla
The name Attakullakulla, which means ‘leaning wood,’ is soothing. The name comes from Atta or Ada, which means ‘wood,’ and gulkallu, which means ‘standing against.’
- Bidziil
Meaning ‘he is strong,’ the name Bidziil would serve as a powerful symbol for your son.
- Chasse
Ideal for your older son, as Chasse in Cherokee translates to ‘firstborn son.’
- Chea Sequah
This name is distinct as it consists of two words. In Cherokee, Chea Sequah signifies ‘red bird.’
- Concotocko
The term Concotocko translates to ‘standing turkey’ in English.
- Cochise
The name is a source of inspiration for men, signifying a respected leader on the battlefield.
- Dakota
The name Dakota comes from the Sioux tribe and signifies the important bond we share with a close companion, a ‘friend.’
- Danuwoa
The name is strong and masculine, symbolizing a person in charge as it translates to ‘warrior.’
- Degataga
Degataga’ can be translated as ‘he is standing tall’ in the Cherokee language. The title Degatage conveys a sense of power, as it translates to ‘stay strong.’
- Dustu
Originating from Native American roots, this distinctive name signifies ‘spring frog’.’
- Elu
The beautiful name originates from Native American roots and signifies elegance. We believe this name is perfect for your young son.
- Enoli
Enoli is a charming and distinctive nature-themed name in Native American culture, signifying ‘black fox.’
- Enna
Enna, a lovely name from the Cherokee tribe, translates to ‘waterfall.’
- Gaagii
This name, which originates from the Navajo tribe, translates to ‘raven’ in Cherokee.
- Gala-gi na
This lovely name inspired by animals symbolizes the spirit of nature and signifies a ‘male deer.’
- Gawonisgi
The name is appropriate for someone in charge as it suggests the strong communication skills required. It translates to ‘someone who speaks effectively.’
- Hania
This Cherokee name, which comes from the Hopi tribe, represents courage and power. It signifies someone who is a ‘spirit warrior.’
- Hototo
The name is both groundbreaking and delightful. It comes from the Hopi tribe and translates to ‘warrior who sings.’
- Istas
Perfect for infants born in the winter season as it symbolizes ‘snow.’
- Illanipi
The masculine name signifies a remarkable individual.
- Incalatanga
This distinctive name, which comes from the Cherokee language, signifies ‘having two heads.’
- Jacy
Jacy is a lovely name of celestial origin that you can consider for your son, as it signifies ‘moon.’
- Jistu
We believe that giving your baby the Cherokee name we suggest would bring out their playful and endearing mischievous nature, as it translates to ‘trickster rabbit’.
- Kaiyatahee
This special name, originating from Native American culture, honors the world of plants. It signifies ‘corn tassel.’
- Kamuna
In Cherokee, the word ‘Kamuna’ translates to ‘bullfrog,’ representing change and fortune.
- Kanagatucko
Kanagatucko is translated as ‘hunting turkey’ in English.
- Koo-wi-s-gu-wi
This classic Cherokee name means ‘small white bird,’ perfect for your young son.’
- Kosumi
This Cherokee name comes from the Miwok tribe and it means ‘hunts for salmon using a spear.’
- Kunokeski
This name of Cherokee origin signifies ‘young tassel.’
- Leotie
The name Leotie translates to ‘flower of the prairie’ and, despite its feminine connotations, is a popular unisex name.
- Mato
The name symbolizes the lovable and strong wild animal known as the ‘bear.’ It comes from the Mandian tribe.
- Mohe
Mohe, a Cherokee name that means ‘elk,’ is used to describe the impressive physical abilities of the beautiful animal.
- Nahele
The name of male origin has roots in Hawaii and signifies ‘woodland.’
- Nakamo
The delightful name Nakamo could inspire your baby to perform with a microphone since it signifies ‘to sing.’
- Ohiyesa
This name has the potential to motivate your child to achieve great things as it signifies ‘victor.’ Its roots can be traced back to the Sioux Native American tribe.
- Onacona
The Cherokee name, meaning ‘white owl,’ symbolizes the qualities of strength and intelligence.
- Ostenaco
In Cherokee language, the name Ostenaco translates to ‘big head.’
- Oukonunaka
This sophisticated Cherokee title describes the grand ‘polar owl.’
- Paytah
Paytah is a name derived from the Sioux tribe that symbolizes the power and speed of a natural element. It means ‘fire’ in the Sioux language.
- Salonitah
The name would bring an exciting element to your child’s life as it translates to ‘flying squirrel.’
- Scolaguta
This legal term refers to the act of cutting off or removing someone’s legal rights or privileges, typically as a punishment for misconduct. It translates to ‘dangling jaw.’
- Seattle
The Lushootseed tribe is known by this name, which signifies a person of authority, as it translates to ‘man of high status.’
- Sequoya
The Lushootseed tribe is named after a powerful individual referred to as ‘man of high status.’
- Tahoma
The name signifies the start of the water cycle and symbolizes optimism. It comes from the Puyallup tribe and translates to ‘provider of water.’
- Tayanita
Tayanita means ‘small beaver’ in Cherokee. It is the male version of Tayaneta and describes a cute ‘baby beaver.’
- Tokala
The word ‘Tokala’ comes from the Dakota tribe and represents freedom and fun.
- Tooantuh
This name represents the characteristics of a spring frog, including its playful nature and quick agility.
- Tsiyi
The name of Cherokee origin signifies ‘copper’ and is also interpreted as ‘canoe.’
- Tyee
Tyee symbolizes authority as it translates to ‘leader.’ This term was first used within the Chinook community.’
- Wapi
This name symbolizes what their future might hold through spoken words. It signifies ‘fortunate’ and comes from the Sioux Native American tribe.
- Wesa
This simple term is used to describe a feline in the Cherokee language.
- Wohali
The name signifies ‘eagle.’ Choosing this name for your child could represent qualities of royalty, strength, and perseverance.
- Yona
The name ‘Yona’ can be used as both a first name and a nickname, as it signifies ‘bear.’ This strong name is believed to bring wisdom and strength to the person who bears it.
- Yonaguska
This name of Cherokee origin signifies ‘the bear is drowned by him.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Cherokee names are naturally lovely as they draw inspiration from the natural world. In Cherokee culture, individuals may change their names several times as they grow and accomplish significant achievements. Opting for one of these significant names will help your child be distinctive and provide them with an intriguing way to introduce themselves as they mature. If you are fascinated by Cherokee culture and think that such a meaningful name would be beneficial for your child, explore our selection and choose one!
