Let’s be real. When you were expecting your little bundle of joy, hate was probably the last thing on your mind. But as you browsed through the baby name book, you may have come across a few handles that made you do a double take. Did that name really mean what you thought it did? Yep, some monikers out there are linked to some pretty negative meanings.
While you’d likely never intentionally give your child a name connected to hate, learning the origins of certain names can be an eye-opener. Maybe you’ll even chuckle and think, who would actually pick that for their baby? Here are ten baby names that mean hate.
Malice
Malice, meaning spite or ill will, is another option with a less-than-positive meaning. While Malice may not roll off the tongue as easily as some other names, it certainly makes a striking statement. Just imagine calling out “Malice, time for dinner!” or yelling “Malice, stop hitting your sister!”
Some may see it as too harsh of a name for an innocent baby, but others may see it as an unconventional choice that signifies a rebellious spirit. Either way, Malice is a name that won’t soon be forgotten.
Nefar
Nefar is an Arabic name meaning “hate” or “hatred”. As a baby name, it certainly stands out as unique but also controversial.
Pronounced “neh-FAR”, this name originates from an Arabic word that refers to detesting something or harboring ill will towards another. Some parents may see it as an unconventional choice that emphasizes individuality. However, for many others the negative meaning and connotations of hate and hatred make Nefar an unacceptable name option.
Eiran
Eiran is a Hebrew name meaning “watchful, guarding”. While the meaning itself is not inherently negative, within the context of this list, it suggests a wary and suspicious nature, which could manifest as hostility towards others.
This name evokes a strong and harsh meaning, related to feelings of hostility and dislike. While some names with negative meanings were chosen historically to ward off evil spirits, the name Eiran would likely not be chosen today for a child due to its unpleasant connotation.
Mordred
The name Mordred has a dark and sinister meaning behind it. Mordred originated from Arthurian legend where Mordred was King Arthur’s illegitimate son and eventual enemy. Mordred plotted against his father and brought about his downfall.
The name Mordred comes from the Welsh name Medraut which means “great sorrow.” The name likely took on its negative connotations due to Mordred’s actions in Arthurian legend. He is remembered as a figure of treachery and betrayal, plotting against his own father and causing the destruction of Camelot.
The meaning of “great sorrow” attached to the name Mordred is fitting given his actions and the consequences they brought about. His betrayal of Arthur caused great sorrow and sadness, ultimately ending Arthur’s reign and dooming Camelot. The name likely came to mean “hate” due to the hatred Mordred showed toward his own father through his treachery and conspiring against Arthur.
Gunnar
The name Gunnar means “warrior” in Norse origin, but it also carries a negative connotation of hate. While warrior names were once common for boys, signifying strength and courage, the name Gunnar in particular has taken on a darker meaning in modern times.
Let’s not forget that the name Gunnar has been chosen for several infamous and hateful figures throughout history, from neo-Nazis to terrorists. While these individuals do not represent all people named Gunnar, their violent actions have tarnished the name in the public eye.
Jobab
The name Jobab is of Hebrew origin, and it actually means “hated.” There are a few possible explanations for why a parent would choose this name for their child.
Some parents may choose this name in an attempt to reclaim and transform its meaning. Rather than letting the name’s original connotation of being hated define the child, they hope to show that the individual can rise above the name and live a life of love and acceptance. However, this could place undue pressure on the child from a young age.
Katif
The name Katif comes from the Arabic word “katif,” which means “hateful” or “spiteful.” So the name itself literally translates to “Hate” in Arabic. The name likely originated in Islamic cultures where children were sometimes given names with negative meanings as a way to ward off the evil eye and prevent jealousy from others. Giving children names associated with undesirable qualities was thought to divert negative attention away from the child.
Nemesis
The name Nemesis derives from Greek mythology and has a meaning related to hate. In Greek myths, Nemesis was the goddess of vengeance and retribution. She represented the balance of justice by punishing those who demonstrated hubris, or arrogance against the gods.
Those punished by Nemesis typically experienced disproportionate downfalls to match their previous wrongdoings. Nemesis’ role was to restore the balance by delivering a fitting punishment to those who had wronged others or acted too prideful. This concept of delivering balanced vengeance represents the hateful aspect of the name Nemesis.
Alviss
The name Alviss has Old Norse origins and means “all hate.” It comes from the Old Norse elements “allr,” meaning “all,” and “viss,” meaning “hate.” Alviss likely originated as a name given to someone who was hated by many or who was considered universally disliked.
The name Alviss suggests someone who stirs up strong negative emotions and animosity in others. It portrays an individual who evokes feelings of dislike, contempt and even hostility from those around them. The name may have been given ironically to someone who was the exact opposite – a kind, well-liked person – though more likely it was bestowed upon someone who truly fit the meaning of “all hate.”
Cain
The biblical name Cain means hate or enmity. Cain is the name of the first son of Adam and Eve in the Book of Genesis. After Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy, God punished Cain and marked him as a fugitive.
The name Cain comes from the Hebrew word qayin, which means “made” or “acquired.” However, some interpretations suggest that the name also carries connotations of hate and enmity. After Cain killed Abel, God said “Now you are cursed and driven from the ground…When you farm the ground it will no longer give you its yield. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth.”
Bottom Line
While these names may have negative connotations, their origins and meanings can also be seen as powerful. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. If one of these names really speaks to you, don’t let the meaning hold you back. But if you’re on the fence, it may be wise to keep looking. A baby’s name sets the tone for their identity and future. Make sure you give them a name you feel good about. Trust your instincts, do your research, and choose something meaningful. Your child’s name is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Pick it with care.
