Anime has captivated the hearts and minds of fans worldwide, providing unique and engaging stories filled with colorful characters.
One aspect of anime that has always been fascinating is the variety of names used for its characters. These names often carry deep meaning, reflecting the personality or background of the character.
In this article, we’ll explore cool anime names for boys and girls, and you might even find inspiration for your own original characters.
Anime Names for Boys
Kenshin: Derived from the iconic character Himura Kenshin from “Rurouni Kenshin.” This name evokes a sense of strength and resilience, fitting for a hero with a tragic past who has found redemption.
Tetsuo: Has its roots in the classic anime film “Akira.” As the name of the movie’s main character, Tetsuo carries a sense of determination and inner turmoil, perfect for a character struggling to control newfound powers.
Lelouch: Stands out as a complex name from the popular series “Code Geass.” The main character, Lelouch vi Britannia, is a strategic genius and revolutionary leader, making this name ideal for a character with cunning intelligence and a desire for change.
Sasuke: Thanks to the iconic character from “Naruto,” this one resonates with many anime fans. It embodies a blend of determination, rivalry, and a quest for power, making it suitable for a character with a complicated backstory and a drive to surpass their peers.
Guts: This brings to mind the dark and brutal world of “Berserk.” As the name of the series’ protagonist, Guts represents raw strength and resilience in the face of adversity, making it an excellent choice for a character who must endure hardship and loss.
Kazuma: From the protagonist from “KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World!” This name suggests a character who is resourceful, sarcastic, and adapts well to new environments.
Ban: Ban is an immortal character in “The Seven Deadly Sins” with a strong sense of loyalty and a playful nature, making this name fitting for a character who can endure hardships and remains true to their friends.
Ryuuji: Inspired by the protagonist Ryuuji Takasu from “Toradora!” This name embodies a character with a gentle heart and strong sense of responsibility, despite having a somewhat intimidating appearance.
Jotaro: Comes from the character Jotaro Kujo from the long-running series “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.” Jotaro’s name is perfect for a character who is tough, resourceful, and possesses an unyielding determination to overcome adversity.
Shinichi: If you’ve watched “Parasyte: The Maxim,” you should know this one. Shinichi Izumi’s name represents a character who undergoes a significant transformation and must learn to balance their humanity with newfound abilities.
Kakashi: Ideal for a character who is a skilled mentor and strategist, with a hidden, softer side.
Archer: This is the name of a prominent character from the “Fate” series. Archer’s name embodies a sense of mystery and unwavering dedication, making it suitable for a character who has a complex past and a strong sense of duty.
Levi: A fan-favorite character from “Attack on Titan.” As a skilled and ruthless fighter, Levi’s name is perfect for a character who exhibits strength, discipline, and a fierce loyalty to their comrades.
Light: The main character from the psychological thriller “Death Note.” Light Yagami’s name is fitting for a character who possesses a brilliant mind and a twisted sense of justice, making them an anti-hero or even a villain.
Takumi: Belongs to the protagonist from the racing anime “Initial D.” Takumi Fujiwara’s name evokes a sense of natural talent, determination, and growth, making it ideal for a character who discovers their hidden potential and honed their skills through hard work and experience.
Anime Names for Girls
Mikasa: A powerful name for a female character, inspired by Mikasa Ackerman from the hit series “Attack on Titan.” It carries a sense of unwavering loyalty and strength, perfect for a character who would do anything to protect those she loves.
Asuka: A bold and fiery personality, drawn from the character Asuka Langley Soryu in “Neon Genesis Evangelion.” It is fitting for a character who is unapologetically assertive, passionate, and driven.
Homura: Exudes mystery and determination, stemming from the character Homura Akemi in “Puella Magi Madoka Magica.” It symbolizes the lengths one is willing to go to protect a friend, making it a fitting choice for a character with a hidden agenda and a tragic past.
Sailor Moon: Perfect for someone who embodies the qualities of a leader and has an unwavering belief in the goodness of others.
Rei: Found in numerous anime series, such as “Neon Genesis Evangelion” and “Sailor Moon.” The name Rei often represents characters who are quiet, mysterious, and have hidden depths, making it an excellent choice for a character with a reserved exterior and a complex inner world.
Asuna: A strong and compassionate character from the popular series “Sword Art Online.” Good for a character who is skilled, resourceful, and dedicated to protecting those she loves.
Rukia: Embodies a character who is loyal, resilient, and possesses a strong sense of duty and responsibility.
Mio: Represents a talented, shy, and a nurturing personality.
Homura: Is the name of a complex character from the magical girl anime “Puella Magi Madoka Magica.” It is fitting for a character who exhibits determination, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to a specific goal or person.
Yoko: Courageous, skilled, and not afraid to challenge the status quo.
Hinata: is the name of Hinata Hyuga from “Naruto.” Hinata’s name represents a character who is gentle, empathetic, and grows in strength and confidence over time.
Rei: this is the name of the enigmatic character Rei Ayanami from “Neon Genesis Evangelion.” Represents someone mysterious past and possesses a quiet strength.
Saber: A powerful and noble character from the “Fate” series. Represents a sense of honor, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to a cause or belief.
Nami: Perfect for a character who is intelligent, resourceful, and deeply cares for her friends and family.
Erza: This is the fearsome and formidable character Erza Scarlet from “Fairy Tail.” Erza’s name represents a character who is a natural leader, skilled warrior, and has a strong sense of justice.
Famous Anime Names
Goku: is arguably one of the most famous names in anime, originating from the iconic series “Dragon Ball.” The name Goku is synonymous with incredible power, unwavering determination, and a never-ending quest for self-improvement, making it an ideal choice for a character who constantly strives to surpass their limits and protect their loved ones.
Naruto: Another well-known name in the anime world, thanks to the long-running series of the same name. Naruto Uzumaki’s name has become synonymous with perseverance, growth, and the belief that anyone can change for the better.
Spike: This one instantly evokes the world of “Cowboy Bebop,” a classic anime series known for its unique blend of genres and memorable characters. The name Spike, belonging to the protagonist Spike Spiegel, conveys a sense of coolness and effortless charisma, making it a great option for a character with a mysterious past and a devil-may-care attitude.
Edward: Brings to mind “Fullmetal Alchemist,” a widely beloved anime series with a rich and complex narrative. It speaks of determination, intelligence, and the bond between siblings, making it a fitting choice for a character who has experienced loss and is driven by a desire to restore what was taken from them.
Alucard: As a powerful and enigmatic vampire, Alucard’s name is perfect for a character with an otherworldly presence and an intriguing, morally ambiguous nature. The name carries a sense of darkness and power, stemming from the main character of the anime “Hellsing.”
Anime Names from Movies
Chihiro: Became iconic due to its association with the Studio Ghibli film “Spirited Away.” As the name of the film’s young protagonist, Chihiro represents courage, adaptability, and the process of self-discovery. In the movie, Chihiro undergoes a transformative journey and learns the importance of self-reliance and inner strength.
Totoro: May not be a human name, but it has become synonymous with the whimsical and heartwarming world of Studio Ghibli’s “My Neighbor Totoro.” Totoro is the name of a gentle, magical creature who befriends two young sisters. And it embodies a sense of wonder, magic, and the power of imagination.
Kaneda: A fitting choice for a character who is thrown into a chaotic world and must navigate the complexities of power, friendship, and self-discovery. It brings to mind the groundbreaking anime film “Akira.” As the name of the film’s protagonist, Shotaro Kaneda, this name conveys a sense of rebelliousness, leadership, and loyalty.
San: Represents the fierce, untamed side of nature, making her name an excellent choice for a character who is deeply connected to the natural world and fights to protect it from destruction.
Kiki: This one has become synonymous with the charming and heartwarming Studio Ghibli film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” As the name of the young witch protagonist, Kiki’s name embodies the themes of independence, growth, and the power of friendship.
Mythological and Folklore-Inspired Anime Names
Yato: Inspired by the captivating world of “Noragami,” where the protagonist is a minor deity striving for recognition. Yato’s name, derived from Japanese mythology, makes it a perfect choice for a character who seeks to carve their own path in the world of gods and spirits.
Izanagi and Izanami: Names drawn from Japanese creation myths, and they have been featured in various anime series. They evoke a sense of cosmic power and creation, making them suitable for characters who play a crucial role in shaping the world or its inhabitants.
Amaterasu: Another name rooted in Japanese mythology, representing the goddess of the sun. It appeared in various anime, such as “The Qwaser of Stigmata.” It represents light, warmth, and divine power.
Anime Names with Unique Meanings
Makoto: Can be used for both boys and girls, as seen in characters like Makoto Naegi from “Danganronpa” and Makoto Kino from “Sailor Moon.” It signifies sincerity and truth, making it a fitting choice for characters who value honesty and authenticity.
Haruhi: Very famous thanks to the character Haruhi Suzumiya from “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.” The name means “spring day” in Japanese, and it can be used for characters who represent new beginnings, growth, or a fresh start.
Hikari Another versatile name, used for both male and female characters in various anime series. An ideal choice for characters who bring hope, inspiration, or guidance to those around them.
Anime Names Based on Nature
Sakura: A popular name in anime that represents the iconic cherry blossoms heralding the arrival of spring in Japan.
Hayate: It means “swift wind” in Japanese and is used for characters like Hayate Ayasaki from “Hayate the Combat Butler.” Befitting for characters who are agile, quick-witted, or possess a free-spirited nature.
Kaze: Another name that represents the wind and has appeared in various anime, such as “Final Fantasy: Unlimited.” It is suitable for characters who embody freedom, adaptability, and the ability to change direction with ease.
Anime Names from Classic Series
Astro: This name goes way back to the beginnings of anime, as it is the moniker of the beloved character Astro Boy. It represents the fusion of humanity and technology, making it a good choice for characters that embody the potential of the future and the spirit of progress.
Lum: It gained popularity thanks to the character Lum Invader from the classic anime “Urusei Yatsura.” Lum is a lively and energetic alien girl, making her name an excellent choice for characters who bring excitement, otherworldliness, and humor to their surroundings.
Doraemon: It has become synonymous with Japanese pop culture, as the titular character from the long-running anime and manga series. Doraemon, a robotic cat from the future, represents the power of imagination, friendship, and the desire to make the world a better place. This name is perfect for characters who provide support and guidance to those in need.
Anime Names with a Magical Flair
Sorata: This name implies a connection to the world of magic or the supernatural, making it fitting for characters who possess extraordinary powers or have a destiny intertwined with the mystical realm as the character Sorata Arisugawa from the magical anime “X.”
Clow: Inspired by the enigmatic and powerful character Clow Reed from “Cardcaptor Sakura.” As a master magician and the creator of the Clow Cards, it’s ideal for characters who possess vast magical knowledge or wield incredible power in the world of sorcery.
Nanoha: It evokes a sense of magical potential, thanks to the protagonist Takamachi Nanoha from the anime “Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha.” The name Nanoha is fitting for characters who discover their magical powers and grow into their roles as protectors and guardians of peace.
Anime Names Inspired by Music
Hibike: Derived from the title of the anime “Hibike! Euphonium” or “Sound! Euphonium.” The name Hibike means “sound” or “resonance” in Japanese, making it a fitting choice for characters with a strong connection to music, whether they’re musicians or simply inspired by the power of sound.
Kousei: It carries the essence of music, as the name of the protagonist Arima Kousei from the anime “Your Lie in April.” Kousei is a talented pianist, and his name is perfect for characters who are driven by their passion for music and the emotional connections it fosters.
Nodame: Synonymous with the quirky and endearing character Megumi Noda from the anime “Nodame Cantabile.” As a talented pianist with a unique and unconventional approach to music.