100 Cunning Baby Names Meaning Trickster: For Boys & Girls (2024)

Abiram

Abiram was known as a deceiver for his role in the betrayal of Moses and Aaron in the Old Testament. It’s not often that we see biblical names used that are known adversaries of men and women of the Faith, but this name also means “High Father,” which is a bit more neutral.

Unique, Handsome

Abuto

The placement of Abuto as a first name makes it unusual for those familiar with traditional African surnames. Even though it means “I have hidden,” Abuto would stand out for a baby girl. The name is short, but each syllable is filled with consonants, making the name feel very rhythmic.

Unique, Unusual

Aella

In Greek mythology, Aella was one of Queen Hippolyte’s Amazon warriors in her famed fight against Heracles. DC comics also reference this warrior as one of Wonder Woman’s Amazon tribal members, who helped her defeat several opponents in combat.

Rare, Beautiful

Aiden

Short and sweet with a sneaky meaning, “little fire.” This has been a popular name for boys for several years, but it’s also growing in popularity for girls. Aiden is still hugely popular for baby boys but remains a very unique name for girls.

Popular, Cool

Anansi

According to Ghanaian folklore, Anansi was a spider whose manipulative and cunning tactics helped him outsmart those much bigger and stronger than him. He used his wit to his advantage so much that he was often regarded as the spider god. The Marvel Spider-Man character was also based on this tricky little spider.

Unique

Anjani

Even though Anjani means “illusion,” it’s no secret that this name is beautiful. Anjani is the “Mother of Lord Hanuman” in Hinduism. Hanuman is well known in the religion as the commander of the monkey army. Monkeys are very smart animals known for their silly nature.

Unique, Beautiful

Anwir

Anwir is a very bold, in-your-face name that might suit your little rascal. It has Welsh origins and is very rare, with less than ten boys born annually named Anwir.

Rare, Handsome, Unique

Buster

Buster is often used as a nickname in the U.S. for boys and boisterous men, but it can also be used as a legal name, as several famous Americans have this name. Professional boxer Buster Douglas famously knocked out the reigning champ, Mike Tyson, in 1990, much to everyone’s surprise.

Bold, Funny

Briar

Getting to the beauty and sweetness of your baby, despite their prickly nature at times, makes it all worthwhile. Many of us have had the experience of walking through briar patches. The only way to do it is to watch your step, if not, you might just feel the pain they bring!

Unique, Rare

Calypso

Calypso is a romantic, playful name with musical elements. The name also references a West Indian style of music popularized by the actor Harry Belafonte. The goddess Calypso held the heroic Odysseus captive for so long with her charm that Zeus had to command her to release him.

Beautiful, Mythical

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Cameron

Your baby’s nose may be as cute as a button, but the kind of chaos that they can create will surely throw you for a loop. Although Cameron is mostly a popular name for boys, several girls, including the beautiful Cameron Diaz, wear the name well.

Popular, Cute

Chisi

The Tumbuka tribe residing in Malawi mostly uses this name as a surname. Chisi means “darkness,” which makes it so unique for a child, signifying the secrets they hold or something concealed about their birth. This name is so short and unique it could also easily be a nickname for a girl or boy.

Unusual

Claudia

The Latin root of Claudia, dating back to ancient Rome, means “neither in nor out.” This can signify someone who is two-faced or two-sided, but in a way, it is coy and playful, not malicious. Claudia is the female derivative of Claude, an equally timeless name for a baby boy.

Classic, Beautiful

Cozbi

Cozbi, meaning liar, is very short and holds a lot of truth. You could use it to tell the story of how your baby’s gender was mistaken, or their due date was much different than expected. There are many reasons why your baby would be known as a little trickster so early on.

Religious, Unusual

Delilah

The biblical love story of Samson and Delilah is one of great betrayal. She was a thief of his heart, as she encouraged him to pour out his secrets so that she could betray him. Despite this, Delilah has endured over time as one of the most beautiful and classic names for little girls with a beguiling spirit.

Traditional, Romantic

Diablo

It would be difficult to get more devilish than this name. Diablo is a direct Spanish translation for “devil.” If your family has Spanish heritage, or you’re simply an appreciator of the language and culture, this name might go to the top of the list for your handsome little devil.

Bold, Handsome

Dionysus

In Greek mythology, Dionysus is the god of wine and revelry. The drunkenness of being in love, like so many of us are with babies, can fill us with joy and make us fall easily to their playful whims. Dionysus is also the god of fertility and pleasure, so it could be a subtle reference to his conception.

Bold, Rare

Ella

The Ella Enchanted film features a whimsical princess who is cursed with the gift of obedience. The story follows Ella through several adventures to keep this a secret and to find a way to break the curse. Ella is a classically beautiful name filled with wonder.

Romantic, Classic, Traditional

Eris

The Greek goddess of strife, Eris, is a powerful name for a baby. It’s a short and sweet name filled with so much depth. Eris is the central deity worshipped in the Discordian religion, primarily based on praising this goddess of chaos.

Unique, Romantic, Mythical

Fae

This shortened form of “fairy” conjures up the spirit of all that is mystical, whimsical, and hidden. Fairies are known for using their magic in silly ways and for being sly little tricksters who weave in and out of real and imagined worlds just for the fun of it.

Mythical, Romantic

Discover More Unique Name Suggestions

Foley

Small children, especially babies, are known for plundering through things until they find what they want. Sometimes they will even trick us in their adorable little ways to get to the things they really want but shouldn’t have.

Cute, Unique

Fox

Fox is more common as a surname, but it could be perfect for a baby boy. The clever line, “crazy as a fox,” is very well-known. The underlying meaning is that foxes are very smart, as they know how to pretend to be helpless to get what they want.

Unique, Handsome

Gizem

There is no mystery that this Turkish name will give your baby girl an edge, even as a baby. Gizem is pretty common in Turkish, but it’s very rare and unique in other cultures.

Religious

Gunner

Bold and popular, Gunner calls to mind boys that have a winning spirit, even if it means they may be a bit stealthy in their ways.

Bold, Handsome

Gus

Goofy Gus. Greedy Gus. Gus is often used as a nickname, preceded by defining characteristics. Does your little guy have a lot of personality already? Then Gus just might be for him.

Funny, Cute

Hanzo

Hattori Hanzo was a famous Japanese samurai warrior. The legend of his skillfulness has been hailed for centuries. The popular film, Kill Bill, famously depicted the Hattori Hanzo sword in a clever way, as the characters outsmarted one another by hiding it and using it to defend themselves in combat.

Unique, Cute

Harlow

Harlow has become a popular name for girls in recent years. Between 1882 and 1900, it was far more common for boys. The most popular namesake is Hollywood actress, Jean Harlow.

Classic, Cute, Trendy

Hermes

Hermes has become synonymous with luxury and timeless style becasue of the luxury fashion brand. It originated from the Greek god of travel, writing, and athletics, all forms of carrying messages. When Hermes was first born, he stole two sacred cows from the god Apollo and offered them to the higher gods as a sacrifice.

Trendy, Unique

Hulda

Hulda comes from the Hebrew name Chulda, meaning a “weasel or mole.” Both animals are known for being deceptive and tricking others for their own benefit.

Unusual

Indra

Indra was a god known for using tricks and supernatural abilities to maintain his position as king. Although the name is derived from a god, it’s more commonly used as a girl’s name for those who are a part of the Hindu faith.

Beautiful, Unique

More Great Names to Consider

Jacob

In the Old Testament, Jacob was known for tricking his father into giving him a blessing meant for his brother Esau. The meaning of Jacob relates directly to this act of scheming to take something by force.

Traditional

Jareth

Jareth is from the fantasy movie, Labyrinth, famously portrayed by David Bowie. The character was known as the villainous goblin king, who sent the protagonist on a series of quests inside of his mystical castle in hopes of keeping her captive.

Handsome, Unique

Kokopelli

Kokopelli is hailed as a flute player and trickster in Native American tribes. Often depicted with a humpback, this god is also associated with fertility and childbirth.

Unusual

Kuma Lisa

Kuma Lisa has Macedonian, Bulgarian, and Russian ties. In fictional stories, Kuma Lisa embodies the role of the trickster archetype. She is depicted as a fox wearing an elegant dress in all of the fable illustrations.

Romantic, Rare

Laverna

Laverna is derived from the Latin word “laternio,” which means “thief.” Laverna is the Roman goddess of cheating and thievery.

Beautiful

Leesi

Leesi hails from Africa, and would be perfect for a little princess. Even though it sounds innocent enough, the meaning tells another, far more interesting story.

Pretty

Leta

The fact that Leta is not very well-known speaks to the meaning of the name itself. This hidden treasure is rare and beautiful and could be perfect for your little one-in-a-million bundle of joy.

Cute

Lilith

Lilith is a classic name that’s been popular for baby girls for centuries. Lilith is believed to have been Adam’s first wife, according to non-traditional Christian folklore. She was disobedient to him and ultimately turned into a night demon.

Pretty, Romantic

Liraz

Liraz is rare in most countries, but for those who are named Liraz, it’s commonly given to both boys and girls.

Unique, Unusual

Loki

With the rising popularity of the Thor Marvel movies, more boys are being named Loki. Loki is the defiant Norse god of mischief- perfect for the cutest little trickster you know.

Cute, Unusual

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Mac

Mac is often used as a nickname for Mackenzie or Macintosh for boys. It has an alternate meaning of “son” with Scottish origins.

Handsome

Matilda

The novel Matilda, by renowned author Ronald Dahl, is a very popular tale that became even more popularized by the film of the same name. In the story, Matilda is a little girl who uses trickery and magic to ultimately achieve what she wants in life.

Pretty

Maui

In Polynesian mythology, Maui is known as the trickster god. This name became even more popular after the Disney film Moana premiered in 2016.

Handsome

Maverick

The many decades-long success of the film Top Gun has added to the legend of this name. The main character, Maverick, is a reckless joker who constantly defies the odds. Maverick is also associated with being exceptionally good at a certain skill.

Handsome, Unique

Maximon

Maximon is a deity in Mayan folklore, known for being the god of the underworld. This deity also represents the light and the dark. He is known as a trickster, womanizer, and protector of couples.

Unusual

Maya

The famous poet and artist Maya Angelou was a wielder of words. This is also another name for the goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of love with beauty and joyfulness.

Beautiful, Classic

Medea

Medea was a sorceress and goddess from Greek mythology known for tricking her father. She used her cunning ways to help her husband Jason steal the Golden Fleece. The Golden Fleece was a ram with golden hair and one of Greek mythology’s most significant symbols of power.

Pretty, Unusual

Merlin

Merlin is best known as the wizard in the age-old legend of King Arthur. His character is based upon historical figures and fictionalized accounts of his magic, sorcery, and trickery.

Unusual, Unique

Mestra

According to Greek mythology, Mestra had the ability to change shape. She was the lover of Poseidon, and this shape-shifting ability was his gift to her.

Unique, Romantic

Mohini

Mohini comes from the root word “moha.” This word means to “delude, enchant, or perplex.” It makes perfect sense why Mohini is the Hindu goddess of enchantment, an alluring pick among names meaning trickster.

Rare, Romantic

Explore Additional Name Inspirations

Moritz

The German trickster folk hero Moritz pulled many pranks alongside his buddy Max. Tales of their adventures have been told for centuries.

Unusual, Rare

Naiche

Naiche was regarded as a handsome Apache chief. His name meant “meddlesome one,” and was also a well-regarded artist and painter.

Unique, Rare

Narada

Born from the mind of the creator god, Brahma, Narada is a unique deity. He was known for using the weakness of others to his advantage.

Unusual

Nasreddin

According to folklore, Nasreddin was a very clever prankster. Interestingly, a cleric from Anatolia inspired the Turkish roots of these tales.

Unusual

Osman

The alternate meaning of Osman is “wise, most powerful.” This wisdom went into building the Ottoman Empire, which was one of the greatest empires in history, reigning for over 609 years.

Unusual, Rare

Pan

Pan is the god of shepherds, fertility, and pastures, with the body of a goat, and often associated with rustic music. Pan is also the namesake for the beloved character Peter Pan.

Unique, Rare

Pandora

In Greek mythology, Pandora was the first mortal woman. She was depicted as beautiful and very curious. “Pandora’s box” is an expression often used to warn against the possibility of someone unleashing something powerful and unexpected.

Romantic, Rare

Pedro

Pedro Urdemales is a well-known trickster in Chilean folk tales. In Portuguese, he is referred to as Pedro, “Bad Arts.”

Handsome, Popular

Penelope

Penelope is a classic name that has been popular for many years. The origin of Penelope goes back to the epic poem The Odyssey.

Elegant, Classic

Peter

Sly Peter is a well-known trickster from Bulgarian folklore. He is often described as being kind and tricky. Peter Parker is also a popular character from the Spider man comics.

Classic, Handsome

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Pettai

Pettai is typically an Estonian surname, but this name is also used as a first name for boys and girls.

Unique

Premysl

The root word “pre” means “over,” while “mysli” means “thought.” Premysl is the founder of the Premyslid dynasty- a powerful nation that ruled for five centuries over Bohemia.

Rare, Unusual

Pumphut

Pumphut is a tricky gnome in Sorbian and Slavic tales who saves his tricks for abusive people. He is known for using his magic to challenge evil doers.

Unusual, Rare

Raven

In Native American culture, a raven is a significant symbol. These birds are seen as creators and tricksters, stealing pieces of light until it became the sun during the creation of the earth.

Cool, Unique

Rebecca

In the Old Testament, Rebecca was the wife of Isaac. Her son Jacob tricked his oldest brother out of a blessing meant for him. Two trickster names in one family tree! Rebecca has remained a popular name for girls for many years.

Romantic, Classic

Rebel

In 2021, 129 girls and 56 boys in the U.S. were named Rebel. It’s a rare name for most babies, but it’s a far more common name for baby girls.

Trendy, Cute

Rekker

This phonetic spelling of the word “wrecker” is trendy yet rare. Actor Cam Gigandet is best known for naming his son Rekker.

Trendy, Funny

Reynard

Reynard the fox is a beloved trickster in French culture. Foxes are known for being clever, but this particular one is clever and well-liked.

Classic

Rhonda

The wrestler Ronda Rousey represents this name very well. She is known for going headfirst into fights even though she doesn’t always win. Her boisterous spirit perfectly embodies this strong name.

Classic

Robin

In Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, Robin is the narrator and fairy in the story. One of the most famous namesakes was Robin Williams, a comedic actor known for playing his compelling and jokester characters. In 2021, 290 girls and 256 boys were named Robin in the U.S.

Cute

Similar Names and Their Meanings

Rogue

Going against the grain and acting erratically means someone has “gone rogue.” Rogue is also the name of the fiery, red-haired superhero from the X-Men comics.

Cool, Trendy

Rowdy

Even if you’ve never seen the film, Rawhide, just know that the Clint Eastwood character, Rowdy Yates, spoke for itself. This trendy name signifies someone who doesn’t mind getting into trouble!

Unique, Funny

Roxie

Roxie is typically a shortened version of Roxanne. The name is short and spunky. The Roxie Hart character from the Chicago Broadway play is best known for using her wiles to try and deceive others in very unusual ways.

Ruse

A ruse is an action plan intended to deceive someone. Using Ruse for a baby is extremely rare, with fewer than ten babies receiving the name each year in the U.S.

Rare, Unique

Sarka

Sarka was the lieutenant in the mythical Maidens War between women and men in the Czech Republic. In this legendary tale, Sarka deceived the man, and the women ultimately won the war.

Unique

Saxon

Tricksters know how to wield their words, actions, and spirit to make a mark. Saxon is sure to leave a lasting impression, as a solid choice among names that mean trickster.

Unique

Shabina

The eye of the storm is known as the most dangerous part of a hurricane or tornado. This beautiful Muslim name for girls also has Urdu roots.

Unique

Shuja

Shuja is a powerful name for a strong-willed Muslim boy. The name means “brave and courageous,” which you must be to pull off certain feats.

Rare

Sigyn

In Norse mythology, Sigyn is the goddess of loyalty, faithfulness, and compassion. This is ironic, considering that she is married to Loki, the god of mischief.

Unusual, Rare

Sinoe

Sinoe was a nymph in Greek mythology. She also nursed the god Pan, another well-known trickster, when he was just a baby.

Rare, Cute

More Name Lists to Spark Your Interest

Sivanah

Sivanah is the goddess of illusion and magic. Although Sivanah is a derivative of the Spanish word “savannah,” her goddess story has neutral cultural origins. She is also known for watching over those who keep secrets and deceive others.

Unique

Sly

Sly is a common nickname for Sylvester. It can also be a standalone first name. Sly refers to someone very discreet in deceiving others or using their skills successfully.

Cute

Sosruko

Sosruko is a god in Caucasian mythology. He is often compared to Loki as a trickster god. He is small in stature but very menacing.

Rare

Storm

Storm is the name of a powerful superhero from the X-Men comics. Storms, much like trouble, have a tendency to stir things up.

Trendy

Susanoo

In Japanese mythology, Susanoo is the god of the storms and the sea. His bravery led him to save one of his wives from a monster.

Unusual

Syrdon

Syrdon is the trickster god of North Caucasus mythology, often referred to as Nart Saga. This character is also very similar to the more popular Loki character.

Rare

Tempest

Tempest means “turbulent storms.” It can also refer to someone who easily gets into chaotic, turbulent moods.

Rare

Terach

Terach is the father of Abraham in the Bible. Not much is known about him, but the meaning of this name hints that he might have been a tricky old soul.

Unusual

Thornton

Thornton has a very direct meaning. It relates to thorny bushes where things can be hidden, stuck, or caught up in deception. This is similar to getting caught up in trickery and deception.

Unique

Tokoloshe

Tokoloshe refers to the Bantu folklore of a deceptive and malevolent mythical creature that is half man, half animal.

Unusual

Related Name Ideas

Trixie

Trixie can be a nickname for Beatrix. It could also work well as a standalone short and cute name for a girl.

Rare, Cute

Tsephanyah

This name is a rare and beautiful find, and there really is no wonder why. Tsephanyah has certainly remained hidden and could be ripe for the taking!

Rare

Tyrion

Tyrion was a popular character from the Game of Thrones franchise. He was an impish trickster who often used deception and trickery to prevail over his enemies.

Trendy

Velius

Even though Velius has been around for centuries, it’s not overused. It’s barely even known, much like its meaning states- a hidden treasure for your little girl.

Traditional

Wilder

Wilder can be a very cute name for a baby boy, although it’s typically a surname worldwide. It’s as if the name offers a challenge to any child who answers to it.

Cute

Wiley

The Looney Tunes duo of the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote features the constant back and forth of the tricks these two play on one another. Wiley is always coming back with clever tricks, no matter the challenge.

Cute

Yamanu

Yamanu belonged to an Egyptian god, often called the king of the gods. It is a name and deity that ascended beyond rules and sticks to what was expected.

Traditional, Rare

Yehl

Not only is the direct meaning of this name “mountain goat,” but Yehl is also the name of a Tlingit trickster god.

Rare, Unique

Zephania

Zephania is a biblical name with two common spellings. It’s very rare and traditional and mainly used for men. It’s derived from the Hebrew word “tzafan” which means “to hide.”

Rare, Unique

Zomo

Zomo is the central figure in a Nigerian series of tales. The series follows the adventures of the trickster rabbit, Zomo.

Cute, Rare

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