135 Pirate Names for Boys and Girls—From Fierce to Funny

Discover bold and quirky monikers perfect for adventurous kids ready to sail the seas!

Written by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Last Updated on
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Whether you’re gearing up for Talk Like a Pirate Day, brainstorming a character for your next adventure novel, picking a pet’s name, or simply seeking the perfect swashbuckling moniker for Halloween or a creative project, pirate names offer a treasure trove of inspiration. From legendary outlaws of the high seas to whimsical and funny choices, these names bring a sense of adventure, freedom, and daring to any occasion.

Why Pirate Names Are Perennially Popular

Pirates have captured imaginations for centuries, symbolizing rebellion, adventure, and charisma. The mystery of hidden treasure, the open sea, and tales of heroism and mischief fuel an enduring fascination. Today, pirate names are more than just a nod to history—they’re used for pets, children, costumes, gaming avatars, and creative storytelling, thanks to their robust character and global appeal.

  • Great for baby names, themed parties, character creation or pets
  • Offer a blend of fierce, elegant, and humorous options
  • Inspired by real-life pirates, fictional swashbucklers, and international myths

Pirate Names for Girls

Whether you want a name with a formidable edge, graceful roots, or playful energy, here are some standout pirate names for girls:

  • Annie – Inspired by Anne Bonny, a legendary Irish pirate known for her exploits in the Caribbean.
  • Nami – Means “wave” in Japanese and featured in anime pirate adventures.
  • Isla – Spanish for “island,” evoking a sense of mystery and travel.
  • Pearl – Both a gemstone and the name of famous pirate ships.
  • Ruby – Precious and bold, fitting for a striking pirate persona.
  • Sable – Evokes the dark and mysterious.
  • Cordelia – An elegant name with literary roots, perfect for a pirate captain.
  • Marina – From the sea, for an aquatic adventurer.
  • Selene – Greek origin meaning “moon,” beloved for its mystical allure.
  • Calypso – Mythological sea nymph and a key character in pirate cinema.
  • Adva – A Hebrew name meaning “wave” or “ripple.”
  • Remi – Derived from Latin for “rowers,” fitting for nautical adventures.
  • Shai – A Hebrew name translating to “gift.”
  • Ada – Meaning “noble,” both German and Latin.
  • Sutton – Old English for “southern settlement.”
  • Ama – Native American and African origins; translates to “water.”
  • Cheng – After Zheng Yi Sao, the infamous Chinese pirate captain.

Other Notable Pirate Girl Names

  • Arabella
  • Bella
  • Maia
  • Oceana
  • Tia
  • Vera
  • Zara
  • Waverly
  • Aria
  • Indigo
  • Cleo

Pirate Names for Boys

Boys’ pirate names can strike a balance between the bold, the classic, and the seafaring. These names summon the spirit of adventure and tenacity:

  • Bastian – Sturdy and brave, recalling a battle-readiness.
  • Cassian – With Roman roots, symbolic of enduring strength.
  • Alistair – Of Scottish origin, meaning “defender.”
  • Finn – Irish for “fair” or “blond,” reminiscent of the sea’s foam.
  • Calico – Referencing Calico Jack, a famed English pirate and historical inspiration for fictional Jack Sparrow.
  • Bourne – English, meaning “one who lives by a stream or brook.”
  • Lysander – Greek for “liberator,” and the name of a Spartan naval commander.
  • Nagisa – Japanese for “beach” or “shore.”
  • Beckett – Historical and rugged, after names like Lord Beckett of maritime lore.
  • Drake – For Sir Francis Drake, one of England’s most famous privateers.
  • Flint – For the legendary Captain Flint, a classic pirate name from “Treasure Island” fame.
  • Jasper – Vital and charismatic, works for both boys and girls.
  • Easton – English roots, meaning “east town.”
  • Jack – After Calico Jack, or simply the everyman pirate hero.
  • Cutter – A name with ship shape and pirate style.

Other Notable Pirate Boy Names

  • Adrian
  • Dax
  • Reef
  • Wade
  • Rowan
  • Greyson
  • Valor
  • Hawke
  • Rhett
  • Pierce
  • Storm
  • Tide
  • Zephyr

Funny Pirate Names

If a little humor or whimsy is what you seek for your next sea shanty, try these playful and punny pirate names that work for costumed fun, themed parties, or as a unique pet name:

  • Salty Sam
  • Bootleg Bonnie
  • Peg Leg Pete
  • Redbeard Rufus
  • Captain Scurvy
  • Stinky Boots Bill
  • Barnacle Belle
  • Mutiny Molly
  • Jolly Roger
  • Rum Runner Roy
  • Fishbones Freddy
  • Lobster Lucy
  • Sharkbait Sheila
  • Mack the Cutlass
  • Plank Walker Polly
  • Swashbuckle Sid

Famous and Historical Pirate Names

Some pirate names come straight from history and folklore, associated with infamous seafarers who roamed the world’s oceans, from the Caribbean to China:

  • Anne Bonny – One of the most famous female pirates of the Caribbean.
  • Blackbeard (Edward Teach) – Feared English pirate known for his thick black beard.
  • Calico Jack (John Rackham) – Notorious for his flag design and partnership with Anne Bonny and Mary Read.
  • Mary Read – Another notable woman pirate with an extraordinary backstory.
  • Bartholomew Roberts – Also known as Black Bart, a legendary pirate with a record haul of prizes.
  • Ching Shih (Zheng Yi Sao) – Born Shi Xianggu; led one of the largest pirate fleets in history in early 19th century China.
  • Sir Francis Drake – Esteemed as a privateer and national hero, though still considered a pirate by rivals.
  • Long John Silver – Iconic fictional pirate from Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic “Treasure Island.”
  • Captain Kidd – Scottish privateer and pirate whose legend continues.

Pirate Names for Pets

Got a mischievous cat, daring dog, or feathered companion? Pirate Pet Names are playful, quirky, and great for adding some character to your furry or feathered friends:

  • Captain Claws (for a cat)
  • Blackjack
  • Galleon
  • Buccaneer
  • Rum
  • Whiskers (for a parrot or small animal)
  • Jib
  • Booty
  • Patches
  • Coconut
  • Scallywag
  • Cutlass
  • Bubbles
  • Tide

Pirate Ship Name Ideas

The ship can be just as important as its captain! Here are iconic and creative pirate ship names for playful stories and costume parties:

  • The Black Pearl
  • The Queen Anne’s Revenge
  • The Jolly Roger
  • The Sea Serpent
  • The Salty Dog
  • The Silent Siren
  • The Marauder
  • The Bloody Cutlass
  • The Stormy Petrel
  • The Golden Galleon
  • The Kraken’s Wake

Unisex Pirate Names

Looking for a name that fits a boy, girl, or any character? These unisex names have universal pirate appeal:

  • Rowan
  • Dorian
  • Reese
  • Jules
  • Wren
  • Cruz
  • River
  • Riley
  • Parker
  • Dakota
  • Indigo
  • Sky

How to Choose a Pirate Name

Selecting a pirate name can be as simple or detailed as you wish! Here are some tips:

  • Decide on the tone: fierce, funny, classic, or modern?
  • Consider the meaning or origin—some names reference the sea, famous pirates, or elements like wind and water.
  • Blend first names with playful nicknames or ship terms for originality (e.g., “Stormy Jack,” “Ruby Waverider”).
  • Don’t be afraid to get creative and invent your own—for example, mash together words related to the sea, ships, or treasure.

Pirate Names by Theme and Origin

ThemeExamplesOrigin
HistoricalAnne Bonny, Calico Jack, BlackbeardReal-life pirates from the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia
NatureIsla, River, Storm, ReefNatural phenomena and bodies of water
FunnyPeg Leg Pete, Salty Sam, Mutiny MollyPuns, pirate lingo, and humor
MythologicalCalypso, SeleneFigures from legend and classic mythology
Unisex/ModernRowan, Dorian, IndigoContemporary names with pirate flair
Ship/SeafaringRemi, Beckett, Marina, CutterOccupational or nautical terms

Pirate Names in Pop Culture

Pirate names are immortalized in film, TV, books, and games. From Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” (Jack Sparrow, Will Turner, Elizabeth Swann) to classic literature like “Treasure Island” (Long John Silver, Captain Flint), and anime favorites like Nami from “One Piece,” these names keep the spirit of adventure alive across generations.

  • “Pirates of the Caribbean” – Jack Sparrow, Tia Dalma, Blackbeard
  • “Treasure Island” – Long John Silver, Billy Bones
  • “One Piece” – Nami, Luffy, Zoro
  • “Peter Pan” – Captain Hook, Smee
  • Board and video games – Blackbeard, Anne Bonny

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes a name sound like a pirate name?

A: Pirate names often evoke the sea, maritime life, or legendary pirates. They may sound rugged, adventurous, and can include nautical terms or alliteration for a memorable twist.

Q: Are there any real pirate names that became popular?

A: Yes, names like Anne Bonny, Blackbeard, and Calico Jack are based on real pirates whose stories have inspired countless adaptations in pop culture.

Q: How do I invent my own pirate name?

A: Combine words relating to the sea, personality traits, or famous pirate terms—try mixing in references to weather, animals, or colors (example: “Stormy Bluebeard”).

Q: Can pirate names be used for pets or characters?

A: Absolutely! Pirate names make for playful, strong, or humorous options for pets, characters in games, or even as creative nicknames among friends.

Q: Are there any famous female pirates?

A: Indeed. Anne Bonny and Mary Read are legendary, while Ching Shih led one of the world’s largest pirate fleets. Modern media also introduces adventurous fictional heroines.

Q: What is a good pirate ship name?

A: The most iconic is “The Black Pearl.” Others include “Queen Anne’s Revenge,” “The Golden Galleon,” and “Kraken’s Wake.” Feel free to invent your own!

Q: Why are pirate names so popular?

A: Pirate names channel adventure, rebellion, and the romance of the unknown, making them irresistible for storytelling, play, and creative endeavors.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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