Moon Names Around the World: A Global Guide to Lunar Nicknames

Updated: January 31, 2026

Oh, the joy of naming your little one! 🌟 It's a journey of love, dreams, and infinite possibilities, especially when you're drawn to the celestial magic of moon names from across the globe. These names carry whispers of ancient myths and the soft glow of the night sky, bestowing a profound sense of wonder. Now, imagine completing that cosmic tapestry with a middle name that shines just as brightly, adding depth, harmony, and a unique sparkle to their identity. It’s an opportunity to weave an even richer story for your precious moonbeam, a name that will guide and inspire them throughout their life's beautiful orbit. ✨

Introduction 🌟

The moon, a constant presence in our night sky, has inspired countless myths and legends. Different cultures have assigned unique names to it, often tied to agricultural cycles, seasonal changes, or spiritual beliefs. Let's embark on a journey to discover some of these captivating lunar nicknames!

Common Moon Names and Their Meanings 🌙

Here's a list of moon names from various cultures, along with their meanings and origins:

  • Luna (Roman): Derived from the Latin word for 'moon'. It represents the Roman goddess of the moon.
  • Selene (Greek): The Greek goddess of the moon, often depicted driving a lunar chariot across the sky.
  • Chang'e (Chinese): The Chinese moon goddess, known for her beauty and grace. Legend says she lives on the moon with a jade rabbit.
  • Tsukuyomi (Japanese): The Japanese moon god, associated with calmness and serenity.
  • Indu (Sanskrit/Hindi): A common name for the moon in India, often associated with nectar and immortality.
  • 月亮 (Yuèliàng) (Mandarin Chinese): Simply translates to 'moon'.
  • Mwezi (Swahili): The Swahili word for 'moon'.
  • Qamar (Arabic): The Arabic word for 'moon', often used in poetry and literature.
  • Isabelle (French): While not a direct translation, it is related to the goddess Isis and means "pledged to God" and has become a popular moon name.

Full Moon Names from Native American Cultures 🌕

Many Native American tribes have names for each full moon of the year, often reflecting seasonal changes and activities:

  • Wolf Moon (January): Named because wolves howl more frequently during this time of year.
  • Snow Moon (February): Signifies the heavy snowfalls that typically occur in February.
  • Worm Moon (March): Indicates the emergence of earthworms as the ground thaws.
  • Pink Moon (April): Named after the pink phlox flowers that bloom in spring.
  • Flower Moon (May): Represents the abundance of flowers during this month.
  • Strawberry Moon (June): Signifies the ripening of strawberries.
  • Buck Moon (July): Named after the new antlers that grow on buck deer.
  • Sturgeon Moon (August): Indicates the best time to catch sturgeon.
  • Harvest Moon (September): Provides extra light for harvesting crops.
  • Hunter's Moon (October): Signifies the time to hunt and prepare for winter.
  • Beaver Moon (November): Named after the beavers who are actively building their dams in preparation for winter.
  • Cold Moon (December): Represents the cold temperatures of winter.

Conclusion ✨

From Luna to Chang'e, the moon's diverse names reflect the rich cultural heritage of humanity. Each name carries a story, a tradition, and a unique perspective on our celestial neighbor. Exploring these lunar nicknames offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse ways people around the world have connected with the moon throughout history. Understanding these names enriches our appreciation for the night sky and the stories it holds.