Love is one of the most powerful emotions in the world, so it’s no surprise that many parents look for baby names that carry this beautiful meaning. Whether you want your baby’s name to reflect deep affection, a romantic story, or simply a connection to the idea of love, you’re not alone. Names that mean love can be a lovely choice—not just for their meaning but also for the warmth they bring.
In this post, we’re diving into baby names that mean love—from sweet and romantic to bold and timeless. Whether you’re expecting a little girl, boy, or you’re planning ahead, you’re about to discover a list of name ideas that capture all the feelings that come with love. Ready to fall head over heels for some name inspiration? Let’s get started.
Why Choose a Name That Means Love?
Think about it. Every time you say your child’s name, you’re reminded of something meaningful. A name that symbolizes love is like wrapping your baby in a hug—every single day. It’s comforting, heartfelt, and carries a sense of warmth and positivity.
Plus, these names often have rich backgrounds, spanning different languages and cultures. That means you’re not just picking a name; you’re choosing a story.
Beautiful Girl Names That Mean Love
Looking for a sweet and elegant name for your baby girl? Here are some gorgeous girl names that mean love or have strong connections to themes of affection and warmth.
- Esme – This charming French name means “beloved.” It’s short, elegant, and gaining popularity thanks to its romantic sound.
- Amara – A name with roots in several languages, including Latin and Igbo. In Latin, it often translates to “lovely” or “grace.”
- Carys – Of Welsh origin, Carys literally translates to “love.” It’s lyrical and underused, making it a beautiful, unique choice.
- Mila – Slavic in origin, Mila means “gracious” or “dear.” It’s simple yet full of warmth and emotion.
- Priya – This lovely Indian name means “beloved” or “dear one.” It’s common in South Asian cultures and has a soothing sound.
- Kerensa – A rare Cornish name that also means “love.” If you’re looking for something unusual, Kerensa might be just right.
Can you picture calling your daughter by a name that literally means love? It’s like expressing your affection every time you speak her name.
Strong and Sweet Boy Names That Mean Love
Boys deserve affectionate, meaningful names too! Here are some boy names that mean love or are associated with loving traits.
- David – A timeless classic with Hebrew origins, this name means “beloved.” Plus, it’s strong and full of history.
- Connelly – An Irish surname turned first name, Connelly means “love and friendship.” It has a soft and friendly sound.
- Amadeus – Made famous by the classical composer Mozart, Amadeus is Latin and means “lover of God.” It’s bold and dramatic, yet deeply meaningful.
- Rasmus – Short for Erasmus, this name is Greek and means “beloved” or “desired.” It’s unique and a great pick if you want something different.
- Lennan – This Irish name means “lover” or “sweetheart.” Sounds a bit like Lennon, giving it a cool and modern twist.
- Theophilus – A strong biblical name that means “loved by God.” It’s uncommon, but full of character and history.
Some of these names are unusual, which makes them perfect for parents who want their son to stand out while still carrying a heartfelt name.
Gender-Neutral Names That Mean Love
In today’s world, more parents are choosing unisex names. So if you’re looking for a name that works for any gender—and still holds the meaning of love—check out these picks.
- Love – It might seem simple, but it’s unforgettable. Some parents choose Love as a middle name for poetic impact.
- Amani – Meaning “peace” and sometimes interpreted as “love” in Arabic. It’s soft, lyrical, and works beautifully for any child.
- Jesse – Though it’s more common for boys, Jesse can also be used for girls. It comes from the Hebrew word for “gift,” often linked to “gift of love.”
- Ren – A short and sweet name of Japanese origin, Ren can mean “lotus” (a symbol of purity and love) depending on the kanji used.
- Ari – This name pops up in many cultures. In Hebrew, it means “lion,” but it’s often linked to passion and power in love and life.
Gender-neutral names are flexible and modern while still bounding with loving energy.
Want to Add a Romantic Twist? Try These Middle Name Ideas
If you’re not ready to commit to a love-themed first name, why not consider it as a middle name? Middle names offer a perfect spot to honor a value or emotion without making it the main identity.
Here are a few romantic middle name ideas:
- Rose – Symbolic of beauty and love in many cultures.
- Valentina – Inspired by the Roman saint associated with Valentine’s Day, love, and devotion.
- Romeo – Yes, it’s Shakespearean and dramatic, but also heartfelt and memorable.
- Grace – Gentle and connected to concepts of kindness and affection.
- Heart – Not a traditional name, but it can be deeply symbolic when used thoughtfully.
Playing around with middle names allows you to be creative and sentimental—all in one go.
Thinking Ahead: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Baby Name
Choosing a baby name is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—parts of preparing for a new arrival. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision:
- Say it out loud – Does it sound good with your last name? Does it flow naturally?
- Think long-term – Picture your child as an adult with this name. Does it still feel right?
- Check the initials – Avoid any unfortunate acronyms by checking what the initials spell out.
- Look into the cultural meaning – Some names have different meanings across cultures. Make sure the name expresses exactly what you want it to.
Many parents keep a running list throughout the pregnancy, trying names out one by one until one just “feels right.” Don’t rush—sometimes the perfect name takes a little time to reveal itself.
Final Thoughts
When you choose a name that means love, you’re giving your child more than just a label. You’re giving them a lifelong reminder of how much they’re cherished. Whether you go with a traditional choice like David or Esme, or a bold pick like Amadeus or Kerensa, the meaning behind the name is what truly makes it shine.
Names are like little gifts we give our children at birth—ones they’ll carry with them always. If that gift holds the power of love? Even better.
So, have you found your favorite love-inspired name yet? Or are you torn between a few great options? Either way, take your time, follow your heart, and choose something that feels true to you. Because when it comes to baby names, nothing says “I love you” like… well, a name that literally means love.
