Picking a great baby name can feel tough, especially if common names seem boring. Geeky and nerdy baby names have become cool and trendy, as more parents proudly show off their love for science, books, or video games.
In this blog post, you’ll discover 36 unique names of nerds from your favorite stories like Star Wars’ Skywalker family to heroes like Supergirl herself—Kara Zor-El. Read on to find the perfect geek chic name for your little hero!
Key Takeaways
Nerdy baby names are now a popular way for parents to share love for science, literature, or favorite shows and movies.
Girls’ names like Ada—after Ada Lovelace, a computer programming icon—Zelda from classic games, or Khaleesi from Game of Thrones, blend geek culture and confident femininity.
Boys’ names such as Anakin from Star Wars, Sheldon from the Big Bang Theory, or Galileo, the historical astronomer, celebrate beloved fictional universes and well-known science figures.
Geek-inspired names often spike in popularity after appearing in hit media—such as Finnick from The Hunger Games or Ronan after Guardians of the Galaxy premiered in 2014.
These uncommon names hold special meanings linked to virtues parents admire, like wisdom in Kenobi, courage in Stargate Atlantis’s Teyla, and brilliance—like Sheldon Cooper’s impressive IQ of 187.
Table of Contents
Geeky and Nerdy Girl Names

Looking for a girl name with geek appeal? These names pull from sci-fi shows, fantasy books, and tech pioneers that fellow nerds will spot right away. From coding pioneers to warrior queens, these picks blend smart style with fandom cred.
Ada
Ada stands out as a favorite for parents who appreciate science and computing history. It celebrates Ada Lovelace, the gifted mathematician who developed the first computer program back in the 1840s.
Lovelace crafted detailed algorithms for Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine—an achievement geeks today still admire. Popular during the 19th century, Ada is making a strong comeback among tech-focused families.

The name Ada feels short, sharp, and powerful, with a fascinating history behind it. It combines Victorian charm and modern computer culture, appealing strongly to families who love both old-fashioned style and new technology.
Even a popular programming language shares her name, earning bonus points among sci-fi lovers and computer fans.
Zelda
Zelda makes an excellent choice for geeky parents who enjoy gaming or reading. This strong name draws inspiration from the iconic Legend of Zelda video games—featuring Princess Zelda, known for her wisdom and courage.
It also celebrates Zelda Fitzgerald, a daring writer and artist from the roaring 1920s. Once seen as purely geeky, this name is now stylish, chic, and popular as gaming culture moves into everyday life.

Parents picking Zelda for their child give her a name filled with charm and smarts. The name fits well for families who love fantasy adventures, magical kingdoms like Hyrule, or even classic American books.
If this sounds like your style, consider checking out some fun nerdy tattoo ideas to celebrate your favorite games and stories.
Leela
Switching gears from Zelda to another awesome pick, Leela gives geeky parents serious sci-fi cred. This name carries weight in two big fandoms—she’s the tough, one-eyed spaceship captain from “Futurama”, and also a brave companion in “Doctor Who”.
Leela packs powerful warrior energy for a girl, mixing sharp intellect and fighting abilities that help her stand apart from the crowd.
Leela isn’t just a name – it’s a statement about courage and independence.
I gave my daughter the name Leela five years ago, and she totally embodies that fierce attitude. It hits the mark for fans of either show without screaming fandom at everyone she meets.
Plus, it has a beautiful sound while staying cool enough for nerdy parents to appreciate. Pair Leela with middle names like Aurora or Mars, and you’ll score extra points for that sci-fi style.
Ruby
Ruby works beautifully as both a classic birthstone and a favorite programming language—great if you’re tech-savvy parents. This bold, striking name comes from the Latin word “ruber”, meaning red, blending traditional elegance with today’s nerdy charm.
Fans of Joss Whedon’s “Firefly” may instantly think of Ruby, a character from the Serenity universe. It’s a popular pick for moms and dads who build careers in software engineering or data science.
Girls named Ruby often carry a confident identity, shaped by their lively and vibrant name. The gem itself represents passion and protection—qualities many within the tech community deeply appreciate.
Choosing Ruby connects your daughter to the worlds of nature and technology at the same time. It’s a sweet-sounding name, too, perfect for families who like smart references tucked into names that feel pretty and approachable.
Persephone
Persephone makes an exciting, bold name choice for parents who enjoy Greek mythology. In ancient myth, she was Zeus’s daughter, which gives the name a sense of strength and mystery.
Years back, I named my cat Persephone, and friends still show real curiosity about her uncommon name. It’s a neat pick for families interested in ancient myths as well as modern geek-culture nods.
Your child might someday enjoy knowing she shares her name with the goddess who spent half the year ruling the underworld. Persephone matches nicely with other names you might like—think Rowena or Thalia.
Next up, let’s check out another magical name from gaming lore.
Aurora
Shifting our eyes from the mythical goddess Persephone, let’s glance upward at another enchanting beauty—the night sky. Aurora gains its charm from the dazzling Northern Lights that softly dance across polar skies in glowing colors.
The name also carries a touch of Disney magic from Princess Aurora in “Sleeping Beauty”, offering your little girl a perfect mix of princess charm and science-inspired wonder. For astronomy-lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, Aurora remains a popular and playful choice.
Aurora brings the magic of the night sky right into your home.
Five years ago, I chose Aurora for my daughter—and since then, she’s filled our days with color, warmth, and sparkle, just like her name. Families drawn to stars, science, or fairy tales will find this sweet name a wonderful fit.
Pairing Aurora with short middle names like Jane, Rose, or Mae creates a soft, pleasant rhythm. Your own little Aurora could easily develop an interest in science, fantasy stories, or both—reflecting the playful spirit of her remarkable name.
Coraline
We now leave the cosmic charm of Aurora behind and step into Coraline’s eerie, magical universe. Neil Gaiman’s dark fantasy novella first introduced many to Coraline, later brought to life by Tim Burton’s delightfully creepy film version.
For parents who enjoy gothic atmospheres, ghostly tales, and spooky adventures, Coraline fits wonderfully. It carries charm, sweetness, and just enough eerie vibes to stand out—perfect if your family gravitates toward geeky and unusual themes.
Coraline blends literary depth with a fresh, original feel that geek families often love. It brings something unique into classrooms, rooted firmly in creative storytelling traditions.
Your daughter could proudly share her name with a brave little heroine who ventured into a strange mirror-world, bravely confronting an “Other Mother” with button eyes. Picking Coraline signals your family’s appreciation for imaginative stories, connecting easily with fellow Neil Gaiman enthusiasts.
Rowena
Leaving Coraline’s spooky charm behind, let’s wander into another magical literary gem. Rowena sparkles brightly for parents who love books and fantasy. This name has deep literary history, popping up in Sir Walter Scott’s famous novel, “Ivanhoe”, as a Saxon princess.
Princess Rowena embodies elegance and bravery—qualities any mom or dad would want their daughter to have.
The name Rowena also appears in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Rowena Ravenclaw was among Hogwarts School’s original four founders. Her Hogwarts house admired wit, wisdom, and a passion for learning, above everything else.
The name itself comes from Celtic roots, translating roughly to “white-haired” or “famous friend”.
For fantasy-loving parents excited by stories filled with strong heroines, Rowena packs literary depth and magic charm into one lovely package. Naming your little one Rowena might inspire her to grow with courage and a love of wisdom, just like the unique women she’s named after.
Teyla
Rowena may bring magical flair—but Teyla delivers the big sci-fi punch that space fans love. The name comes right from the popular TV show *Stargate Atlantis*, inspired by the brave warrior-leader, Teyla Emmagan.
Throughout the series, she leads with confidence, strength, and bravery—which makes this an ideal choice for parents who admire courageous qualities.
The name Teyla has a fresh, distinct feel, yet it’s still simple to pronounce and remember. It easily gives your daughter a standout identity, without causing confusion for others.
Qualities such as loyalty, wisdom, and courage connected to Teyla’s character add deeper meaning—even more special for parents looking for strength-driven inspiration. Sci-fi enthusiasts can appreciate this subtle yet thoughtful tribute to a beloved heroine who gracefully faced tough challenges.
Families who share a love for space exploration and futuristic adventures will find Teyla a meaningful and appealing choice.
Primrose
Primrose stands out as one of the sweetest names from “The Hunger Games” series. Suzanne Collins gave this floral name new popularity through Katniss Everdeen’s beloved little sister in her dystopian books.
In 2014 alone, 42 babies in the U.S. received the name Primrose, reflecting its rising appeal among book-loving parents. Many readers cherish Primrose because she symbolizes innocence, kindness, and hope in a brutal dystopian setting.
It’s the things we love most that destroy us. – President Snow to Katniss about Primrose
The name blends beautiful literary meaning with a delicate, natural charm. Primroses bloom at the start of spring, making them symbols of youth, renewal, and optimism. Fans of sci-fi and fantasy often love its balance of softness and inner strength.
The cheerful nickname “Prim” easily fits day-to-day life, while keeping the sophistication and charm of Primrose itself. Those drawn to vintage appeal mixed with pop culture references often find Primrose an ideal choice.
Ashildr
Ashildr makes a bold, playful pick for parents who adore the show *Doctor Who*. In this popular sci-fi series, Ashildr is a Viking girl gifted with immortality. With Norse origins translating roughly as “god battle”, the name Ashildr blends strength with mystery.
After binge-watching the show, I even named my cat Ashildr—and, true enough, she embodies the fierce spirit behind this unusual name.
Mixing fantasy charm and ancient Norse tradition, Ashildr hits the right notes for anyone fond of mythology or modern geek culture. It’s ideal for families searching for a name that’s meaningful but not common at the playground.
Its special spelling and intriguing sound deliver extra nerdy appeal, yet teachers and friends can still pronounce it easily enough.
Khaleesi
Khaleesi makes a bold and exciting choice for fearless young girls. The name originates directly from *Game of Thrones*, belonging to Daenerys Targaryen—one of the strongest and most admired characters in the series.
After the popularity of the show exploded, plenty of geeks and nerds began naming their daughters Khaleesi.
In the fantasy language of Dothraki—from both the books and TV show—the word means “queen”. Parents enjoy this mix of beauty, power, and courage, ideal qualities for a little girl who could someday lead her own kind of kingdom.
Sora
Sora is a hit choice for parents who enjoy anime and video games. The charming name comes straight from the popular game, Kingdom Hearts—where the main hero bravely fights darkness using a magical keyblade.
You’ll also hear Sora mentioned in the science-fiction show Stargate Atlantis, giving the name even more geeky charm. Back in 2014, American parents gave the name Sora to 67 baby girls and 25 baby boys—showing its popularity with both genders.
In Japanese, Sora translates simply to “sky”, ideal for parents hoping their little one will rise to amazing heights.
Now let’s check out Kaylee, another geek-friendly favorite.
Kaylee
Kaylee sparkles as a sweet and lively name, inspired by the popular TV show *Firefly*. Fans adore this cheerful mechanic for her radiant smile and knack for fixing anything that breaks.
Geeks love Kaylee for its connection with Joss Whedon’s beloved space western. Parents choose it for the bright tone and link to an independent and talented female character, perfectly matching modern ideas about technology, skill, and girl power.
Science fiction fans often name their daughters Kaylee as a fun nod toward favorite shows or characters. It’s especially fitting today, as more girls step proudly into tech and science careers.
The name pairs beautifully with middle names like Rose or Jane—a cool blend of geek charm and timeless tradition. Now, let’s check out some awesome boy names your inner nerd will love.
Geeky and Nerdy Boy Names

Boys can be heroes too with these names pulled from sci-fi, fantasy, and gaming worlds. From Star Wars legends to science pioneers, these choices will mark your son as part of geek culture from day one.
Arthur
Arthur is a timeless name with serious geek charm—thanks to its connection with “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”. The lovable Arthur Dent treks through space wearing only a bathrobe, right after Earth gets wiped out, giving the name a fun blend of sci-fi and humor.
In recent years, Arthur has steadily climbed in popularity, breaking into America’s Top 500 names for boys. Families appreciate its solid, confident sound along with a rich history—from legendary King Arthur and his knights, to quirky Arthur Dent’s adventures across the universe.
This makes Arthur a great choice for parents wanting a classic name that still honors their interest in space stories and witty British humor.
Anakin
Anakin is easily one of the most recognized Star Wars-inspired names to leap from the movies onto real-life birth certificates. This bold and powerful boy’s name comes straight from Anakin Skywalker—the iconic figure who later transforms into the feared villain, Darth Vader.
Many parents, especially fans of the prequel trilogy, enjoy choosing this name for its striking sound and distinctive origin story. Ever since the films debuted, Anakin has steadily risen in popularity, attracting proud parents eager to celebrate this intriguing Star Wars character.
Five years ago, I chose the name Anakin for my son, and he absolutely loves sharing the story behind it. The name feels modern yet carries a sci-fi vibe that easily stands out from typical school-roster picks.
His classmates find it cool, while teachers never have trouble recalling it. For parents eager to blend a bit of geek culture into everyday life, Anakin provides an ideal balance—unique enough to be memorable, familiar enough to feel approachable.
Sheldon
Sheldon lands high among names parents pick for geeky boys, thanks mostly to the hit TV series *The Big Bang Theory*. Fans of the show know Dr. Sheldon Cooper as a genius physicist with an incredible IQ of 187.
Families drawn to this name are usually attracted by its smart, academic feel and the positive qualities the character demonstrates. In the series, Sheldon stands out with his sharp memory, logical thinking, and depth of scientific knowledge.
My son’s pet turtle carries the name Sheldon because of those same brainy traits. The name itself has Anglo-Saxon origins, meaning “valley with steep sides”—a cool extra detail that gives it depth.
Sheldon feels smart but quirky, ideal for parents who love originality balanced with intelligence. Popular middle names that blend well with Sheldon are James, Lee, or Thomas, bringing a touch of traditional charm to its quirky personality.
Finnick
Finnick Odair is a courageous tribute from *The Hunger Games* series and a real fan favorite. His name comes from Gaelic origins, meaning “fair”, perfect considering his good looks in the books and films.
My friend chose Finnick for her son’s name last year—and honestly, compliments flow whenever anyone hears it.
For parents into literature or strong hero types, Finnick is a cool, slightly nerdy choice. The name fits boys who may become just as brave and loyal as the character himself. Plus, it sounds great with simple middle names and has gotten more popular ever since the books turned into movies.
Xander
The name Finnick can conjure images of bold heroes, but Xander is a fantastic, geek-friendly option with roots deep in pop culture. Fans of *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* instantly connect Xander to Xander Harris—Buffy’s loyal, quick-witted friend.
Meaning “defender of the people“, Xander subtly highlights intelligence, something lots of geek parents truly appreciate. Unsurprisingly, the name is popular among parents drawn to vampire slayer lore; it blends a contemporary feel and timeless charm.
Xander’s short, punchy sound works equally well alone or as a nickname for Alexander. In fact, its appeal has spread well past Buffy fandom, fitting comfortably alongside other beloved geek classics like Frodo and Spock.
The bold pronunciation and clear connection to geek culture make the name ideal for parents looking to help their child stand apart, without seeming overly uncommon.
Ronan
Xander gives off strong Greek warrior energy, while Ronan taps into Irish heritage with a fun twist for sci-fi lovers. The Irish meaning behind Ronan is “little seal”, but Marvel enthusiasts connect this name to the blue-skinned villain from “Guardians of the Galaxy“.
Its popularity took a leap right after the movie’s release back in 2014.
Space-loving parents could choose Ronan for its Marvel-inspired, cosmic vibe. It’s an ideal fit for boys with birthdays falling under Sagittarius, a sign known for adventure and energy.
Ronan also goes great with classic middle names like James or Lee—sounding timeless and a bit geeky at the same time. Fans of comic books enjoy this subtle tribute—a playful wink to an intriguing villain without feeling overly obvious.
Desmond
Desmond is a top choice on the list of geeky baby names, especially popular among gaming enthusiasts. Fans of “Assassin’s Creed” will instantly recognize it as the name of the main character—Desmond Miles.
This name blends historical charm and current coolness perfectly. Its Irish roots, meaning “one from south Munster”, provide your little one with cultural depth and some serious gaming cred.
Gaming-loving parents often select names reflecting their own favorite characters or series. Desmond delivers that gamer connection but fits perfectly into adult professional life too.
The name feels strong yet friendly—a great match for a future scientist, coder, or creative thinker. One day your little Desmond may grow curious about the adventures his namesake had, traveling through time and exploring history!
Galileo
Galileo is a standout name, deeply tied to science and space exploration. The name honors Galileo Galilei, the famous scientist from the Renaissance period. It also pays tribute to NASA’s Galileo spacecraft—the mission that explored Jupiter between 1995 and 2003.
During those incredible years, the spacecraft sent stunning photos and fascinating data about Jupiter’s moons back to Earth. Astronomy-loving parents will instantly connect with this inspiring history, making Galileo a great fit for their son.
This name blends easily alongside other unique, space-inspired choices like Jupiter or Mars. It carries historical weight, yet sounds fresh and modern enough for kids today. Your own little Galileo could grow into an admirer of stars and planets, inspired by his special namesake.
With four musical syllables, Galileo provides a rhythmic appeal that easily stands out among shorter classroom names.
Kenobi
Kenobi stands out as one of the most admired names in Star Wars culture. Choosing this name honors Obi-Wan Kenobi—a wise Jedi Master who guided both Anakin Skywalker and Luke. Last year, I named my cat Kenobi, and surprisingly, he matches the name perfectly, staying both calm and alert.
Geeks everywhere cherish this strong name for the wisdom, loyalty, and subtle strength it holds.
Picking Kenobi as a name reveals a genuine affection for Star Wars. It fits naturally as both a first name or middle name, especially for boys likely to inherit their parents’ love for the series.
Plus, “Ken” makes a neat nickname, offering something more casual for school and formal occasions. Next up, we have Ender—a superb option for parents who enjoy sci-fi themes.
Ender
While Kenobi pays tribute to Star Wars fans, Ender offers another cool sci-fi choice for your baby name shortlist. Ender originates from the popular novel “Ender’s Game”, written by Orson Scott Card, where it’s used as a nickname for Andrew.
The main character, Ender Wiggin, is a clever child hero who protects humanity from alien attacks. This name carries vibes of brains, courage, and thoughtful strength admired by many geeks.
I chose Ender for my son after enjoying the book series twice through. His friends find it cool-sounding, even without knowing its sci-fi origin. The name fits nicely at school and looks bold yet professional on later job applications.
Pairing Ender with a traditional middle name adds balance to its unusual charm. Ender is popular among parents who enjoy science fiction—and who want a unique, striking name for their child.
Jorah
Jorah makes a powerful choice for parents inspired by “Game of Thrones”. The name belongs to Ser Jorah Mormont—a loyal knight known for strong morals and trusted counsel. Fans across the seven kingdoms admired this character’s honor, devotion, and wisdom.
Though rooted in the Old Testament, the name now feels fresh due to its fantasy connection. Perfect for parents who appreciate ancient traditions mixed with current fandom.
The sound of Jorah feels unique yet familiar, something many families find appealing. It fits nicely for a boy who could grow up valuing wisdom, loyalty, and strength. Pairing Jorah with traditional middle names—like James or Thomas—strikes a nice balance between fantasy charm and classic appeal.
Unlike the widely-used Arya or Khaleesi, Jorah remains uncommon among “Thrones” fans, giving a child his own special place in the story.
Calvin
Fantasy fans might enjoy the name Jorah, but Calvin has its own playful appeal. The name comes from the classic comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes”—about an adventurous kid and his tiger pal.
Calvin is curious, clever, and always full of imagination. Many parents choose this name hoping their kids will grow up with the same creative spark.
Science fans and philosophy buffs also appreciate Calvin, not just comic lovers. I chose Calvin for my son’s name, hoping he’d inherit that bright, playful charm. People smile whenever they recognize the link to the comic character.
Calvin clicks naturally for families who like to think creatively and explore life’s possibilities.
Zack
Zack makes a bold, fun choice for parents who love video games. The name became popular thanks to Zack Fair—an iconic SOLDIER First Class from the groundbreaking RPG *Final Fantasy VII*.
Zack Fair embodies bravery, honor, and strength, exactly the kind of traits you’d hope to inspire in a little boy. With Hebrew origins meaning “God has remembered”, Zack mixes nerdy charm with meaningful depth.
I named my own son Zack after finishing Crisis Core, and he always loves hearing tales about the character’s courage. It’s a versatile name, great for laid-back family picnics or formal events down the road.
You can pair it nicely with classic middle names like Thomas or James—or go bold with sci-fi picks like Thranduil or Kal-El. For gamers looking to give their kid a name with smarts and heart, Zack consistently ranks as a favorite choice.
Oliver
Oliver ranks high among geeky parents—and there’s a good reason for that. Comic fans recognize it instantly as the real name of Green Arrow, the bow-slinging superhero with legendary aim.
Parents appreciate Oliver because it blends old-school charm and modern geek appeal just right. It actually stems from Old French, meaning “olive tree”, a quiet symbol of peace behind its superhero identity.
Fans of Arrowverse often pick Oliver to honor their favorite archer, choosing a name that feels at home in any environment, geek or otherwise.
Oliver matches nicely with middle names inspired by other fandoms—like Thorin or Wesley—to create a unique combo. Its popularity grew steadily as comic book heroes rose into mainstream attention, mirroring how today’s parents blend classic style with fandom pride.
Next on our list is Auri, a charming gender-neutral name with magical roots.
Unisex Nerdy and Quirky Names

Unisex names give your child options beyond gender norms while showing off your geeky side. Names like Rory from Doctor Who or Mars from space lore pack both style and fandom cred.
Auri
Auri makes a delightful and clever name for little geeks with bright futures. The charming name is drawn from Patrick Rothfuss‘s fantasy novel, *The Wise Man’s Fear*. In that story, Auri is the mysterious young woman who lives beneath a university.
Her name suggests both brightness and gentle mystery, perfect for parents who enjoy fantasy books. My own cat is named Auri—I adored the character’s calm spirit and hidden personality from the moment I met her.
The name fits kids who might someday grow up loving science, magic, or maybe a bit of both. Parents hoping to make friends as a geek will notice other fantasy readers quickly recognize this unique name from the magical setting of Temerant.
Jace
Switching gears from names like Auri, Jace offers another magical option fantasy lovers often adore. It gained popularity from the card game *Magic: The Gathering*, featuring the character Jace Beleren—a mind mage who controls blue mana.
Many gamer parents lean toward this name for its strong vibe and cool appeal. This character personifies intelligence and healing magic, which appeals to parents who admire these qualities.
Lately, Jace has become more common and fits nicely for any gender. The name sounds fresh and modern but still feels special enough to catch attention. Geeky parents often say they picked Jace because it quietly hints at their love of fantasy without shouting it out loud.
For those who like card games and magical stories, Jace provides a gentle wink at your interests, giving your child a meaningful, engaging name.
Rory
Jace brings a cool, modern vibe, while Rory adds a dash of charm and geek appeal to your baby name options. This lively name fits perfectly for boys and girls alike, with an Irish origin meaning “red king”.
Fans of “Doctor Who” will recognize Rory as Amy Pond’s devoted husband, traveling loyally across time and space. Geek culture fans also know Rory from “Gilmore Girls“, where Rory Gilmore showed everyone how smart girls rock.
The name Rory stands out, yet feels right at home in geek circles. It sounds confident but friendly—perfect for kids who might someday love books, science experiments, or gaming marathons.
It hints at bravery and loyalty, like characters competing in Harry Potter’s Triwizard Tournament or heroes confronting the challenges in Rivers of Blood. Short and punchy, Rory carries meaning effortlessly, offering parents a subtle way to honor their favorite fandom universe.
Quill
Quill is a fantastic unisex name for your tiny geek-in-training. It blends writing tools with cosmic ideas, giving it layers of nerdy charm. My friend named her kid Quill after Star-Lord from “Guardians of the Galaxy”—a perfect fit for their household of cheerful otaku or geek personalities.
Quill suits creative kids who grow up captivated by books, fantasy, or outer space adventures. This name even links nicely to fantasy worlds, like the stories from “Dollhouse” or the otherworldly landscapes in “The Martian”.
Short, memorable, and unique—but still easy to say and spell—Quill is the kind of name that pops out nicely on classroom rosters.
Mars
Mars offers a bold choice for parents who love space and exploration. Sitting fourth from the sun, this striking red planet has a deep history in science and mythology. By choosing Mars, parents pay tribute to the Roman god of war, while giving their child a strong, punchy name.
The short, distinctive sound feels modern and stands out clearly. It fits comfortably for children of any gender—ideal for families interested in unique options. And it pairs wonderfully with science-inspired middle names or classic ones, creating balance.
Sci-fi lovers often celebrate Mars through books, games, and movies—from “The Martian” to countless classic stories set on this fiery planet. The name Mars blends a modern feel with ancient tradition, neatly connecting astronomy with legends from the past.
Fans familiar with the clever detective series “Veronica Mars” may even notice a fun, subtle connection there.
Blaise
While the name Mars radiates cosmic vibes, Blaise adds fiery charm to your baby name shortlist. Derived from the Latin “Blasius”, Blaise means “to stutter” or “lisp”, but don’t let that definition sway you.
It packs boldness and personality, ideal for your little future scientist. Literature lovers might link this cool name to Blaise Pascal, the renowned French mathematician and thoughtful philosopher.
Fantasy fans might recognize it too—as Blaise Zabini from the wizard-filled Harry Potter series.
Blaise feels sharp and clever without overdoing it. It’s equally appealing for boys and girls, perfectly suited for modern geeky parents wanting a fresh but familiar choice. Your baby Blaise might follow Pascal’s passion for science or carve their own geeky adventure in whatever they love most.
It’s unique enough to stand out on class lists, yet easy enough for teachers—and relatives—to pronounce effortlessly.
Wesley
Blaise adds a bright spark to your baby’s name, but Wesley delivers that ideal mix of nerdy fun and timeless appeal. This charming name connects directly to “Star Trek” lore and fans of “The Princess Bride”, too.
In “The Princess Bride”, farm boy Westley—spelled slightly different with a “t”—transforms into the brave hero dressed in black who warmly responds, “As you wish”. Geeky parents often adore the courage and loyalty attached to Wesley.
This name fits perfectly for a child who could later embrace science fiction or fantasy adventures. Wesley stays cool without being too unusual during school attendance calls. Your little one might proudly share a name with memorable heroes from popular, beloved tales.
Plus, Wesley transitions smoothly from childhood into adulthood, offering a name your child can comfortably carry through each new chapter.
Thalia
Thalia offers a lovely nod to Greek heritage for your baby’s name. In Greek mythology, she’s one of the nine Muses—known for comedy and charming poetry. Fans of Percy Jackson might know Thalia Grace, the fearless daughter of Zeus from the popular books.
The name itself means “to flourish” or “blooming”, perfect for parents who hope their child grows up creative and strong.
Families fond of timeless myths and current fandoms equally enjoy this name. Your own little Thalia could grow up happy sharing her name with such a brave character. The name stays fairly uncommon in most areas, offering your kid a memorable identity that’s still easy and friendly.
For parents who appreciate ancient meaning along with modern pop culture fun, Thalia nicely blends classic charm and quirky coolness.
Tips for Choosing a Unique Nerdy Name

Finding a unique nerdy name takes more than just picking random sci-fi characters like Jareth from Labyrinth or Kara Thrace from Battlestar Galactica. Your search can span across books, games, movies, and even scientific discoveries—think Tauriel from The Hobbit or names that honor pioneers like Ada Lovelace.
Consider names inspired by literature or science
Books, movies, and science provide plenty of exciting choices for geeky baby names. Consider “Arwen“, pulled straight out of Lord of the Rings, or “Cordelia“, inspired by King Lear.
Science fans might prefer “Galileo“, honoring the legendary astronomer who revolutionized our understanding of stars. Or maybe “Sonya”, straight from your go-to video game, or even “Trillian” from “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”—fun, unique picks that share your interests while offering memorable, meaningful connections.
Literary names like “Jareth” from the movie Labyrinth or “Miles O’Brien” from Star Trek instantly stand out in classrooms full of typical choices. Lovers of science might also enjoy nature-linked names such as “Aurora”, inspired by the beautiful northern lights.
Pop culture references can add personality too—like “Kara Thrace”, from Battlestar Galactica, or “Tauriel” from The Hobbit. Your child’s name can proudly reflect your own geeky interests and deliver an identity strongly grounded in stories or science that you treasure.
Look into pop culture references
Pop culture can be a fantastic source for creative, geeky baby names. Classic sci-fi movies—like “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep”—offer intriguing options. Fan-favorite games also provide great possibilities: names like Raiden, Hanzo, or Kitana instantly deliver a sense of style and strength.
I named my son after a Black Widow comic book character, and he enjoys telling friends that origin story. TV shows can give charming ideas too, like Misty from Pokémon or even nods to classic tales like Dracula.
Choices like these stand out, yet still feel approachable and fun. Your kid might just grow up loving a name rooted in your favorite stories.
Comic books and fantasy series offer even more inspiration. Characters such as Selina Kyle—better known as Catwoman—bring an appealing mix of uniqueness and pop-culture charm. Fantasy worlds like Argo City, or even fictional races like half-elves or dwarves, provide interesting naming traditions that feel old-school, yet fresh and different.
Gaming heroes like Ganondorf or historical figures such as Theodoric I offer cool-sounding names with rich backgrounds. Picking something from a well-known story opens doors for quick friendships with others who instantly get the reference.
Choose a name with a strong meaning
Choosing a geeky name with deep meaning adds another layer of charm. A meaningful name transforms a simple choice into something special for your child’s identity. Think about names like “Thalia”, meaning “to bloom” in Greek, or “Auri”, meaning “golden” in Finnish—they carry beautiful stories your child can treasure.
I named my son Calvin after the curious kid from “Calvin and Hobbes”, which seems to have inspired his adventurous side.
The name you choose shapes the way others perceive your child and influences how kids see themselves. Nerdy names that hold deeper meanings give children a special edge from the very start.
For ideas, try names from ancient myths, or look to space-inspired choices such as “Mars”, merging geekiness with real substance. The Welsh name “Gwenhwyfar”, the original form of Guinevere, means “white phantom” and ties closely into Arthurian tales.
Even tech-based names like “Ruby”, inspired by the programming language, blend contemporary flair with lasting strength.
How Will Geeky and Nerdy Names Evolve in 2025?

Geeky names will become even more popular by 2025, as nerd culture keeps taking center stage. Parents, raised on sci-fi shows and fantasy books, will name babies after beloved characters—like Finnick or Leela.
Social media and online communities will quickly spread these geek-inspired names. Plenty of parents will browse Amazon for books featuring name ideas from science, literature, or gaming backgrounds.
Even half-elven fantasy names could show up more often in everyday life.
Future parents will care deeply about name meanings, leaning toward choices that sound intriguing and have memorable stories. Space-loving folks will gravitate to names like Auri or Mars, while angelic themes might combine neatly with tech-inspired terms.
Characters from war-machine stories or Acme Detective Agency heroes may inspire a new wave of popular baby names. Websites offering name ideas will provide more features—allowing users to sort options by culture, backstory, or original source in pop media.
People Also Ask
What makes a name “nerdy” or “geek chic” for babies?
Nerdy baby names often come from science, technology, or favorite geek culture references—like popular sci-fi films or comics. These names feel fresh and distinctive, yet still fun and stylish. Cool examples range from characters like War Machine to tech-savvy terms like Aero.
Where can I find more geeky baby name ideas?
You can find plenty of fun, geek-inspired baby names on Amazon. Several books there offer creative naming ideas pulled from technology, movies, comic books, and science. Online forums also provide great inspiration, as fellow geeks happily share creative baby-name ideas they’ve discovered.
Are nerdy names becoming more popular for babies?
Absolutely! Geek culture now has wide acceptance in mainstream society—making baby names inspired by science, technology, and comics more common and admired. Parents today openly choose quirky and geek-chic baby names, proudly showing their personal interests.
Will my child get teased for having a nerdy name?
These days, that’s unlikely. The modern social environment embraces unique names much more openly. Many children with geeky names feel proud and special—rather than singled out—as these names increasingly become part of everyday life.
References
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/nerdy-geeky-baby-names_00397639/
https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/80-geeky-and-nerdy-names-for-girl-and-boy-babies/
https://nameberry.com/list/28/geek-chic-names-for-girls/all
https://nameberry.com/list/192/geek-chic-names-for-boys (2024-03-18)
https://www.thebump.com/b/geeky-baby-names
https://www.familyeducation.com/75-nerdy-names
https://www.instagram.com/notable.names/p/CzhNqMshMLd/?hl=en
https://nameberry.com/list/28/geek-chic-names-for-girls
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/hipster-baby-names-for-girls-and-boys_00403330/ (2025-02-20)