You want a fierce, bold, meaningful name for your little one, something with strength, spirit, and a touch of the wild. Tiger-inspired baby names carry courage, confidence, and protective energy, making them perfect for a child who already feels powerful before they’re even born.
A tiger name doesn’t just sound strong. It feels strong. It’s a name a child grows into, a name that radiates bravery, independence, and a spark of wild curiosity. Whether you’re drawn to mythology, nature, culture, or symbolism, tiger names offer depth and personality without ever feeling overused.
Here are 22 tiger-themed baby names with meaning, history, and heart.
Why Choose a Tiger Name?
Tigers symbolize power, courage, grace, and resilience across cultures. They’re admired for their independence, their quiet strength, and their ability to protect what matters most.
Choosing a tiger-inspired baby name is perfect if you want:
- a name that encourages confidence
- a name with cultural meaning
- something uncommon but powerful
- a symbolic connection to courage and resilience
- a strong identity your child can grow into
In many cultures, children named after tigers are believed to inherit protection, sharp intuition, and strong will. These names also tend to age beautifully, fierce for a child, dignified for an adult.
Strong Tiger Names With Full Meanings
Tigran (Boy)
Tigran is an Armenian name meaning “like a tiger.” It carries centuries of history, tied to ancient Armenian kings and warriors known for strategy, courage, and determination.
A child named Tigran often grows into someone confident, steady, and protective of family. The name balances strength and elegance, a perfect reflection of the tiger itself. It’s classic, powerful, and culturally rich without feeling old-fashioned.
Liang (Unisex)
“Liang” is a Chinese name meaning bright, excellent, or shining, symbolizing the keen awareness and intelligence of a tiger. Short, lyrical, and easy to pronounce across languages, Liang works beautifully for both boys and girls.
It’s the kind of name that grows with a child, playful in early years, graceful and stylish in adulthood. If you want a unisex tiger name that feels modern but rooted in tradition, Liang is a beautiful option.
Torin (Boy)
From Gaelic roots meaning “chief” or “chief tiger,” Torin is a bold, self-assured name for a child destined to lead. It carries a rugged beauty, inspired by Irish landscapes and Celtic mythology.
A little Torin may naturally take charge in group settings, show curiosity, and gravitate toward adventure. The name feels strong without being harsh, and familiar without being common.
Tigris (Girl)
Tigris is Latin for “tiger” and also the name of one of the great rivers of the ancient world. It’s striking, feminine, rare, and poetic. Few names combine elegance and fierceness this naturally.
A girl named Tigris carries an air of mystery, independence, and natural confidence. It’s a name that stands beautifully on its own, bold, flowing, unforgettable.
Tygo (Boy)
Tygo is a Frisian name meaning “tiger.” Sharp, modern, short, punchy, it has a rhythmic sound that feels energetic and contemporary.
It’s perfect for parents wanting a unique name that sounds cool without losing cultural depth. Tygo is lively, upbeat, and strong, fitting a child with fiery energy and a bold personality.
Hemant (Boy)
Hemant is a Sanskrit name meaning “golden tiger.” Warm, earthy, and full of poetic symbolism, this name connects a child to nature, tradition, and inner strength.
Children named Hemant often grow into patient, thoughtful people with quiet determination. If you want a name with cultural richness and deep meaning, Hemant is a truly beautiful choice.
Hob (Boy)
Hob is an Anglo-Saxon name meaning “bright with fame” and sometimes interpreted as “bright as a tiger.” Short, vintage, and undeniably charming, Hob is a rare name ready for revival.
It carries an adventurous, mischievous feel, perfect for a curious, energetic child who lights up every room.
Harimau (Boy)
Harimau is the Malaysian word for “tiger.” Exotic, powerful, and unmistakably bold, this name is ideal for parents wanting something dramatic and meaningful.
Harimau suggests bravery, fearlessness, and a fierce sense of identity. It’s the kind of name that stands strong no matter where life takes your child.
More Tiger Names to Consider
Below are more tiger-related names with short meanings, rare, powerful, and full of character. You can use them as first names, middle names, or modern twist names.
- Tigerlily: Bold, artistic, and floral. Perfect for a creative, expressive girl.
- Arjan: Punjabi name meaning “strong like a tiger.” Masculine but gentle in sound.
- Bagh: Means “tiger” in Hindi/Punjabi. Simple, sharp, and mighty.
- Pilangi / Pilang (Indonesian / Javanese): Means “tiger-striped”, unique and nature-inspired.
- Rajasi: Sanskrit for “tiger-like” or “royal.” Elegant and regal for a girl.
- Tigre: Spanish/French for “tiger.” Sleek, international, and stylish.
- Tigger: Playful, lively, full of energy — ideal for a cheerful personality.
- Wahu: Swahili name meaning “strong like a tiger.” Beautifully global.
- Khan: Not literally “tiger,” but symbolically tied to tiger courage through Shere Khan.
- Vagh: Gujarati for “tiger.” Unique, bold, and sharp.
- Tigra: A fierce feminine form meaning “tiger.” Sleek, powerful, and bold.
- Babur: Persian for “tiger.” Strong, historical, and masculine.
- Namer: Hebrew for “tiger.” Rare, modern, and impactful.
A Roar to End On
Tiger names carry a beautiful mix of symbolism, courage, independence, leadership, intuition, and protection. Bold choices like Tigran, lyrical ones like Liang, artistic options like Tigerlily, or mysterious names like Tigris all offer a powerful sense of identity right from the beginning.
If you want something meaningful, distinctive, and empowering, a tiger-inspired name is an excellent direction. These names don’t just sound strong, they hold strength. They carry history, culture, and a spirit your child can grow into with pride.
