400+ Centaur Names from Mythology to Modern Fantasy

Ever stumbled across centaurs in a book or game and wondered where their fascinating names come from? I’ve been there too! These half-human, half-horse creatures have captured our imagination for centuries, and their names often carry deep meaning and rich history.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about centaur names – from ancient Greek mythology to modern fantasy worlds like Dungeons & Dragons. Whether you’re a writer crafting the perfect character, a gamer naming your next centaur avatar, or just curious about mythology, you’ll find plenty to love here!

Ready to dive into the world of centaurs? Let’s go!

If you’re also interested in mythical creatures with powerful connections to nature, check out these names that mean forest for inspiration.

Centaur Names and Their Meanings

Centaur names often reflect their wild nature, wisdom, or special traits. Here are 20 centaur names with their meanings:

Chiron – “Skilled with hands,” the wisest and most just of all centaurs
Pholos – “Cave dweller,” known for his hospitality
Nessus – “The swimmer,” known for his treachery
Eurytion – “Wide-ranging,” a wild and untamed centaur
Kheiron – Alternative spelling of Chiron, teacher of heroes
Asbolus – “Sooty one,” a seer among centaurs
Hylonome – “Forest dweller,” a female centaur known for her gentleness
Cyllarus – “The lame one,” known for his beauty
Elatus – “The striker,” a warrior centaur
Gryneus – “From the ancient city of Grynion”
Thereus – “The hunter,” skilled in tracking prey
Phrixus – “Bristling,” suggesting a fierce temperament
Orneus – “Bird-like,” perhaps referring to swiftness
Petraeus – “Of the rocks,” dwelling in rocky terrain
Daphnis – “Laurel,” suggesting victory or honor
Eurynomos – “Wide-ruling,” a leader among centaurs
Hippasos – “Horse-like,” embracing the equine nature
Melanchaetes – “Black-maned,” describing physical appearance
Pylenor – “Gate guardian,” a protective centaur
Thaumas – “Wonder,” inspiring awe in others

Looking for names that evoke the noble nature of these creatures? You might also enjoy browsing names that mean noble for additional inspiration.

Male Centaur Names

Male centaurs dominate Greek mythology. Here are 20 distinctive male centaur names:

Homados – “Battle cry”
Perimedes – “Very cunning”
Dictys – “Net-fisher”
Phlegraios – “Fiery one”
Eurytus – “Good flow”
Rhoecus – “Drifter”
Argeius – “Bright, shining”
Amphion – “Dual-natured”
Lycus – “Wolf-like”
Medon – “Guardian”
Celaeneus – “Dark one”
Hylaeus – “Of the woodland”
Chromis – “Color of nature”
Eurynomus – “Wide rule”
Tectamus – “Builder”
Dorylas – “Spear fighter”
Helops – “Deer”
Ripheus – “Swift runner”
Agrius – “Wild one”
Pholus – “Cave dweller”

For those who appreciate the fierce warrior spirit of male centaurs, you may find inspiration in names that mean warrior for your creative projects.

Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) Centaur Names

D&D has created its own rich tradition of centaur naming. Here are 20 names perfect for your next campaign:

Thunderhoof – A mighty warrior centaur
Oakmane – A forest-dwelling wise one
Stormrunner – Swift as lightning
Silverbranch – Connected to the natural world
Nightstrider – One who moves through darkness
Ironhoof – Strong and resilient
Dawntreader – First to greet the morning
Windchaser – Fast as the breeze
Skygazer – A philosopher or stargazer
Riverbend – Dwelling near water
Stoneheart – Tough and unyielding
Swiftarrow – Skilled archer
Meadowdancer – Graceful and free-spirited
Highcrest – Proud and noble
Thornspear – Fierce in battle
Deeproot – Connected to ancient traditions
Frostmane – From cold northern regions
Emberhoof – Fiery temperament
Mistwalker – Moving silently through fog
Starhoof – Guided by celestial powers

If you’re creating a D&D character with mysterious qualities, you might also want to explore names that mean mystery to enhance your character concept.

Female Centaur Names

Though less common in ancient myths, female centaurs (centaurides) have become popular in modern fantasy. Here are 20 beautiful female centaur names:

Hylonome – “Forest dweller,” the most famous centauride
Cyane – “Dark blue,” like deep waters
Ocyrhoe – “Swift-flowing,” daughter of Chiron
Nephele – “Cloud,” mother of the first centaurs
Melanippe – “Black mare”
Calliope – “Beautiful voice”
Thalia – “Blooming,” suggesting vitality
Lyra – “Lyre,” musically inclined
Eirene – “Peace,” gentle-natured
Artemisia – “Gift of Artemis,” huntress
Selene – “Moon,” night wanderer
Anthea – “Flowery,” connected to springtime
Chrysanthe – “Golden flower”
Demetria – “Earth mother”
Zephyra – “West wind,” swift runner
Thera – “Wild,” untamed spirit
Philyra – Mother of Chiron
Aella – “Whirlwind,” suggesting great speed
Daphne – “Laurel tree,” forest connection
Melia – “Ash tree,” strong and flexible

For those drawn to the mysterious nature of female centaurs, you might find names that mean shadow offers complementary options for your creative work.

Greek Centaur Names

The original centaurs come from Greek mythology. Here are 20 authentic Greek centaur names:

Chiron – The wisest centaur, teacher of heroes
Pholos – Known for hospitality to Heracles
Nessus – Killed by Heracles for attempting to abduct Deianira
Eurytion – Present at the wedding of Pirithous
Asbolus – A seer who read omens in the flight of birds
Cyllarus – Known for his beauty and love for Hylonome
Elatus – Father of Caeneus in some myths
Actaeon – A centaur who accompanied Dionysos
Hylaios – “Of the woodland”
Petraeus – “Of the rocks”
Orneus – Named after birds
Hippasos – “Horse”
Melanchaetes – “Black-haired”
Thereus – “Hunter”
Phrixus – “Shuddering”
Homados – “Noise of battle”
Apheidas – “Unsparing”
Melaneus – “Black”
Imbreus – “Rainy one”
Eurynomos – “Wide-ruling”

If you’re fascinated by Greek mythology, you might also enjoy exploring names that mean fate, a concept deeply ingrained in Greek mythological traditions.

Centaur Names in Mythology

Beyond Greek myths, centaurs appear in various mythological traditions. Here are 20 centaur names from broader mythology:

Chiron – Greek, teacher of heroes
Nessus – Greek, killed by Heracles
Pholos – Greek, friend to Heracles
Kheiron – Alternate spelling of Chiron
Bucentaur – Venetian mythology, half-man half-ox
Kithaeron – Named after Mount Kithaeron
Centaurus – The father of all centaurs in some tales
Ixion – Human father of centaurs with Nephele
Hippocamp – Sea centaur with fish tail instead of horse body
Firenze – Modern mythology (Harry Potter)
Magorian – Modern mythology (Harry Potter)
Bane – Modern mythology (Harry Potter)
Ronan – Modern mythology (Harry Potter)
Cenarius – Video game mythology (Warcraft)
Hylo – Shortened form of Hylonome
Cheiron – Alternative spelling variation
Kentauroi – Collective Greek name for centaurs
Sagittarius – Constellation represented as a centaur
Eurytion – Present at the Calydonian Boar hunt
Lampos – “Bright” or “shining one”

For those interested in mythological connections to transformation, check out names that mean transformation to complement your understanding of these shape-shifting creatures.

Centaur Names Male

Here are 20 more male centaur names perfect for characters with specific traits:

Asterion – “Starry one,” a philosopher
Demetrios – “Devoted to Demeter,” an agricultural centaur
Bronte – “Thunder,” suggesting power and might
Helios – “Sun,” radiating warmth and light
Oneiros – “Dream,” a mystical visionary
Keras – “Horn,” perhaps known for using a horn in battle
Aegeus – “Protector,” a guardian of the herd
Theseus – “To set,” strong-willed
Orestes – “Mountain dweller”
Perseus – “Destroyer,” a warrior
Xanthos – “Yellow,” golden-colored
Ikaros – “Follower,” loyal to the tribe
Leander – “Lion-man,” brave and bold
Damian – “Tamer,” perhaps good with animals
Pyrrhus – “Flame-colored,” with reddish hair
Adonis – “Lord,” a leader among centaurs
Evander – “Good man,” known for kindness
Cepheus – “Head,” a chief or leader
Dardanos – “Spearman,” skilled in combat
Galen – “Calm,” a peaceful centaur

Those drawn to the leadership qualities of male centaurs might also find names that mean protector or guardian relevant to their interests.

Centaur Names Female

Let’s explore 20 more female centaur names with beautiful meanings:

Ianthe – “Violet flower,” delicate and lovely
Xenia – “Hospitable,” welcoming to travelers
Cassiopeia – “She whose words excel,” eloquent speaker
Theodora – “Gift of god,” blessed with special talents
Penelope – “Weaver,” skilled in crafts
Althea – “Healer,” with knowledge of medicinal plants
Iris – “Rainbow,” colorful and vibrant
Rhea – “Flow,” moving gracefully
Phaedra – “Bright,” intelligent and quick-witted
Kora – “Maiden,” youthful and spirited
Theia – “Divine,” touched by the gods
Medea – “Cunning one,” clever strategist
Ariadne – “Most holy,” spiritual leader
Myrrine – “Myrtle,” symbolizing love and beauty
Chloe – “Blooming,” connected to spring
Phoebe – “Bright,” associated with the moon
Circe – “Bird,” perhaps swift or able to communicate with birds
Bryony – “To swell,” suggesting growth and fertility
Naia – “Water nymph,” connected to rivers and lakes
Eos – “Dawn,” early riser

For those who admire the gentle, nurturing nature of female centaurs, exploring names that mean healer might provide additional inspiration.

Famous Centaur Names

These centaurs have made their mark in stories and legends:

Chiron – The immortal centaur who trained heroes like Achilles and Jason
Nessus – Famous for his death at the hands of Heracles and posthumous revenge
Pholos – Known for his hospitality to Heracles
Firenze – From Harry Potter, who became a divination teacher
Bane – From Harry Potter, fierce defender of centaur independence
Magorian – Centaur leader in Harry Potter’s Forbidden Forest
Ronan – Contemplative centaur from Harry Potter
Cenarius – Demigod of nature in Warcraft lore
Kheiron – Alternative spelling of the famous mentor
Hylonome – Most famous female centaur, who died for love
Asbolus – The seer who prophesied Heracles would cause trouble
Eurytion – Present at the infamous centaur-Lapith wedding battle
Cyllarus – Known for his beauty and tragic love story with Hylonome
Orneus – Named in Ovid’s account of the centaur battle
Phrixus – Mentioned in ancient accounts of centaur clans
Rhoecus – Part of the group that attacked the Lapiths
Ocyrhoe – Daughter of Chiron with prophetic abilities
Elatus – Noted in multiple Greek accounts of centaur battles
Homados – Referenced in ancient battle narratives
Philyra – Mother of Chiron who was turned into a linden tree

If you’re captivated by these legendary figures, you might also enjoy exploring names that mean legendary for your creative projects.

Centaur Names in DnD

For the Dungeons & Dragons fans, here are 20 more names perfect for your campaigns:

Vallenor – A noble clan leader
Brightmane – Known for a distinctive golden coat
Truesight – A wise elder or oracle
Wildgallop – Untamed and free-spirited
Strongbow – Master archer of the herd
Skydancer – Graceful and light-footed
Forestwalker – Guardian of woodland realms
Ironshod – Battle-hardened warrior
Windrider – Swift as a tempest
Startracker – Navigator and astronomer
Rainspeaker – One who can predict weather
Mountainheart – Steadfast and enduring
Riverford – Guardian of water crossings
Thundervoice – Commanding presence
Oathkeeper – Known for honor and loyalty
Moonchaser – Nocturnal hunter or sage
Flamehoof – Hot-tempered battle charger
Shadowstep – Stealthy scout or spy
Crystalmind – Intelligent and clear-thinking
Earthbound – Practical and grounded in nature

For those who enjoy the mystical elements of D&D centaurs, exploring names that mean magic might add depth to your character creation.

Centaur Names in Greek Mythology

The origin of centaurs traces back to ancient Greek myths. These fascinating creatures were said to be the offspring of Ixion and Nephele, a cloud nymph created by Zeus. Most centaurs were depicted as wild, untamed creatures who embodied the conflict between civilization and barbarism.

Notable Greek Centaurs and Their Stories:

Chiron: Unlike his wild brethren, Chiron was immortal and incredibly wise. He tutored numerous Greek heroes including Achilles, Jason, and even Heracles. His knowledge of medicine, music, archery, and prophecy made him the most respected of all centaurs.
Pholos: Known for his hospitality, Pholos welcomed Heracles during his fourth labor. When Heracles opened a wine jug, the scent attracted other centaurs who became aggressive. In the ensuing battle, Pholos accidentally dropped a poisoned arrow on his foot and died—a tragic end for one of the few civilized centaurs.
Nessus: This centaur met his end at the hands of Heracles after attempting to abduct or rape Heracles’ wife Deianira. In his dying moments, Nessus tricked Deianira by telling her his blood would ensure Heracles’ faithfulness. When she later used it on Heracles’ tunic, the poison killed him—Nessus’ revenge from beyond the grave.

What makes these stories particularly fascinating is how centaurs represent the duality of human nature—our rational, civilized side (the human half) in constant struggle with our animal instincts (the horse half). Only Chiron truly mastered this balance, which is why he’s remembered as a teacher rather than a wild creature.

If you’re interested in names connected to ancient wisdom like Chiron possessed, you might want to explore names that mean knowledge for your creative works.

Female Centaur Names

Female centaurs, known as centaurides, are surprisingly rare in traditional Greek mythology. While male centaurs appear frequently, their female counterparts are barely mentioned in ancient texts. However, they do appear in later art and literature, becoming more prominent in modern fantasy.

The most famous centauride from ancient sources is Hylonome, whose name means “forest dweller.” Her story is particularly heartbreaking—she fell in love with the handsome centaur Cyllarus, and when he was killed in battle, she took her own life with the same weapon that killed him, unable to live without him.

Another notable female centaur is Ocyrhoe, daughter of Chiron and the nymph Chariclo. She possessed the gift of prophecy but was transformed into a mare when she revealed too much about the gods’ plans.

In modern fantasy, female centaurs have taken on more significant roles. They’re often portrayed as healers, seers, or protectors of nature. Their names typically reflect connections to the natural world, celestial bodies, or qualities like wisdom and grace.

What’s fascinating about centaurides is how they’ve evolved from almost invisible figures in ancient mythology to important characters in contemporary stories—showing how our modern values have expanded the roles available to female characters in fantasy.

For those creating female centaur characters with connections to nature, you might find inspiration in names that mean butterfly to capture their graceful essence.

Centaur Names in Modern Fantasy

Contemporary fantasy has breathed new life into centaurs, giving them rich cultures and memorable names. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series features a tribe of centaurs including Firenze, Bane, Ronan, and Magorian, who dwell in the Forbidden Forest. Firenze in particular breaks from tradition by agreeing to teach at Hogwarts, causing conflict with his more isolationist herd.

In the World of Warcraft universe, Cenarius stands out as a demigod of nature who teaches druidism to the night elves. His name has a distinctly different feel from Greek-inspired centaurs, showcasing how fantasy authors often develop unique naming conventions for their worlds.

What’s interesting about modern centaur names is how they blend traditional elements with new sounds and meanings. While some authors stick close to Greek-inspired names, others create entirely new naming systems that reflect their fantasy world’s culture and history.

Video games have been particularly creative with centaur characters, developing complex societies with their own naming traditions. Some games distinguish between different centaur tribes through naming patterns—forest centaurs might have nature-themed names, while mountain centaurs might have names suggesting strength or endurance.

If you’re drawn to the mystical aspects of modern fantasy centaurs, you might find names that mean magical offers complementary inspiration for your creative projects.

How to Create Your Own Centaur Names

Creating authentic-sounding centaur names is easier than you might think! Here are some practical approaches:

1. Use Greek Roots
Since centaurs originate from Greek mythology, Greek-based names sound naturally authentic:

Combine “hippos” (horse) with other Greek words: Hippotheon (horse of the gods)
Use nature words: Dryados (from “dryas” meaning oak nymph)
Incorporate character traits: Sophiros (from “sophos” meaning wise)

2. Reflect Character Traits
Let your centaur’s personality shine through their name:

A wise teacher might have a name like Epistemon (knowledgeable one)
A warrior could be Machimos (battle-ready)
A healer might be called Akesios (curing, healing)

3. Blend Human and Horse Elements
Create compound names that reflect the dual nature of centaurs:

Anthippos (human-horse)
Maneheart (combining human emotion with horse physicality)
Gallopwise (blending movement and wisdom)

4. Consider Sound and Flow
The best names are pleasing to the ear:

For male centaurs, stronger consonants often work well: Krixus, Thoron
For female centaurs, more flowing sounds might be appropriate: Lyrea, Melantha

Here’s a quick example of name creation in action: Say I want to create a centaur who’s known for speed. I might start with the Greek word “tachys” (swift) and combine it with “dromos” (runner) to create “Tachydromos.” That sounds a bit clunky, so I could shorten it to “Tachdrom” or smooth it to “Tachidrom” for better flow.

For those looking to create names with specific meanings, exploring names that mean fast might provide additional inspiration for swift-footed centaurs.

Centaur Naming Conventions

Unlike humans, centaurs rarely use family names or surnames in traditional portrayals. Instead, they often show family connections through other means:

1. Tribal Affiliations
Many fantasy worlds depict centaurs as belonging to tribes or herds, with names that might indicate their group:

“Chiron of the Stargazer Herd”
“Lyra of the River Valley”

2. Descriptive Epithets
Centaurs might earn additional names based on deeds or characteristics:

“Thraxos the Swift”
“Melia Healinghands”

3. Lineage References
Instead of surnames, centaurs might reference their parentage:

“Orion, son of Nemetor”
“Calla, daughter of Thalassa”

In Dungeons & Dragons’ Ravnica setting, centaurs belong to groups like the Selesnya Conclave, which influences their naming practices. These centaurs often have names reflecting natural elements, reinforcing their connection to the wilderness.

What’s particularly interesting is how centaur naming evolves in different fictional worlds. Some modern interpretations give centaurs complex naming traditions that reflect their long lifespans and oral history traditions, with names that might carry stories of ancestors or important tribal events.

For those interested in creating centaur characters with deep connections to their heritage, exploring names that mean family might provide meaningful additions to your creative work.

Interesting Facts About Centaur Names

Did you know that many centaur names have fascinating etymological roots? For instance, Chiron‘s name might derive from the Greek word “cheir” meaning “hand,” possibly referencing his skilled hands as a healer and craftsman.

The name Nessus has connections to a river in Greece, which makes sense given that in myth, he was killed while attempting to carry Deianira across a river.

Another interesting fact is that centaur names often reflect astronomical connections. The constellation Sagittarius is depicted as a centaur archer, and several centaurs in myth have names with celestial meanings. This reflects the ancient Greek belief that centaurs had knowledge of the stars and natural omens.

One common misconception is that centaurs were exclusively male. While male centaurs dominate ancient sources, female centaurs did exist in Greek art and later literature. Their relative absence from early myths likely reflects the patriarchal nature of ancient Greek society rather than the actual mythology.

Modern fantasy has greatly expanded centaur naming conventions, moving beyond purely Greek-inspired names to create rich cultural identities for different centaur groups. This shows how mythological creatures evolve as they travel through time and across different storytelling traditions.

Those fascinated by the celestial connections of centaur names might enjoy exploring names that mean star for additional inspiration in their creative projects.

Comprehensive List of Centaur Names

Male Centaur Names (Historical & Mythological)

Chiron
Pholos
Nessus
Eurytion
Asbolus
Cyllarus
Elatus
Phrixus
Thereus
Melanchaetes
Homados
Perimedes
Dictys
Rhoecus
Argeius
Lycus
Hylaeus
Chromis
Eurynomus
Orneus

Female Centaur Names

Hylonome
Ocyrhoe
Nephele
Melanippe
Cyane
Philyra
Aella
Thalia
Lyra
Eirene
Selene
Anthea
Chrysanthe
Demetria
Zephyra
Thera
Daphne
Melia
Ianthe
Penelope

Fantasy Centaur Names

Firenze
Bane
Magorian
Ronan
Cenarius
Thunderhoof
Oakmane
Stormrunner
Silverbranch
Nightstrider
Ironhoof
Skygazer
Riverbend
Meadowdancer
Highcrest
Thornspear
Deeproot
Emberhoof
Mistwalker
Starhoof

Greek Mythology Centaur Names

Kentauros (the first centaur)
Ixion (human father of centaurs)
Actaeon
Hylaios
Petraeus
Hippasos
Apheidas
Melaneus
Imbreus
Eurynomos
Kithaeron
Lampos
Pylenor
Gryneus
Oneiros
Keras
Aegeus
Theseus
Orestes
Perseus

If you’re drawn to creating centaur characters with strong leadership qualities, you might find additional inspiration in names that mean leader for your creative projects.

Final Thoughts

Centaur names offer a fascinating glimpse into mythology, language, and the evolution of fantasy creatures across centuries of storytelling. From ancient Greek myths to modern gaming universes, these half-human, half-horse beings continue to capture our imagination with their complex nature and rich cultural associations.

Whether you’re a writer creating centaur characters, a gamer naming your next avatar, or simply a mythology enthusiast, I hope this guide has given you a deeper appreciation for the meaning and heritage behind centaur names.

The next time you encounter a centaur in a book, game, or film, you’ll have a better understanding of how their name might reflect their character, history, and place in their fictional world.

What centaur name resonates most with you? Would you go with a traditional Greek-inspired name like Chiron or a modern fantasy name like Stormrunner? Whatever you choose, may your centaur naming adventures be as wild and free as these magnificent creatures themselves!

For those who want to explore more mythological names, don’t miss our guide to names that mean dragon for another fascinating creature from world mythology.