Demons have haunted our collective imagination since humans first gathered around fires to tell stories. These supernatural entities – whether seen as fallen angels, malevolent spirits, or powerful otherworldly beings – each come with names that evoke their nature and power.
In storytelling, a demon’s name isn’t just a label – it’s a crucial element that shapes how audiences perceive the character. Think about it: would Lucifer feel as intimidating if he were named “Bob”? Probably not!
Whether you’re creating characters for a game, writing a dark fantasy novel, or just curious about demonology, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these infernal appellations.
Check out these names that mean evil for more dark inspiration.
Demon Character Names
- Abaddon – Hebrew origin meaning “place of destruction”; the angel of the abyss in biblical texts
- Belial – Hebrew origin meaning “worthless” or “wicked”; represents lawlessness and evil
- Samael – Hebrew origin meaning “venom of God”; associated with the angel of death
- Mephistopheles – German folklore origin meaning unclear, possibly “not loving light”; famous for his role in the Faust legend
- Baphomet – Medieval origin with unclear meaning; depicted as a goat-headed deity
- Azazel – Hebrew origin meaning “scapegoat” or “entire removal”; a fallen angel who taught humans warfare
- Dagon – Canaanite origin meaning “grain”; originally a fertility god later demonized
- Valefar – Goetic origin meaning unknown; depicted as a lion with a thief’s head
- Nergal – Mesopotamian origin meaning “dunghill cock”; associated with war and pestilence
- Moloch – Canaanite origin meaning “king”; associated with child sacrifice
- Nyarlathotep – Lovecraftian origin with no specific meaning; the crawling chaos
- Baal – Semitic origin meaning “lord” or “master”; ancient fertility god later demonized
- Raum – Goetic origin meaning unknown; appears as a crow and destroys cities
- Orobas – Goetic origin meaning unknown; appears as a horse but speaks truthfully
- Mammon – Aramaic origin meaning “wealth”; personification of greed
- Astaroth – Phoenician origin derived from goddess Astarte; a duke of Hell
- Behemoth – Hebrew origin meaning “beast”; enormous creature from the Book of Job
- Hastur – Literary origin (Ambrose Bierce/H.P. Lovecraft) meaning unknown; the Unspeakable One
- Marchosias – Goetic origin meaning unknown; a wolf with griffin wings and a serpent’s tail
- Abraxas – Gnostic origin meaning unknown; represents both good and evil aspects
- Eurynome – Greek origin meaning “wide ruling”; once a goddess degraded to demoness
- Surgat – Grimoire origin meaning unknown; opener of locks and doors
- Phenex – Goetic origin meaning unknown; appears as a phoenix and sings sweetly
- Shax – Goetic origin meaning unknown; steals horses and discovers hidden things
- Verin – Demonological texts origin meaning unknown; associated with impatience
Discover names that mean darkness for more demonic inspiration.
Unique Demon Character Names
- Zahlamel – Fictional origin meaning “whisper of death”; a shadow demon who speaks only in whispers
- Kryzlach – Fictional origin meaning “crimson talons”; demon with blood-red claws who collects souls
- Morvith – Celtic-inspired meaning “great form”; shape-shifting entity of twilight
- Nepharak – Aramaic-inspired meaning “forbidden knowledge”; keeper of secrets better left unknown
- Xathris – Greek-inspired meaning “thorn of torment”; delivers exquisite suffering
- Balthura – Babylonian-inspired meaning “lady of ashes”; appears in cremation smoke
- Zyvox – Synthetic meaning “void walker”; travels between dimensions
- Mordigael – Hebrew-inspired meaning “death’s reminder”; appears before tragic events
- Ikelos – Greek origin meaning “resemblance”; nightmare demon who mimics loved ones
- Vraxina – Latin-inspired meaning “twisted one”; distorts reality around her
- Krezath – Fictional origin meaning “endless hunger”; demon of insatiable appetite
- Nyxthros – Greek-inspired meaning “night’s poison”; spreads darkness wherever he goes
- Malazar – Arabic-inspired meaning “evil bloom”; appears as beautiful but deadly flowers
- Sevisal – Latin-inspired meaning “cruel sun”; burns without heat
- Drachmar – Germanic-inspired meaning “dream eater”; feeds on nightmares
- Zornael – Hebrew-inspired meaning “wrath of heaven”; fallen angel of vengeance
- Tyrvalis – Norse-inspired meaning “twice deceiver”; never tells the same lie twice
- Ekimmu – Akkadian origin meaning “seized spirit”; ghost-like demon who drains life
- Vashtai – Persian-inspired meaning “beautiful destroyer”; appears irresistible to victims
- Corzath – Fictional origin meaning “heart stopper”; causes cardiac arrest with a touch
- Malareth – Latin-inspired meaning “bad network”; creates confusion and miscommunication
- Ixikhel – Mayan-inspired meaning “jaguar spirit”; stealthy jungle demon
- Rathmorix – Celtic-inspired meaning “battle frenzy”; induces uncontrollable rage
- Neshrael – Aramaic-inspired meaning “eagle of night”; swoops down on sleeping victims
- Voxlumis – Latin-inspired meaning “light voice”; lures victims with beautiful singing
Find more mysterious names that mean shadow for character creation.
Demon Names Inspired by Religion and Mythology
- Lucifer – Latin origin meaning “light-bringer”; the fallen angel from Christian tradition
- Lilith – Sumerian/Hebrew origin meaning “night monster”; Adam’s first wife in Jewish folklore
- Asmodeus – Hebrew/Persian origin meaning possibly “wrath”; demon of lust
- Beelzebub – Hebrew origin meaning “lord of flies”; one of Satan’s chief lieutenants
- Belphegor – Hebrew origin meaning “lord of opening”; demon of sloth and inventions
- Iblis – Arabic origin meaning “despair”; the devil figure in Islamic tradition
- Mara – Sanskrit origin meaning “death” or “destroyer”; tempter of Buddha
- Surtr – Norse origin meaning “black”; fire giant who brings about Ragnarök
- Hecate – Greek origin meaning “far-reaching”; goddess of witchcraft sometimes depicted as demonic
- Leviathan – Hebrew origin meaning “twisted” or “coiled”; sea monster representing chaos
- Lamashtu – Mesopotamian origin meaning unknown; demoness who threatened pregnant women
- Pazuzu – Assyrian origin meaning unknown; demon of the southwest wind
- Chernobog – Slavic origin meaning “black god”; deity of bad fortune
- Abyzou – Jewish folklore origin meaning unknown; blamed for miscarriages
- Typhon – Greek origin meaning “whirlwind”; monstrous son of Gaia
- Set – Egyptian origin meaning unclear; god of chaos and storms
- Apophis – Egyptian origin meaning “to slither”; serpent of chaos
- Ravana – Sanskrit origin meaning “screaming”; ten-headed demon king
- Rangda – Balinese origin meaning “widow”; demon queen of the leyaks
- Namtar – Mesopotamian origin meaning “fate” or “destiny”; harbinger of death
- Damballa – Haitian Vodou origin meaning unknown; serpent loa sometimes portrayed negatively
- Aka Manah – Zoroastrian origin meaning “evil mind”; demon of evil intention
- Yama – Sanskrit origin meaning “twin”; lord of death
- Emma-O – Japanese origin derived from Yama; judge of the dead
- Geryon – Greek origin meaning unknown; three-bodied giant guarding Hell’s cattle
Explore names that mean warrior for powerful character concepts.
Demon Character Names for Male
- Azrael – Hebrew origin meaning “help of God”; frequently associated with the angel of death
- Dantalion – Goetic origin meaning unknown; teaches all arts and sciences
- Balam – Hebrew origin meaning “devourer”; demon with three heads
- Xaphan – Christian demonology origin meaning unknown; stokes Hell’s furnaces
- Raum – Goetic origin meaning unknown; destroys cities and dignity
- Barbatos – Goetic origin meaning unknown; understands the singing of birds
- Orias – Goetic origin meaning unknown; transforms men into various things
- Vassago – Goetic origin meaning unknown; discovers hidden objects and foretells future
- Agares – Goetic origin meaning unknown; makes those who run stand still
- Malphas – Goetic origin meaning unknown; builds houses and high towers
- Alastor – Greek origin meaning “avenger”; became an executioner demon
- Berith – Phoenician origin meaning “covenant”; red horseman and duke of Hell
- Forneus – Goetic origin meaning unknown; teaches rhetoric and languages
- Gaap – Goetic origin meaning unknown; transports demons and people
- Ipos – Goetic origin meaning unknown; makes men witty and brave
- Halphas – Goetic origin meaning unknown; builds towers and fills them with weapons
- Stolas – Goetic origin meaning unknown; teaches astronomy and plant properties
- Valefor – Goetic origin meaning unknown; tempts people to steal
- Pruflas – Goetic origin meaning unknown; starts arguments and kindles flames
- Botis – Goetic origin meaning unknown; reconciles friends and enemies
- Furfur – Goetic origin meaning unknown; causes love between man and woman
- Buer – Goetic origin meaning unknown; heals diseases and teaches philosophy
- Murmur – Goetic origin meaning unknown; philosopher and necromancer
- Bifrons – Goetic origin meaning “two-faced”; teaches astrology and sciences
- Ronove – Goetic origin meaning unknown; grants rhetoric and servants
Check out names that mean protector or guardian for complex demon characters.
Demon Names for Female
- Lilith – Sumerian/Hebrew origin meaning “night monster”; first wife of Adam
- Naamah – Hebrew origin meaning “pleasant”; demoness of seduction
- Eisheth – Hebrew origin meaning “woman of fire”; associated with prostitution
- Agrat bat Mahlat – Hebrew origin meaning “agrat daughter of mahlat”; demoness of prostitution
- Lamia – Greek origin meaning “gullet”; child-devouring monster
- Proserpine – Roman origin derived from “proserpere” (to emerge); queen of the underworld
- Hecate – Greek origin meaning “far-reaching”; goddess of witchcraft and crossroads
- Empusa – Greek origin meaning “one-legged”; shape-shifting seductress
- Alecto – Greek origin meaning “unceasing”; Fury of unrelenting anger
- Megaera – Greek origin meaning “the jealous one”; Fury of jealousy and envy
- Tisiphone – Greek origin meaning “avenging murder”; Fury of vengeance
- Nyx – Greek origin meaning “night”; personification of night sometimes portrayed as demonic
- Lamashtu – Mesopotamian origin meaning unknown; killer of children
- Baba Yaga – Slavic origin meaning possibly “old woman”; witch-like entity
- Rangda – Balinese origin meaning “widow”; demon queen with fangs and claws
- Kali – Sanskrit origin meaning “black one”; destructive aspect of the divine mother
- Ereshkigal – Sumerian origin meaning “queen of the great earth”; ruler of the underworld
- Hel – Norse origin meaning “hidden”; ruler of the Norse underworld
- Obizuth – Jewish folklore origin meaning unknown; steals children
- Onoskelis – Greek origin meaning “donkey-legs”; demoness with one donkey leg
- Naamah – Hebrew origin meaning “pleasing”; seducer of angels
- Abyzou – Jewish folklore origin meaning unknown; blamed for miscarriages
- Medusa – Greek origin meaning “guardian”; snake-haired woman who turns men to stone
- Scylla – Greek origin meaning “she who rends”; many-headed sea monster
- Mormo – Greek origin meaning “frightful one”; bites bad children
Discover names that mean mysterious for enigmatic female characters.
Demon Character Names for Girl
- Mazikeen – Jewish folklore origin meaning “damagers”; made from hellfire
- Agares – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; appears as pale maiden
- Sitri – Goetic origin meaning unknown; inflames hearts with love
- Alrinach – Demonological texts origin meaning unknown; causes shipwrecks
- Decarabia – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; knows virtues of herbs and stones
- Vepar – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; controls waters and guides ships
- Gremory – Goetic origin meaning unknown; tells of past, present, and future
- Nemesis – Greek origin meaning “retribution”; goddess of divine vengeance
- Arioch – Biblical origin meaning “fierce lion”; demon of vengeance
- Marchosias – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; fire-breathing warrior
- Dantalion – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; reveals secrets
- Focalor – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; commands seas and winds
- Leraikha – Fictional origin meaning “beautiful corruption”; appears lovely but corrupts
- Zephyra – Greek-inspired meaning “west wind”; causes destructive storms
- Kimaris – Goetic origin traditionally male but reimagined; rides a black horse
- Malperia – Latin-inspired meaning “evil destruction”; causes structural collapse
- Nylathria – Lovecraftian-inspired meaning unknown; mistress of chaos
- Sabrael – Hebrew-inspired meaning “blind angel”; causes blindness
- Virina – Latin-inspired meaning “poison”; spreads disease
- Elatha – Celtic origin meaning “art, science”; beautiful but dangerous
- Mircalla – Anagram of “Carmilla”; blood-drinking demoness
- Thalassa – Greek origin meaning “sea”; controls violent waters
- Naamah – Hebrew origin meaning “pleasing”; temptress of extraordinary beauty
- Achlys – Greek origin meaning “mist” or “darkness”; personification of misery
- Mara – Buddhist origin meaning “death”; brings nightmares
Find more names that mean fear for terrifying female demons.
Unique Demon Names for Male
- Kraxius – Fictional origin meaning “crusher of hope”; breaks spirits with doubt
- Zephren – Hebrew-inspired meaning “hidden wind”; invisible tormentor
- Malachor – Hebrew/Latin-inspired meaning “messenger of sorrow”; brings bad news
- Draethis – Greek-inspired meaning “seeing through”; reads thoughts
- Vyronax – Latin-inspired meaning “man of iron”; impossible to harm physically
- Korvax – Norse-inspired meaning “raven speech”; communicates through birds
- Azaethoth – Lovecraftian-inspired meaning unknown; manipulates madness
- Tormentia – Latin-inspired meaning “tormentor”; specializes in mental anguish
- Drakhal – Arabic-inspired meaning “fear spreader”; causes panic
- Nefarion – Latin-inspired meaning “wicked one”; corrupts the innocent
- Syltheria – Greek-inspired meaning “forest hunter”; hunts in wooded areas
- Vexalor – Latin-inspired meaning “bringer of annoyance”; causes minor irritations
- Grahzix – Fictional origin meaning “bone collector”; gathers remains of victims
- Mortifex – Latin-inspired meaning “death maker”; brings elaborate deaths
- Kalathras – Greek-inspired meaning “descent mind”; drives victims to suicide
- Orometh – Hebrew-inspired meaning “mountain of death”; presides over mass graves
- Zarithar – Fictional origin meaning “golden torment”; promises wealth for soul
- Volgarath – Norse-inspired meaning “field raven”; haunts battlefields
- Xibalba – Mayan origin meaning “place of fear”; death lord reimagined
- Cthaxis – Lovecraftian-inspired meaning unknown; warps physical reality
- Malafax – Latin-inspired meaning “evil maker”; creates harmful objects
- Sephiron – Hebrew-inspired meaning “numbered one”; counts down victims’ days
- Razakel – Hebrew-inspired meaning “secret of God”; knows forbidden knowledge
- Molgrith – Celtic-inspired meaning “bare king”; rules over wastelands
- Xanthar – Greek-inspired meaning “yellow beast”; appears as golden monster
Explore names that mean vengeance for wrathful demon concepts.
Demon Name Ideas
- Abraxos – Gnostic-inspired meaning “supreme being”; represents cosmic powers
- Nyx’tharion – Greek/fictional origin meaning “night’s ruler”; controls darkness
- Vexor – Latin-inspired meaning “troublemaker”; causes confusion
- Kazadur – Turkish-inspired meaning “destiny carver”; alters fate
- Malthus – Greek-inspired meaning “sand healer”; appears in deserts to lost travelers
- Ravenor – English-inspired meaning “raven lord”; controls carrion birds
- Soulsiphon – English/Greek-inspired meaning “soul drawer”; drains life essence
- Grimwrath – Germanic-inspired meaning “fierce anger”; berserker demon
- Bloodthorn – English origin meaning literal; wounds never heal
- Shadowstep – English origin meaning literal; moves through shadows
- Dreadwhisper – English origin meaning literal; speaks fears into existence
- Fellheart – Germanic-inspired meaning “cruel heart”; incapable of mercy
- Cinderclaw – English origin meaning literal; burns with every touch
- Mistshroud – English origin meaning literal; obscures perception
- Voidwalker – English origin meaning literal; comes from nothingness
- Doomhowler – English origin meaning literal; wail foretells death
- Boneshatter – English origin meaning literal; breaks bones with a glance
- Soulrender – English origin meaning literal; tears souls from bodies
- Grieftaker – English origin meaning literal; feeds on sorrow
- Mindshackle – English origin meaning literal; enslaves thoughts
- Flamereaver – English origin meaning literal; steals heat and light
- Dreadlord – English origin meaning literal; master of terror
- Plaguebringer – English origin meaning literal; spreads disease
- Heartseeker – English origin meaning literal; never misses its target
- Nightstalker – English origin meaning literal; hunts after dark
Check out names that mean dragon for powerful demonic concepts.
Origins and Significance of Demon Names
Demon names aren’t random – they’re steeped in history, religion, and cultural beliefs going back thousands of years.
Historical Roots
The concept of naming demons began with ancient civilizations trying to identify and control the supernatural forces they feared. By naming something, our ancestors believed they gained a measure of power over it.
In Mesopotamia, demons like Pazuzu (yes, the same one from The Exorcist!) were named and depicted in detail. Ancient Egyptians documented numerous demonic entities in their Book of the Dead. Hebrew traditions named various fallen angels, while Christian demonology expanded these concepts further.
Cultural Significance
Different cultures approach demon naming in fascinating ways:
- Mesopotamian demons often had descriptive names reflecting their harmful effects
- Greek traditions gave us figures like Hades and the Furies
- Norse mythology contributed entities like Hel and various jötnar
- Hindu texts describe numerous asuras and rakshasas
- Japanese yokai and oni each carry distinctive names and traits
Modern Evolution
Today’s demon names draw heavily from these ancient sources but have evolved with our changing cultural landscape. Movies, books, and games have introduced countless new demonic entities, often blending traditional elements with fresh concepts.
The demon Crowley from Good Omens, for instance, represents a modern take that’s more complex and nuanced than the purely evil demons of ancient texts.
Explore names that mean chaos for related concepts.
Types of Demon Names
Mythological Demon Names
These classical names have stood the test of time, appearing across ancient texts and religious works:
- Lamashtu – Mesopotamian demoness who threatened pregnant women and infants
- Pazuzu – Assyrian demon of the southwest wind, ironically invoked for protection against Lamashtu
- Leviathan – Biblical sea monster representing chaos
- Asmodeus – Demon of lust from Hebrew folklore
- Beelzebub – “Lord of the Flies,” one of the seven princes of Hell
Fictional Demon Names
Modern literature, TV, and movies have given us memorable demonic characters:
- Lucifer Morningstar – The charismatic fallen angel from Lucifer
- Malebolgia – The massive Hell lord from Spawn comics
- Trigon – Demonic villain from Teen Titans
- Crowley – The sophisticated demon from Good Omens
- Daeva – Shape-shifting demons from Supernatural
Gaming Demon Names
Video games present some of the most visually striking and memorable demons:
- Diablo – The Lord of Terror from Blizzard’s iconic game series
- Archimonde – Powerful demon commander from World of Warcraft
- Mundus – The demon emperor from Devil May Cry
- Alma Wade – Psychic demon-like entity from F.E.A.R.
- The Cyberdemon – Iconic monster from the Doom franchise
Find inspiration in names that mean nightmare for gaming characters.
Gender-Specific Demon Names
Male Demon Names
Male demons often embody traits like power, destruction, and dominance:
From Mythology:
- Beelzebub – “Lord of the Flies”
- Hades – Greek god of the underworld
- Mephistopheles – Demon from German folklore
- Moloch – Ancient Canaanite deity associated with child sacrifice
- Baal – Fertility and storm deity later demonized
From Fiction:
- Alastor – The Radio Demon from Hazbin Hotel
- Hellboy – Half-demon protagonist from Mike Mignola’s comics
- Azazel – Demonic character from various works
- Screwtape – C.S. Lewis’s bureaucratic demon
- Mephisto – Marvel Comics’ version of Mephistopheles
From Gaming:
- Sparda – Legendary demon knight from Devil May Cry
- Nightmare – Shape-shifting demon from Soul Calibur
- Kil’jaeden – Deceiver demon from World of Warcraft
- Ifrit – Fire djinn from various RPGs including Final Fantasy
- Demogorgon – Prince of Demons from Dungeons & Dragons
Female Demon Names
Female demons often represent different aspects of darkness, from seduction to maternal horror:
From Mythology:
- Ereshkigal – Mesopotamian goddess of the underworld
- Kali – Hindu goddess with demonic aspects (though primarily divine)
- Lilith – First wife of Adam in Jewish folklore who became a demoness
- Medusa – Gorgon of Greek mythology
- Rangda – Demon queen of the leyaks in Balinese mythology
From Fiction:
- Maleficent – Disney’s iconic “Mistress of All Evil”
- Akasha – Queen of the Damned from Anne Rice’s vampire chronicles
- Hela – Norse goddess/demon portrayed in Marvel works
- Lamia – Child-devouring demoness from various works
- Mystique – Demon featured in The Conjuring universe
From Gaming:
- Madama Butterfly – Bayonetta’s demonic partner
- Alma Wade – Psychic entity from F.E.A.R.
- Succubus – Recurring female demon type in many games
- Lady Dimitrescu – Vampire-like antagonist from Resident Evil Village
- Queen Myrrah – Leader of the Locust Horde in Gears of War
Discover names that mean ghost for more supernatural inspiration.
Categorization by Traits
Elemental Demons
Demons tied to natural forces carry names reflecting their domain:
| Element | Example Names | Origin/Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Fire | Surtur, Iblis, Agni | Norse giant, Islamic devil, Hindu fire deity |
| Water | Leviathan, Charybdis, Kappa | Biblical sea monster, Greek whirlpool, Japanese water imp |
| Earth | Behemoth, Gnome, Gogmagog | Biblical beast, Alchemical spirit, British giant |
| Air | Pazuzu, Garuda, Djinn | Assyrian wind demon, Hindu bird deity, Arabic spirits |
| Shadow | Erebus, Nyx, Umbra | Greek darkness, Greek night, Latin for shadow |
Beastly Demons
Many demons take animal forms or characteristics, reflected in their names:
- Fenrir – The monstrous wolf of Norse mythology
- Apophis – Egyptian serpent of chaos
- Ammit – Egyptian demon with crocodile, lion, and hippopotamus parts
- Geryon – Three-bodied giant in Greek mythology
- Jikininki – Corpse-eating ghouls from Japanese folklore
Royal Demons
Demons with positions of leadership or nobility typically have names emphasizing their status:
- Mammon – Demon of wealth and avarice
- Asmodeus – King of demons in some traditions
- Abaddon – Angel of the abyss in biblical accounts
- Baal – “Lord” in Semitic languages
- Malphas – Great president of Hell in demonology texts
Shape-Shifters
Demons capable of changing form often have names suggesting fluidity or deception:
- Rakshasa – Hindu shape-shifting demons
- Proteus – Greek shape-shifting sea deity later demonized
- Astaroth – Demon associated with multiple forms
- Obizuth – Female demon who can take many forms
- Paimon – Demon king who appears in different guises
See more about names that mean transformation for shape-shifting themes.
Popular Sources for Demon Names
Ars Goetia
The Lesser Key of Solomon (especially its first section, the Ars Goetia) catalogs 72 demons supposedly summoned by King Solomon. This 17th-century grimoire remains one of the most influential sources for demon names in Western culture.
Some notable demons from this source include:
- Bael – First king listed, appearing as a cat, toad, man, or combination
- Paimon – King with a crown, riding a camel
- Buer – President appearing as a five-branched star
- Asmodeus – King associated with lust
- Belial – Created immediately after Lucifer
Literature and Media
Numerous literary works have shaped our understanding of demon names:
- Dante’s Inferno introduced demons like Charon, Minos, and Geryon as guardians of Hell’s circles
- Paradise Lost by John Milton created rich characterizations of Satan and fallen angels
- The Screwtape Letters featured bureaucratic demons with modern sensibilities
- The Exorcist popularized Pazuzu to modern audiences
- Supernatural (TV series) featured numerous demons with distinctive names and traits
Gaming References
Video games provide some of the most visual and memorable demon concepts:
- Diablo series features demons like Diablo, Mephisto, and Baal (the Prime Evils)
- Doom series presents demons like the Cyberdemon, Archvile, and Icon of Sin
- Devil May Cry features Mundus, Vergil (as Nelo Angelo), and numerous lesser demons
- Persona series draws on mythological demons from multiple cultures
- Dungeons & Dragons includes demon lords like Demogorgon, Orcus, and Graz’zt
Check out names that mean cursed for more gaming character ideas.
Unique and Lesser-Known Demon Names
Beyond the well-known entities lie fascinating demons from obscure sources:
- Ronwe – Demon of knowledge in lesser-known grimoires
- Decarabia – Appears as a star in a pentacle
- Ipos – Angel-lion-goose hybrid demon
- Halphas – Builds towers and supplies weapons
- Naberius – Demon who restores lost honors
- Flauros – Leopard-headed demon who reveals secrets
- Bifrons – Teaches astrology and moves corpses
- Sabnock – Builds towers, castles, and cities
- Shax – Horse-thief demon who can find hidden things
- Crocell – Makes the sound of rushing waters
Creating Original Demon Names
When creating your own demon names, consider:
- Sound symbolism – Harsh consonants (K, Z, X) often sound more demonic
- Etymology – Research words for concepts like darkness, fear, or pain in ancient languages
- Inversion – Reverse or alter angelic or divine names
- Compound creation – Combine words from different languages
- Cultural inspiration – Draw on lesser-known mythological traditions
Find more dark inspiration with names that mean void for original creations.
Naming Tips for Creators
Guidelines for Impactful Names
Creating memorable demon names involves several considerations:
Align with Character Traits
Match the name to your demon’s:
- Powers – A fire demon might include syllables suggesting heat or combustion
- Appearance – Visual traits can inspire name elements
- Rank – Higher-ranking demons often have grander, more imposing names
- Origin – Consider the demon’s cultural background
Cultural Appropriateness
When borrowing from various traditions:
- Research the cultural context thoroughly
- Understand the original meaning and significance
- Be respectful of religious sensitivities
- Consider consulting cultural experts for authentic representation
Balance Uniqueness and Recognizability
The best demon names are:
- Memorable and distinctive
- Pronounceable (unless intentionally otherworldly)
- Evocative of the character’s essence
- Connected to established traditions while being original
Tools and Resources
To help with demon name research and creation:
- Dictionaries of ancient languages (Latin, Hebrew, Akkadian, etc.)
- Encyclopedia of world mythology and religions
- Historical grimoires and magical texts (available in academic translations)
- Name generator tools (though these should be starting points, not final solutions)
- Academic papers on demonology and religious studies
Explore names that mean mystery for naming inspiration.
Comprehensive Lists of Demon Names
Alphabetical List of Male Demon Names
- Aamon – Wolf-headed demon of wrath
- Abaddon – Angel of the abyss
- Abigor – Demon of war
- Adramelech – Chancellor of Hell
- Agares – Demon who teaches languages
- Ahriman – Zoroastrian spirit of darkness
- Alastor – Executioner demon
- Amon – Wolf-headed marquis of Hell
- Andras – Owl-headed marquis who sows discord
- Asmodeus – Demon of lust
- Astaroth – Treasurer of Hell
- Azazel – Fallen angel who taught humans warfare
- Baal – King of Hell in some traditions
- Balaam – Demon of avarice and greed
- Baphomet – Goat-headed deity associated with the occult
- Barbatos – Duke of Hell who understands animals
- Behemoth – Demon of gluttony
- Belial – Demon of lawlessness
- Belphegore – Demon of inventiveness
- Beelzebub – Lord of the Flies
- Caim – Bird-man who understands animal speech
- Dagon – Philistine deity demonized in later traditions
- Dantalion – Duke who knows human thoughts
- Demogorgon – Prince of demons in D&D
- Focalor – Sea-drowning demon
- Furcas – Knight of Hell who teaches divination
- Gaap – Transporter demon
- Hastur – The Unspeakable One
- Iblis – Islamic devil figure
- Kobal – Patron of comedians
- Leviathan – Sea monster
- Lucifer – Light-bringer, fallen angel
- Malphas – Builder of fortresses
- Mammon – Demon of wealth
- Mephistopheles – Collector of souls
- Moloch – Associated with child sacrifice
- Murmur – Demon of music
- Nergal – Mesopotamian god of war and pestilence
- Orias – Demon of divination
- Orobas – Horse-headed demon of honesty
- Paimon – King of the west
- Phenex – Phoenix-like demon poet
- Rahab – Sea monster in Hebrew mythology
- Raum – Crow-headed destroyer
- Samael – Angel of death
- Satan – Adversary figure
- Ukobach – Keeper of Hell’s fires
- Valac – Child angel on dragon
- Vassago – Discovers hidden objects
- Xaphan – Demon who stokes Hell’s furnaces
- Zepar – Makes women fall in love
Alphabetical List of Female Demon Names
- Agrat bat Mahlat – Demoness of prostitution
- Alecto – Fury of unceasing anger
- Alrinach – Demoness of floods and earthquakes
- Arachne – Spider demoness
- Baba Yaga – Witch-like entity from Slavic folklore
- Batibat – Filipino nightmare demoness
- Bythos – Depth demoness
- Charybdis – Whirlpool monster
- Echidna – Mother of monsters
- Empusa – Shape-shifting seductress
- Ereshkigal – Mesopotamian goddess of the underworld
- Euryale – Gorgon sister of Medusa
- Gello – Child-stealing demoness
- Gerda – Ice demoness
- Gorgo – Another name for Medusa
- Hariti – Child-eating ogress
- Hecate – Goddess of witchcraft (sometimes demonized)
- Hel – Norse ruler of the underworld
- Hulder – Seductive forest entity
- Ishtar – Demonized aspect of the love goddess
- Izanami – Japanese underworld goddess
- Jahi – Persian demoness of lasciviousness
- Kali – Hindu goddess with destructive aspects
- Kitsune – Fox spirit with demonic aspects
- Lamashtu – Child-killing demoness
- Lamia – Child-devouring monster
- Lilith – First wife of Adam turned demoness
- Mara – Buddhist tempter demoness
- Megaera – Fury of jealousy and envy
- Melusine – Half-serpent water spirit
- Mormo – Bite-inflicting demoness
- Naamah – Demoness of seduction
- Obizuth – Destroyer of infants
- Onoskelis – Donkey-legged demoness
- Persephone – Queen of the underworld
- Proserpine – Roman name for Persephone
- Rangda – Witch queen from Bali
- Ravenna – Contemporary fictional witch-like entity
- Scylla – Many-headed sea monster
- Shedim – Female demons in Jewish folklore
- Stheno – Immortal gorgon sister
- Tisiphone – Fury of vengeful destruction
- Verin – Demoness of impatience
- Wakwak – Headless female monster
- Yuki-onna – Japanese snow demoness
- Zaria – Slavic demoness
Gaming-Specific Demon Names
- Alma Wade (F.E.A.R.)
- Archimonde (World of Warcraft)
- Baal (Diablo)
- Cacodemons (Doom)
- Chernabog (Kingdom Hearts)
- Demogorgon (Dungeons & Dragons/Stranger Things)
- Diablo (Diablo)
- Dormin (Shadow of the Colossus)
- Giygas (Earthbound)
- Icon of Sin (Doom)
- Kil’jaeden (World of Warcraft)
- Lavos (Chrono Trigger)
- Madama Butterfly (Bayonetta)
- Mehrunes Dagon (Elder Scrolls)
- Mephisto (Diablo)
- Mundus (Devil May Cry)
- Nightmare (Soul Calibur)
- Nito (Dark Souls)
- Rakdos (Magic: The Gathering)
- Sparda (Devil May Cry)
- Vergil/Nelo Angelo (Devil May Cry)
- Xel’lotath (Eternal Darkness)
- Yogg-Saron (World of Warcraft)
- Zalgo (Creepypasta/Internet)
Check out names that mean dragon for more gaming character inspiration.
Case Studies: Iconic Demon Names
Lucifer Morningstar (DC Comics/TV Series)
Lucifer stands out as one of the most complex demons in modern media. His name combines:
- Lucifer – Latin for “light-bringer”
- Morningstar – Biblical reference to Venus, the morning star
What makes this name memorable:
- The duality between light and darkness
- The elegant, almost aristocratic quality
- The accessibility of a familiar name paired with a distinct surname
The character’s evolution from biblical adversary to complex anti-hero mirrors the name’s journey from purely negative to morally ambiguous.
Malebolgia (Spawn)
Created by Todd McFarlane for Spawn comics, Malebolgia derives from:
- Malebolge – The eighth circle of Hell in Dante’s Inferno
- Combined with a suffix suggesting enormity or monstrosity
The name works because:
- It sounds inherently menacing
- It carries literary weight and meaning
- It’s distinctive and unique to the character
- The harsh consonants evoke the character’s grotesque appearance
Makima (Chainsaw Man)
A more modern demon character, Makima from the manga/anime Chainsaw Man has a deceptively simple name that hides deeper meaning:
- The name sounds innocuous and feminine
- Contrasts with her true nature as the Control Devil
- May connect to “Maki” (meaning “true hope” in Japanese)
- The simplicity creates ironic contrast with her complex, manipulative character
What makes it effective:
- Subverts demonic naming conventions
- Memorable through its simplicity
- Creates dramatic irony between name and nature
- Allows for the character’s true identity to be a surprise
Explore names that mean illusion for characters with hidden natures.
Final Thoughts
Demon names carry power. They connect modern stories to ancient fears, give depth to villainous characters, and help create memorable antagonists that stick with audiences long after the story ends.
Whether you’re creating a demonic character for your next D&D campaign, naming a villain in your novel, or just appreciating the rich tapestry of demonic lore across cultures, understanding these names opens up fascinating worlds of mythology and storytelling.
The best demon names aren’t just spooky-sounding combinations of syllables – they’re portals into character, story, and cultural meaning. They whisper of ancient fears and modern anxieties, connecting us to the shadows that have always lurked at the edges of human imagination.
What’s your favorite demon name from mythology, fiction, or gaming? Got an original demonic name you’ve created? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Discover names that mean power for more naming inspiration.