Ever found yourself trying to name a ghostly character for a story, Halloween costume, or game and drawing a complete blank? I’ve been there too! Whether you’re working on a spooky tale, planning Halloween decorations, or creating a character for your next D&D campaign, finding the perfect ghost name can be tricky.
I’ve put together this massive collection of ghost names to spark your imagination. From spine-chilling villains to friendly spirits, historical haunts to mystical apparitions – I’ve got you covered with over 650 ghost name ideas plus tips on creating your own!
Ghost names capture our imagination in ways few other character names can. They bridge the gap between our world and whatever lies beyond, giving identity to the shadows that might lurk in dark corners or the protective spirits we hope watch over us.
These names serve essential roles in our stories and traditions. In storytelling, a ghost’s name often reveals its past life, manner of death, or unfinished business. For Halloween enthusiasts, the perfect ghost name adds authenticity to decorations and costumes. And for gamers and role-players, a well-chosen ghost name breathes life (ironically!) into spectral characters.
Let’s dive into the misty world of ghost names and discover hundreds of options for your next creative project!
Check out these names that mean nightmare for more spooky inspiration.
Unique Ghost Name Ideas
Looking for something different? These one-of-a-kind ghost names stand out from the typical spectral crowd:
- Whisperwind
- Echoforlorn
- Duskwatcher
- Mournsong
- Grieftide
- Shadowheart
- Mistweaver
- Veilwalker
- Ghostwick
- Hauntley
- Ethereis
- Spiritwane
- Phantomsigh
- Chillwhisper
- Fogbound
- Specterlight
- Gloomshade
- Wispraven
- Hollowmoan
- Sorrowdrift
- Dreadmore
- Phantomworth
- Ghostwicke
- Graymist
- Melancholia
- Wailingshadow
- Nightshiver
- Lamenterra
- Etherealgaze
- Spiritflicker
These names have that perfect balance of eerie and intriguing – ideal for a ghost with a unique story to tell!
Explore names that mean mystery for additional unique ideas.
Evil Ghost Names
When creating a malevolent spirit, you need a name that sends shivers down the spine:
- Malevolus
- Grimshade
- Terrornight
- Vexvapor
- Malicewhisper
- Dreadwraith
- Cruelshade
- Wickedwail
- Horrorhaunt
- Evilshriek
- Malevolence
- Demonicvapor
- Sinisterspirit
- Abyssshade
- Diabolicalwisp
- Tormenthorn
- Wickedsoul
- Malevola
- Darkshadow
- Hellfrost
- Venomshade
- Morbidus
- Terrorveil
- Reaperwhisper
- Dreadmore
- Grimreaper
- Hexwraith
- Cursedspirit
- Nightterror
- Murderaith
These names practically drip with malice – perfect for your villain or that especially terrifying Halloween decoration!
Discover names that mean evil for more sinister inspiration.
Campy Ghost Names
Not all ghosts need to be scary! These playful, pun-filled names are perfect for lighter, more humorous ghostly characters:
- Boocifer
- Spookington
- Ghostface McFloaty
- Sir Floats-a-Lot
- Phantastic Phil
- Casper’s Cooler Cousin
- Apparisha
- Spookarella
- Ghosted Greg
- Spectral Stanley
- Boo-Boo
- Transparent Ted
- Haunt-ingly Hannah
- Polter-Geist
- Chains McClanky
- Misty Meanors
- Phantom Phred
- Sheet-head Shelly
- Ghoulbert
- Floaty McFloatface
- Woo the Ghost
- Eerie Eric
- Boogene
- Spooky Suzette
- Ghostopher
- Boo Jenkins
- Ecto-Paula
- Chilliam
- Haunter Harris
- Paranorman
I can’t help giggling at these names – they’re perfect for kid-friendly Halloween decorations or a comedic ghostly sidekick!
Check out these names that mean silly for more lighthearted options.
Historical Ghost Names
For ghosts with an old-world feel or those who’ve been haunting for centuries:
- Lord Wellington Frost
- Lady Genevieve Holloway
- Captain Thaddeus Blackwater
- Baroness Eleanor Whitmore
- Professor Archibald Graves
- Countess Isabelle du Mortis
- Sir Edmund Greymoor
- Madame Victoria Darkley
- Colonel Bartholomew Winters
- Duchess Theodora Coldstone
- Dr. Sebastian Shadowton
- Lady Penelope Wraithwood
- Bishop Cornelius Darkmoor
- Empress Katerina Nightshade
- Lord Percival Ghostwick
- Dame Elizabeth Gravesend
- General Maximus Hollows
- Governess Amelia Blackwood
- Earl Winston Misthaven
- Heiress Josephine Greyhaven
- Justice Solomon Deadwood
- Queen Eleanora Ghostley
- Chancellor Reginald Dustworth
- Nurse Matilda Grimstone
- Admiral Frederick Shipwreck
- Countess Lucinda Moonfall
- Mayor Ebenezer Tombly
- Duchess Henrietta Nightingale
- Professor Wilhelm Shadowbrook
- Lady Margaret Duskmoore
These names evoke bygone eras, making them perfect for ghosts who’ve been haunting manor houses or ancient castles for centuries!
Explore names that mean timekeeper for more historical inspiration.
Mystical Ghost Names
For spirits with magical or otherworldly qualities:
- Aetheria
- Mysticveil
- Oraclewraith
- Enchantress Lumina
- Wizardshade
- Sorcereave
- Runewhisper
- Crystalvapor
- Oracula
- Spellbound Spirit
- Arcane Echo
- Divineghost
- Magical Misty
- Bewitched Presence
- Charmed Phantom
- Wizened Wisp
- Elementalshade
- Alchemist’s Echo
- Conjurespirit
- Enchanterra
- Potionshade
- Mysticmist
- Wizardry Wisp
- Spellcaster’s Shade
- Mageslayer
- Elixirwraith
- Enchantomist
- Mageghost
- Charmspector
- Wizardbane
These names blend ghostly qualities with magical elements – perfect for spirits who possess supernatural powers beyond just haunting!
Discover names that mean illusion for more mystical inspiration.
Tragic Ghost Names
Some ghosts come from stories of heartbreak and loss. These names evoke sadness and unfinished business:
- Mournful Melody
- Sorrowsoul
- Lamentis
- Griefheart
- Teardrop
- Foreverlost
- Brokenspirit
- Heartachevapor
- Abandonedshade
- Miserymist
- Woebegone Whisper
- Unfulfilled Ursula
- Lostlove Lizzie
- Grieving Grace
- Departed Desire
- Forsaken Faye
- Heartbroken Henry
- Sorrow’s Shadow
- Dolor
- Nevermore Nancy
- Betrayed Bartholomew
- Tragic Tessa
- Desolate Dawn
- Regretful Rachel
- Melancholy Morgan
- Wistful Walter
- Despairing Diana
- Bereft Benjamin
- Lamenting Lily
- Unrequited Uma
The stories behind these ghosts would bring tears to anyone’s eyes. They’re perfect for creating emotional depth in ghost stories or games.
Explore names that mean sorrow for more tragic inspiration.
Childlike Ghost Names
Young spirits often have a special poignancy or playfulness. These names capture youthful energy:
- Little Lily-wisp
- Tiny Tim Specter
- Playful Polly
- Giggles
- Skipping Sally
- Bouncing Bobby
- Marbles Molly
- Hopscotch Henry
- Pigtail Poltergeist
- Tricycle Terry
- Lullaby Lucy
- Teddy’s Spirit
- Hide-and-Seek Hannah
- Bedtime Bobby
- Nursery Noelle
- Cradle Craig
- Toddler Tina
- Playground Pete
- Schoolyard Samuel
- Rascal Ralph
- Bubbles
- Fingerpaints Fiona
- Tiny Toby
- Pinafore Pearl
- Young Yolanda
- Naptime Nathan
- Dollhouse Daisy
- Alphabet Andy
- Sandbox Sammy
- Jingle Jack
These names balance innocence with the eerie quality of child ghosts, making them perfect for poignant or playful spectral children.
Check out names that mean small for more childlike options.
Nature-Inspired Ghost Names
Ghosts tied to natural elements often have an ancient, primordial quality:
- Windwhisper
- Forestshade
- Riverhaunt
- Mountainmist
- Oceavapor
- Thunderspirit
- Leafrustle
- Stonewraith
- Flowerghast
- Earthbound
- Mistmeadow
- Treewhisper
- Caveshade
- Snowspirit
- Rainshadow
- Winterwisp
- Autumnecho
- Springspecter
- Summerphantom
- Skyshade
- Stormghost
- Willowwisp
- Mossvapor
- Breezeborne
- Duskbloom
- Fogfell
- Dewdrop Drifter
- Tidehaunt
- Meadowshade
- Fernfade
These names connect ghostly presence with natural beauty and power, perfect for spirits tied to specific locations or elemental forces.
Discover names that mean nature for more natural inspiration.
Vengeful Ghost Names
Spirits seeking retribution have a particularly threatening energy captured in these names:
- Vengeancevapor
- Retributionshade
- Wrathwraith
- Revengespecter
- Vindictive Victor
- Avengeress
- Grudgebinder
- Retaliator
- Paybackphantom
- Unforgiving Ursula
- Vengeful Vladimir
- Malice Maker
- Retributionwraith
- Grudgeholder
- Justifier Julius
- Avenging Angel
- Vendettavapor
- Scorekeeper
- Wrath Wraith
- Karmic Killer
- Balance Bringer
- Debtcollector
- Reckoning Rita
- Punisher Paul
- Vengeance Vapor
- Equalizer Ezra
- Nemesis Nancy
- Retribution Rex
- Settling Scores
- Furious Phantom
These names practically seethe with angry energy – perfect for ghosts with unfinished business of the darkest kind.
Explore names that mean vengeance for more vengeful inspiration.
Ancient Ghost Names
For spirits who have haunted since time immemorial:
- Eternius
- Ancientshade
- Primordial Presence
- Ageless Agnes
- Eonwraith
- Antiquitus
- Firstborn Phantom
- Time-worn Thomas
- Everlasting Eliza
- Immortal Imogene
- Ancestral Apparition
- Perpetual Percy
- Timeless Thaddeus
- Ageless Aura
- Elder Essence
- Prehistoric Presence
- Epochal Echo
- Forgotten Frederick
- Centurial Cecilia
- Millenniawraith
- Olden One
- Primeval Paul
- Lost Legend
- Bygone Betty
- Ancient Alexander
- Dusty Dynasty
- Heritage Haunt
- Relic Raymond
- Archaic Aria
- Venerable Vapor
I’m always fascinated by the idea of ghosts who’ve seen civilizations rise and fall. These names capture that sense of immense age and wisdom that comes from centuries of watching the world change.
Check out names that mean ancient for more timeless inspiration.
Protector Ghost Names
Sometimes spirits stick around to watch over the living. These names reflect that guardian quality:
- Guardianghost
- Shieldspirit
- Watchful Wilma
- Protectorshade
- Vigilant Victor
- Defendervapor
- Safekeepersoul
- Wardenwraith
- Sentinel Samuel
- Guardian Grace
- Keeper Karl
- Aegisspirit
- Sheltering Shade
- Vigilance Vapor
- Caretaker Cora
- Defensor
- Shield Sheridan
- Watchghost
- Patron Poltergeist
- Lookout Lucy
- Mindful Marvin
- Savior Specter
- Angel’s Echo
- Harboring Hannah
- Preserve Pierce
- Vigilant Vapor
- Attentive Arthur
- Keeper’s Kindness
- Bulwark Bruce
- Safeguard Sally
I love the idea of friendly ghosts who stick around to help! There’s something really heartwarming about spirits who choose to protect rather than haunt.
Explore names that mean protector or guardian for more protective inspiration.
Healer Ghost Names
For benevolent spirits who bring comfort and healing:
- Mendingmist
- Healinghaunt
- Remedyvapor
- Soothingsoul
- Comforter Cordelia
- Restorative Rose
- Therapeutic Theodore
- Nurturingshade
- Healerveil
- Medicinal Mist
- Balm Bearer
- Curative Claire
- Alleviating Allen
- Remedy Rachel
- Wholesome Wisp
- Wellness Warren
- Curing Cassandra
- Benevolent Blessing
- Soothing Samuel
- Panacea Pearl
- Gentle Ghost
- Nurturing Nicole
- Tending Timothy
- Rejuvenating Ruby
- Mending Martha
- Restful Richard
- Calming Casper
- Tranquil Trace
- Peaceful Presence
- Healtouch Hannah
Whenever I’m writing a ghost story with a positive twist, I turn to names like these. They perfectly capture the essence of spirits who bring comfort rather than fear.
Discover names that mean healer for more healing inspiration.
Mentor Ghost Names
Wise spirits who guide the living with their accumulated knowledge:
- Wisdomshade
- Guidelight
- Teacherspirit
- Mentorwisp
- Sage Samuel
- Professor Phantom
- Counselor Claire
- Wisewraith
- Elder Echo
- Advisor Alma
- Learned Leonard
- Scholarshade
- Wizened William
- Guidinghand
- Coach Casper
- Insightful Ida
- Philosopher’s Phantom
- Tutor Timothy
- Learned Light
- Enlightened Eliza
- Masterful Morgan
- Wisdomweaver
- Pathshower
- Guidingvoice
- Mentor Mist
- Enlightening Edwin
- Sage Spirit
- Teacher Theresa
- Guiding Gwen
- Philosopher Philip
I’ve always found the “wise ghost mentor” trope so compelling in stories – that spectral figure who appears just when the hero needs guidance most!
Check out names that mean knowledge for more wise inspiration.
Comedic Ghost Names
For spirits who keep their sense of humor even in the afterlife:
- Chucklevapor
- Jestershade
- Pranking Poltergeist
- Gigglewraith
- Comedian Casper
- Jokester Jack
- Funny Phantom
- Witty Wisp
- Humorous Haunt
- Comical Cora
- Laughingshade
- Punchline Paul
- Ticklespirit
- Mirthful Mabel
- Gag Ghost
- Silly Specter
- Entertaining Edgar
- Knee-slapper Ned
- Playful Polly
- Amusing Ashley
- Harlequin Haunt
- Joking Jemma
- Trickster Trevor
- Whimsical Whitney
- Laughterlight
- Comedic Curtis
- Amusing Apparition
- Hilarious Harry
- Wisecrack Wendy
- Jovial Jim
I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather be haunted by a ghost who tells jokes than one who rattles chains all night! These names are perfect for more lighthearted ghost characters.
Explore names that mean silly for more comedic options.
Messenger Ghost Names
Spirits who carry information between worlds or deliver warnings:
- Messengermist
- Heraldhaunt
- Warningwraith
- Deliverer Dylan
- Forewarner Frances
- Proclaimershade
- Courier Casper
- Telegraphing Tessa
- Harbinger Hannah
- Prophet Phantom
- Newsbearer
- Messagevapor
- Herald Henry
- Warning Wilma
- Portent Porter
- Signal Sender
- Fate’s Forerunner
- Omen Oliver
- Prophecy Polly
- Deliverer Della
- Foreseeing Freddie
- Alert Arthur
- Visionbearer
- Forecaster Faith
- Cassandra’s Call
- Foresight Felix
- Signaling Samuel
- Announcing Anita
- Divining Daisy
- Messenger Mitchell
These names work great for those eerie ghost stories where a spirit appears just in time to warn someone of impending danger!
Check out names that mean messenger for more messenger inspiration.
Types of Ghost Names
When picking the perfect ghost name, it helps to think about what category you’re looking for. Here’s how ghost names typically break down:
By Gender
- Male Ghost Names: Often feature strong consonants or historic titles (Lord Blackwood, Baron Coldthorne)
- Female Ghost Names: Frequently include flowing sounds or titles of nobility (Lady Whiteveil, Duchess Moonfall)
- Unisex Ghost Names: Usually focus on qualities or actions rather than gendered elements (Whisperwind, Shadowwalker)
By Type
Ghost names can be categorized based on the spirit’s nature:
| Type | Characteristics | Example Names |
|---|---|---|
| Good | Protective, helpful, kind | Guardian Grace, Healing Hannah |
| Evil | Malevolent, dangerous | Malevolus, Terrorveil |
| Cute | Playful, childlike | Booboo, Giggles |
| Scary | Frightening, threatening | Nightterror, Dreadwraith |
| Campy | Humorous, punny | Sir Floats-a-Lot, Spookington |
| Historical | Old-fashioned, formal | Lord Edmund Greymoor, Duchess Theodora |
| Mystical | Magical, otherworldly | Enchanterra, Runewhisper |
| Tragic | Sad, unfortunate | Sorrowsoul, Grieving Grace |
By Origin
Ghost names often draw from specific sources:
- Literature/Mythology: Names inspired by classic ghost stories, myths, and legends (Banquo, Grey Lady)
- Movies/TV: Names from popular ghost films and shows (Slimer, Moaning Myrtle)
- Video Games: Names from gaming’s spectral characters (Polterpup, King Boo)
- Real-world Folklore: Names from cultural ghost stories (Bloody Mary, La Llorona)
I’ve found that mixing and matching from these categories often creates the most memorable ghost names!
Explore names that mean mysterious for more inspiration across these categories.
Famous Ghost Names and Their Stories
Some ghost names have become legendary. Here are a few of the most recognizable spectral figures:
Casper the Friendly Ghost: Unlike most spirits, Casper just wants to make friends! This cartoon character first appeared in the 1940s and has remained a cultural icon of the friendly ghost.
The Morrigan: This Celtic figure represents the phantom queen or goddess of fate, often appearing as a harbinger of doom before battles.
Polterpup: From the Luigi’s Mansion video game series, this playful ghost dog helps Luigi on his adventures despite initially causing mischief.
Bloody Mary: One of the most famous mirror summoning legends, this vengeful spirit supposedly appears if you say her name three times in a darkened bathroom mirror.
Queen Esther: A historic ghost said to haunt several locations in the American South, often seen in a flowing white dress searching for something lost.
Ayakashi: In Japanese folklore, these are spirits that appear above the sea, often bringing storms or misfortune to sailors.
The Bell Witch: A famous American haunting from Tennessee, this malevolent spirit reportedly tormented the Bell family in the early 1800s, particularly focusing on their daughter Betsy.
I remember trying the Bloody Mary ritual at a slumber party when I was 12 – none of us could actually finish saying her name three times before running out of the bathroom screaming! These famous ghost names carry such powerful stories that they’ve become part of our cultural consciousness.
Discover names that mean ghost for more famous spectral names.
How to Create Your Own Ghost Name
Coming up with your own unique ghost name can be really fun! Here’s my step-by-step process:
- Start with brainstorming: Jot down words related to your ghost’s personality, backstory, appearance, or haunting style.
- Use language roots: Latin, Old English, and Germanic roots add an authentic, ancient feel:
- Latin: “Mortis” (death), “Umbra” (shadow)
- German: “Geist” (ghost), “Schrei” (scream)
- Old English: “Wraith,” “Haunt”
- Incorporate themes: Add elements that reflect your ghost’s nature:
- For vengeful ghosts: terms of justice, retribution
- For sad ghosts: words conveying loss, sorrow
- For protective ghosts: guardian, shield, watch
- Consider character traits: Build names around your ghost’s defining characteristic:
- How they died: “Hangman’s Haunt,” “Drowning Darla”
- Physical appearance: “Misty Morgan,” “Transparent Trent”
- Time period: “Victorian Vapor,” “Ancient Agnes”
- Play with combinations: Mix different elements together:
- Adjective + Ghost Type: “Whisperingshade,” “Vengefulspirit”
- Title + Name + Location: “Lady Evelyn of Misty Hollow”
- Action + Object: “Chainsrattle,” “Doorslammer”
I created a ghost character named “Librarian Lillian Pageturner” for a story once. She was the spirit of a strict librarian who still organized books after death and would make disapproving noises at anyone who damaged books. The name instantly told readers what kind of ghost she was!
Explore names that mean creative for inspiration in creating your own names.
Cultural Significance of Ghost Names
Ghost names vary widely across cultures, reflecting different beliefs about the afterlife and spiritual world:
Japanese Ghost Names often connect to specific types of spirits:
- Yurei: Traditional Japanese ghosts, often portrayed with white clothing, long black hair, and no feet
- Onryo: Vengeful female spirits seeking retribution
- Zashiki-warashi: Child-like house spirits who bring good fortune
- Funayurei: Ghosts of those who died at sea
Western Ghost Names tend to focus on:
- Historical periods (Victorian, Medieval)
- Christian concepts (soul, spirit, heavenly/hellish associations)
- Location-based hauntings (The White Lady of X Castle)
Latin American Ghost Names often relate to folklore figures:
- La Llorona (The Weeping Woman)
- El Silbón (The Whistler)
- La Sayona (a vengeful female ghost)
The way we name ghosts reflects what we fear, what we hope for in an afterlife, and how we process grief and loss. I find it fascinating how ghost names in horror movies have evolved over time too – from the formal “Lord” and “Lady” ghosts of older films to more psychological or trauma-based names in modern horror.
Discover names that mean mystery for more cultural connections.
Final Thoughts
Ghost names are so much more than just spooky labels – they’re doorways into character development, storytelling, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re naming a character for a Halloween decoration, crafting a ghost story, designing a video game character, or planning a haunted house, the perfect ghost name sets the tone and brings your spectral creation to life (or afterlife!).
I hope this massive collection of ghost names has sparked your creativity! Remember that the best ghost names tell a story even before you share the character’s backstory. A name like “Vengeanceshadow” immediately suggests a different type of spirit than “Little Lily-wisp” or “Professor Phantomworth.”
So go ahead – pick a name from our lists or create your own unique ghost name using the tips we’ve shared. The spirit world awaits your creativity!
Explore names that mean creative for your next inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the origin of the word “ghost”?
The word “ghost” comes from the Old English “gāst,” meaning “breath” or “spirit.” It’s related to the German “Geist” (which also means ghost or spirit). Originally, it referred to the soul or spirit of a person, not just the spooky apparition we think of today. Isn’t it interesting how words evolve over time? The whole “breath” connection makes sense when you think about it – our last breath marking the transition between life and death.
Are there real ghosts that have been given names?
Throughout history, people have certainly named specific ghosts they believe to be real! Famous examples include:
- The Brown Lady of Raynham Hall – supposedly the ghost of Lady Dorothy Walpole
- The Bell Witch – a poltergeist that tormented the Bell family in Tennessee
- The Gray Man of Pawleys Island – a storm-warning ghost who appears before hurricanes
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these named spirits have become important parts of local folklore and history. I have an aunt who swears her house is haunted by someone she calls “Old Pete” – she’s even set a place for him at Thanksgiving dinner for years!
How do I choose the best ghost name for my character?
When naming a ghost character, think about:
- Their backstory (how they died, what era they’re from)
- Their personality (friendly, vengeful, mischievous)
- The story’s tone (scary, funny, tragic, adventurous)
- Your audience (kids might prefer names like “Floaty” while adults might appreciate something more complex)
I once spent three days trying to name a ghost character for a short story I was writing. I finally landed on “Reverend Thaddeus Blackwood” after learning my story location used to have an old church that burned down in the 1800s. That little bit of local history made the character feel so much more authentic!
Can ghost names be used as baby names?
Some ghost-associated names have actually become quite popular for babies! Names like:
- Casper (the friendly ghost, but also a traditional name)
- Phoebe (means “bright” or “shining” and appears in ghost stories)
- Lily (associated with death and spirits in some cultures, but a beautiful flower name)
Just maybe think twice before naming your child “Poltergeist” or “Dreadwraith” – those playground years might be tough! Though I did meet a little girl named “Boo” once – it was a nickname for “Beatrice” and totally adorable, not spooky at all.
Ghost names can also be great for pets, especially cats and black dogs. My neighbor has a black cat named “Specter” who absolutely lives up to his mysterious name – appears and disappears like he’s walking through walls!
Whether you’re naming a character, a pet, or just looking for Halloween inspiration, I hope this guide has given you plenty of spectral naming ideas to play with. Happy haunting!
Discover names that mean mystery for your final inspiration.