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100 Cunning Baby Names Meaning Trickster: For Boys & Girls

Updated
These unique trickster names just might suit your little troublemaker.

Babies are naturally mischievous little people. How they melt our hearts with their sly smiles should be a crime, but they’re also the cutest little rule breakers!

Signifying your baby’s cunning nature with one of these names meaning trickster, is fitting for many reasons.

Your baby may be unpredictable in their ways, but you get to decide their name. We’ve created a list of unique trickster names to help you find the perfect one for your baby girl or boy. Let’s dive right in and see what we can find.


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100 Playful Names That Mean Trickster for Boys and Girls

Don’t be surprised if you find a baby name on this list that you absolutely love!

Abiram

Abiram was known as a deceiver for his role in the betrayal of Moses and Aaron in the Old Testament. It’s not often that we see biblical names used that are known adversaries of men and women of the Faith, but this name also means “High Father,” which is a bit more neutral.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: High father, father of deceit
  • Pronunciation: ABHI-rum
  • Variations: Abiron
Unique, Handsome

Abuto

The placement of Abuto as a first name makes it unusual for those familiar with traditional African surnames. Even though it means “I have hidden,” Abuto would stand out for a baby girl. The name is short, but each syllable is filled with consonants, making the name feel very rhythmic.

  • Origin: African
  • Meaning: I have hidden
  • Popularity: Abuto is a popular surname in Kenya.
Unique, Unusual

Aella

In Greek mythology, Aella was one of Queen Hippolyte’s Amazon warriors in her famed fight against Heracles. DC comics also reference this warrior as one of Wonder Woman’s Amazon tribal members, who helped her defeat several opponents in combat.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Whirlwind, tempest
  • Pronunciation: AY-ellah
  • Popularity: Aella is rare in the US, with only 63 girls named Aella in 2021.
Rare, Beautiful

Aiden

Short and sweet with a sneaky meaning, “little fire.” This has been a popular name for boys for several years, but it’s also growing in popularity for girls. Aiden is still hugely popular for baby boys but remains a very unique name for girls.

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Little Fire
  • Pronunciation: AY-den
  • Variations: Aidan, Aden
  • Namesakes: Aiden McGeady, the Scottish-born footballer.
  • Popularity: In 2021, Aiden was the 26th most popular baby boy name in the U.S.
Popular, Cool

Anansi

According to Ghanaian folklore, Anansi was a spider whose manipulative and cunning tactics helped him outsmart those much bigger and stronger than him. He used his wit to his advantage so much that he was often regarded as the spider god. The Marvel Spider-Man character was also based on this tricky little spider.

  • Origin: Ghana
  • Meaning: Spider
  • Pronunciation: uh-naan-see
  • Variations: Ananse
Unique

Anjani

Even though Anjani means “illusion,” it’s no secret that this name is beautiful. Anjani is the “Mother of Lord Hanuman” in Hinduism. Hanuman is well known in the religion as the commander of the monkey army. Monkeys are very smart animals known for their silly nature.

  • Origin: India
  • Meaning: Illusion, Mother of Lord Hanuman
  • Pronunciation: ae-NYAA-Nee
Unique, Beautiful

Anwir

Anwir is a very bold, in-your-face name that might suit your little rascal. It has Welsh origins and is very rare, with less than ten boys born annually named Anwir.

  • Origin: Welsh
  • Meaning: Liar
  • Variations: Anwar
Rare, Handsome, Unique

Buster

Buster is often used as a nickname in the U.S. for boys and boisterous men, but it can also be used as a legal name, as several famous Americans have this name. Professional boxer Buster Douglas famously knocked out the reigning champ, Mike Tyson, in 1990, much to everyone’s surprise.

  • Origin: American
  • Meaning: Tough Guy
  • Namesakes: Buster Posey, a U.S. baseball player. Buster Keaton, a U.S. actor and filmmaker. Buster Douglas, a U.S. boxer.
Bold, Funny

Briar

Getting to the beauty and sweetness of your baby, despite their prickly nature at times, makes it all worthwhile. Many of us have had the experience of walking through briar patches. The only way to do it is to watch your step, if not, you might just feel the pain they bring!

  • Origin: British
  • Meaning: Thorny bush of wild roses, brambles
  • Variations: Brier, Bryar
  • Namesakes: Briar Nolet, the Canadian actress best known for starring in the television series The Next Step.
Unique, Rare

Calypso

Calypso is a romantic, playful name with musical elements. The name also references a West Indian style of music popularized by the actor Harry Belafonte. The goddess Calypso held the heroic Odysseus captive for so long with her charm that Zeus had to command her to release him.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: She who hides
  • Namesakes: Calypso Rose, the Trinidadian singer and songwriter.
Beautiful, Mythical
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Cameron

Your baby’s nose may be as cute as a button, but the kind of chaos that they can create will surely throw you for a loop. Although Cameron is mostly a popular name for boys, several girls, including the beautiful Cameron Diaz, wear the name well.

  • Origin: Scottish
  • Meaning: Crooked nose
  • Namesakes: Cameron Crowe, the American director. Cameron Diaz, the American actress. Cameron Russell, the American model.
  • Popularity: Cameron was the 26th most popular name for U.S. baby boys in 2021.
Popular, Cute

Chisi

The Tumbuka tribe residing in Malawi mostly uses this name as a surname. Chisi means “darkness,” which makes it so unique for a child, signifying the secrets they hold or something concealed about their birth. This name is so short and unique it could also easily be a nickname for a girl or boy.

  • Origin: Malawi
  • Meaning: Darkness
Unusual

Claudia

The Latin root of Claudia, dating back to ancient Rome, means “neither in nor out.” This can signify someone who is two-faced or two-sided, but in a way, it is coy and playful, not malicious. Claudia is the female derivative of Claude, an equally timeless name for a baby boy.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Lame,
  • neither in nor out
  • Namesakes: Claudia Schiffer, an American supermodel. Claudia Jordan, an American actress.
Classic, Beautiful

Cozbi

Cozbi, meaning liar, is very short and holds a lot of truth. You could use it to tell the story of how your baby’s gender was mistaken, or their due date was much different than expected. There are many reasons why your baby would be known as a little trickster so early on.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: False, lying
  • Pronunciation: cause-BEE
Religious, Unusual

Delilah

The biblical love story of Samson and Delilah is one of great betrayal. She was a thief of his heart, as she encouraged him to pour out his secrets so that she could betray him. Despite this, Delilah has endured over time as one of the most beautiful and classic names for little girls with a beguiling spirit.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Delicate
  • Namesakes: Delilah Cotto, an American entertainer. Delilah Dawon, an American author.
Traditional, Romantic

Diablo

It would be difficult to get more devilish than this name. Diablo is a direct Spanish translation for “devil.” If your family has Spanish heritage, or you’re simply an appreciator of the language and culture, this name might go to the top of the list for your handsome little devil.

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Devil
  • Pronunciation: DEE-ah-blo
  • Namesakes: Diablo Cody, an American film writer.
Bold, Handsome

Dionysus

In Greek mythology, Dionysus is the god of wine and revelry. The drunkenness of being in love, like so many of us are with babies, can fill us with joy and make us fall easily to their playful whims. Dionysus is also the god of fertility and pleasure, so it could be a subtle reference to his conception.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: God of wine and revelry
  • Pronunciation: DIE-yun-I-sus
Bold, Rare

Ella

The Ella Enchanted film features a whimsical princess who is cursed with the gift of obedience. The story follows Ella through several adventures to keep this a secret and to find a way to break the curse. Ella is a classically beautiful name filled with wonder.

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: She
  • Namesakes: Ella Fitzgerald, an American singer.
  • Popularity: Ella was the 15th most popular girl name in the U.S. in 2021.
Romantic, Classic, Traditional

Eris

The Greek goddess of strife, Eris, is a powerful name for a baby. It’s a short and sweet name filled with so much depth. Eris is the central deity worshipped in the Discordian religion, primarily based on praising this goddess of chaos.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Strife
  • Namesakes: Eris Paton, a Swiss footballer. Eris Paton, a New Zealand cricketer.
Unique, Romantic, Mythical

Fae

This shortened form of “fairy” conjures up the spirit of all that is mystical, whimsical, and hidden. Fairies are known for using their magic in silly ways and for being sly little tricksters who weave in and out of real and imagined worlds just for the fun of it.

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Fairy, elf
  • Namesakes: Fae Myenne Ng, an American novelist.
  • Popularity: Fae is rising in popularity in the U.S., moving up nearly 1,000 spaces between 2021 to 2022.
Mythical, Romantic
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Foley

Small children, especially babies, are known for plundering through things until they find what they want. Sometimes they will even trick us in their adorable little ways to get to the things they really want but shouldn’t have.

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Plunderer
Cute, Unique

Fox

Fox is more common as a surname, but it could be perfect for a baby boy. The clever line, “crazy as a fox,” is very well-known. The underlying meaning is that foxes are very smart, as they know how to pretend to be helpless to get what they want.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Wild animal in a dog family
Unique, Handsome

Gizem

There is no mystery that this Turkish name will give your baby girl an edge, even as a baby. Gizem is pretty common in Turkish, but it’s very rare and unique in other cultures.

Religious

Gunner

Bold and popular, Gunner calls to mind boys that have a winning spirit, even if it means they may be a bit stealthy in their ways.

  • Origin: Scandinavian
  • Meaning: Battle, warrior
  • Variations: Gunnar, Gunther
  • Namesakes: Gunner Kiel, an American football player. Gunner Wright, an American actor.
  • Popularity: In 2021, Gunner was in the top 1,000 names for boys in the U.S.
Bold, Handsome

Gus

Goofy Gus. Greedy Gus. Gus is often used as a nickname, preceded by defining characteristics. Does your little guy have a lot of personality already? Then Gus just might be for him.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Majestic, exalted, of Augustus
  • Namesakes: Gus Grissom, an early NASA scientist. Gus Van Sant, an American film director.
Funny, Cute

Hanzo

Hattori Hanzo was a famous Japanese samurai warrior. The legend of his skillfulness has been hailed for centuries. The popular film, Kill Bill, famously depicted the Hattori Hanzo sword in a clever way, as the characters outsmarted one another by hiding it and using it to defend themselves in combat.

  • Origin: Japanese
  • Meaning: Half hidden
  • Namesakes: Hattori Hanzou, a samurai warrior.
Unique, Cute

Harlow

Harlow has become a popular name for girls in recent years. Between 1882 and 1900, it was far more common for boys. The most popular namesake is Hollywood actress, Jean Harlow.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Rock or army hill
  • Namesakes: Harlow Shapley, an American astronomer. Jean Harlow, the American actress. Jack Harlow, an American rapper.
  • Popularity: In the U.S., Harlow ranked the 238th most common name for girls in 2021.
Classic, Cute, Trendy

Hermes

Hermes has become synonymous with luxury and timeless style becasue of the luxury fashion brand. It originated from the Greek god of travel, writing, and athletics, all forms of carrying messages. When Hermes was first born, he stole two sacred cows from the god Apollo and offered them to the higher gods as a sacrifice.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Messenger of the gods
  • Pronunciation: EHR-mez
Trendy, Unique

Hulda

Hulda comes from the Hebrew name Chulda, meaning a “weasel or mole.” Both animals are known for being deceptive and tricking others for their own benefit.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Hiding, secrecy, weasel
  • Namesakes: Hulda Berger, an American figure skater.
Unusual

Indra

Indra was a god known for using tricks and supernatural abilities to maintain his position as king. Although the name is derived from a god, it’s more commonly used as a girl’s name for those who are a part of the Hindu faith.

  • Origin: India
  • Meaning: The god of war and weather
  • Namesakes: Indra, the Swedish singer.
Beautiful, Unique
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Jacob

In the Old Testament, Jacob was known for tricking his father into giving him a blessing meant for his brother Esau. The meaning of Jacob relates directly to this act of scheming to take something by force.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Supplanter
  • Namesakes: Jacob Elordi, an Australian actor. Jacob Latimore, an American singer.
  • Popularity: Jacob has been in the top 500 boy names in the U.S. for over a century.
Traditional

Jareth

Jareth is from the fantasy movie, Labyrinth, famously portrayed by David Bowie. The character was known as the villainous goblin king, who sent the protagonist on a series of quests inside of his mystical castle in hopes of keeping her captive.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Unknown
Handsome, Unique

Kokopelli

Kokopelli is hailed as a flute player and trickster in Native American tribes. Often depicted with a humpback, this god is also associated with fertility and childbirth.

  • Origin: Indigenous American
  • Meaning: Kachina hump
  • Pronunciation: KOW-kuh-peh-lee
Unusual

Kuma Lisa

Kuma Lisa has Macedonian, Bulgarian, and Russian ties. In fictional stories, Kuma Lisa embodies the role of the trickster archetype. She is depicted as a fox wearing an elegant dress in all of the fable illustrations.

  • Origin: Macedonian
  • Meaning: Godmother Fox
Romantic, Rare

Laverna

Laverna is derived from the Latin word “laternio,” which means “thief.” Laverna is the Roman goddess of cheating and thievery.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Goddess of thievery
  • Variations: Laverne
  • Namesakes: Laverne Cox, an American actress best known for her role in Netflix’s Orange is the New Black.
Beautiful

Leesi

Leesi hails from Africa, and would be perfect for a little princess. Even though it sounds innocent enough, the meaning tells another, far more interesting story.

  • Origin: African
  • Meaning: Bad woman
Pretty

Leta

The fact that Leta is not very well-known speaks to the meaning of the name itself. This hidden treasure is rare and beautiful and could be perfect for your little one-in-a-million bundle of joy.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Hidden, forgotten treasure
Cute

Lilith

Lilith is a classic name that’s been popular for baby girls for centuries. Lilith is believed to have been Adam’s first wife, according to non-traditional Christian folklore. She was disobedient to him and ultimately turned into a night demon.

  • Origin: Assyrian
  • Meaning: Night monster
  • Namesakes: Lilith Nagar, the Israeli singer. Lilith Saintcrow, the American writer.
  • Popularity: In 2021, Lilith was the 268th most popular name for girls in the U.S.
Pretty, Romantic

Liraz

Liraz is rare in most countries, but for those who are named Liraz, it’s commonly given to both boys and girls.

  • Origin: Jewish
  • Meaning: I have a secret
  • Pronunciation: LEE-rahz
Unique, Unusual

Loki

With the rising popularity of the Thor Marvel movies, more boys are being named Loki. Loki is the defiant Norse god of mischief- perfect for the cutest little trickster you know.

  • Origin: Nordic
  • Meaning: Airy
Cute, Unusual
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Mac

Mac is often used as a nickname for Mackenzie or Macintosh for boys. It has an alternate meaning of “son” with Scottish origins.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Wise guy
  • Namesakes: Mac Miller, an American rapper.
Handsome

Matilda

The novel Matilda, by renowned author Ronald Dahl, is a very popular tale that became even more popularized by the film of the same name. In the story, Matilda is a little girl who uses trickery and magic to ultimately achieve what she wants in life.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Battle mighty
  • Popularity: Matilda is a popular name for girls in Denmark.
Pretty

Maui

In Polynesian mythology, Maui is known as the trickster god. This name became even more popular after the Disney film Moana premiered in 2016.

Handsome

Maverick

The many decades-long success of the film Top Gun has added to the legend of this name. The main character, Maverick, is a reckless joker who constantly defies the odds. Maverick is also associated with being exceptionally good at a certain skill.

  • Origin: American
  • Meaning: Nonconformist
  • Namesakes: Maverick Thompson, an American actor.
Handsome, Unique

Maximon

Maximon is a deity in Mayan folklore, known for being the god of the underworld. This deity also represents the light and the dark. He is known as a trickster, womanizer, and protector of couples.

  • Origin: Mayan
  • Meaning: Trickster
Unusual

Maya

The famous poet and artist Maya Angelou was a wielder of words. This is also another name for the goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of love with beauty and joyfulness.

  • Origin: Indian
  • Meaning: Illusion, Magic
  • Namesakes: Maya Angelou, an American writer. Maya Rudolph, an American actress.
Beautiful, Classic

Medea

Medea was a sorceress and goddess from Greek mythology known for tricking her father. She used her cunning ways to help her husband Jason steal the Golden Fleece. The Golden Fleece was a ram with golden hair and one of Greek mythology’s most significant symbols of power.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: To ponder, cunning
Pretty, Unusual

Merlin

Merlin is best known as the wizard in the age-old legend of King Arthur. His character is based upon historical figures and fictionalized accounts of his magic, sorcery, and trickery.

  • Origin: Welsh
  • Meaning: Sea fortress
  • Namesakes: Merlin, a British rapper. Merlin Bronques, an American musician.
Unusual, Unique

Mestra

According to Greek mythology, Mestra had the ability to change shape. She was the lover of Poseidon, and this shape-shifting ability was his gift to her.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: The one who plays the lover
Unique, Romantic

Mohini

Mohini comes from the root word “moha.” This word means to “delude, enchant, or perplex.” It makes perfect sense why Mohini is the Hindu goddess of enchantment, an alluring pick among names meaning trickster.

  • Origin: India
  • Meaning: Delusion personified
Rare, Romantic
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Moritz

The German trickster folk hero Moritz pulled many pranks alongside his buddy Max. Tales of their adventures have been told for centuries.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Dark-skinned, Moorish
  • Variations: Maurice, Morris
Unusual, Rare

Naiche

Naiche was regarded as a handsome Apache chief. His name meant “meddlesome one,” and was also a well-regarded artist and painter.

  • Origin: Native American
  • Meaning: Mischief maker
  • Pronunciation: NYE-chee
Unique, Rare

Narada

Born from the mind of the creator god, Brahma, Narada is a unique deity. He was known for using the weakness of others to his advantage.

  • Origin: Indian
  • Meaning: One who praises the lord
Unusual

Nasreddin

According to folklore, Nasreddin was a very clever prankster. Interestingly, a cleric from Anatolia inspired the Turkish roots of these tales.

  • Origin: Middle Eastern
  • Meaning: Wise fool
Unusual

Osman

The alternate meaning of Osman is “wise, most powerful.” This wisdom went into building the Ottoman Empire, which was one of the greatest empires in history, reigning for over 609 years.

  • Origin: Arabic
  • Meaning: Son of a snake
  • Namesakes: Prince Osman the First, the founder of the Ottoman Empire.
Unusual, Rare

Pan

Pan is the god of shepherds, fertility, and pastures, with the body of a goat, and often associated with rustic music. Pan is also the namesake for the beloved character Peter Pan.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Shepherd
Unique, Rare

Pandora

In Greek mythology, Pandora was the first mortal woman. She was depicted as beautiful and very curious. “Pandora’s box” is an expression often used to warn against the possibility of someone unleashing something powerful and unexpected.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: All gifted
Romantic, Rare

Pedro

Pedro Urdemales is a well-known trickster in Chilean folk tales. In Portuguese, he is referred to as Pedro, “Bad Arts.”

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Strength
  • Namesakes: Pedro Martinez, a MLB baseball player. Pedro Pascal, a Chilean-American actor.
  • Popularity: Pedro is a common Spanish boy’s name.
Handsome, Popular

Penelope

Penelope is a classic name that has been popular for many years. The origin of Penelope goes back to the epic poem The Odyssey.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Weaver
  • Namesakes: Penelope Cruz, a Spanish actress best known for her role in Vanilla Sky.
Elegant, Classic

Peter

Sly Peter is a well-known trickster from Bulgarian folklore. He is often described as being kind and tricky. Peter Parker is also a popular character from the Spider man comics.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Rock, Stone
  • Namesakes: Peter Strauss, an American Actor.
  • Popularity: Peter ranks in the top 50 most commonly used boy names in the U.S.
Classic, Handsome
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Pettai

Pettai is typically an Estonian surname, but this name is also used as a first name for boys and girls.

  • Origin: Estonian
  • Meaning: Up to mischief
  • Popularity: Pettai is a rare name worldwide.
Unique

Premysl

The root word “pre” means “over,” while “mysli” means “thought.” Premysl is the founder of the Premyslid dynasty- a powerful nation that ruled for five centuries over Bohemia.

  • Origin: Slavic
  • Meaning: Trick, stratagem
Rare, Unusual

Pumphut

Pumphut is a tricky gnome in Sorbian and Slavic tales who saves his tricks for abusive people. He is known for using his magic to challenge evil doers.

  • Origin: Slavic
  • Meaning: To see, to know
  • Pronunciation: PUMP-hoot
Unusual, Rare

Raven

In Native American culture, a raven is a significant symbol. These birds are seen as creators and tricksters, stealing pieces of light until it became the sun during the creation of the earth.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Dark haired, wise
  • Namesakes: Raven Symone, an American actress, best known for her role in the popular series That’s So Raven.
Cool, Unique

Rebecca

In the Old Testament, Rebecca was the wife of Isaac. Her son Jacob tricked his oldest brother out of a blessing meant for him. Two trickster names in one family tree! Rebecca has remained a popular name for girls for many years.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: To snare
  • Namesakes: Rebecca Romijn, an American actress, known for her role as Mystique in the original X-Men film trilogy.
Romantic, Classic

Rebel

In 2021, 129 girls and 56 boys in the U.S. were named Rebel. It’s a rare name for most babies, but it’s a far more common name for baby girls.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Defiant
  • Namesakes: Rebel Wilson, an American actress, best known for her role in the Pitch Perfect film franchise.
Trendy, Cute

Rekker

This phonetic spelling of the word “wrecker” is trendy yet rare. Actor Cam Gigandet is best known for naming his son Rekker.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Wrecker
Trendy, Funny

Reynard

Reynard the fox is a beloved trickster in French culture. Foxes are known for being clever, but this particular one is clever and well-liked.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Strong decision, fox
Classic

Rhonda

The wrestler Ronda Rousey represents this name very well. She is known for going headfirst into fights even though she doesn’t always win. Her boisterous spirit perfectly embodies this strong name.

  • Origin: Welsh
  • Meaning: Noisy one
  • Variations: Ronda
  • Namesakes: Ronda Rousey, an American wrestler.
Classic

Robin

In Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, Robin is the narrator and fairy in the story. One of the most famous namesakes was Robin Williams, a comedic actor known for playing his compelling and jokester characters. In 2021, 290 girls and 256 boys were named Robin in the U.S.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Fame bright
  • Namesakes: Robin Williams, the American actor. Robin Givens, an American actress.
  • Popularity: Robin is an equally popular name for boys and girls in the U.S.
Cute
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Rogue

Going against the grain and acting erratically means someone has “gone rogue.” Rogue is also the name of the fiery, red-haired superhero from the X-Men comics.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Unpredictable
  • Pronunciation: Rowg
Cool, Trendy

Rowdy

Even if you’ve never seen the film, Rawhide, just know that the Clint Eastwood character, Rowdy Yates, spoke for itself. This trendy name signifies someone who doesn’t mind getting into trouble!

  • Origin: American
  • Meaning: Loud, spirited
Unique, Funny

Roxie

Roxie is typically a shortened version of Roxanne. The name is short and spunky. The Roxie Hart character from the Chicago Broadway play is best known for using her wiles to try and deceive others in very unusual ways.

  • Origin: Persian
  • Meaning: Dawn
  • Variations: Roxy

Ruse

A ruse is an action plan intended to deceive someone. Using Ruse for a baby is extremely rare, with fewer than ten babies receiving the name each year in the U.S.

  • Origin: Slavic
  • Meaning: To trick
  • Popularity: Ruse is rare worldwide for boys and girls.
Rare, Unique

Sarka

Sarka was the lieutenant in the mythical Maidens War between women and men in the Czech Republic. In this legendary tale, Sarka deceived the man, and the women ultimately won the war.

  • Origin: Czech Republic
  • Meaning: Curved
Unique

Saxon

Tricksters know how to wield their words, actions, and spirit to make a mark. Saxon is sure to leave a lasting impression, as a solid choice among names that mean trickster.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Dagger, short sword
  • Pronunciation: SAK-sn
Unique

Shabina

The eye of the storm is known as the most dangerous part of a hurricane or tornado. This beautiful Muslim name for girls also has Urdu roots.

  • Origin: Muslim
  • Meaning: Eye of the storm
Unique

Shuja

Shuja is a powerful name for a strong-willed Muslim boy. The name means “brave and courageous,” which you must be to pull off certain feats.

  • Origin: Muslim
  • Meaning: Courageous
  • Pronunciation: SHOO-ha
Rare

Sigyn

In Norse mythology, Sigyn is the goddess of loyalty, faithfulness, and compassion. This is ironic, considering that she is married to Loki, the god of mischief.

  • Origin: Norse
  • Meaning: Victorious girlfriend
  • Pronunciation: Siy-yin
Unusual, Rare

Sinoe

Sinoe was a nymph in Greek mythology. She also nursed the god Pan, another well-known trickster, when he was just a baby.

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Mischievous
Rare, Cute
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Sivanah

Sivanah is the goddess of illusion and magic. Although Sivanah is a derivative of the Spanish word “savannah,” her goddess story has neutral cultural origins. She is also known for watching over those who keep secrets and deceive others.

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Treeless plain
Unique

Sly

Sly is a common nickname for Sylvester. It can also be a standalone first name. Sly refers to someone very discreet in deceiving others or using their skills successfully.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Skilled expert
Cute

Sosruko

Sosruko is a god in Caucasian mythology. He is often compared to Loki as a trickster god. He is small in stature but very menacing.

  • Origin: North Caucus
  • Meaning: Menacing
Rare

Storm

Storm is the name of a powerful superhero from the X-Men comics. Storms, much like trouble, have a tendency to stir things up.

  • Origin: British
  • Meaning: Tempest
  • Popularity: Storm is a rare name worldwide.
Trendy

Susanoo

In Japanese mythology, Susanoo is the god of the storms and the sea. His bravery led him to save one of his wives from a monster.

  • Origin: Japanese
  • Meaning: Wild male, impetuous male
Unusual

Syrdon

Syrdon is the trickster god of North Caucasus mythology, often referred to as Nart Saga. This character is also very similar to the more popular Loki character.

  • Origin: North Caucus
  • Meaning: Trickster
Rare

Tempest

Tempest means “turbulent storms.” It can also refer to someone who easily gets into chaotic, turbulent moods.

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Turbulent
  • Variations: Tempestt
  • Namesakes: Tempestt Bledsoe, an American actress best known for her role as Vanessa in The Cosby Show.
Rare

Terach

Terach is the father of Abraham in the Bible. Not much is known about him, but the meaning of this name hints that he might have been a tricky old soul.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Old fool, wild goat
Unusual

Thornton

Thornton has a very direct meaning. It relates to thorny bushes where things can be hidden, stuck, or caught up in deception. This is similar to getting caught up in trickery and deception.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Thorny bush enclosure
Unique

Tokoloshe

Tokoloshe refers to the Bantu folklore of a deceptive and malevolent mythical creature that is half man, half animal.

  • Origin: Zulu
  • Meaning: Malevolent creature
  • Pronunciation: TOE-koe-losh-ee
Unusual
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Trixie

Trixie can be a nickname for Beatrix. It could also work well as a standalone short and cute name for a girl.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Bringer of Joy
Rare, Cute

Tsephanyah

This name is a rare and beautiful find, and there really is no wonder why. Tsephanyah has certainly remained hidden and could be ripe for the taking!

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Hidden by God
  • Pronunciation: SEF-fin-nee-yah
Rare

Tyrion

Tyrion was a popular character from the Game of Thrones franchise. He was an impish trickster who often used deception and trickery to prevail over his enemies.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Rock
Trendy

Velius

Even though Velius has been around for centuries, it’s not overused. It’s barely even known, much like its meaning states- a hidden treasure for your little girl.

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Hidden, concealed
Traditional

Wilder

Wilder can be a very cute name for a baby boy, although it’s typically a surname worldwide. It’s as if the name offers a challenge to any child who answers to it.

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Untamed
  • Namesakes: Gene Wilder, the American actor. Deontae Wilder, the American heavyweight boxer.
Cute

Wiley

The Looney Tunes duo of the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote features the constant back and forth of the tricks these two play on one another. Wiley is always coming back with clever tricks, no matter the challenge.

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Full of clever tricks
Cute

Yamanu

Yamanu belonged to an Egyptian god, often called the king of the gods. It is a name and deity that ascended beyond rules and sticks to what was expected.

  • Origin: Egyptian
  • Meaning: The hidden one
Traditional, Rare

Yehl

Not only is the direct meaning of this name “mountain goat,” but Yehl is also the name of a Tlingit trickster god.

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Mountain goat
Rare, Unique

Zephania

Zephania is a biblical name with two common spellings. It’s very rare and traditional and mainly used for men. It’s derived from the Hebrew word “tzafan” which means “to hide.”

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Protected by God
  • Variations: Zephaniah
Rare, Unique

Zomo

Zomo is the central figure in a Nigerian series of tales. The series follows the adventures of the trickster rabbit, Zomo.

  • Origin: Nigeria
  • Meaning: Rabbit
Cute, Rare
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About the Author

Christina Nicholson

Christina Nicholson is a U.S.-based writer, wife, and mom of two girls. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends. Her first published work as a writer was about the birth of her first daughter, and since that time, she has written professionally about parenting and motherhood for over a decade. A graduate of Auburn University Montgomery, her education and expertise in marketing and communications has helped her to lead meetings with top-ranking military generals and HBO film producers and executives. Her written work has been featured by Forbes, NBC News, and other reputable publications.
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