Festive baby names inspired by your favorite fictional Christmas characters
Congratulations — you’re about to have a baby, but now you have a decision to make.
While there are literally millions of baby names to choose from, you’re one of the lucky ones with an excuse to give your baby a festive or Christmas-inspired baby name, if that’s what you like.
This time around, we’re focusing on many people’s favorite part about the holidays — Christmas movies.
From “Elf” and “Polar Express” to “Home Alone” and “It’s a Wonderful Life,” there are so many popular films about Christmas and plenty of funny or relatable characters to go with them.
Cindy Lou Who, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Hermey and even Cousin Eddie — if these are some of your favorite fictional Christmas characters, then why not name your child after them?
So, pour yourself a glass of hot cocoa, put on your favorite Christmas movie and wait for your baby to kick because their future name is waiting for them!
50. Buddy
Origin: Buddy is of English origin.
Meaning: The name Buddy is derived from the English word “buddy,” which originally began as an informal term of endearment, meaning “friend” or “companion.”
Who is Buddy Hobbs? A human raised by elves at the North Pole, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father in the film “Elf” (2003). Buddy is portrayed by Will Ferrell.
49. Jovie
Origin: Jovie is of modern American origin.
Meaning: The name Jovie is derived from the word “jovial,” which means cheerful and friendly.
Who is Jovie? A department store worker who becomes Buddy’s love interest in the film “Elf” (2003). Jovie is portrayed by Zooey Deschanel.
48. Cindy Lou
Origin: Cindy Lou is of Greek and German origin.
Meaning: Cindy Lou is a combination of two names. Cindy is a diminutive of Cynthia, which means “woman from Mount Cynthus” in Greek. Lou is a shortened form of Louise, which means “famous warrior” in German.
Who is Cindy Lou Who? A sweet, kind-hearted young girl who befriends the Grinch and helps him realize the true meaning of Christmas in the 2000 film “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Cindy Lou was portrayed by Taylor Momsen.
47. Martha May
Origin: Martha May is of English origin.
Meaning: Martha May is the combination of the name Martha, which means “lady” or “mistress” in the Aramaic language, and May, which is derived from an Old English word that references either the Roman goddess of spring or the fifth month of the year.
Who is Martha May Whovier? A glamorous Whoville resident who has a crush on the Grinch in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Martha May is portrayed by Christine Baranski in the 2000 film.
46. Augustus
Origin: Augustus is of Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Augustus is derived from the Latin word augere, meaning “great,” “venerable,” or “majestic.”
Who is Mayor Augustus? The self-important mayor of Whoville, who is determined to make this Christmas the best one ever in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Augustus was portrayed by Jeffrey Tambor in the 2000 film.
45. Clarnella
Origin: Clarnella is of modern American origin.
Meaning: The name Clarnella appears to be an invented name that combines Clara, meaning “bright” or “clear,” and the suffix “-nella,” which makes the name sound more feminine.
Who is Clarnella? One of Grinch’s childhood caretakers. She didn’t have a big role in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” but has a unique name and was portrayed by Mindy Sterling.
44. Billy
Origin: Billy is of English and German origin.
Meaning: Billy is a diminutive of the name William, which is derived from the Old German name Wilhelm and means “resolute protector.”
Who is Billy the Lonely Boy? A shy, quiet boy from the 2004 film “Polar Express.” He initially feels left out during Christmas because he doesn’t have any friends, despite living near Hero Boy. He has a dim view on life due to living in poverty.
43. Hero
Origin: Hero is of Greek origin.
Meaning: The name Hero comes from the Greek word hērōs, meaning “protector” or “defender.”
Who is Hero Boy? The main protagonist in the 2004 film “Polar Express.” While losing his faith in Christmas, he takes a trip on a magical train to the North Pole, where his faith is restored. Hero Boy was voiced by Daryl Sabara.
42. Clark
Origin: Clark is of English and Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Clark is derived from the Old English word clerc, which comes from the Latin word clericus, meaning “cleric” or “scholar.”
Who is Clark Griswold? The well-meaning but often disaster-prone father who is trying to create the perfect Christmas for his family in the 1989 film “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Clark is portrayed by Chevy Chase in the film.
41. Eddie
Origin: Eddie is of English origin.
Meaning: Eddie is a diminutive of the name Edward, which comes from the Old English name Eadweard, meaning “wealthy guardian” or “fortunate protector.”
Who is Cousin Eddie? Clark Griswold’s eccentric and often embarrassing relative who is known for his banter with Clark in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Cousin Eddie is portrayed by Randy Quaid in the film.
40. Bethany
Origin: Bethany is of Hebrew origin.
Meaning: The name Bethany is derived from the Hebrew word “bethania,” meaning “house of figs” or “house of affliction.” In the Bible, Bethany is the name of the village where Jesus visited Mary, Martha and Lazarus.
Who is Aunt Bethany? The quirky, elderly aunt of the Griswold family in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” She was portrayed by Mae Questel and her character was known for her high-pitched, squeaky voice.
39. Ralphie
Origin: Ralphie is of English and Old Norse origin.
Meaning: Ralphie is a diminutive or nickname for the name Ralph, which comes from the Old Norse name Ráðúlfr, meaning “wise wolf” or “counsel wolf.”
Who is Ralphie Parker? A young boy who desperately wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, despite being told he would shoot his eye out. Ralphie was portrayed by Peter Billingsley in the 1983 film “A Christmas Story.”
38. Flick
Origin: Flick is of English origin.
Meaning: Flick is often used as a nickname and its derivation is unclear, but it could be derived from the English word flick, meaning a “light blow or stroke.”
Who is Flick? Ralphie’s friend who dares to lick a flagpole on a freezing cold day, just to get his tongue stuck on the pole. Flick was portrayed by Scott Schwartz in “A Christmas Story.”
37. Kevin
Origin: Kevin is of Irish origin.
Meaning: The name Kevin is derived from the Irish name Caoimhín and Cóemgein, which comes from the Old Irish cóem, meaning “dear, beloved, gentle,” and gein, meaning “birth.”
Who is Kevin McCallister? A mischievous boy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation, and defends his home from burglars. Kevin was portrayed by Macaulay Culkin in the hit 1990 film “Home Alone” and its sequels.
36. Marley
Origin: Marley is of English origin.
Meaning: The name Marley is derived from an Old English surname, which is believed to come from the elements mear, meaning “boundary” or “lake” and leah, meaning “clearing” or “meadow.”
Who is Marley? Kevin McCallister’s mysterious neighbor who was rumored to be a serial killer but turned out to be friendly. Marley was portrayed by Roberts Blossom in “Home Alone.” The name can also refer to Ebenezer Scrooge’s former business partner and the closest thing he had to a friend in “A Christmas Carol.”
35. Marv
Origin: Marv is of English and Welsh origin.
Meaning: Marv is a diminutive or shortened form of the name Marvin, which comes from the Welsh name Merfyn and is believed to mean “sea hill” or “great king.”
Who is Marv Murchins? One of the clumsy burglars attempting to break into and rob Kevin McCallister’s house while the family is on vacation — until Kevin stops them. Marv was portrayed by Daniel Stern in the “Home Alone” film.
34. Harry
Origin: Harry is of English origin.
Meaning: Harry is a diminutive of the name Henry, which comes from the Germanic name Heimiric, meaning “home ruler” or “ruler of the household.” It’s also a diminutive of any name that starts with Har-, like Harold.
Who is Harry Lime? The other burglar who tries to break into Kevin McCallister’s house. He was portrayed by Joe Pesci in the popular film.
33. Rudolph
Origin: Rudolph is of Germanic origin.
Meaning: The name Rudolph is derived from the Old High German Hrodulf and is composed of the elements hruod, meaning “fame,” and wolf, meaning “wolf.” Together, it translates to “famous wolf.”
Who is Rudolph? The red-nosed reindeer who leads Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. He is usually depicted as the ninth and youngest of Santa Clause’s reindeer. He was voiced by Billie Mae Richards in the 1964 film.
32. Cornelius
Origin: Cornelius is of Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Cornelius is derived from the Latin Cornelius, which is believed to come from the Latin word cornu, meaning “horn.”
Who is Yukon Cornelius? A prospector who helps Rudolph and his friends in their adventure in the 1964 film “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” He was voiced by Larry D. Mann in the movie.
31. Hermey
Origin: Hermey is of English and German origin.
Meaning: Hermey is often used as a diminutive of the name Herman, which comes from the Old German heri, meaning “army,” and man, meaning “man.” Together, it translates to “soldier” or “warrior.”
Who is Hermey the Misfit Elf? An elf who doesn’t want to make toys and dreams of becoming a dentist in the “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” film. He was voiced by Paul Soles.
30. Clarice
Origin: Clarice is of Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Clarice is derived from the Latin name Clara, meaning “clear,” “bright,” or “famous.”
Who is Clarice? A female reindeer who befriends Rudolph and becomes his love interest in the popular “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” film. She was voiced by Janis Orenstein.
29. Calvin
Origin: Calvin is of French and Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Calvin is derived from the French word chauve and Latin word calvus, both of which translate to “bald” or “hairless.”
Who are the Calvins? You might remember the Calvin family from the 1994 film “The Santa Clause.” The father, Scott Calvin, was portrayed by Tim Allen. He had a son named Charlie, an ex-wife named Laura and her new husband, Neil Miller.
28. Bernard
Origin: Bernard is of Germanic origin.
Meaning: The name Bernard is derived from the Old High German name Bernhard, which is composed of the elements bern (bear) and hard (brave, hardy, strong), meaning “brave as a bear” or “strong bear.”
Who is Bernard the Head Elf? The leader of Santa’s elves who helps guide Scott Calvin (Santa) through his transformation into the new Santa Claus in “The Santa Clause” (1994). He has a no-nonsense attitude, but slightly sarcastic demeanor. Bernard was portrayed by David Krumholtz.
27. Judy
Origin: Judy is of English origin.
Meaning: Judy is a diminutive of the name Judith, which comes from the Hebrew name Yehudit, meaning “woman of Judea” or “praised.”
Who is Judy the Elf? A young, bubbly elf who works at the North Pole and helps Scott Calvin (Santa Claus) with the various magical aspects of his new role as Santa in “The Santa Clause” (1994). She was portrayed by Liliana Mumy.
26. Jack
Origin: Jack is of English and Hebrew origin.
Meaning: Jack is a diminutive of the name John, which is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning “Yahweh is gracious” or “God is gracious.”
Who is Jack Skellington? The main character from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993). He is known as the Pumpkin King in Halloween Town before deciding to take over the Christmas holiday. He is voiced by Chris Sarandon (speaking) and Danny Elfman (singing).
25. Zero
Origin: Zero is of Arabic and Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Zero is derived from the Arabic word sifr, meaning “empty” or “nothing.” It was later adopted into Latin and other European languages, including the Italian word zero and French word zéro.
Who is Zero? The ghost dog who serves as the loyal companion to Jack Skellington in “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” He’s a small, floating, ghostly dog with a glowing, jack-o’-lantern-shaped nose, resembling a pumpkin.
24. Sally
Origin: Sally is of English and Hebrew origin.
Meaning: Sally is traditionally a diminutive of the name Sarah, which comes from the Hebrew name Sara, meaning “princess” or “noblewoman.”
Who is Sally? Aragdoll-like, patchwork creation made by Dr. Finkelstein, the mad scientist of Halloween Town. She has a deep, unspoken love for Jack Skellington in “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and is concerned about his mission to take over Christmas.
23. Susan
Origin: Susan is of Hebrew origin.
Meaning: The name Susan comes from the Hebrew name Shoshannah, meaning “lily” or “rose.”
Who is Susan Walker? A young girl who initially doesn’t believe in Santa Claus, largely due to her pragmatic mother, who has discouraged the idea of Santa to protect Susan from disappointment. Her faith in the holiday is restored when she meets Kris Kringle. Susan is portrayed by Mara Wilson in the 1994 film “Miracle on 34th Street.”
22. Fred
Origin: Fred is of Germanic origin.
Meaning: Fred is a shortened form of the name Frederick, which comes from an Old German name composed of the elements fridu (peace) and rih (ruler, power), meaning “peaceful ruler” or “ruler of peace.”
Who is Fred Gailey? A lawyer who becomes involved in the case to prove that Kris Kringle (Santa Claus) is, in fact, the real Santa. He is portrayed by John Payne in the 1994 film “Miracle on 34th Street.”
21. Kris
Origin: Kris is of English and Greek origin.
Meaning: Kris is a diminutive of the name Kristopher (or Christopher), which comes from the Greek name Christophoros, meaning “Christ-bearer” or “one who holds Christ in his heart.” It can also be a shortened form of Kristian, Kristina or other names that start with Kris.
Who is Kris Kringle? Another name for Santa Claus, Kris Kringle is the father of Christmas and is featured in a variety of Christmas films, including “Miracle on 34th Street.”
20. Bailey
Origin: Bailey is of English and French origin.
Meaning: The name Bailey is derived from the Old French word baili (a term for a steward or officer in charge of a manor), which was later adopted into English. It’s related to the word bailif.
Who is George Bailey? A kind-hearted, selfless man who has spent his entire life in the small town of Bedford Falls, helping others while sacrificing his own dreams and desires. He is portrayed by James Stewart in the 1946 film “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
19. Zuzu
Origin: Zuzu is of uncertain origin.
Meaning: Zuzu is believed to be a diminutive of the name Susan and was popularized by Zuzu Bailey in the 1946 Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Who is Zuzu? The youngest daughter of George and Mary Bailey who is best known for her memorable line, “Look, Daddy, teacher says, every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.” She was portrayed by Karolyn Grimes in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
18. Ebenezer
Origin: Ebenezer is of Hebrew origin.
Meaning: The name Ebenezer comes from the Hebrew name ʾEven Haʿazer, which is believed to mean “stone of help” and refers to a monument erected by Samuel in the Old Testament.
Who is Ebenezer Scrooge? Another character who is featured in various Christmas films and stories. He’s a miserly, cold-hearted businessman known for his greed, lack of compassion, and disdain for Christmas — until he is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Marley.
17. Tim
Origin: Tim is of English origin.
Meaning: Tim is a diminutive of the name Timothy, which comes from the Greek name Timotheos, meaning “honoring God” or “God’s honor.”
Who is Tiny Tim? The young son of Bob Cratchit, Ebenezer Scrooge’s underpaid and overworked employee in “A Christmas Carol.” He’s a sweet-natured and optimistic boy, despite dealing with an illness.
16. Grimsley
Origin: Grimsley is of English origin.
Meaning: The name Grimsley is derived from the Old English grīm, meaning “grim” or “fierce,” and lēah, meaning “meadow” or “clearing.”
Who is Grimsley? The right-hand man to Burgermeister Meisterburger, who is the main antagonist in the 1970 film “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town!” He was tasked with taking baby Kringle to the orphanage, but loses him before ending up in the hands of the Kringle elves.
15. Tanta
Origin: Tanta is of uncertain origin.
Meaning: The meaning of Tanta is unknown, but it was made popular by J.R.R. Tolkien — Tanta Hornblower was the great-grandmother of Frodo Baggins. It was also popularized by Tanta Kringle, a mother figure to Kris Kringle.
Who is Tanta Kringle? The Elf Queen and head of the Kringle family in “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town!” She takes in Kris Kringle and becomes his guardian. Over time, she teaches him how to become Santa.
14. Frosty
Origin: Frosty is of English origin.
Meaning: Frosty is derived from the English word of the same name, which refers to a layer of ice crystals forming over a cold surface.
Who is Frosty the Snowman? A snowman brought to life by a magical top hat, who befriends a group of children. They have a joyful time together until the weather warms, and Frosty begins to melt.
13. Karen
Origin: Karen has multiple origins.
Meaning: The name Karen can have several meanings, depending on its origin. Many experts believe it to be a diminutive of the name Katherine, which comes from the Greek name Aikaterine, meaning “pure.”
Who is Karen? A young girl who befriends Frosty after coming to life in the 1969 film “Frosty the Snowman.” She does her best to keep him safe from the warmth during their journey to the North Pole. She was originally voiced by June Foray.
12. Hinkle
Origin: Hinkle is of German origin.
Meaning: The surname Hinkle likely comes from the Middle High German word hinkel, which means “chicken” or “young bird.”
Who is Professor Hinkle? The primary antagonist in the 1969 animated special Frosty the Snowman. He is a magician who owns the magical top hat that brings Frosty the Snowman to life. He was originally voiced by Paul Frees.
11. Willie
Origin: Willie is of English and German origin.
Meaning: Willie is a diminutive of the name William, which comes from the Old German name Willahelm, meaning “resolute protector.”
Who is Willie Soke? A foul-mouthed, cynical and alcoholic conman who disguises himself as Santa Claus each year in order to rob shopping malls during the Christmas season. He was portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton in the “Bad Santa” series.
10. Marcus
Origin: Marcus is of Latin origin.
Meaning: The name Marcus is derived from the Roman name Marcius, which is believed to be related to the Roman god of war, Mars.
Who is Marcus Skidmore? A small, foul-mouthed and morally dubious character who works as the “elf” partner to Willie Soke in their mall Santa scheme. He’s portrayed by Tony Cox in the “Bad Santa” series.
9. Thurman
Origin: Thurman is of Old Norse origin.
Meaning: The name Thurman is derived from the Old Norse name Þórmarr, which is composed of the elements Þórr (Thor, the Norse god of thunder) and marr (meaning “man” or “warrior”).
Who is Thurman Merman? A sweet, naïve and socially awkward young boy who forms an unlikely friendship with Willie Soke in the “Bad Santa” series. He was frequently ridiculed by others for his awkwardness, but is overly kind and innocent. He was portrayed by Brett Kelly in the film.
8. Gizmo
Origin: Gizmo has an uncertain origin.
Meaning: The meaning behind the name Gizmo is unknown, but it was made popular by the 1984 movie “Gremlins,” where Gizmo is one of the main characters.
Who is Gizmo? The adorable and iconic character from the 1984 holiday film “Gremlins.” He’s a Mogwai that can’t get wet, be fed after midnight or exposed to bright light. You might not think it’s a holiday film, but it takes place during Christmas.
7. John
Origin: John is of Hebrew origin.
Meaning: The name John is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
Who is John McClane? A tough, wise-cracking New York City cop who finds himself in the middle of high-stakes situations in the “Die Hard” film series. The 1988 film takes place during the holiday season and he’s forced to save hostages at a holiday party.
6. Charlie
Origin: Charlie is of English and Germanic origin.
Meaning: Charlie is a diminutive of the name Charles, which comes from the Germanic name Karl, meaning “man” or “free man.”
Who is Charlie Brown? The principal character in the comic strip “Peanuts.” The 1965 film “A Charlie Brown Christmas” is one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all-time, so it was only right to include him on this list.
5. Howard
Origin: Howard has multiple origins.
Meaning: Howard has several meanings, depending on its origin. Some believe it was derived from the Anglo-Norman name Huard, Old Norse name Hávarðr or Germanic name Hughard.
Who is Howard Langston? The main character in the 1996 holiday comedy Jingle All the Way, portrayed by Arnold Schwarzenegger. He’s a busy, work-obsessed father who promises his young son, Jamie, that he will get him the most popular toy of the holiday season.
4. Clint
Origin: Clint is of English origin.
Meaning: The name Clint is believed to be a place name referring to the British towns Glinton and Glympton, meaning “settlement on the River Glyme.”
Who is Clint Briggs? One of the main characters from the 2022 Christmas movie “Spirited,” portrayed by Ryan Reynolds. Briggs is targeted by the Ghost of Christmas Present in the comedic remake of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”
3. Present
Origin: Present is of Latin origin.
Meaning: The word present comes from the Latin praesentem, meaning “existing at this time” and “immediate.”
Who is the Ghost From Christmas Present? One of the three spirits who visit Ebenezer Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. It embodies the generosity and joy of the holiday season. In the 2022 film “Spirited,” he is portrayed by Will Ferrell.
2. Arthur
Origin: Arthur has an unknown origin.
Meaning: Experts are unsure of the exact meaning and origin behind the name Arthur, but believe it could mean “bear,” “Thor,” “the eagle” or “strong man.”
Who is Arthur Christmas? The main character in the 2011 animated holiday film “Arthur Christmas.” Voiced by James McAvoy, Arthur is the clumsy, well-meaning, and overly enthusiastic son of Santa Claus.
1. Luther
Origin: Luther is of Germanic origin.
Meaning: The name Luther is derived from the Old High German liut (meaning “people”) and heri (meaning “army”). It’s often interpreted as “army of the people” or “people’s army.”
Who is Luther Krank? Portrayed by Tim Allen in “Christmas with the Kranks” (2004), Luther is a middle-aged man who, after his daughter Blair leaves to spend the holidays overseas, decides to skip Christmas altogether.
Are you a believer in Christmas-inspired baby names?
The Christmas holiday is already filled with so much joy, but welcoming a child into the world makes the season so much more special.
While the names above are tied to fictional Christmas characters, the strong majority of them are everyday names that most people won’t directly associate with the holiday.
But don’t forget about all the other Christmas-inspired baby names that the holiday has to offer.
For example, names like Natalie and Natalia both translate to “Christmas Day” in their respective origins. Natalia, Noel, Yule and Felix are other holiday favorites.
You can also do baby names inspired by Santa Claus, such as Saint, Nicholas, Comet and even Donner. Biblical names are also popular, such as Myrrh and Balthasar.
We also have a baby name generator that you can try out!
