Raven

Dark-haired, the raven — a girl name of English origin

GenderGirl
OriginEnglish
MeaningDark-haired, the raven
PronunciationRAY-ven

Popularity of Raven in the United States

#404Rank in 2025
771Births in 2025
#139 in 1993Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Raven

Raven takes its name straight from the glossy black bird, long a symbol of intelligence, mystery, and transformation across mythologies from Norse to Native American. As a given name it suggests dark hair and a striking, self-possessed presence, and it rose in visibility through actress Raven-Symoné and the popular comic-book character. Bold and a touch gothic, Raven fits the modern trend for evocative nature and word names like Wren, Robin, and Sage. It carries an artistic, independent edge — a name for parents drawn to something dramatic, elegant, and unmistakably its own.

Raven Around the World

Raven is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants. From the English word for the black bird, evoking dark hair and mystery..

Languages
English
Details

TypeFemale given name

International Variants
Ravenne

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Raven

RaeRavi

Famous People Named Raven

  • Raven-Symoné — American actress and singer
  • Raven — superhero of the Teen Titans comics

Similar Names to Raven

If you like Raven, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

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Sibling Name Ideas for Raven

Looking for names that pair well with Raven? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Raven mean?

Raven is a girl name of English origin meaning "Dark-haired, the raven." Raven takes its name straight from the glossy black bird, long a symbol of intelligence, mystery, and transformation across mythologies from Norse to Native American. As a given name it suggests dark hair and a striking, self-possessed presence, and it rose in visibility through actress Raven-Symoné and the popular comic-book character.

How do you pronounce Raven?

Raven is pronounced RAY-ven. Common variations include Ravenne.

Is Raven a girl name?

Yes, Raven is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Rae, Ravi.

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