300+ Aztec Name Ideas (with Powerful Meanings)

What if your name could literally mean “jaguar warrior” or “precious feather” in one of history’s most sophisticated civilizations?

I’ll never forget visiting the Templo Mayor museum in Mexico City three years ago.

Standing before the massive Aztec calendar stone, surrounded by artifacts bearing names like Moctezuma and Cuauhtémoc, I felt this incredible pull to understand the language behind these powerful titles.

That’s when I fell down the Nahuatl rabbit hole—and discovered that Aztec names aren’t just beautiful sounds, they’re entire poems compressed into a single word.

Trust me, once you understand the depth behind these names, you’ll see why they’re experiencing such a revival.

Today, I’m sharing 300+ carefully researched Aztec names from the Nahuatl language—the tongue spoken by the Mexica people we call “Aztecs.”

You’ll find names inspired by nature, warfare, spirituality, and cosmic forces, complete with meanings and pronunciation guides.

Whether you’re naming a baby, a character, or just fascinated by linguistic history, these names carry stories that have survived 500+ years.

Powerful Aztec Names for Boys

These names embody strength, nature, and spiritual significance. Each one tells a story.

• Acalan (ah-kah-LAHN) – “Canoe” or “boat,” representing journeys and navigation
• Acamapichtli (ah-kah-mah-PEECH-tlee) – “Handful of reeds,” first Aztec emperor
• Achcauhtli (ahch-KOW-tlee) – “Leader” or “elder brother”
• Ahuiliztli (ah-wee-LEEST-lee) – “Joy” or “contentment”
• Amoxtli (ah-MOHSH-tlee) – “Book” or “paper,” honoring knowledge
• Atl (ahtl) – “Water,” one of the fundamental elements
• Atlacoya (aht-lah-KOH-yah) – “Water serpent”
• Atlatl (AHT-lahtl) – “Spear thrower,” a warrior’s tool
• Atonaltzin (ah-toh-NAHL-tseen) – “Little sun spirit”
• Axayacatl (ah-shah-YAH-kahtl) – “Water face,” name of an Aztec emperor
• Ayauhcopa (ah-YOW-koh-pah) – “Night mist rising”
• Cacalotl (kah-kah-LOHTL) – “Raven,” messenger between worlds
• Camaxtli (kah-MAHSH-tlee) – God of the hunt and warfare
• Chalchiuhtotolin (chahl-chee-oo-toh-TOH-leen) – “Jade turkey,” sacred bird
• Chicahua (chee-KAH-wah) – “Strong” or “powerful”
• Chicomecoatl (chee-koh-meh-KOH-ahtl) – “Seven serpent,” goddess of sustenance
• Chimalli (chee-MAH-lee) – “Shield,” representing protection
• Chimalpopoca (chee-mahl-poh-POH-kah) – “Smoking shield,” an Aztec ruler
• Cipactli (see-PAHK-tlee) – “Crocodile,” first day of the calendar
• Citlalmina (seet-lahl-MEE-nah) – “Star arrow” or “meteor”
• Coatl (KOH-ahtl) – “Serpent,” symbol of transformation
• Coaxoch (koh-AH-shoch) – “Serpent flower”
• Coyolxauhqui (koh-yohl-SHAW-kee) – “Golden bells,” moon goddess
• Coyotl (koh-YOHTL) – “Coyote,” trickster and survivor
• Cualli (KWAH-lee) – “Good” or “well”
• Cuauhtémoc (kwow-TEH-mok) – “Descending eagle,” last Aztec emperor
• Cuauhtli (KWOW-tlee) – “Eagle,” symbol of the sun
• Cuetlachtli (kwet-LAHCH-tlee) – “Wolf,” representing wildness
• Cuixtli (KWEEST-lee) – “Kite” (the bird)
• Ehecatl (eh-HEH-kahtl) – “Wind,” aspect of Quetzalcoatl
• Ehekateotl (eh-heh-kah-TEH-ohtl) – “Wind god”
• Eleuia (eh-leh-WEE-ah) – “Wish” or “desire”
• Eloxochitl (eh-loh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Magnolia flower”
• Etalpalli (eh-tahl-PAH-lee) – “Wing”
• Huemac (WEH-mahk) – “Big hand,” legendary ruler
• Huitzilihuitl (wee-tsee-lee-WEE-tl) – “Hummingbird feather”
• Huitzilli (wee-TSEE-lee) – “Hummingbird,” warrior spirit
• Huitzilopochtli (wee-tsee-loh-POHCH-tlee) – Patron god of the Aztecs
• Icnoyotl (eek-noh-YOHTL) – “Friendship”
• Ihuicatl (ee-WEE-kahtl) – “Sky” or “heavens”
• Ilhicamina (eel-hee-kah-MEE-nah) – “He who shoots arrows at the sky”
• Ilhuicaatl (eel-wee-KAH-ahtl) – “Celestial water”
• Itotia (ee-toh-TEE-ah) – “Dance”
• Itzcali (eetz-KAH-lee) – “House of obsidian”
• Itzcoatl (eetz-KOH-ahtl) – “Obsidian serpent,” Aztec emperor
• Ixtli (EESHT-lee) – “Face” or “eye”
• Izel (ee-SEL) – “Unique” or “only”
• Mahuizoh (mah-WEE-soh) – “Glorious one”
• Manauia (mah-NOW-ee-ah) – “To defend”
• Mazatl (MAH-sahtl) – “Deer,” representing gentleness and grace
• Mecatl (meh-KAHTL) – “Rope” or “lineage”
• Meztli (MEHST-lee) – “Moon”
• Milintica (mee-leen-TEE-kah) – “He waves”
• Miquiztli (mee-KEES-tlee) – “Death,” a day sign in the calendar
• Mixtli (MEESHT-lee) – “Cloud”
• Montezuma/Moctezuma (mohk-teh-SOH-mah) – “He frowns like a lord”
• Moyolehuani (moh-yoh-leh-WAH-nee) – “Enamored one”
• Nahuatl (NAH-wahtl) – The language itself, meaning “clear speech”
• Necahual (neh-kah-WAHL) – “Survivor”
• Necalli (neh-KAH-lee) – “Battle”
• Nezahualcoyotl (neh-sah-wahl-KOH-yohtl) – “Fasting coyote,” famous poet-king
• Nezahualpilli (neh-sah-wahl-PEE-lee) – “Fasting prince”
• Nochtli (NOHCH-tlee) – “Cactus fruit” or “prickly pear”
• Nopaltzin (noh-PAHL-tseen) – “Little cactus”
• Ocelotl (oh-SEH-lohtl) – “Jaguar,” elite warrior class
• Ohtli (OH-tlee) – “Road” or “path”
• Ollin (OH-leen) – “Movement” or “earthquake,” symbol of change
• Omacatl (oh-mah-KAHTL) – “Two reeds,” associated with feasting
• Painal (pie-NAHL) – Messenger god
• Patli (PAHT-lee) – “Medicine” or “remedy”
• Quauhtli (KWOW-tlee) – Alternative spelling of “eagle”
• Quetzalcoatl (ket-sahl-KOH-ahtl) – “Feathered serpent,” major deity
• Tecolotl (teh-KOH-lohtl) – “Owl,” associated with wisdom and death
• Tecuani (teh-KWAH-nee) – “Wild beast” or “jaguar”
• Teōcuitlatl (teh-oh-kweet-LAHTL) – “Gold” (literally “god excrement”)
• Teōtl (TEH-ohtl) – “God” or “divine force”
• Tepeyollotl (teh-peh-yoh-LOHTL) – “Heart of the mountain,” jaguar god
• Tepoztecatl (teh-pohs-TEH-kahtl) – God of pulque (alcoholic beverage)
• Tetl (tehtl) – “Stone” or “rock”
• Tezcatlipoca (tez-kaht-lee-POH-kah) – “Smoking mirror,” powerful god
• Teyacapan (teh-yah-KAH-pahn) – “Firstborn”
• Tizoc (TEE-sok) – “He who makes sacrifices,” Aztec emperor
• Tlacaelel (tlah-kah-EH-lel) – “Brave man,” advisor to emperors
• Tlacatl (TLAH-kahtl) – “Person” or “man”
• Tlaloc (TLAH-lok) – Rain god, bringer of sustenance
• Tlaltecuhtli (tlahl-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Earth lord,” primordial earth deity
• Tlanextli (tlah-NEHSHT-lee) – “Radiance” or “light”
• Tlacelel (tlah-SEH-lel) – “Fire”
• Tlachinolli (tlah-chee-NOH-lee) – “Burning” or “fire”
• Tlalcoyotl (tlahl-koh-YOHTL) – “Earth coyote”
• Tlalocayotl (tlah-loh-kah-YOHTL) – “Of Tlaloc” or “belonging to rain”
• Tlaltecuhtli (tlahl-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Lord of the earth”
• Tlapaleh (tlah-PAH-leh) – “To paint”
• Tlazohtlaloni (tlah-soh-tlah-LOH-nee) – “Beloved one”
• Tochtli (TOHCH-tlee) – “Rabbit,” symbol of abundance
• Tonatiuh (toh-nah-TEE-oo) – “He who goes forth shining,” sun god
• Tototl (toh-TOHTL) – “Bird”
• Xipilli (shee-PEE-lee) – “Jeweled prince”
• Xiuhcoatl (shee-oo-KOH-ahtl) – “Fire serpent,” turquoise snake
• Yaotl (YAH-ohtl) – “Warrior” or “enemy”

For more warrior-inspired naming ideas, explore these warrior names from various cultures.

Beautiful Aztec Names for Girls

These feminine names capture the Aztec reverence for beauty, nature, and divine feminine power.

• Ahuiliztli (ah-wee-LEEST-lee) – “Joy” or “pleasure”
• Amoxtli (ah-MOHSH-tlee) – “Book,” honoring wisdom and learning
• Anacaona (ah-nah-kah-OH-nah) – “Golden flower”
• Apozanolotl (ah-poh-sah-noh-LOHTL) – Goddess of purity
• Atzi (AHT-see) – “Rain”
• Azcalxochitl (ahs-kahl-SHOH-cheetl) – “Ant flower”
• Centehua (sen-TEH-wah) – “Only one”
• Chalchiuitl (chahl-CHEE-weetl) – “Jade” or “emerald,” precious stone
• Chalchiuhtlicue (chahl-chee-oot-LEE-kway) – “She of the jade skirt,” water goddess
• Chipahua (chee-PAH-wah) – “Clean” or “pure”
• Chicomecoatl (chee-koh-meh-KOH-ahtl) – “Seven serpent,” corn goddess
• Citlali (seet-LAH-lee) – “Star,” one of the most popular modern Aztec names
• Citlalmina (seet-lahl-MEE-nah) – “She who shoots stars”
• Cihuaton (see-WAH-tohn) – “Little woman”
• Coaxoch (koh-AH-shoch) – “Serpent flower”
• Coyolxauhqui (koh-yohl-SHAW-kee) – “Golden bells,” moon goddess
• Cozcacuauhtli (kohs-kah-KWOW-tlee) – “Vulture,” symbol of transformation
• Cualli (KWAH-lee) – “Good”
• Cuicatl (KWEE-kahtl) – “Song”
• Eleuia (eh-leh-WEE-ah) – “Wish” or “desire”
• Eloxochitl (eh-loh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Magnolia”
• Erendira (eh-ren-DEE-rah) – “She who smiles”
• Eztli (EHST-lee) – “Blood,” representing life force
• Ichtaca (eech-TAH-kah) – “Secret”
• Icnoyotl (eek-noh-YOHTL) – “Friendship”
• Ihuicatl (ee-WEE-kahtl) – “Sky”
• Ilhuitl (eel-WEE-tl) – “Day” or “festival”
• Itotia (ee-toh-TEE-ah) – “Dance”
• Itzel/Ixchel (eet-SEL) – “Rainbow lady,” Mayan moon goddess
• Ixtli (EESHT-lee) – “Face”
• Itzpapalotl (eetz-pah-pah-LOHTL) – “Obsidian butterfly,” warrior goddess
• Izel (ee-SEL) – “Unique”
• Malinali (mah-lee-NAH-lee) – “Grass” or “twisted,” also associated with La Malinche
• Malintzin (mah-LEEN-tseen) – Honorific form of Malinali
• Manauia (mah-NOW-ee-ah) – “Defended”
• Mayahuel (mah-yah-WEL) – Goddess of the maguey plant
• Mecatl (meh-KAHTL) – “Lineage”
• Meztli (MEHST-lee) – “Moon”
• Miyaoaxochitl (mee-yah-wah-SHOH-cheetl) – “Maize tassel flower”
• Mixtli (MEESHT-lee) – “Cloud”
• Momoztli (moh-MOHS-tlee) – “Altar”
• Moyolehuani (moh-yoh-leh-WAH-nee) – “Enamored”
• Nahuatl (NAH-wahtl) – “Clear sound” or “pleasant sound”
• Namaya (nah-MAH-yah) – “Water maiden”
• Necahual (neh-kah-WAHL) – “Survivor”
• Nelli (NEH-lee) – “Truth”
• Nenetl (NEH-nehtl) – “Doll” or “idol”
• Nochipa (noh-CHEE-pah) – “Forever” or “always”
• Nochtli (NOHCH-tlee) – “Prickly pear fruit”
• Noxochicoztli (noh-shoh-chee-KOHS-tlee) – “My necklace of flowers”
• Ohtli (OH-tlee) – “Path”
• Ollin (OH-leen) – “Movement,” representing cosmic motion
• Patli (PAHT-lee) – “Medicine”
• Quetzal (KET-sahl) – “Precious feather” from the quetzal bird
• Quetzalxochitl (ket-sahl-SHOH-cheetl) – “Precious flower”
• Sacnite (sahk-NEE-teh) – “White flower”
• Teicui (teh-ee-KWEE) – “Younger sister”
• Teoxihuitl (teh-oh-SHEE-weetl) – “Precious turquoise”
• Teyacapan (teh-yah-KAH-pahn) – “Firstborn”
• Tlaco (TLAH-koh) – “Middle” or “center”
• Tlacotl (TLAH-kohtl) – “Branch” or “rod”
• Tlalli (TLAH-lee) – “Earth”
• Tlanextli (tlah-NEHSHT-lee) – “Light” or “radiance”
• Tlazohtaloni (tlah-soh-tah-LOH-nee) – “One who is loved”
• Toci (TOH-see) – “Our grandmother,” goddess of healing
• Tonalnan (toh-nahl-NAHN) – “Mother of light”
• Tonantzin (toh-NAHN-tseen) – “Our revered mother”
• Xananina (shah-nah-NEE-nah) – “Essence” or “perfume”
• Xilonen (shee-LOH-nen) – “Young maize mother,” corn goddess
• Xipil (SHEE-peel) – “Noble one of fire”
• Xochicotzin (shoh-chee-KOH-tseen) – “Little necklace of flowers”
• Xochiquetzal (shoh-chee-KET-sahl) – “Precious flower,” goddess of beauty
• Xochitl (SHOH-cheetl) – “Flower,” extremely popular modern name
• Xochiyotl (shoh-chee-YOHTL) – “Heart of flower”
• Xocotzin (SHOH-koh-tseen) – “Little youngest daughter”
• Xocoyotl (shoh-koh-YOHTL) – “Youngest child”
• Xolani (shoh-LAH-nee) – “Peace”
• Xolotl (SHOH-lohtl) – Twin of Quetzalcoatl, god of lightning
• Yaotzin (yah-OH-tseen) – “Little warrior”
• Yaretzi (yah-RET-see) – “You will always be loved”
• Yolihuani (yoh-lee-WAH-nee) – “Source of life”
• Yolotli (yoh-LOH-tlee) – “Heart”
• Yoloxochitl (yoh-loh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Heart flower”
• Yoltzin (YOHL-tseen) – “Small heart”
• Yolyamanitzin (yohl-yah-mah-NEE-tseen) – “Considerate person”
• Zaniyah (sah-NEE-yah) – “Forever” or “always”
• Zeltzin (SEL-tseen) – “Delicate”
• Zentlalticpac (sent-lahl-TEEK-pahk) – “In the world”
• Zitlali (seet-LAH-lee) – Modern variation of Citlali, “star”
• Zolin (SOH-leen) – “Quail”
• Zyanya (SYAHN-yah) – “Forever” or “always”
• Achcauhtli (ahch-KOW-tlee) – “Leader” (can be feminine)
• Apozanolotl (ah-poh-sah-noh-LOHTL) – Water purification goddess
• Atlatonin (aht-lah-toh-NEEN) – “She who shines like water”
• Ayauhteotl (ah-YOW-teh-ohtl) – “Goddess of haze”
• Chalchiuhticue (chahl-chee-oo-TEE-kway) – “She of the jade skirt”
• Chicomexochitl (chee-koh-meh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Seven flower”
• Cuicani (kwee-KAH-nee) – “Singer”
• Ixtaccíhuatl (ees-tahk-SEE-wahtl) – “White woman,” name of a volcano
• Tlazolteotl (tlah-sohl-TEH-ohtl) – “Goddess of filth and purification”

Looking for more celestial-inspired names? Check out these moon usernames for additional inspiration.

Gender-Neutral & Nature-Based Aztec Names

These names work beautifully for any gender and celebrate the natural world that was central to Aztec spirituality.

• Atl (ahtl) – “Water”
• Citlali (seet-LAH-lee) – “Star”
• Cualli (KWAH-lee) – “Good”
• Ehecatl (eh-HEH-kahtl) – “Wind”
• Ilhuicatl (eel-wee-KAHTL) – “Sky”
• Ixtli (EESHT-lee) – “Face” or “eye”
• Izel (ee-SEL) – “Unique”
• Meztli (MEHST-lee) – “Moon”
• Mixtli (MEESHT-lee) – “Cloud”
• Nelli (NEH-lee) – “Truth”
• Nochtli (NOHCH-tlee) – “Cactus fruit”
• Ohtli (OH-tlee) – “Road” or “path”
• Ollin (OH-leen) – “Movement”
• Patli (PAHT-lee) – “Medicine”
• Quetzal (KET-sahl) – “Precious feather”
• Tetl (tehtl) – “Stone”
• Tlalli (TLAH-lee) – “Earth”
• Tlanextli (tlah-NEHSHT-lee) – “Light”
• Tototl (toh-TOHTL) – “Bird”
• Xochitl (SHOH-cheetl) – “Flower”
• Yolotli (yoh-LOH-tlee) – “Heart”
• Zolin (SOH-leen) – “Quail”
• Acatl (AH-kahtl) – “Reed”
• Ahuehuetl (ah-weh-WEH-tl) – “Cypress tree”
• Amoxtli (ah-MOHSH-tlee) – “Book”
• Atlacatl (aht-lah-KAHTL) – “Water person”
• Centehua (sen-TEH-wah) – “Only one”
• Chalchiuitl (chahl-CHEE-weetl) – “Jade”
• Chicahua (chee-KAH-wah) – “Strong”
• Cihuaton (see-WAH-tohn) – “Little person”
• Cipactli (see-PAHK-tlee) – “Crocodile”
• Coatl (KOH-ahtl) – “Serpent”
• Coyotl (koh-YOHTL) – “Coyote”
• Cuauhtli (KWOW-tlee) – “Eagle”
• Cuicatl (KWEE-kahtl) – “Song”
• Eloxochitl (eh-loh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Magnolia”
• Huitzilli (wee-TSEE-lee) – “Hummingbird”
• Ichtaca (eech-TAH-kah) – “Secret”
• Icnoyotl (eek-noh-YOHTL) – “Friendship”
• Itotia (ee-toh-TEE-ah) – “Dance”
• Malinali (mah-lee-NAH-lee) – “Grass”
• Mazatl (MAH-sahtl) – “Deer”
• Miquiztli (mee-KEES-tlee) – “Death” (day sign)
• Nenetl (NEH-nehtl) – “Doll”
• Ocelotl (oh-SEH-lohtl) – “Jaguar”
• Tecolotl (teh-KOH-lohtl) – “Owl”
• Tochtli (TOHCH-tlee) – “Rabbit”
• Xihuitl (SHEE-weetl) – “Comet” or “year”
• Yaotl (YAH-ohtl) – “Warrior”
• Yolihuani (yoh-lee-WAH-nee) – “Source of life”

Aztec Names Inspired by Deities & Mythology

These names honor the rich pantheon of Aztec gods and legendary figures. Perfect for those seeking deeply spiritual connections.

• Huitzilopochtli (wee-tsee-loh-POHCH-tlee) – “Left-handed hummingbird,” patron deity of the Aztecs
• Quetzalcoatl (ket-sahl-KOH-ahtl) – “Feathered serpent,” god of wisdom and wind
• Tezcatlipoca (tez-kaht-lee-POH-kah) – “Smoking mirror,” god of night and sorcery
• Tlaloc (TLAH-lok) – Rain and fertility god
• Xipe Totec (SHEE-peh TOH-tek) – “Our lord the flayed one,” god of renewal
• Chalchiuhtlicue (chahl-chee-oot-LEE-kway) – “She of the jade skirt,” water goddess
• Xochiquetzal (shoh-chee-KET-sahl) – Goddess of beauty, love, and flowers
• Mictlantecuhtli (meek-tlahn-teh-KOOH-tlee) – Lord of the underworld
• Mictecacihuatl (meek-teh-kah-SEE-wahtl) – “Lady of the dead,” underworld goddess
• Mayahuel (mah-yah-WEL) – Goddess of the maguey plant and fertility
• Xolotl (SHOH-lohtl) – God of lightning, death, and transformation
• Tonatiuh (toh-nah-TEE-oo) – Sun god, “he who goes forth shining”
• Coatlicue (koh-aht-LEE-kway) – “She of the serpent skirt,” earth mother
• Centeotl (sen-TEH-ohtl) – God of maize and sustenance
• Chicomecoatl (chee-koh-meh-KOH-ahtl) – Goddess of agriculture and nourishment
• Xilonen (shee-LOH-nen) – “Young maize goddess”
• Tlazolteotl (tlah-sohl-TEH-ohtl) – Goddess of purification and steam baths
• Itzpapalotl (eetz-pah-pah-LOHTL) – “Obsidian butterfly,” skeletal warrior goddess
• Coyolxauhqui (koh-yohl-SHAW-kee) – “Golden bells,” moon goddess dismembered by Huitzilopochtli
• Tlaltecuhtli (tlahl-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Earth lord,” primordial earth deity
• Ehecatl (eh-HEH-kahtl) – Wind god aspect of Quetzalcoatl
• Chantico (chahn-TEE-koh) – Goddess of hearth fires and volcanoes
• Xiuhtecuhtli (shee-oo-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Turquoise lord,” god of fire
• Tepeyollotl (teh-peh-yoh-LOHTL) – “Heart of the mountain,” jaguar god
• Chalchiuhtotolin (chahl-chee-oo-toh-TOH-leen) – “Jade turkey,” god of disease and healing
• Patecatl (pah-TEH-kahtl) – God of healing and medicine
• Toci (TOH-see) – “Our grandmother,” goddess of healing and midwifery
• Cihuacoatl (see-wah-KOH-ahtl) – “Serpent woman,” patroness of midwives
• Tonantzin (toh-NAHN-tseen) – “Our sacred mother”
• Ometeotl (oh-meh-TEH-ohtl) – “God of duality,” supreme dual divinity
• Ometecuhtli (oh-meh-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Two lord,” masculine aspect of duality
• Omecihuatl (oh-meh-see-WAHTL) – “Two lady,” feminine aspect of duality
• Camaxtli (kah-MAHSH-tlee) – God of hunting and war
• Macuilxochitl (mah-kweel-SHOH-cheetl) – “Five flower,” god of games and music
• Paynal (pie-NAHL) – “He who hastens,” messenger god
• Tepoztecatl (teh-pohs-TEH-kahtl) – God of pulque and drunkenness
• Atlacoya (aht-lah-KOH-yah) – Goddess of droughts
• Huixtocihuatl (weesh-toh-see-WAHTL) – Goddess of salt
• Apozanolotl (ah-poh-sah-noh-LOHTL) – Goddess of purity and clean water
• Ayauhteotl (ah-YOW-teh-ohtl) – Goddess of evening mists
• Nappatecuhtli (nahp-pah-teh-KOOH-tlee) – God of mat makers
• Opochtli (oh-POHCH-tlee) – God of fishing and bird hunting
• Xochipilli (shoh-chee-PEE-lee) – “Flower prince,” god of beauty and dance
• Ixtlilton (eesht-lee-EEL-tohn) – God of healing, dancing, and festivals
• Tlaloqueh (tlah-LOH-keh) – Lesser rain deities, helpers of Tlaloc
• Tlalchitonatiuh (tlahl-chee-toh-nah-TEE-oo) – “Earth sun,” a sun god aspect
• Tlaltecuin (tlahl-teh-KWEEN) – Another form of earth deity
• Tonacacihuatl (toh-nah-kah-see-WAHTL) – “Lady of our sustenance”
• Tonacatecuhtli (toh-nah-kah-teh-KOOH-tlee) – “Lord of our sustenance”
• Yacatecuhtli (yah-kah-teh-KOOH-tlee) – God of merchants and travelers

If you’re drawn to mythological names from different cultures, you might also enjoy these Greek mythology boy names.

Modern Aztec-Inspired Names

These are contemporary adaptations and combinations that honor Aztec linguistic patterns while being more accessible for everyday use.

• Citlaly (seet-LAH-lee) – Modern spelling of Citlali, “star”
• Itzel (eet-SEL) – Simplified from Ixchel, “rainbow lady”
• Xitlali (shee-TLAH-lee) – Alternative spelling of Citlali
• Ximena (hee-MEH-nah) – Modern name with possible Nahuatl roots
• Nayeli (nah-YEH-lee) – “I love you” in Zapotec, used in Nahuatl contexts
• Yaretzi (yah-RET-see) – “You will always be loved”
• Zyanya (SYAHN-yah) – “Forever”
• Xochilt (SHOH-cheelt) – Modern spelling variation
• Citlalli (seet-LAH-lee) – Double “l” variation
• Yaneli (yah-NEH-lee) – Modern creation
• Zeltzin (SEL-tseen) – “Delicate”
• Amoxtli (ah-MOHSH-tlee) – “Book,” revived for modern use
• Cualli (KWAH-lee) – “Good,” increasingly popular
• Eztli (EHST-lee) – “Blood,” used for strength
• Ichtaca (eech-TAH-kah) – “Secret,” mysterious choice
• Malinali (mah-lee-NAH-lee) – Reclaimed historical name
• Miyaoaxochitl (mee-yah-wah-SHOH-cheetl) – “Maize tassel flower,” unique choice
• Nelli (NEH-lee) – “Truth,” simple and beautiful
• Quetzal (KET-sahl) – Used as standalone name
• Sacnite (sahk-NEE-teh) – “White flower”
• Tlalli (TLAH-lee) – “Earth,” grounding choice
• Yolotli (yoh-LOH-tlee) – “Heart,” deeply meaningful
• Zitlali (seet-LAH-lee) – Modern phonetic spelling
• Atlacoya (aht-lah-KOH-yah) – Unique mythological name
• Chipahua (chee-PAH-wah) – “Pure”
• Cuicani (kwee-KAH-nee) – “Singer,” artistic choice
• Eleuia (eh-leh-WEE-ah) – “Wish”
• Ilhuitl (eel-WEE-tl) – “Day,” celebratory name
• Ixtli (EESHT-lee) – “Face,” identity-focused
• Moyolehuani (moh-yoh-leh-WAH-nee) – “Enamored,” romantic
• Namaya (nah-MAH-yah) – “Water maiden”
• Noemi (noh-EH-mee) – Adapted from Nahuatl roots
• Quetzali (ket-SAH-lee) – Feminine form of Quetzal
• Teicui (teh-ee-KWEE) – “Younger sister”
• Tlaco (TLAH-koh) – “Center”
• Xananina (shah-nah-NEE-nah) – “Essence,” ethereal choice
• Xocotzin (SHOH-koh-tseen) – “Youngest daughter”
• Yaotzin (yah-OH-tseen) – “Little warrior”
• Zaniyah (sah-NEE-yah) – “Forever,” adapted spelling
• Amolli (ah-MOH-lee) – “Soap plant,” nature-inspired
• Chicahua (chee-KAH-wah) – “Strong,” empowering
• Citlalin (seet-lah-LEEN) – “Little star”
• Erendira (eh-ren-DEE-rah) – “She who smiles,” from Purépecha but used widely
• Huitzilli (wee-TSEE-lee) – “Hummingbird,” delicate yet strong
• Ixtlaccihuatl (eesht-lahk-SEE-wahtl) – Volcano name, “white woman”
• Mixtli (MEESHT-lee) – “Cloud,” dreamy choice
• Nochipa (noh-CHEE-pah) – “Always”
• Tlacotl (TLAH-kohtl) – “Branch,” nature connection
• Xipil (SHEE-peel) – “Noble of fire”
• Yoloxochitl (yoh-loh-SHOH-cheetl) – “Heart flower”

For more unique modern naming ideas, explore these unique girl names that blend tradition with contemporary style.

Why Aztec Names Are Capturing Hearts

Here’s the thing: we’re witnessing a genuine renaissance of indigenous naming traditions. According to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), registrations of indigenous Nahuatl names increased by 34% between 2019-2024, with names like Xochitl and Citlali entering mainstream use far beyond Mexican-American communities.

The #Nahuatl hashtag on TikTok has garnered over 89 million views as of early 2025, with creators sharing pronunciation guides and name meanings to younger, culturally-connected audiences. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement of cultural reclamation.

The Aztec Empire (1345-1521 CE) developed a naming system that reflected their dualistic worldview, balancing opposing forces like life and death, earth and sky, war and peace. Names weren’t just identifiers; they were prophecies, prayers, and family legacies rolled into one. Picture this: when an Aztec child was born, priests would consult the tonalpohualli (the 260-day ritual calendar) to determine auspicious name elements based on the birth date’s energies.

Nahuatl remains spoken by approximately 1.7 million people in Mexico today, making it the most widely-spoken indigenous language in North America. The naming traditions have evolved but retain their poetic core structure—and that’s exactly what makes them so compelling for modern parents and creators.

Understanding Aztec Name Structure: The Poetry Behind the Words

Before we dive into the names, let me share something that completely changed how I approach Nahuatl names. These aren’t arbitrary combinations of sounds—they’re linguistic architecture.

Most Aztec names combine natural elements (animals, plants, weather phenomena) with qualities (precious, strong, sacred). Gender distinctions often came from suffixes like -tzin (conveying reverence or smallness) or -ton (diminutive form). Many names directly referenced the day of birth in the sacred calendar, while noble names frequently included titles or honored specific deities.

Quick Pronunciation Guide

I get it—Nahuatl pronunciation looks intimidating at first. Here are the essentials:

• “x” = “sh” sound (Xochitl = “sho-cheetl”)
• “tl” = single consonant cluster, not separate “t” and “l”
• “hu” = “w” sound (Cuauhtémoc = “kwow-TEH-mok”)
• “cu/cua” = “kw” sound
• Stress typically falls on the second-to-last syllable

Trust me, practice these a few times and you’ll sound like a pro. For more creative naming inspiration, check out these fantasy names for girls that also draw from ancient cultures.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Perfect Aztec Name

Here’s what I’ve learned from researching and connecting with people who’ve chosen Nahuatl names for their children or characters.

1. Consider Pronunciation in Your Context

Let’s be real—some of these names will challenge non-Nahuatl speakers. Names like Citlali and Xochitl have become mainstream partly because they’re relatively pronounceable once you learn the basics. Think about where this name will be used. Is it for a baby who’ll introduce themselves countless times? A fantasy character in your novel? A gaming avatar?

Pro tip: Names with the “tl” cluster (Yolotli, Citlali, Quetzal) are distinctly Aztec but require practice. Consider whether you’re comfortable with the inevitable mispronunciations—or if you see them as teaching moments.

2. Understand the Meaning Deeply

Picture this: you choose Miquiztli because it sounds powerful, only to discover it means “death.” While death held complex, not entirely negative meanings in Aztec cosmology (transformation, rebirth, the necessary balance), it might not be the vibe you want for a baby name.

Do your homework. The meanings I’ve provided are starting points, but Nahuatl words often carry layered significance tied to mythology, calendar days, and spiritual concepts. Names like Tonatiuh (sun god) carry immense cultural weight—use them with respect and awareness.

3. Balance Cultural Appreciation with Personal Connection

I get asked this constantly: “Can I use an Aztec name if I’m not Mexican or Indigenous?” My take: cultural appreciation requires genuine respect, education, and acknowledgment. If you’re drawn to these names, learn about their origins, pronounce them correctly, and be prepared to educate others about their significance.

For families with Mexican or Indigenous heritage, these names can be profound acts of cultural reclamation. For others, they’re opportunities to honor and celebrate a rich linguistic tradition—but avoid treating them as exotic accessories.

4. Test It in Real-World Scenarios

Say the name out loud. Write it down. Imagine introducing yourself or your child with this name in various settings—a coffee shop, a job interview, a classroom. How does it feel? Does it honor the name’s origins while being practical for the name-bearer?

Names like Itzel, Citlali, and Yaretzi have successfully crossed into mainstream use because they balance uniqueness with accessibility. More complex names like Nezahualcoyotl might work better as middle names or character names unless you’re in a Nahuatl-speaking community.

5. Combine Elements Thoughtfully

Traditional Aztec naming often combined elements. You can honor this by pairing a Nahuatl name with a name from your own heritage: Sofia Xochitl, Lucas Tonatiuh, Emma Citlali. This creates bridges between cultures while maintaining meaningful connections.

6. Consult Native Speakers When Possible

Pronunciation guides (like mine) are helpful, but nothing beats hearing these names spoken by Nahuatl speakers. YouTube channels, language learning apps, and community resources can provide authentic pronunciation models. The language is living—honor that by getting it right.

For parents seeking names with spiritual depth across traditions, these spiritual names for boys and girls offer additional meaningful options.

The Cultural Significance: Why These Names Matter

Trust me when I say these names represent more than beautiful sounds—they’re acts of linguistic survival.

When Spanish colonizers arrived in the 16th century, they systematically attempted to erase Indigenous languages, religions, and naming practices. Indigenous people were forced to adopt Spanish Christian names. The fact that Nahuatl survived at all is a testament to cultural resistance and resilience.

Today, approximately 1.7 million people still speak Nahuatl across Mexico, making it the most widely spoken Indigenous language north of the Andes. Recent Mexican legislation has strengthened Indigenous language rights, and many families are returning to ancestral naming traditions as acts of cultural affirmation.

The Aztec naming system reflected a sophisticated understanding of the cosmos. Names connected individuals to:

• The tonalpohualli (ritual calendar): Birth days influenced name selection
• Natural forces: Animals, plants, weather, celestial bodies
• Spiritual concepts: Duality, transformation, sacred balance
• Social roles: Warrior, healer, leader, artist

When you choose an Aztec name, you’re participating in this enduring tradition—carrying forward a linguistic and cultural heritage that colonialism tried to destroy.

Aztec Names in Popular Culture

You’ve probably encountered Aztec names without realizing it. The influence of Nahuatl culture extends far beyond baby name registries.

Video games like Age of Empires, Civilization, and Aztez feature historical Aztec rulers—Moctezuma, Cuauhtémoc, Itzcoatl—introducing millions to these names. Marvel Comics created the character Namor, whose name echoes Nahuatl linguistic patterns (though the character himself is Atlantean, not Aztec).

Mexican cinema and literature have long celebrated Nahuatl names. Contemporary Mexican-American authors increasingly use authentic Aztec names for characters as counterpoints to the Maria/Juan stereotypes. The name Citlali appears in multiple young adult novels, while Xochitl has become almost mainstream in Latinx literature.

Musicians and athletes with Aztec names are rising in prominence. Mexican boxer Cuauhtémoc Blanco and soccer player Cuauhtémoc “Temo” Blanco carried the name of the last Aztec emperor into international sports arenas.

Looking for more gaming-inspired names? Check out these League of Legends usernames for creative character naming ideas.

Pronunciation Mastery: Your Quick Reference Guide

Let me break down the trickiest sounds one more time, because getting these right shows respect:

Nahuatl Letter	English Sound	Example Name	Pronunciation
x	sh	Xochitl	SHOH-cheetl
hu	w	Huitzilopochtli	wee-tsee-loh-POHCH-tlee
tl	single sound	Citlali	seet-LAH-lee
cu/cua	kw	Cuauhtémoc	kwow-TEH-mok
tz	ts	Yaretzi	yah-RET-see
z	s	Zyanya	SYAHN-yah

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Don’t separate “tl” into two sounds—it’s one fluid consonant
• “Tl” at the end of words is often very soft, almost whispered
• The “x” is ALWAYS “sh,” never “ks” or “z”
• Stress usually falls on the penultimate (second-to-last) syllable

Practice makes perfect. Record yourself saying these names and compare to native speaker recordings online.

Connecting Aztec Names to Modern Identity

Here’s something I find beautiful: every time someone chooses an Aztec name in 2025, they’re making a statement about identity, heritage, and cultural continuity.

For Mexican-American families, naming a child Citlali or Tonatiuh can be a profound reconnection to roots that colonialism tried to sever. It’s telling grandchildren: “We remember who we were. We honor where we came from.”

For writers and creators, using authentic Aztec names (rather than Spanish conquistador names) in fantasy worlds, games, and stories shows a commitment to representing Pre-Columbian civilizations with accuracy and respect.

For anyone drawn to these names, they offer what all the best names do—meaning, beauty, and connection to something larger than ourselves.

The resurgence of interest in Nahuatl names parallels broader Indigenous rights movements across the Americas. As Indigenous languages gain official recognition and protection, naming traditions flourish anew. Children named Xochiquetzal and Nezahualcoyotl walk into classrooms carrying literal pieces of living history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aztec Names

Can these names be used outside of Indigenous communities?
Cultural appreciation with education and respect is generally welcomed, but avoid treating these names as exotic trends. If you choose an Aztec name, learn its history, pronounce it correctly, and be prepared to explain its significance.

Are there gender-neutral Aztec names?
Many Nahuatl names work across genders, especially those based on natural elements—Atl (water), Citlali (star), Mixtli (cloud), Ollin (movement).

How do I know if I’m pronouncing it correctly?
Seek out YouTube videos of native Nahuatl speakers, language learning resources, or community cultural centers. The Nahuatl-speaking community often shares pronunciation guides on social media.

Should I choose a name based on the Aztec calendar?
Traditional Aztec naming incorporated the tonalpohualli. While you can research which day sign corresponds to a birth date, this requires understanding the complex calendar system. Modern use doesn’t require calendar alignment, but some families still honor this tradition.

What’s the difference between Aztec and Nahuatl?
“Aztec” refers to the Mexica people who built the empire. “Nahuatl” is the language they spoke, which predates the empire and continues today. Many groups speak Nahuatl, not just the historic Aztecs.

Final Thoughts: Names That Echo Through Centuries

Standing in that museum in Mexico City three years ago, I couldn’t have imagined where my fascination with Aztec names would lead. These aren’t just words—they’re windows into a worldview that saw divinity in every flower, power in every storm, and meaning in every moment.

Whether you’re a parent searching for a name that honors your heritage, a writer building authentic characters, a gamer creating an unforgettable avatar, or simply someone captivated by linguistic beauty, these 300 Aztec names offer something rare: connection to an ancient tradition that refuses to die.

From the fierce warrior energy of Cuauhtémoc to the delicate beauty of Xochitl, from the cosmic power of Tonatiuh to the earthly wisdom of Tlaloc, each name carries stories that survived conquest, colonization, and centuries of attempted erasure.

The fact that we’re still saying these names, still honoring these meanings, still teaching our children to pronounce “Xochiquetzal”—that’s not just linguistic preservation. That’s resistance. That’s resilience. That’s remembering.

So go ahead—choose that name that makes your heart sing. Teach people how to pronounce it correctly. Share its story. Every time you do, you’re participating in one of humanity’s most beautiful acts: keeping a language, a culture, and a people alive through the simple act of speaking their names.

The Aztec Empire fell five centuries ago. But these names? These names are immortal.