100+ Girl Names from The Hunger Games (Strong, Unique Names)

What if your daughter’s name could carry the same strength, resilience, and fire that defined the characters who stood up against tyranny in Panem?

I’ll never forget the moment I read The Hunger Games for the first time—I was completely captivated by Katniss Everdeen’s bravery and determination.

Years later, when my best friend was expecting her daughter, she told me she wanted a name that embodied that same fierce independence.

We spent weeks going through the books, finding names that weren’t just beautiful, but carried weight and meaning.

That conversation sparked something in me—a realization that The Hunger Games universe is absolutely brimming with incredible girl names that deserve recognition.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or simply appreciate names with depth and literary significance, you’ve come to the right place.

The world Suzanne Collins created isn’t just a gripping dystopian tale—it’s a treasure trove of unique, meaningful names that range from botanical beauties to powerful warrior-inspired choices.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 100+ girl names from The Hunger Games, complete with their origins, meanings, and why they work beautifully for your baby girl.

Main Characters & Major Players: Names That Made History

These are the names that defined the rebellion, led the districts, and captured our hearts. Each one carries the weight of its character’s journey—from survival to sacrifice, from oppression to triumph.

• Katniss – From the aquatic plant Sagittaria (arrowhead), Greek origin. The ultimate symbol of strength and survival. The plant’s edible roots represent resourcefulness, while its arrow-shaped leaves foreshadow her weapon of choice. Unique but increasingly recognized, it’s perfect for parents wanting something truly distinctive.
• Primrose (Prim) – Meaning “first rose,” Latin origin. One of the first flowers to bloom in spring, representing hope and new beginnings. Delicate yet brave, with the adorable built-in nickname “Prim.” It has increased 89% in popularity since 2012.
• Rue – Meaning “herb of grace,” English origin. This name serves double duty: the herb traditionally symbolizes regret and grace, while “rue” is also French for “street.” Sweet, memorable, and honors the beloved tribute from District 11. It entered Nameberry’s Top 1000 for the first time in 2023.
• Glimmer – Meaning “shine brightly,” English origin. Sparkly and glamorous, perfect for a girl with star quality. While bold, it captures the Capitol’s love of all things dazzling.
• Clove – Meaning “spice,” English origin. Sharp and memorable, this nature name has edge. The spice has been valued for centuries, making this name both unique and grounded in history.
• Foxface – While not a given name, “Fox” or “Foxe” works beautifully. Represents cunning, intelligence, and survival instincts. The fox has long symbolized cleverness in folklore.
• Madge – Meaning “pearl,” Greek origin (diminutive of Margaret). Vintage charm meets kindness—she’s Katniss’s friend from District 12 who gave her the mockingjay pin. This name is ripe for revival.
• Lavinia – Meaning “purity,” Latin origin. Classical elegance with tragic depth from the Avox character. A name steeped in Roman history and Shakespearean drama.
• Cressida – Meaning “gold,” Greek origin. Sophisticated and artsy, belonging to the Capitol filmmaker who joined the rebellion. This name embodies transformation and artistic integrity.
• Octavia – Meaning “eighth,” Latin origin. The quirky Capitol stylist’s name is part of the increasingly trendy Roman naming wave. Short, punchy, and unforgettable.
• Venia – Meaning “forgiveness,” Latin origin. Gentle and uncommon, belonging to part of Katniss’s prep team. Its meaning offers beautiful symbolism for a child.
• Cecelia – Meaning “blind,” Latin origin. A tribute turned victor with both substance and style. This classic name has never gone out of fashion.
• Enobaria – Unknown origin, possibly invented. Fierce and distinctive, belonging to the tooth-filing tribute from District 2. For parents who want something no one else has.
• Cashmere – Meaning “luxury fabric,” English origin. Opulent and soft, belonging to the District 1 victor and tribute. Textural and glamorous.
• Wiress – Clever variation on “wires.” Brilliant inventor character whose name reflects her technical genius. Unconventional choice for engineering-minded parents.
• Mags – Meaning “pearl,” Greek origin (short for Margaret). Short, sweet, and dignified—the elderly tribute who sacrificed herself heroically. Proves that simple names carry tremendous power.
• Seeder – Meaning “one who plants,” English origin. Earthy and meaningful, from District 11’s agricultural world. Represents growth, nurturing, and harvest.
• Johanna – Meaning “God is gracious,” Hebrew origin. A strong, traditional name made absolutely badass by Johanna Mason. Biblical roots with warrior energy.
• Annie – Meaning “grace,” Hebrew origin (diminutive of Anne/Anna). Sweet classic brought to life by the mentally fragile but deeply loved victor. Proves that gentle names can belong to complex characters.
• Delly – Meaning “bright,” Germanic origin (short for Adelle). Wholesome and cheerful, belonging to Peeta’s childhood friend. Simple yet spirited.
• Hazelle – Meaning “hazelnut tree,” English origin. A nature name with Appalachian roots, belonging to Gale’s strong mother. Earthy and resilient.
• Twill – Meaning “fabric weave,” English origin. Textile-inspired name belonging to a rebel from District 8. Represents the interconnected nature of resistance.
• Bonnie – Meaning “pretty,” Scottish origin. Warm and friendly, belonging to one of Primrose’s childhood friends. Classic charm that never ages.
• Posy – Meaning “small flower bouquet,” English origin. Adorably vintage, belonging to Gale’s youngest sister. Victorian-era sweetness for modern times.
• Ripper – Meaning “tough and edgy,” English origin. Bold choice for parents wanting something unconventional. Sometimes you need a name that refuses to be ignored.

If you’re drawn to strong female names with historical significance, explore these viking names for more warrior-inspired options.

District Tributes & Supporting Characters: Underrated Gems

These names belong to characters who may have had smaller roles but left lasting impressions. They represent the districts’ diversity and the series’ rich world-building.

• Marvel – Meaning “wonder,” French origin. Bold and heroic, belonging to the District 1 tribute. Increasingly popular for both genders.
• Alma – Meaning “nurturing,” Latin origin. President Coin’s first name carries vintage sophistication and means “soul” in Spanish. Deceptively simple, profoundly meaningful.
• Tigris – Meaning “tiger,” Latin origin. Fierce and feline, belonging to Snow’s cousin who became a rebel ally. Perfect for a girl with wild spirit.
• Portia – Meaning “offering,” Latin origin. Shakespearean elegance belonging to Peeta’s stylist. Literary credibility meets Capitol glamour.
• Fulvia – Meaning “blonde,” Latin origin. Roman nobility belonging to Plutarch’s capable assistant. Serious and sophisticated.
• Flavius – Meaning “golden,” Latin origin. Though typically masculine, this works beautifully as a unique girl’s name. Part of Katniss’s styling team.
• Darius – Meaning “wealthy,” Persian origin. A peacekeeper’s name that crosses gender beautifully. Strong historical connections.
• Coriolanus – From the Shakespeare play and Roman general. Bold literary choice from The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (nickname: Cora, Cori). Presidential power in a name.
• Sejanus – Roman name from the same era. Historical gravitas with modern nickname options like Ana, Jane, or Anus. Represents loyalty and sacrifice.
• Volumnia – Roman mythology, mother of Coriolanus. Commanding presence representing the mother figure archetype. Not for the faint of heart.
• Lysistrata – Meaning “she who disbands armies,” Greek origin. Powerful and classical, belonging to Lucky Flickerman’s ancestor. Antiwar symbolism that’s remarkably timely.
• Lucretius – Meaning “wealthy,” Latin origin. Philosophical depth with “Lucy” or “Lucia” as accessible nicknames. Ancient wisdom meets modern usability.
• Livia – Meaning “envious” or “bluish,” Latin origin. Short, chic, and classically Roman. Simple elegance that works everywhere.
• Persephone – Meaning “bringer of destruction,” Greek mythology. The name of Prim’s disagreeable cat, but mythologically it belongs to the goddess of spring. Death and rebirth in one package.
• Buttercup – Yellow flower, English origin. Playful and sunny, another name from Prim’s world. For parents who embrace whimsy.
• Greasy Sae – While not formal, “Sage” captures the essence beautifully. The District 12 soup seller’s nickname suggests wisdom and earthiness.
• Purnia – Unknown origin, possibly invented. Mysterious and haunting, belonging to President Snow’s servant. Carries an air of secrecy.
• Barren – Meaning “unfertile,” English origin. Unconventional tribute name that’s darkly poetic. Not for everyone, but undeniably memorable.
• Thresh – Meaning “to beat grain,” English origin. Strong agricultural connection to District 11’s harvests. Masculine sound with gender-neutral potential.
• Chaff – Meaning “grain husks,” English origin. Another District 11 tribute with earthy, meaningful connections. Represents what remains after separation.
• Bristel – Unknown origin, possibly invented. Crisp and modern-sounding District 8 tribute name. Fashion-forward with textile connections.
• Woof – Sound-based name, English origin. Playful and unexpected, belonging to an elderly District 8 tribute. For parents who don’t take themselves too seriously.
• Titus – Meaning “title of honor,” Latin origin. Though used for a male character, “Tita” or “Titania” feminizes it beautifully. Imperial strength.
• Mayfair – Unknown origin, possibly English place name. Songbirds and Snakes character with spring elegance. High society meets seasonal charm.
• Barb Azure – “Barb” meaning “foreign woman,” “Azure” meaning “sky blue,” Latin origins. Songbirds and Snakes Capitol character with colorful, artistic flair. Double-barrel sophistication.

Looking for more unique options? These unique girl names offer additional distinctive choices.

Nature & Botanical Names: District 12’s Green Legacy

Suzanne Collins infused The Hunger Games with botanical references, particularly through District 12’s Appalachian landscape and the edible plants Katniss learned from her father. These names connect to earth, growth, and survival.

• Primrose – Meaning “first rose,” Latin origin. Worth listing again for its pure botanical significance. The flower that blooms earliest carries hope.
• Willow – Graceful tree, English origin. Though not explicitly named, implied through District 12’s wooded landscape. Flexible yet strong, like the tree in wind.
• Ivy – Climbing plant, English origin. Resilient and classic, representing tenacity and growth. Clings and climbs toward light.
• Briar – Meaning “thorny patch,” English origin. Connected to the Everdeen surname’s possible roots. Tough beauty that protects what’s precious.
• Saffron – Meaning “golden spice,” Arabic origin. Warm and exotic with food connections reminiscent of Peeta’s baking world. One of the world’s most expensive spices.
• Sage – Meaning “wise herb,” Latin origin. Earthy and intelligent, both plant and virtue name. Represents wisdom and healing.
• Meadow – Meaning “field of grass,” English origin. Peaceful District 12 imagery where Katniss found peace. Open, natural, free.
• Birch – Tree type, English origin. District 7 lumber connection to the forestry district. White bark symbolizing purity and new beginnings.
• Rowan – Meaning “red berry tree,” Gaelic origin. Mystical and strong, traditionally planted for protection. Gender-neutral botanical choice.
• Juniper – Berry-bearing shrub, Latin origin. Fresh and botanical, with medicinal properties. Both nature name and spirit name (gin).
• Hazel – Tree and color, English origin. Root of Hazelle’s name, representing wisdom and protection. Soft yet substantial.
• Maple – Tree type, English origin. Sweet and natural, reminiscent of District 12’s forests. Syrup connection adds warmth.
• Laurel – Meaning “honor crown,” Latin origin. Victory symbolism from ancient Greek games. Represents achievement and triumph.
• Dahlia – Flower name, Scandinavian origin. Elegant bloom with gothic undertones (Black Dahlia). Sophisticated floral option.
• Zinnia – Flower name, German origin. Bright and cheerful, representing lasting friendship. Underused botanical gem.
• Marigold – Meaning “golden flower,” English origin. Sunny disposition with Day of the Dead symbolism. Brightness through darkness.
• Violet – Purple flower, Latin origin. Delicate yet vivid, representing modesty and faithfulness. Classic floral with edge.
• Lily – Pure flower, Latin origin. Classic botanical choice representing innocence and renewal. Timeless elegance.
• Iris – Meaning “rainbow flower,” Greek mythology. Colorful and mythological, goddess of rainbows and messages. Bridges earth and heaven.
• Fern – Woodland plant, English origin. District 12 woods dweller, ancient and resilient. Represents sincerity and fascination.
• Clover – Lucky plant, English origin. Similar to Clove but with sweeter feel. Three-leaf luck meets four-leaf fortune.
• Poppy – Red flower, Latin origin. Remembrance symbolism for fallen soldiers. Sleep and death mythology with vivid beauty.
• Thyme – Aromatic herb, Greek origin. Nature’s medicine with courage symbolism. Culinary and healing properties.
• Sorrel – Reddish-brown herb, French origin. Earthy and uncommon, both color and plant. Tart herb used in cooking.
• Bryony – Climbing plant, Greek origin. Vine-like resilience growing toward light. Represents prosperity and growth.

For more nature-inspired naming ideas, browse these flower names for girls celebrating botanical beauty.

Capitol-Inspired Glamorous Names: Extravagance Meets Meaning

The Capitol’s citizens bore names as colorful as their fashions—sometimes ridiculous, sometimes surprisingly elegant. These names represent luxury, creativity, and theatrical flair.

• Effie – Meaning “well-spoken,” Greek origin. Bright, bubbly escort with hidden heart and depth. Short form of Euphemia.
• Trinket – Meaning “small ornament,” English origin. Effie’s surname turned first name with quirky charm. Collectible and precious.
• Snow – White precipitation, English origin. Surname as first name with icy elegance. Cold beauty with dark undertones.
• Crane – Bird species, English origin. Seneca Crane’s surname offering graceful, avian beauty. Elegant and poised.
• Flicka – Meaning “little girl,” Swedish origin. Extracted from “Flickerman,” with vintage appeal from My Friend Flicka.
• Temple – Sacred building, Latin origin. Bold extraction from “Templesmith” suggesting worship and reverence. Architectural strength.
• Heaven – Paradise realm, English origin. Extracted from “Heavensbee” for celestial beauty. Aspirational and ethereal.
• Bee – Insect, English origin. Sweet extraction from “Heavensbee” offering vintage charm. Busy, productive, golden.
• Cara – Meaning “beloved,” Italian origin. Sophisticated extraction from “Cardew.” Simple elegance with international flair.
• Payla – Modern invention from “Paylor.” Commander Paylor’s surname transformed into fresh first name. Leadership energy.
• Mella – Gentle extraction from “Mellark.” Soft, honeyed quality befitting Peeta’s surname. Sweet and uncommon.
• Abby – Meaning “father’s joy,” Hebrew origin. Cheerful extraction from Haymitch Abernathy’s surname. Classic and approachable.
• Nathalie – Meaning “birthday,” French origin. Sophisticated extraction from “Abernathy.” European elegance.
• Undine – Water nymph, Latin origin. Similar sound to “Undersee” with mythological depth. Aquatic mystery.
• Ever – Always, English origin. Trendy extraction from “Everdeen.” Eternal and modern. Currently rising in popularity.
• Thora – Meaning “thunder goddess,” Norse origin. Powerful extraction from “Hawthorne” with mythological strength. Fierce femininity.
• Cara Wright – “Beloved craftsperson,” Italian/English origins. Splits beautifully from “Cartwright.” Artisan meets affection.
• Donna – Meaning “lady,” Italian origin. Softens “Donner” from District 10 tribute. Classic Italian-American charm.
• Morphia – Related to morphine, Greek origin. Exotic extraction from “Morphling” addiction. Dark beauty with medical connections.
• Jacy – Meaning “moon,” Native American origin. Sweet extraction from “Tracker Jacker.” Removes danger, keeps intrigue.
• Mocklyn – Modern invention from “Mockingjay.” Modernizes the rebellion’s symbol. Brooklyn meets mockingbird.
• Nyx – Night goddess, Greek mythology. Captures “Nightlock’s” dark essence. One syllable of powerful darkness.
• Jaya – Meaning “victory,” Sanskrit origin. International flair extracted from “Jabberjay.” Cross-cultural triumph.
• Tessera – Grain token, Latin origin. Historical depth referencing ancient Roman tokens and the series’ food system. Mosaic piece representing poverty and choice.
• Victory – Ultimate triumph, Latin origin. Clear, powerful, and directly connected to what the victors fought for. No interpretation needed—pure aspiration.

If Capitol glamour appeals to you, these preppy girl names offer similar sophisticated energy.

Why Hunger Games Names Are Having a Moment

Here’s something that might surprise you: The Hunger Games names aren’t just surviving in the baby naming world—they’re absolutely thriving. According to Nameberry’s 2024 data, names from the series have seen a 34% increase in searches since the prequel film The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes released in 2023.

Even more impressive? The name “Rue” climbed 127 spots on the Social Security Administration’s baby name charts.

Trust me when I say this trend makes complete sense. A 2024 BabyCenter survey revealed that 41% of millennial parents cite fictional characters as naming inspiration, with dystopian heroines ranking among the top three categories alongside Marvel superheroes and Harry Potter characters.

There’s something about these strong, complex female characters that speaks to modern parents who want their daughters to grow up knowing they can be both fierce and compassionate, brave and vulnerable.

What makes The Hunger Games names particularly special is Suzanne Collins’ thoughtful approach to nomenclature. She drew heavily from botanical terminology, Roman history, and Appalachian culture when creating her character names—making them rich with literary significance while remaining accessible and usable for real children.

The series’ themes of survival, rebellion, and female empowerment continue to resonate deeply with parents in 2025, giving these names an enduring quality that transcends trend cycles.

For more inspiration on powerful team and group dynamics, check out these team names for girls that capture similar strength and unity.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hunger Games Name: 6 Practical Tips

Choosing a name is one of the first major decisions you’ll make for your daughter. Here’s how to approach it thoughtfully when drawing from The Hunger Games universe.

Consider the Character’s Arc, Not Just Their Name

Think about what the character represents beyond just the sound of their name. Rue symbolizes innocence, sacrifice, and the brutal cost of war—perfect for a gentle soul you hope maintains empathy. Johanna Mason represents transformation, survival through trauma, and finding strength in vulnerability—ideal for a fighter who’ll face challenges head-on.

Ask yourself: What qualities do I hope to inspire in my daughter? Choose names that align with those aspirations. Remember that children often grow into their names’ meanings and associations.

Test the Nickname Factor

Many Hunger Games names have built-in nicknames that offer versatility: Primrose/Prim, Katniss/Kat, Johanna/Jo, Cecelia/Cece. This gives your daughter options as she grows and discovers her identity.

Say the name out loud in various scenarios: “Rue, dinner’s ready!” or “Clove, please clean your room!” or “Dr. Primrose Henderson will see you now.” If it feels natural across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, you’ve found a winner. Picture your daughter introducing herself at age 5, 15, and 35.

Balance Uniqueness with Usability

Names like “Glimmer” or “Foxface” make bold statements but might be challenging in professional settings or lead to constant explanations. Names like “Johanna,” “Annie,” or “Hazel” offer Hunger Games connections while remaining workplace-friendly and immediately recognizable.

Find your comfort level between distinctive and practical. There’s no right answer—just what feels authentic to your family. Some families thrive on standing out; others prefer subtle literary connections only fellow fans will recognize.

Honor the Series’ Botanical and Historical Roots

Suzanne Collins intentionally chose names with meaning—nothing was random. Research the etymology and symbolism. Does “Primrose” (first rose, symbolizing hope and new beginnings) resonate with your first daughter’s arrival? Does “Katniss” (a survival plant with edible roots) reflect your family’s resilience through hardship?

Meaning adds depth that your daughter can discover and embrace as she grows. Names with stories become part of her identity narrative. When she asks “Why did you name me this?” you’ll have a beautiful answer.

Pair Wisely with Middle Names and Surnames

Flow matters enormously. “Clove Marie Smith” flows beautifully—the hard “C” and “K” sound contrasts nicely with the soft middle and ends cleanly. “Glimmer Dawn Perkins” might be overwhelming with too many sparkly, bright elements competing.

Test the full name combination aloud multiple times. Capitol-inspired names (Effie, Octavia) pair well with traditional middles (Grace, Elizabeth) to balance their uniqueness. District names (Rue, Sage, Hazel) complement nature middles (Rose, River, Sky) for thematic unity, or classic middles (Anne, Jane) for grounding.

Consider Sibling Set Coordination

If you’re naming multiple children, think about thematic unity without being too matchy. “Primrose and Rue” share both botanical themes and Hunger Games significance—beautiful connection without being identical. “Katniss and Hazel” both connect to nature and District 12 without being obvious twins.

“Effie and Johanna” span Capitol/District worlds, showing two sides of Panem. “Clove and Sage” mix tribute name with herbal name while maintaining similar sounds. Create intentional sibling name stories that connect without limiting individual identity.

For sibling naming inspiration, explore these twin girl names that complement each other beautifully.

Fun Facts About Hunger Games Names

Before we wrap up, here are some fascinating tidbits about the names Suzanne Collins chose:

The Katniss plant is real and edible. Katniss Everdeen’s name comes from Sagittaria, an actual aquatic plant whose roots sustained people through famines. The arrow-shaped leaves perfectly foreshadow her archery skills. Collins discovered it as a child and never forgot the survival connection.

“Primrose” was chosen because it blooms first. Suzanne Collins specifically wanted a flower that represented hope and new beginnings—something that blooms even when winter hasn’t fully released its grip. Prim is literally the first light after darkness, which makes her death even more devastating.

“Rue” has triple meaning. The name references the herb (traditionally symbolizing regret and grace), the French word for “street” (subtle wordplay on her District 11 urban-agricultural background), and the English word “rue” meaning to feel regret—foreshadowing Katniss’s lasting grief over her death.

Capitol names mock Roman excess. Names like Octavia, Flavius, and Seneca Crane deliberately reference Roman history—a civilization known for bread and circuses, gladiatorial combat, and eventual collapse through decadence. Collins’ classical education shines through this worldbuilding choice.

District names reflect labor. District 12 has Appalachian-inspired names (Katniss, Gale, Hazel), District 11 has agricultural names (Rue, Thresh, Chaff, Seeder), and District 1 has luxury names (Glimmer, Marvel, Cashmere). Names reveal class systems before characters speak.

Why These Names Matter Beyond the Books

The Hunger Games names represent more than fictional characters—they embody qualities that parents in 2025 desperately want for their daughters. In an uncertain world, we want our girls to be survivors like Katniss, gentle yet brave like Primrose, clever like Foxface, resilient like Johanna, and compassionate like Rue.

These names reject the princess-passive tradition in favor of warrior-active strength. They honor intelligence, resourcefulness, sacrifice, loyalty, and the courage to stand against injustice. They’re botanical and earthy, connecting our children to nature in an increasingly digital world. They’re literary and meaningful, carrying stories that enrich rather than simply label.

Whether you choose an obvious tribute name like Katniss or a subtle nod like Sage (inspired by Greasy Sae), you’re giving your daughter a name that tells a story about survival, resistance, hope, and the power of ordinary people to create extraordinary change.

For more literary name inspiration, check out these Harry Potter usernames and Disney girl names for additional fictional character options.

Final Thoughts: May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor

Choosing your daughter’s name is one of the first gifts you’ll give her—a gift she’ll carry every single day of her life. The Hunger Games offers 100+ girl names ranging from fierce and bold (Katniss, Johanna, Clove, Enobaria) to gentle and classic (Primrose, Rue, Annie, Madge).

Whether you’re drawn to botanical names rooted in District 12’s Appalachian landscape, glamorous Capitol-inspired choices that sparkle and shine, or powerful tribute names that honor sacrifice and strength, there’s something for every parent seeking literary depth and feminine power.

The beauty of these names lies in their versatility. A girl named Primrose can be delicate or determined—or both. A Johanna can be vulnerable and fierce. A Rue can be small but mighty. These names don’t limit; they liberate. They give your daughter permission to be complex, contradictory, and completely herself.

Which Hunger Games girl name speaks to you? Are you Team Katniss or Team Primrose? Drop your favorites in the comments below—I’d love to hear which characters inspired you most!

And if you’ve already named your daughter after a Hunger Games character, share your story. May the odds be ever in your favor as you choose the perfect name.