500+ Octopus Names from Cute to Mythical

Ever watched an octopus squeeze through an impossibly small crack or change colors right before your eyes? These incredible creatures capture our imagination like few others in the animal kingdom. With their problem-solving skills and almost alien-like qualities, octopuses stand out as some of the most fascinating creatures on our planet.

Naming an octopus isn’t just fun, it’s a chance to celebrate their unique personalities. Whether you’ve adopted one as a pet or just love these eight-armed wonders, finding the perfect name adds another layer to your appreciation.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from understanding different octopus species to creative naming ideas that match their quirky nature. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the world of octopus names together!

Best Octopus Names with Meanings

These top octopus names come with meanings that reflect the nature and characteristics of these fascinating creatures:

• Octo – Simply means “eight” in Latin, referencing their eight arms
• Kraken – Legendary sea monster from Norse mythology, often depicted as a giant octopus
• Inky – References the dark ink octopuses release when threatened
• Tentacool – Combines “tentacle” with “cool” for a fun, modern name
• Cephalo – From “cephalopod,” the scientific class octopuses belong to
• Azure – Refers to the blue color some octopuses display
• Sucker – Playful nod to the suction cups that line octopus arms
• Oracle – Honors the intelligence and seemingly mystical abilities of octopuses
• Houdini – Perfect for their escape artist abilities
• Neptune – Roman god of the sea and waters
• Brainy – Celebrates their remarkable intelligence
• Squidly – A cute spin on squid (though octopuses aren’t squids!)
• Amara – Means “eternal” in Latin, fitting for such an ancient creature
• Flex – References their amazing flexibility
• Ripple – Describes the fluid way octopuses move through water
• Marin – From “marine,” honoring their ocean home
• Otto – Derived from “octopus,” simple and catchy
• Proteus – Greek sea god known for changing shape, like octopuses do
• Blotchy – References their ability to change colors and patterns
• Wisdom – Honors their problem-solving abilities
• Squidward – Famous octopus character (though technically he’s a squid)
• Cosmo – References their alien-like appearance and abilities
• Bubbles – Playful name for a water-dwelling creature
• Mystique – References their mysterious nature
• Whirl – Describes the swirling movement of their arms

So many great options here! I especially love Houdini since I once saw a video of an octopus squeezing through a hole the size of a quarter – truly amazing escape artists!

Looking for other animal names? Check out these cat team names for feline inspiration!

Cute Octopus Names

Sometimes you just need something adorable for these surprisingly charming creatures:

• Blinky
• Squish
• Noodles
• Bubbles
• Wiggles
• Sprinkle
• Cuddles
• Pebbles
• Buttons
• Mochi
• Dotty
• Jelly
• Pumpkin
• Sunny
• Marshmallow
• Twinkle
• Peanut
• Cookie
• Blossom
• Ruffle
• Giggles
• Wink
• Marbles
• Poppy
• Snuggles

I met a small octopus at an aquarium once that they’d named Pebbles because she liked to collect tiny rocks at the bottom of her tank. She’d arrange them in patterns and seemed to have favorites! It was the cutest thing.

If you’re looking for more cute names, you might enjoy these soft aesthetic usernames that have a similar vibe!

Funny Names for Octopus

Let’s inject some humor into naming these intelligent creatures:

• Sir Inks-A-Lot
• Octopie
• Legs McGee
• Mr. Grabby
• Tentacool
• Sucker Punch
• Squiddly Diddly
• Eight Ball
• Captain Nemo
• Octoplex
• Lord Tentacles
• Ocho Chaos
• Arm Strong
• Squishy McSquishface
• Octavius Prime
• Grabby Patty
• Inkredible
• Arms Deal
• Squirmy Wormy
• Slippery Pete
• Octapus
• Cling Cling
• Admiral Suckerton
• Sticky Fingers
• Professor Tentacles

My friend has a small octopus tank in his office, and he named his octopus “Arms Deal” – makes me laugh every time he says, “I’ve got to go home and check on Arms Deal” with a completely straight face!

For more humor-inspired names, check out these funny team names that might spark some ideas!

Mythical Octopus Names

These names draw from mythology and fantasy, perfect for these almost magical creatures:

• Kraken
• Leviathan
• Cthulhu
• Charybdis
• Scylla
• Hydra
• Medusa
• Tiamat
• Poseidon
• Aegir
• Triton
• Oracle
• Nereid
• Atlantis
• Dagon
• Siren
• Mermaid
• Neptune
• Phoenix
• Titan
• Gorgon
• Nymph
• Odysseus
• Proteus
• Circe

I’ve always thought Kraken was perfect for larger octopuses. There’s something so primally intimidating about that name, and it connects to all those old sailors’ tales of massive sea creatures pulling ships under the waves.

If you love mythical themes, you might also like these dragon team names for more legendary inspiration!

Male Octopus Names

While octopuses don’t really have gender-specific names in the wild, these options have a more masculine feel:

• Captain
• Duke
• Atlas
• Titan
• Hercules
• Neptune
• Triton
• Zeus
• Poseidon
• Odysseus
• Edison
• Darwin
• Einstein
• Caesar
• Marlin
• Nemo
• Admiral
• Victor
• Hank
• Ace
• Orion
• Rocky
• Max
• Oliver
• Felix

I once saw an absolutely massive octopus at an aquarium that they’d named Atlas. It was so fitting because he seemed to carry the weight of his whole environment on his… well, not shoulders, but you know what I mean!

Female Octopus Names

These names have a more feminine touch for your female octopus:

• Ophelia
• Luna
• Pearl
• Coral
• Marina
• Aqua
• Ariel
• Ursula
• Calypso
• Athena
• Oceana
• Sirena
• Misty
• Shelly
• Ruby
• Indigo
• Sapphire
• Amara
• Gaia
• Delphine
• Venus
• Cleo
• Flora
• Iris
• Stella

My friend’s daughter named their pet octopus Pearl after seeing how the octopus seemed to shimmer with an iridescent glow when the light hit her just right. The name fit perfectly!

For more feminine group names, you might like these group names for girls that have a similar feel.

Funny & Playful Octopus Names

Let’s get even more playful with these humorous options:

• Octoprank
• High Eight
• Silly Arms
• Wiggly Noodle
• Squirt
• Tickles
• Spaghetti
• Octo-Pilot
• Jazz Hands
• Octo-Mom
• Suckers
• Ink Spot
• Wriggles
• Octo-Pie
• Squiggly
• Curly
• Stretch Armstrong
• Tangle
• Floofy
• Bloop
• Jiggles
• Swirly
• Goofball
• Wiggle Waggle
• Slurp

I nearly fell over laughing when I heard someone call their octopus “Jazz Hands” because it would spread all eight arms out when excited about food. So perfect!

Octopus Names Based on Physical Characteristics

These names highlight the unique physical traits of octopuses:

• Spots
• Swirls
• Blotch
• Speckle
• Rainbow
• Chameleon
• Crimson
• Marble
• Azure
• Spectrum
• Flex
• Suction
• Shimmer
• Twisty
• Globby
• Squishy
• Smooth
• Slick
• Ripple
• Bendy
• Blinker
• Glow
• Silky
• Inky
• Stretch

The Giant Pacific Octopus at our local aquarium was named Crimson because when he got excited or agitated, he would flush a bright reddish color. Nature’s mood ring!

Cool & Mysterious Octopus Names

These names capture the enigmatic nature of octopuses:

• Phantom
• Shadow
• Mystic
• Enigma
• Abyss
• Void
• Eclipse
• Nebula
• Raven
• Onyx
• Midnight
• Ghost
• Specter
• Cosmos
• Lunar
• Nova
• Whisper
• Mirage
• Secret
• Riddle
• Dusk
• Shade
• Mystery
• Ebony
• Twilight

I’ve always thought Enigma would be perfect for an octopus. They’re such puzzling creatures – intelligent in ways we don’t fully understand, with capabilities that seem almost impossible. Real enigmas of the sea!

For more mysterious team names, check out these dark team names that capture a similar vibe.

Pop Culture-inspired Octopus Names

Names borrowed from movies, TV shows, books, and other media:

• Squidward (SpongeBob SquarePants)
• Doc Ock (Spider-Man)
• Ursula (The Little Mermaid)
• Cthulhu (H.P. Lovecraft)
• Davy Jones (Pirates of the Caribbean)
• Hank (Finding Dory)
• Paul (The famous “psychic” World Cup octopus)
• Ultros (Final Fantasy)
• Octodad (Octodad video game)
• Dave (Penguins of Madagascar)
• Ozzy (Ozzy the Octopus books)
• Oswald (Disney character)
• Inky (Pac-Man ghost)
• Squiddly Diddly (Hanna-Barbera cartoon)
• Kraang (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
• Kang (The Simpsons)
• Kodos (The Simpsons)
• Cephalod Joe (Song by They Might Be Giants)
• Tentacruel (Pokémon)
• Octorok (Legend of Zelda)
• Octillery (Pokémon)
• Blooregard (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends)
• Sebastian (The Little Mermaid)
• Wilson (Cast Away – for a lone octopus!)
• Octi (Powerpuff Girls)

I knew someone who named their octopus Paul after the famous octopus who predicted World Cup results. Every time they fed him, they’d jokingly ask him to predict lottery numbers!

Marine World-Inspired Octopus Names

These names draw inspiration from the ocean world where octopuses live:

• Coral
• Reef
• Tide
• Marina
• Wave
• Sandy
• Pearl
• Shelly
• Aqua
• Bay
• Harbor
• Lagoon
• Cove
• Delta
• Sailor
• Captain
• Diver
• Salty
• Kelp
• Misty
• Bubble
• Current
• Fin
• Seaweed
• Stormy

My cousin who worked at a marine biology lab named their resident octopus “Tide” because it would become most active when the actual tide was coming in – even though it was in a tank with no connection to the ocean. Talk about internal clocks!

Looking for more ocean-themed names? You might like these fishing team names for additional marine inspiration!

Legendary & Mythological Octopus Names

These names come from legends, myths, and ancient tales from around the world:

• Leviathan (Biblical sea monster)
• Scylla (Greek mythology monster)
• Charybdis (Greek whirlpool monster)
• Kraken (Norse mythology sea monster)
• Hydra (Greek many-headed serpent)
• Poseidon (Greek god of the sea)
• Neptune (Roman god of the sea)
• Triton (Greek sea messenger)
• Tiamat (Babylonian sea goddess)
• Dagon (Ancient Mesopotamian fish-god)
• Aegir (Norse god of the ocean)
• Ran (Norse goddess of the sea)
• Njord (Norse god of seafaring)
• Namaka (Hawaiian goddess of the sea)
• Proteus (Greek shapeshifting sea god)
• Oceanus (Greek titan of the sea)
• Tethys (Greek titaness of fresh water)
• Nereus (Greek sea elder)
• Cetus (Greek sea monster)
• Calypso (Greek sea nymph)
• Sedna (Inuit goddess of the sea)
• Llŷr (Welsh sea god)
• Manannán (Celtic sea god)
• Ryūjin (Japanese dragon sea god)
• Yemoja (Yoruba goddess of the ocean)

I’ve always found it fascinating how many ancient cultures had sea monster myths that resembled giant octopuses or squids. Makes you wonder what sailors were actually seeing out there centuries ago!

Cute & Cuddly Octopus Names

More adorable options for your eight-armed friend:

• Smoosh
• Pudding
• Fluffles
• Snugglefish
• Bubblegum
• Cupcake
• Sweetie
• Jellybean
• Hugsy
• Squishers
• Lovebug
• Cuddles
• Giggles
• Waffles
• Sprinkles
• Teddy
• Butterball
• Snickerdoodle
• Blueberry
• Pipsqueak
• Velvet
• Pumpkin
• Buttercup
• Cozy
• Floof

My niece insisted on naming the octopus at her school’s aquarium “Fluffles” even though octopuses aren’t fluffy at all! But somehow, with its rounded head and flowing arms, the name seemed to fit perfectly.

Humorous Octopus Names

More funny options to put a smile on your face:

• Eight Wonder
• Squirmy Wormy
• Tenta-Cool
• Arm-ageddon
• Sir Squirts-A-Lot
• Tangle Foot
• Octo-Pilot
• Squid Pro Quo
• Tentacle Spectacle
• Suckers MC
• Octopocalpyse
• Inky Stinky
• Cephalopod-dy
• Armin Hammer
• Octomom
• Mr. Clingy
• Squiggle Wiggle
• Wacky Arms
• Ink Floyd
• The Kraken’t Even
• Tentacute
• DJ Suction Cup
• Octonautical
• Stretch Armstrong
• Legs Zeppelin

I burst out laughing when my friend introduced me to his pet octopus named “The Kraken’t Even” – he said it was because whenever the octopus got startled, it looked like it just “can’t even” deal with the situation. Perfect Gen Z octopus name!

Gender-Specific Names for Octopuses

More gender-specific options split into male and female categories:

Male:

• Rex
• Bruno
• Thor
• Samson
• Duke
• King
• Brutus
• Hunter
• Spike
• Axel
• Apollo
• Oscar

Female:

• Perla
• Queen
• Ariel
• Bella
• Daphne
• Rosie
• Willow
• Luna
• Lily
• Jewel
• Ivy
• Nova
• Ginger

While octopuses don’t really care about human gender constructs, these names can help people relate to them in different ways. At our local aquarium, they named a particularly gentle octopus “Willow” because of the flowing, graceful way she moved her arms.

Baby Octopus Names

Perfect for tiny octopuses or those with a youthful energy:

• Tiny
• Bitsy
• Dot
• Speck
• Peanut
• Mini
• Button
• Pip
• Niblet
• Bean
• Spud
• Runt
• Peewee
• Squirt
• Mite
• Smidgen
• Morsel
• Teeny
• Tidbit
• Bitty
• Crumb
• Bub
• Shrimp
• Munchkin
• Tot

I saw the cutest little baby octopus at a sea life center – it was no bigger than a golf ball! They called it “Peanut” and it was absolutely perfect for this tiny, curious little creature exploring its new home.

Cool Names for Octopuses

These names have a definite coolness factor:

• Apex
• Zen
• Onyx
• Blade
• Rogue
• Maverick
• Jett
• Rebel
• Storm
• Blaze
• Echo
• Stealth
• Vortex
• Frost
• Neon
• Shade
• Drift
• Phoenix
• Zero
• Cipher
• Stark
• Matrix
• Comet
• Vector
• Ninja

A research facility I visited had an octopus named “Cipher” because it was so good at solving puzzle boxes that the researchers had to keep creating more complex challenges. So cool to watch its problem-solving abilities!

For more cool naming options, check out these cool clan names that might inspire you.

Unique Octopus Names

These uncommon names will help your octopus stand out:

• Zephyr
• Quasar
• Nimbus
• Kelpie
• Gadget
• Zenith
• Pixel
• Quantum
• Labyrinth
• Kaleidoscope
• Meridian
• Aether
• Chronicle
• Solstice
• Helix
• Echo
• Paradox
• Prism
• Sonnet
• Axiom
• Vesper
• Calliope
• Parallax
• Serendipity
• Obsidian

I once met an octopus at a marine biology lab named “Quasar” because it would pulse with bright colors when excited – just like the intense light from a real quasar in space!

Unique Names for Octopus

More one-of-a-kind options for your special cephalopod:

• Thalassa (Ancient Greek primordial goddess of the sea)
• Azul (Spanish for “blue”)
• Riptide
• Archipelago
• Cascade
• Meridian
• Equinox
• Odyssey
• Saffron
• Vex
• Juniper
• Maelstrom
• Cerulean
• Elixir
• Tempest
• Oblivion
• Papyrus
• Impulse
• Soliloquy
• Epoch
• Cipher
• Atoll
• Nautilus
• Aspen
• Zephyr

A marine biologist friend named her research octopus “Thalassa” after the primordial goddess of the sea, and it just seemed so perfect for this ancient, intelligent creature that’s been evolving in our oceans for millions of years.

If you like unique names, you might enjoy these unique usernames for more inspiration!

Famous Octopus Names

Names of well-known octopuses and octopus-like characters:

• Paul (The “psychic” octopus who predicted World Cup matches)
• Inky (The escape artist from New Zealand’s National Aquarium)
• Squidward (SpongeBob SquarePants character)
• Hank (Finding Dory character)
• Otto (Famous octopus at a German aquarium)
• Doc Ock (Spider-Man villain)
• Ursula (The Little Mermaid villain)
• Cthulhu (H.P. Lovecraft’s creation)
• Davy Jones (Pirates of the Caribbean character)
• Octavius (The octopus from Penguins of Madagascar)
• Oswald (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit by Disney)
• Roger (American Dad character)
• Squiddly Diddly (Hanna-Barbera cartoon character)
• Octi (Bubbles’ stuffed octopus in Powerpuff Girls)
• Ultros (Final Fantasy character)
• Octodad (Video game character)
• Ozzy (Children’s book character)
• Kang & Kodos (The Simpsons aliens)
• Tentacruel (Pokémon character)
• Octorok (Legend of Zelda enemy)
• Octillery (Pokémon character)
• Octavian (Animal Crossing character)
• Squilliam (SpongeBob SquarePants character)
• Mr. Slippery (Character from a science fiction novel)
• Ringo (Named after the Beatles drummer)

I remember being completely fascinated by Paul the “psychic” octopus during the 2010 World Cup. It was amazing how he correctly predicted 8 out of 8 matches by choosing between boxes with different country flags. Talk about an octopus celebrity!

Cool Names for Octopus

More awesome names with a cool factor:

• Azure
• Cobalt
• Indigo
• Carbon
• Flint
• Slate
• Shadow
• Mystery
• Phantom
• Raven
• Smoke
• Winter
• Ice
• Steel
• Thunder
• Cyclone
• Midnight
• Obsidian
• Onyx
• Rogue
• Specter
• Tempest
• Vapor
• Venom
• Zero

My friend who runs a small home aquarium named his octopus “Vapor” because of the way it seemed to appear and disappear almost like smoke in the water. So fitting!

For those who love cool team names, check out these esports team names for more ideas.

Wonderful Octopus Names With Meanings

These names come with special meanings that relate to octopuses:

• Athena – Greek goddess of wisdom, honoring octopuses’ intelligence
• Marin – Meaning “of the sea” in Latin
• Kai – Means “sea” in Hawaiian
• Kaimana – Hawaiian for “power of the ocean”
• Nerida – Means “sea nymph” in Greek
• Darwin – After Charles Darwin, celebrating evolutionary marvels
• Thalassa – Ancient Greek primordial goddess of the sea
• Varuna – Hindu god of the oceans
• Mazu – Chinese goddess of the sea
• Solomon – Biblical figure known for wisdom
• Proteus – Greek god known for changing shape
• Phoebe – Means “bright and pure” in Greek
• Pascal – Relates to “thought” in many languages
• Echo – Greek nymph, relates to mimicry abilities
• Sage – References wisdom
• Enigma – Meaning “mystery” or “puzzle”
• Camo – Short for camouflage, a key octopus skill
• Daedalus – Brilliant inventor from Greek mythology
• Nova – Means “new” in Latin, also a bright star
• Indra – Hindu god associated with storms and oceans
• Tesla – After Nikola Tesla, genius inventor
• Oceana – Relating to the ocean
• Koa – Means “warrior” in Hawaiian
• Haiku – Japanese poetry form, signifying elegance
• Argus – Greek mythological figure with 100 eyes, symbolizing watchfulness

I once visited an octopus named “Kai” at an aquarium in Hawaii. The keeper told me they’d chosen the name not just because it means “sea” in Hawaiian, but also because this particular octopus seemed to have a strong connection to the local waters – always getting more active when visitors from Hawaii came by. Probably just coincidence, but still cool!

Great Octopus Names

These excellent options would work well for any octopus:

• Samson
• Neptune
• Poseidon
• Captain
• Azure
• Mystic
• Titan
• Oracle
• Cosmos
• Mariner
• Voyager
• Explorer
• Odysseus
• Atlas
• Triton
• Magnus
• Oceanus
• Phoenix
• Nova
• Zenith
• Champion
• Legend
• Victor
• Maestro
• Eclipse

I remember a massive Giant Pacific Octopus at the Monterey Bay Aquarium that they named “Atlas” – it was so fitting for this enormous creature that seemed to hold its whole ecosystem in its arms.

For those looking for more great naming ideas, these great team names might offer some inspiration.

Names for That Special Octopus

These names are perfect for an octopus that has truly captured your heart:

• Aristotle – The first person to formally study and document octopuses
• Archie
• Sebastian
• Odyssey
• Mariner
• Cousteau – After Jacques Cousteau, famous ocean explorer
• Neptune
• Edison – For their bright intelligence
• Galileo
• Darwin
• Valentine
• Treasure
• Marvel
• Wonder
• Legacy
• Guardian
• Hero
• Inspire
• Journey
• Blessing
• Miracle
• Victory
• Cherish
• Harmony
• Destiny

I visited an aquarium last summer where they had a beautiful octopus named “Journey.” The keeper told me they chose that name because this particular octopus had been rescued after being caught in fishing equipment and had quite literally been on quite a journey before finding its forever home. Every time I saw it exploring its tank, I couldn’t help but think how perfect that name was.

Understanding Octopuses: The Basics

Before jumping into names, let’s get to know these amazing creatures a bit better.

Common Octopus Species

While there are over 300 species of octopuses worldwide, a few stand out as particularly well-known:

• Common Octopus (Octopus vulgaris): Found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide
• Giant Pacific Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini): The largest species, reaching up to 16 feet across
• Blue-Ringed Octopus (Hapalochlaena): Small but highly venomous with distinctive blue rings
• Caribbean Reef Octopus (Octopus briareus): Known for its vibrant color displays
• Mimic Octopus (Thaumoctopus mimicus): Famous for impersonating other sea creatures

Remarkable Characteristics

What makes octopuses so special? Let me count the ways:

1. Eight Amazing Arms: Each arm has hundreds of suction cups with independent nervous systems—they can literally think with their arms!
2. Intelligence Powerhouses: These brainy invertebrates can solve complex puzzles, open jars, and even recognize human faces.
3. Masters of Disguise: They can change not just their color but also their texture and shape to blend perfectly with surroundings.
4. Escape Artists: Their flexible bodies can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter (if they’re big enough).

Did you know that despite their impressive brain power, most octopuses live just 1-2 years? It’s one of the animal kingdom’s most fascinating paradoxes!

Fun fact: The correct plural form can be either “octopuses” or “octopodes”—but not “octopi” as many believe! That’s because “octopus” comes from Greek, not Latin.

Now that we’re better acquainted with these incredible creatures, let’s explore some naming options that capture their essence.

Adorable Octopus Names That’ll Make You Smile

Let’s start with names that highlight the cuter side of these eight-armed wonders. These playful options work especially well for smaller species or octopuses with particularly endearing personalities.

Cute and Playful Names

• Squish
• Bubbles
• Wiggles
• Inky
• Blinky
• Noodles
• Marshmallow
• Poppy
• Sprinkle
• Twinkle
• Cuddles
• Pebbles
• Squiggles
• Ruby
• Dottie
• Peanut
• Gizmo
• Pudding
• Nibbles
• Mochi

These names capture that heart-melting quality octopuses often display when they’re curiously exploring their environments or playing with enrichment toys.

I once visited an aquarium where they had a small octopus named “Beans” who would get so excited at feeding time that he’d turn bright red and do a little dance with his arms. The name fit him perfectly because he was small and full of energy!

Bold personalities deserve bold names, wouldn’t you agree?

Looking for team names for other marine creatures? Check out these shark themed team names for some fin-tastic inspiration!

Mysterious and Magical Octopus Names

Octopuses have an almost supernatural quality about them. Their ability to disappear in plain sight, solve complex puzzles, and shape-shift makes them seem magical. These names capture their enigmatic nature.

Mystical and Enigmatic Names

• Phantom
• Shadow
• Oracle
• Mystic
• Eclipse
• Merlin
• Enigma
• Nova
• Raven
• Luna
• Cosmos
• Mirage
• Specter
• Wizard
• Nebula
• Phoenix
• Atlantis
• Vortex
• Onyx
• Abyss

These names work particularly well for larger or darker-colored octopuses that have that mysterious vibe about them. I’ve always thought octopuses have a bit of magical energy—almost like they know secrets from the deep that we can only guess at.

Ocean-Inspired Octopus Names

Since octopuses are marine creatures, names inspired by the ocean and nautical themes make perfect sense. These names celebrate their natural habitat and seafaring connections.

Marine-Inspired Names

• Azure
• Coral
• Marina
• Tide
• Aqua
• Sailor
• Reef
• Pearl
• Captain
• Wave
• Harbor
• Stormy
• Lagoon
• Cove
• Salty
• Shelly
• Fin
• Misty
• Delta
• Bay

I love how these names connect octopuses back to their ocean homes. If you’ve ever seen an octopus gracefully gliding through clear blue water, you know how fitting a name like “Azure” or “Wave” can be.

For water enthusiasts looking for group names, check out these pool party names that make a splash!

Famous Octopus Names from Pop Culture

Some of the most recognizable octopus (or octopus-like) characters come from movies, books, and mythology. These names come with built-in backstories and recognition.

Iconic and Famous Names

• Kraken (legendary sea monster)
• Squidward (SpongeBob SquarePants)
• Ursula (The Little Mermaid)
• Doc Ock (Dr. Octopus from Spider-Man)
• Hank (Finding Dory)
• Davy Jones (Pirates of the Caribbean)
• Cthulhu (H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic entity)
• Octavia (Roman name)
• Paul (the “psychic” World Cup octopus)
• Dave (Penguins of Madagascar)
• Ultros (Final Fantasy)
• Ozzy (Ozzy the Octopus books)
• Octodad (from the video game)
• Oswald (Disney’s Oswald the Lucky Rabbit)
• Squiddly Diddly (Hanna-Barbera cartoon)

Using one of these names gives your octopus an instant personality connection. Plus, it’s always fun to say “Meet Kraken!” when introducing your octopus to friends.

Cultural and Mythological Octopus Names

Throughout history and across cultures, octopuses have featured in myths, legends, and stories. These names draw from that rich cultural heritage.

Cultural and Mythological Names

• Poseidon (Greek god of the sea)
• Thalassa (Greek primordial goddess of the sea)
• Leviathan (Biblical sea monster)
• Calypso (sea nymph from Greek mythology)
• Neptune (Roman god of the sea)
• Triton (son of Poseidon)
• Circe (Greek goddess who could transform beings)
• Charybdis (Greek sea monster)
• Ran (Norse goddess of the sea)
• Namaka (Hawaiian goddess of the sea)
• Sedna (Inuit goddess of the sea)
• Hydra (multi-headed Greek serpent)
• Aegir (Norse god of the ocean)
• Njord (Norse god of seafaring)
• Tiamat (Babylonian goddess of saltwater)

These names carry weight and history, perfect for an animal as ancient and mysterious as the octopus. Many octopus species have been around for millions of years, so a name with historical significance feels appropriate.

If you’re into mythological themes, you’ll love these dragon team names that bring legendary fire to any group!

How to Choose the Perfect Octopus Name

Naming an octopus isn’t just about picking something that sounds cool—the best names reflect something special about the individual creature. Here’s how to choose a name that fits perfectly:

Consider Their Personality

Octopuses have distinct personalities. Watch yours for a while and note their behaviors:

• Curious and playful? Names like Explorer, Scout, or Ponder might fit.
• Shy and elusive? Consider Ghost, Shadow, or Whisper.
• Bold and interactive? Try names like Champion, Maverick, or Hero.
• Clever problem-solver? Einstein, Newton, or Sherlock could work well.

Reflect Physical Characteristics

Your octopus’s appearance can inspire the perfect name:

• Color: Ruby for red octopuses, Sapphire for blue ones, Amber for orange/yellow varieties
• Size: Titan for large ones, Pebble for small species
• Patterns: Spots, Marble, or Freckles for distinctively patterned octopuses
• Movement style: Dancer, Glider, or Flash based on how they move

Draw from Your Interests

Let your own passions guide you:

• Music lovers might choose Melody, Beethoven, or Jazz
• Literature fans could go with Poe, Shakespeare, or Austen
• Science enthusiasts might like Darwin, Tesla, or Curie
• Movie buffs might choose Hitchcock, Ripley, or Bond

Remember, you’ll be saying this name often, so pick something you enjoy saying out loud!

Fascinating Octopus Facts to Inspire Names

Knowing more about these amazing creatures might spark the perfect name idea. Here are some jaw-dropping octopus facts:

1. Three Hearts: Octopuses have one heart that pumps blood through their body and two additional hearts that pump blood through their gills.
2. Blue Blood: Their blood contains copper rather than iron, making it blue instead of red.
3. Intelligent Problem-Solvers: They can navigate mazes, unscrew jars, and use tools. Some have even been observed using coconut shells as portable shelters!
4. Masters of Escape: Octopuses can fit through any opening larger than their beak (the only hard part of their body).
5. Ink Defense: When threatened, they release a cloud of ink that not only creates a visual screen but also dulls predators’ sense of smell.
6. Short Lifespan: Most live only 1-2 years, with females dying shortly after their eggs hatch.
7. Arm Regeneration: They can regrow arms that are lost to predators.
8. 9 Brains: Octopuses have a central brain and a mini-brain in each arm!

Names inspired by these facts might include Trinity (for three hearts), Azure (for blue blood), Houdini (escape artist), or Nova (short but brilliant life).

For those who appreciate intelligent creatures, check out these wolf team names that capture the spirit of these smart pack animals!

Creative Naming Themes for Octopuses

Sometimes picking a theme helps narrow down your choices and creates a meaningful connection. Here are some themed approaches to naming your octopus:

Celestial Names

The mysterious nature of octopuses pairs well with cosmic names:

• Comet
• Zenith
• Orion
• Andromeda
• Lyra
• Sirius
• Saturn
• Cosmos
• Astro
• Solstice

Literary References

Bookworms might appreciate names drawn from classic literature:

• Odysseus (Greek epic)
• Ishmael (Moby Dick)
• Prospero (The Tempest)
• Ophelia (Hamlet)
• Ariel (The Tempest)
• Ahab (Moby Dick)
• Cousteau (oceanographer and author)
• Jules (Jules Verne, author of 20,000 Leagues)
• Poe (Edgar Allan Poe)
• Tennyson (poet who wrote “The Kraken”)

Color-Based Names

For octopuses with striking coloration:

• Amber
• Indigo
• Russet
• Crimson
• Cobalt
• Scarlet
• Slate
• Tawny
• Turquoise
• Olive

Humorous Names

Sometimes funny names just feel right:

• Sir Inks-A-Lot
• Octavius Prime
• Squiddly Diddly
• Tentacool
• Sucker Punch
• Admiral Flexipants
• Octopie
• Legs McGee
• Ocho
• Mr. Grabby

I remember meeting an octopus at an aquarium named “Vincent van Goop” because he would splash around during feedings, creating what the keeper called “water art” all over the front of his tank!

Love color-themed names? Explore these color team names for more chromatic inspiration!

Famous Octopuses That Made History

Some octopuses have made such an impact that they’ve become celebrities in their own right. These famous cephalopods might inspire your naming choice:

Paul the Psychic Octopus

Paul gained worldwide fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup by correctly “predicting” the outcome of matches. Keepers would present him with two boxes containing food, each marked with a competing country’s flag. The box Paul chose first was considered his prediction. He correctly predicted 8 out of 8 matches!

Inky the Escape Artist

In 2016, Inky made international headlines when he escaped from the National Aquarium of New Zealand. He squeezed through a small gap in his tank, crossed the floor, and disappeared down a drainpipe that led directly to the sea.

Otto the Troublemaker

Otto, an octopus at the Sea Star Aquarium in Germany, became famous for his mischievous behavior. He was caught throwing rocks at the aquarium glass, squirting water at overhead lights to short-circuit them, and rearranging items in his tank.

Octavia the Accurate

This octopus at Ocean Reef Park in England correctly predicted the results of the England rugby team’s matches during the 2019 World Cup.

These famous octopuses show just how much personality these animals have—naming yours after one of these celebrities could be a fitting tribute!

Octopus Names by Type

Different species of octopuses have different characteristics, which might influence your naming choice. Here’s a breakdown of names that might suit specific types:

Giant Pacific Octopus Names

For these massive creatures that can weigh up to 110 pounds with arm spans of 16 feet:

• Colossus
• Titan
• Goliath
• Atlas
• Hercules
• Leviathan
• Mammoth
• Behemoth
• Gargantua
• Cyclops

Blue-Ringed Octopus Names

For these small but deadly beauties with vibrant blue rings:

• Azure
• Sapphire
• Cobalt
• Indigo
• Cerulean
• Bluebell
• Aquamarine
• Sky
• Lapis
• Marina

Mimic Octopus Names

For the masters of disguise that can impersonate other sea creatures:

• Chameleon
• Copycat
• Echo
• Ditto
• Mirror
• Mimsy
• Actor
• Masquerade
• Phantom
• Illusion

If you’re interested in other sea creatures, don’t miss these dolphin team names for aquatic groups!

Names Based on Octopus Behavior

Octopuses are known for specific behaviors that make them unique. These names celebrate those special traits:

For Problem-Solvers

• Newton
• Einstein
• Tesla
• Edison
• Puzzle
• Riddle
• Mastermind
• Genius
• Hacker
• Sherlock

For Color-Changers

• Spectrum
• Rainbow
• Prism
• Kaleidoscope
• Palette
• Canvas
• Chameleon
• Shade
• Aurora
• Chromatic

For Escape Artists

• Houdini
• Escapade
• Liberty
• Freedom
• Runner
• Slippery
• Vanish
• Phantom
• Stealth
• Ninja

I once saw footage of an octopus named “MacGyver” who not only escaped his tank but managed to disassemble a water pump on his way out! The aquarium staff said he perfectly lived up to his namesake from the TV show.

A Comprehensive Table of Octopus Names

Here’s a quick-reference table of octopus names organized by category:

Category	Name Ideas
Cute & Playful	Bubbles, Inky, Squiggles, Noodles, Mochi
Mystical	Oracle, Shadow, Enigma, Phantom, Abyss
Ocean-Themed	Coral, Marina, Tide, Sailor, Pearl
Pop Culture	Kraken, Squidward, Doc Ock, Ursula, Hank
Mythological	Poseidon, Neptune, Circe, Calypso, Triton
Scientific	Darwin, Newton, Tesla, Edison, Curie
Color-Based	Indigo, Amber, Scarlet, Cobalt, Crimson
Humorous	Sir Inks-A-Lot, Octopie, Legs McGee, Tentacool
Size-Related	Colossus, Tiny, Giant, Pebble, Mammoth
Behavioral	Houdini, Spectrum, Puzzle, Vanish, Mimic

Wrapping Up: Finding the Perfect Octopus Name

Naming an octopus is a chance to celebrate one of nature’s most remarkable creatures. Whether you’re drawn to names that highlight their intelligence, their otherworldly appearance, or their playful personalities, the perfect name helps forge a connection with these fascinating animals.

Remember that octopuses are individuals with distinct personalities. The best name will be one that reflects the unique character of your particular eight-armed friend. Take time to observe their behaviors, note their physical traits, and consider what makes them special to you.

I hope this guide has inspired you with ideas for naming your octopus, or simply deepened your appreciation for these amazing creatures. From the cute and playful Noodles to the mysterious Phantom or the literary Odysseus, there’s a perfect name waiting for every octopus.

What octopus names do you love? Have you met an octopus with a particularly fitting name? Share your thoughts and keep the naming inspiration flowing!

If you’re looking for names for other marine creatures, don’t miss our guides on fish team names and dolphin team names for more aquatic inspiration!