Catchy, Cool & Creative Hyena Names for Every Style

Looking for the perfect name for your hyena? You’re in the right place! Hyenas are fascinating creatures known for their intelligence, social nature, and iconic laugh, which serves as a unique form of communication within their clans. Despite their dog-like appearance, these powerful carnivores belong to the cat family and boast captivating traits that make them truly special. 

Choosing a name that reflects their complex behavior, distinct personality, and rich symbolism is essential. Whether you’re naming a pet hyena or incorporating one into your story, this article will guide you through a treasure trove of names inspired by their remarkable characteristics and cultural significance.

Top Picks


Shenzi

Zuri

Giggles

Shadow

names for hyenas

The Hyena’s Place in History and Culture Significance


Hyenas have held a unique place in history and culture across various civilizations. In African folklore, they are often depicted as symbols of cunning and survival, sometimes associated with trickery or witchcraft. Ancient Egyptians viewed them with mixed feelings, sometimes seen as scavengers but also revered for their role in the ecosystem. In many cultures, their eerie, laughter-like calls have inspired both fear and fascination, contributing to myths about their connection to the supernatural. Despite their often misunderstood nature, hyenas play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance and have come to symbolize resilience, adaptability, and the complex interplay between strength and strategy.

The Charm of Naming a Hyena


Naming a hyena can be a delightful and meaningful process, reflecting the animal’s unique traits and vibrant personality. Their distinctive laughter, intelligence, and social nature offer rich inspiration for names that capture their essence. A well-chosen name can highlight their cunning, resilience, or even their playful side. Whether you’re naming a pet hyena, a character in a story, or simply exploring names for fun, selecting one that resonates with their cultural significance or natural behavior adds depth and charm. The process celebrates the hyena’s fascinating spirit, turning their often-misunderstood image into a symbol of strength and character.

names that mean hyena

Best Hyena Names 


  • Zuri 
  • Kai 
  • Shadow 
  • Kazi 
  • Juno 
  • Ashanti 
  • Echo 
  • Hunter 
  • Tala 
  • Bandit 
  • Orion 
  • Koa 
  • Storm 
  • Nyx 
  • Blitz 
  • Simba 
  • Rogue 
  • Sable 
  • Titan 
  • Luna 
  • Kibo 
  • Zara 
  • Maverick 
  • Mwezi 
  • Jasper 
  • Blaze 
  • Rani 
  • Atlas 
  • Rocco 
  • Nova

Also Visit: Bear Names

Cute Names For Hyenas


  • Paws 
  • Muffin 
  • Tiki 
  • Nala 
  • Buttons 
  • Coco 
  • Sunny 
  • Lulu 
  • Dottie 
  • Gizmo 
  • Bubbles 
  • Peanut 
  • Olive 
  • Zippy 
  • Biscuit 
  • Momo 
  • Ruffles 
  • Snickers 
  • Freckles 
  • Marshmallow 
  • Pip 
  • Sprout 
  • Waffles 
  • Ziggy 
  • Poppy 
  • Fuzzy 
  • Berry 
  • Pebbles 
  • Mochi 
  • Kiki

Cool Names For Hyenas


  • Ace 
  • Jax 
  • Raven 
  • Viper 
  • Onyx 
  • Spike 
  • Frost 
  • Dash 
  • Diesel 
  • Phoenix 
  • Stormy 
  • Zephyr 
  • Talon 
  • Skye 
  • Echo 
  • Ryker 
  • Ghost 
  • Flint 
  • Knox 
  • Axel 
  • Valkyrie 
  • Riptide 
  • Cobra 
  • Havoc 
  • Thor 
  • Jet 
  • Blaze 
  • Orion 
  • Loki 
  • Raptor

Funny Names For Hyenas


  • Giggles 
  • Chuckles 
  • Haha 
  • Whoopie 
  • Snorty 
  • Jokester 
  • Goofy 
  • Hyenaise 
  • Laughzilla 
  • Quirky 
  • Prankster 
  • Loony 
  • Howler 
  • Hoot 
  • Bananas 
  • Muffler 
  • Noodles 
  • Guffaw 
  • Tickles 
  • Chatterbox 
  • Zany 
  • Wacky 
  • Cray-Cray 
  • Clowny 
  • Snickerdoodle 
  • Smirk 
  • Wisecrack 
  • Gigglypuff 
  • Tehee 
  • Laffy
hyena names

Unique Names For Hyenas


  • Aza 
  • Thando 
  • Kovu 
  • Nymeria 
  • Zazu 
  • Anansi 
  • Shenzi 
  • Rahisi 
  • Azula 
  • Imani 
  • Jengo 
  • Tundu 
  • Eska 
  • Oba 
  • Keona 
  • Makali 
  • Vesa 
  • Damu 
  • Lapis 
  • Ciela 
  • Zolani 
  • Raziya 
  • Faraji 
  • Oro 
  • Enzi 
  • Moyo 
  • Xolani 
  • Tana 
  • Kianu 
  • Panya

Good Hyena Names


  • Leo 
  • Sasha 
  • Max 
  • Zane 
  • Lila 
  • Chase 
  • Bella 
  • Kito 
  • Roxy 
  • Kaya 
  • Duke 
  • Finn 
  • Zeke 
  • Ruby 
  • Zara 
  • Hunter 
  • Toby 
  • Ava 
  • Rex 
  • Milo 
  • Tasha 
  • Noah 
  • Sam 
  • Layla 
  • Rocky 
  • Jack 
  • Kira 
  • Teddy 
  • Marley 
  • Hazel

Hyena Names and Their Meanings


Hyena Nicknames 


  • Giggy 
  • Chucks 
  • Hy-Hy 
  • Laffy 
  • Tiki 
  • Zip 
  • Nala-bug 
  • Kiki 
  • Sparky 
  • Henny 
  • Howly 
  • Zaz 
  • Juno 
  • Dashy 
  • Nyxy 
  • Roro 
  • Pawsie 
  • Tutu 
  • Lulu 
  • Blitzy 
  • Coco-puff 
  • Smoky 
  • Chatter 
  • Smirky 
  • Echo-Echo 
  • Zippy-doo 
  • Tash 
  • Hootie 
  • Muffin 
  • Snickers

Also Visit: Volleyball Team Names

Male Hyena Names 


  • Aslan 
  • Bruno 
  • Leo 
  • Titan 
  • Ace 
  • Jax 
  • Mufasa 
  • Rex 
  • Shadow 
  • Koda 
  • Max 
  • Zeus 
  • Loki 
  • Thor 
  • Onyx 
  • Maverick 
  • Orion 
  • Hunter 
  • Zane 
  • Apollo 
  • Diesel 
  • Rocky 
  • Rocco 
  • Flint 
  • Storm 
  • Blaze 
  • Cairo 
  • Jet 
  • Samson 
  • Sable
good hyena names

Female Hyena Names 


  • Nala 
  • Luna 
  • Zara 
  • Bella 
  • Kaya 
  • Juno 
  • Athena 
  • Sable 
  • Freya 
  • Nova 
  • Tasha 
  • Zuri 
  • Nyx 
  • Kira 
  • Layla 
  • Raven 
  • Indigo 
  • Ruby 
  • Willow 
  • Aria 
  • Misty 
  • Roxy 
  • Stella 
  • Echo 
  • Cleo 
  • Mocha 
  • Ivy 
  • Tiana 
  • Sasha 
  • Poppy

Name For A Baby Hyena 


  • Pipsqueak 
  • Toto 
  • Cubby 
  • Peanut 
  • Momo 
  • Zippy 
  • Nibbles 
  • Giggles 
  • Titch 
  • Bubbles 
  • Sprout 
  • Tiny 
  • Button 
  • Coco 
  • Muffin 
  • Pip 
  • Fuzzy 
  • Boo 
  • Ziggy 
  • Wobbles 
  • Ruffles 
  • Paws 
  • Bean 
  • Skippy 
  • Lolly 
  • Pebbles 
  • Fluffy 
  • Cuddles 
  • Snuggles 
  • Cheeky

Famous Hyena Names 


  • Shenzi (The Lion King) 
  • Banzai (The Lion King) 
  • Ed (The Lion King) 
  • Harley (DC Comics) 
  • Bud (DC Comics) 
  • Lou (DC Comics) 
  • Kamari (The Lion King, 2019) 
  • Azizi (The Lion King, 2019) 
  • Tabu (Wild Kratts) 
  • Janja (The Lion Guard) 
  • Jasiri (The Lion Guard) 
  • Madoa (The Lion Guard) 
  • Cheezi (The Lion Guard) 
  • Chungu (The Lion Guard) 
  • Nne (The Lion Guard) 
  • Tano (The Lion Guard) 
  • Bonkers (Hyena comedian, circus act) 
  • Joker’s Hyenas (Batman: The Animated Series) 
  • Mzingo (The Lion Guard) 
  • Scarlett (Cheetah documentary) 
  • Tsaka (Kenyan folklore) 
  • Isengrim (Medieval stories, Reynard the Fox) 
  • Haida (Aggretsuko) 
  • Benny (Madagascar 3) 
  • Brutus (Comic character) 
  • Hyena King (African folktales) 
  • Laughing Jack (Urban legend) 
  • Hyeena (Pokémon fan-name) 
  • Hyenard (Megaman X series) 
  • Hinata (Creative fan-nickname)

Creative Hyena Naming Ideas 


  • Laughtrack 
  • Gigglebyte 
  • Cackle 
  • Hyenigma 
  • Laffine 
  • Hysterix 
  • Chucklar 
  • Howlister 
  • Prism 
  • Snarlie 
  • Shadyn 
  • Hyrax (hybrid) 
  • Grinzilla 
  • Mirth 
  • Hyeclipse 
  • Nocturna 
  • Jokana 
  • Grinster 
  • Twyloon 
  • Hy-Vee 
  • Guffur 
  • Hy-Lighter 
  • Zanyx 
  • Obsidyn 
  • Hyboon 
  • Mirage 
  • Quipster 
  • Jestur 
  • Laughael 
  • Whisperclaw

Color-Inspired Names 


  • Ash 
  • Cocoa 
  • Sable 
  • Amber 
  • Ebony 
  • Hazel 
  • Mocha 
  • Tawny 
  • Ivory 
  • Onyx 
  • Slate 
  • Chestnut 
  • Smoky 
  • Cinnamon 
  • Charcoal 
  • Jet 
  • Umber 
  • Rusty 
  • Bronze 
  • Shadow 
  • Pebble 
  • Obsidian 
  • Topaz 
  • Maroon 
  • Midnight 
  • Copper 
  • Sandstorm 
  • Cinder 
  • Graphite 
  • Stormy
female hyena names

Food-Inspired Names 


  • Oreo 
  • Pepper 
  • Cookie 
  • Mocha 
  • Nutmeg 
  • Muffin 
  • Brownie 
  • Honey 
  • Nacho 
  • Jellybean 
  • Peanut 
  • Waffles 
  • Marshmallow 
  • Biscuit 
  • Cinnamon 
  • S’mores 
  • Cupcake 
  • Caramel 
  • Pudding 
  • Choco 
  • Noodles 
  • Tofu 
  • Cheddar 
  • Pickle 
  • Skittles 
  • Popcorn 
  • Chai 
  • Kiwi 
  • Fudge 
  • Taco

Nature-Inspired Names 


  • Storm 
  • River 
  • Thunder 
  • Willow 
  • Aspen 
  • Forest 
  • Dune 
  • Rocky 
  • Blaze 
  • Moss 
  • Luna 
  • Shadow 
  • Oak 
  • Sky 
  • Echo 
  • Frost 
  • Ember 
  • Flint 
  • Nova 
  • Sand 
  • Cliff 
  • Rain 
  • Wolf 
  • Stormy 
  • Zephyr 
  • Canyon 
  • Meadow 
  • Nightfall 
  • Thorn 
  • Phoenix

Also Visit: Gazelle Names

Mythical and Pop Culture Names 


  • Cerberus 
  • Fenrir 
  • Anubis 
  • Loki 
  • Hades 
  • Athena 
  • Jabari (The Lion King
  • Scar (The Lion King) 
  • Joker (DC Comics) 
  • Harley (DC Comics) 
  • Mowgli (Jungle Book) 
  • Pumbaa (The Lion King) 
  • Simba (The Lion King) 
  • Timon (The Lion King) 
  • Zazu (The Lion King) 
  • Haida (Aggretsuko) 
  • Mufasa (The Lion King) 
  • Azula (Avatar: The Last Airbender) 
  • Kovu (The Lion King II) 
  • Taz (Looney Tunes) 
  • Sirius (Harry Potter) 
  • Ghost (Game of Thrones) 
  • Jabberwocky 
  • Medusa 
  • Minerva 
  • Balto (Animated film) 
  • Dobby (Harry Potter) 
  • Rafiki (The Lion King) 
  • Yennefer (The Witcher) 
  • Artemis

Hyena Names in Different Languages 


  • Hiena (Spanish, Portuguese) 
  • Iena (Italian) 
  • Hyäne (German) 
  • Hyen (Danish) 
  • Hien (Dutch) 
  • Gǒu xiào (Chinese – “laughing dog”) 
  • Yiena (Arabic) 
  • Shuzui (Japanese) 
  • Iéna (French) 
  • Hiyena (Swahili) 
  • Giggli (Hindi – playful adaptation) 
  • Hiyēnā (Punjabi) 
  • Hiena (Polish) 
  • Hiéna (Hungarian) 
  • Ijena (Zulu) 
  • Ahyena (Tagalog) 
  • Chaolu (Chinese transliteration) 
  • Yenak (Thai) 
  • Iena (Romanian) 
  • Hyena (English) 
  • Yena (Korean) 
  • Iyena (Filipino) 
  • Hiyānā (Marathi) 
  • Hiina (Finnish) 
  • Chakhali (Amharic – derived) 
  • Hyēna (Greek) 
  • Jokun (Igbo – inspired) 
  • Hyāni (Turkish) 
  • Ina (Shona – adapted) 
  • Hīnān (Persian transliteration)

Tips For Choosing the Perfect Name For A Hyena 


  • Reflect Their Personality: Hyenas are known for their cunning, intelligence, and playfulness. Choose a name that highlights these traits, like “Trickster” or “Mirth.” 
  • Consider Their Appearance: Focus on distinctive features such as their spotted fur, large ears, or expressive eyes. Names like “Speckles” or “Shadow” can emphasize these aspects. 
  • Think About Their Sound: Hyenas are famous for their laughter-like calls. Names like “Giggles” or “Howler” can capture this unique vocal trait. 
  • Draw from Nature: Hyenas are creatures of the wild. Nature-inspired names like “Dune” or “Storm” can resonate with their habitat and behavior. 
  • Look to Mythology: Many myths and legends include tricksters or powerful creatures. Names like “Anansi” (African folklore) or “Fenrir” (Norse myth) can give your hyena a legendary edge. 
  • Use Cultural References: Hyenas hold significance in various cultures. Swahili or Zulu names, like “Zuri” (beautiful) or “Thando” (love), add depth and authenticity. 
  • Go for Humor: Given their playful nature, a funny or punny name, such as “Hyenaise” or “Laughzilla,” adds charm. 
  • Keep It Short and Memorable: A simple, easy-to-remember name like “Zara” or “Jax” is often more impactful. 
  • Draw from Pop Culture: Characters from movies, comics, or books can provide inspiration. Names like “Shenzi” (The Lion King) or “Harley” (DC Comics) are great choices. 
  • Think About Symbolism: Choose a name that represents something meaningful, such as “Koa” (brave) or “Nyx” (night).

FAQs

Popular hyena names include “Shenzi,” “Zuri,” “Hunter,” “Luna,” and “Shadow.” Names from The Lion King like “Banzai” and “Ed” are also well-known.

Mix elements of their traits, sounds, and looks. Ideas like “Laughtrack,” “Snarlie,” or “Hyenigma” blend humor with originality.

Consider names based on their traits, appearance, or cultural significance. Unique options include “Mwezi” (moon), “Anansi” (trickster), or “Fenrir” (mythical wolf).

Baby hyena names often reflect their playful nature. Examples include “Pip,” “Sprout,” “Nibbles,” and “Muffin.” 

Absolutely! Pop culture names like “Harley” (DC Comics), “Scar” (The Lion King), and “Fenrir” (Norse mythology) add character and familiarity.

Conclusion


Choosing the perfect name for a hyena can be an exciting and meaningful task. Whether you’re naming a pet, a character in a story, or just exploring these fascinating animals, the right name captures their essence; playful, cunning, and powerful. From best and cute names to those inspired by nature, mythology, and different languages, this guide offers diverse options to help you find the ideal fit. Remember to consider the hyena’s traits, vocalizations, and cultural significance when making your choice. Happy naming!