250 Medieval Horse Names (With Meaning)

In medieval times, horses were more than just animals; they were vital to everyday life and a symbol of status and power.

Whether in warfare, transportation, or agriculture, the importance of horses cannot be overstated.

They were integral to the success of knights in battle, enabling swift and powerful movements that could determine the outcome of a conflict.

In agriculture, horses were essential for plowing fields and transporting goods, making them indispensable to the economy.

Consequently, choosing a medieval horse name was a significant and thoughtful act, often imbued with meaning and rooted in tradition.

Names could reflect the horse’s temperament, physical traits, or the owner’s aspirations. A well-chosen medieval horse name could bring honor and respect to both the horse and its master.

The bond between horses and humans was profound, and this deep connection was reflected in the care and consideration given to naming these noble creatures.

Popular Medieval Horse Names

Here is a list of popular medieval horse names that encapsulate the essence of the era, reflecting attributes such as strength, nobility, and grace.

Thunder – a powerful and electrifying name for a spirited horse.
Shadowfax – inspired by Gandalf’s majestic steed in “The Lord of the Rings”.
Aethon – a name from Greek mythology, representing one of the four horses of the sun god Helios.
Epona – the Celtic goddess of horses, symbolizing protection and fertility.
Lark – a cheerful and lively name, perfect for a spirited companion.
Astrid – a strong and noble name with Scandinavian origins, meaning “divine strength”.
Bramble – a name evoking the wild and untamed beauty of nature.
Tempest – a name that conjures images of fierce storms and powerful energy.
Odin – named after the Norse god of wisdom, poetry, and war.
Freya – a beautiful name from Norse mythology, associated with love, beauty, and fertility.
Tempus – Latin for “time,” a sophisticated and timeless name.
Valkyrie – fierce warrior maidens from Norse mythology, selecting fallen heroes for Valhalla.
Artemis – the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and wild animals.
Thor – the Norse god of thunder, strength, and protection.
Zephyr – the gentle west wind in Greek mythology, symbolizing a peaceful breeze.
Frost – a name that captures the crisp, cool essence of winter.
Apollo – the Greek god of music, poetry, and the sun.
Orion – a giant huntsman in Greek mythology, placed among the stars as a constellation.
Merlin – the legendary wizard from Arthurian legend, known for his wisdom and magic.
Raven – a mysterious and intelligent bird, often associated with prophecy and insight.
Saber – a sharp and agile name, reminiscent of a swift sword.
Storm – a name that evokes the intense power of nature’s fury.
Midnight – a dark and enchanting name, perfect for a mysterious companion.
Bravery – a name that embodies courage and valor.
Valor – a name that stands for bravery, honor, and heroism.
Spirit – a name that captures the essence of vitality and life force.
Glory – a name that signifies honor, admiration, and distinction.
Majesty – a name that conveys regal elegance and grandeur.
Triumph – a name that represents victory and success.
Onyx – a sleek and sophisticated name, inspired by the striking black gemstone.
Silver – a shiny and valuable name, perfect for a radiant companion.
Griffin – a mythical creature that is part lion and part eagle, symbolizing strength and courage.
Blaze – a name that captures the fiery energy and intensity of flames.
Twilight – a beautiful and serene time of day, marking the transition from day to night.
Destiny – a name that signifies fate and the future.
Herald – a name that means “messenger,” often associated with bringing important news.
Nimbus – a name that suggests a radiant cloud or halo, symbolizing majesty and mystery.
Aurora – inspired by the Roman goddess of the dawn, or the stunning northern lights.
Titan – a name that suggests immense strength and power, inspired by the giants of Greek mythology.
Eclipse – a rare and awe-inspiring event, symbolizing alignment and mystery.
Noble – a name that conveys honor, integrity, and high moral character.
Quest – a name that signifies a journey or adventure in search of something significant.
Royal – a name that evokes nobility and regal distinction.
Ruby – a precious gemstone associated with passion, love, and vitality.
Sterling – a name that signifies high quality and excellence.
Comet – a celestial object that streaks through the sky, symbolizing a brilliant presence.
Valorant – a name that combines valor and bravery, perfect for a courageous companion.
Viridian – a name inspired by the vibrant green color, symbolizing freshness and renewal.
Phoenix – a mythical bird that rises from its ashes, symbolizing rebirth and resilience.
Titania – the fairy queen in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” symbolizing beauty and enchantment.

Legendary Medieval Horse Names

Embark on a journey through history and legend with these evocative names that capture the essence of the medieval era.

These names are drawn from myths, legends, and the rich tapestry of the past, each bringing with it a sense of wonder and storied heritage.

Bucephalus – Alexander the Great’s legendary steed.
Grani – the loyal horse of Sigurd from Norse mythology.
Rocinante – the noble yet comical horse of Don Quixote.
Balius – one of the immortal horses of Achilles in Greek mythology.
Xanthus – Balius’ immortal twin, also belonging to Achilles.
Arion – a swift, immortal horse of Greek mythology.
Bayard – a magical horse from French medieval legends known for its enormous strength.
Binky – the white horse of Death from Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld” series.
Sleipnir – Odin’s eight-legged horse from Norse mythology, symbolizing power and speed.
Callisto – a name evoking the legendary huntress-transformed into a bear in Greek mythology.
Morvarc’h – a magical horse in Breton mythology that could gallop across the sea.
Hippocampus – a mythical sea horse with the upper body of a horse and the lower body of a fish from Greek mythology.
Lampon – another one of the horses of the Sun god Helios.
Kataphraktos – a term used for heavily armored horses in ancient and medieval warfare, symbolizing strength.
Phobos – the horse of the god of fear from Greek mythology.
Podarga – one of the Harpy’s swift, immortal horses.
Silvermane – a name evoked from tales of wise and ancient horses with distinctive silver coats.
Rhiannon – named after the horse goddess in Welsh mythology.
Asfaloth – the swift horse ridden by Glorfindel in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Hengroen – one of King Arthur’s battle-steeds.
Lamrei – another horse belonging to King Arthur.
Roc – inspired by the mythical bird capable of carrying elephants in Arabic folklore.
Bril Roj – a mythical steed from “The Faerie Queene” by Edmund Spenser.
Babieca – the celebrated warhorse of El Cid in Spanish legend.
Arvak – one of the horses that pulled the chariot of the Sun in Norse mythology.
Alsvid – the other horse paired with Arvak in the Sun chariot.
Tulpar – a winged or swift horse in Turkic mythology.
Uchchaihshravas – the seven-headed flying horse from Hindu mythology, owned by Indra.
Zemea – a mythical horse representing the Earth.
Skalm – one of the horses from Icelandic lore, known for its bravery.
Windfola – the horse ridden by Éowyn in “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Tornado – the speedy and loyal horse of Zorro.
Flamebreath – a name evoking the mythical fire-breathing horses from legends.
Red Hare – the mythic steed of the famous Chinese warlord Lü Bu.
Gringolet – the steed of Sir Gawain, one of the Knights of the Round Table.
Incitatus – the purportedly extravagant horse of the Roman Emperor Caligula.
Kanthaka – the horse of Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha.
Brazen – inspired by the renowned Brazen Head in medieval legends, symbolizing fortitude and bravery.
Glorfindel – harnessing the name of the valiant Elf lord and his connection with valiant steeds.
Obsidian – a mythical black horse exuding an aura of mystery and power.
Sachiel – a mythical divine steed in celestial lore.
Tinúviel – invoking the ethereal nature of Lúthien from Tolkien’s mythos.
Arvakur – a horse from Norse legends extraordinaire.
Svadilfari – the horse that helped build the fortifications of Asgard.
Sleipnirsson – a play on Sleipnir’s name, suggesting a descendant of Odin’s steed.
Hippogriffus – an imaginative blend of horse and griffin mythology.
Verdandi – reflecting one of the Norns, symbolizing the present.
Surt’s steed – a horse from Norse mythology that carried the fire giant Surtur.
Borealis – evocative of the northern lights’ mystical beauty.
Chimera – a mythical beast, blending characteristics of multiple creatures, including horses.

Knight Horse Names

Travel back to the chivalrous times of knights and their valiant steeds with these names, each echoing the bravery and nobility of its rider.

Shadowfax – the lord of all horses, ridden by Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.”
Bucephalus – the illustrious horse of Alexander the Great.
Lamorak – named after one of the Knights of the Round Table.
Percival – the pure knight in Arthurian legend.
Roland – inspired by the legendary hero of “The Song of Roland.”
Charlemagne – after the great emperor and warrior.
Lancelot – the peerless knight of Arthurian legend.
Galahad – known for his purity and unparalleled bravery.
Paladin – representing a heroic knight of Charlemagne’s court.
Tristan – the legendary knight and lover of Iseult.
Black Knight – evoking the mysterious and formidable opponent.
Cid – after El Cid, the legendary Spanish knight and nobleman.
Bors – another valiant Knight of the Round Table.
Crusader – symbolizing the valiant knights who went on the Crusades.
Durendal – inspired by the unbreakable sword of Roland, suggesting strength and resilience.
Isolde – for a horse of grace and beauty, like the lover of Tristan.
Elric – inspired by the tragic and heroic character from Michael Moorcock’s fantasy series.
Godfrey – after Godfrey of Bouillon, a leader of the First Crusade.
Mordred – the infamous knight in Arthurian legend.
Parsifal – a variant of Percival, evoking the quest for the Holy Grail.
Roderick – inspired by the heroic tales of knights and warriors.
Esclabor – for the father of Palamedes in Arthurian legend.
Aglovale – another notable Knight of the Round Table.
Astolfo – the adventurous knight in the Charlemagne legends.
Gareth – a noble and loyal Knight of the Round Table.
Drystan – an alternate name for Tristan, resonating with medieval poetry.
Bayard – the magical horse known for its strength and loyalty, and a legendary knight in French lore.
Sigurd – hero of Norse mythology, often depicted as a dragon-slaying knight.
Gawain – the courteous and loyal Knight of the Round Table.
Tancred – named after the famed knight of the First Crusade.
Baldwin – after Baldwin IV, the leper king and valiant knight.
Lionheart – inspired by Richard the Lionheart, known for his bravery.
Geraint – another brave and noble Knight of the Round Table.
Parzival – a variant inspired by the Germanic tales of the Arthurian knight.
Erec – representing the knight from medieval romance literature.
Gawainson – a play on the name of the knight, suggesting a descendant or follower.
Igraine – for a noble and regal horse, named after Arthur’s mother.
Tristania – evocative of the tales of chivalry and love surrounding Tristan.
Lohengrin – inspired by Wagner’s opera about a knight of the Holy Grail.
Orlando – reflecting the bravery and loyalty of Charlemagne’s paladin.
Crevan – an Irish name meaning “fox,” representing cunning and agility.
Lanval – from Marie de France’s Celtic tale of the knight who receives a magical horse.
Haastor – for a strong and powerful horse, referencing the mythical Norse god Thor.
Emmeline – inspired by “The Knight with the Lion” in Arthurian legend.
Athelstan – named after the Anglo-Saxon king and warrior.
Blanchefleur – symbolizing purity and beauty, like Percival’s love interest in Arthurian legends.
Merlyn – for a wise and magical horse, named after the wizard in Arthurian legend.
Tristramus – a variation of Tristan, reflecting the romantic tales of the knight.
Galadriel – evoking the elegance and wisdom of the elven queen in Tolkien’s novels.
Gaheris – another prominent Knight of the Round Table, known for his strength and bravery.

Image Credit: Dushan Hanuska | License: CC BY-SA 2.0

Steed Names

Immerse yourself in a realm where majestic steeds carry heroes across sprawling landscapes and ancient battlegrounds. These names capture the essence of power, agility, and mythical grandeur.

Thunderhoof – evoking the powerful and resonant gallop of an untamed horse.
Stardust – symbolizing a mystical journey through the cosmos.
Ironclad – embodying the strength and resilience of a warhorse.
Moonshadow – conjuring images of a mysterious and elusive steed.
Avalanche – representing an unstoppable force of nature, swift and formidable.
Dawnbreaker – inspired by the first light of morning, harbinger of new beginnings.
Silverwind – suggesting the speed and grace of a wind-swept journey.
Earthshaker – denoting a horse with a ground-trembling might.
Skyblade – inspired by a swift and powerful horse, slicing through the skies.
Oceanus – named after the sea deity, perfect for a horse with a deep, untamed spirit.
Stormchaser – evoking the relentless pursuit of the elements’ fury.
Firemane – a fierce and valiant horse with a mane resembling blazing flames.
Frostbite – capturing the chill and intensity of a winter gale.
Emberstorm – a name signifying a steed born from ashes and tempest.
Goldenheart – reflecting nobility, courage, and an unyielding spirit.
Shadowbane – a horse known for its ability to dispel darkness and fear.
Northwind – a steed that rides with the swiftness and chill of Arctic breezes.
Granite – embodying the steadfast and enduring nature of a stone horse.
Eclipse – a name symbolizing the merging of celestial events, rare and awe-inspiring.
Tempest – denoting the wild and turbulent spirit of nature.
Brighthoof – a horse whose steps seem to illuminate the path ahead.
Sable – signifying a deep, velvety black coat and an aura of mystery.
Phoenixfire – drawing from the myth of the reborn bird, representing immortality and renewal.
Riverstone – inspired by the smooth, enduring rocks shaped by flowing water.
Nightfall – capturing the serene yet imposing presence of dusk.
Kingslayer – a legendary name for a horse of great prowess and nobility.
Equinox – marking the balance of day and night, a perfect name for a horse of harmony.
Mythril – reflective of the legendary, lightweight, and powerful metal from fantasy lore.
Stormbringer – a name fit for a horse that carries the fury of the skies.

Unique and Unusual Medieval Horse Names

Step into the world of medieval mystery and intrigue with these unique and unusual horse names, each carrying a distinct sense of history and imagination.

Ebonshadow – evoking the deep, mysterious shades of midnight.
Thundertide – reflecting the powerful convergence of storm and sea.
Gravestone – symbolizing an enduring and somber presence.
Nightsong – conjuring the haunting melodies of the night.
Frostwyrm – inspired by mythical ice dragons, blending cold and power.
Ironleaf – merging the strength of metal with the resilience of nature.
Shadewalker – a name for a horse with a silent and ghostly tread.
Embercloak – evoking the fiery, smoldering essence of a warrior’s steed.
Wolfsbane – reminiscent of the deadly and protective herb, perfect for a fierce companion.
Ravenheart – symbolizing deep, enigmatic loyalty and wisdom.
Ashenhoof – reflecting a horse reborn from the remnants of fire, resilient and strong.
Thistlethorn – embodying the prickly yet vibrant aspects of wild nature.
Moonblade – merging celestial grace with the deadly precision of a warrior.
Dragonfire – a name that evokes the fierce and mythical breath of dragons.
Bloodstone – symbolizing strength and endurance with a touch of dark mystique.
Ghostwind – a name capturing the ethereal and fleeting essence of a spectral horse.
Steelrain – evoking the image of a powerful, unyielding shower of metal.
Silverthorn – blending the elegance of silver with the ruggedness of thorns.
Shadowflame – merging darkness with a hidden fiery core.
Windreaver – a horse as swift and cutting as a blade through the air.
Starfall – reminiscent of a dramatic celestial event, rare and wondrous.
Oakenshield – inspired by the strength and enduring nature of ancient trees.
Grimstone – a name steeped in foreboding and strength.
Azureblade – reflecting the clear, precise cut of a blade and the vastness of the sky.
Stormveil – conjuring images of a horse cloaked in the fury of a storm.
Nightstalker – a steed with stealth and the cover of darkness at its side.
Ironbark – embodying the toughness and sturdiness of nature’s oldest trees.
Frostfire – combining the opposites of icy cold and fiery intensity.
Duskshadow – evoking the quiet, mysterious transition of twilight.

Medieval War Horse Name Ideas

War horses were a crucial part of medieval battles, symbolizing strength and courage on the battlefield. These names embody the fearless and noble nature of these mighty animals.

Battlecry – a name evoking the fierce roar of combat.
Charger – a classic name for a powerful and fearless warhorse.
Warlord – reflecting the commanding presence and strength of an experienced leader.
Destrier – originating from French, this name means “war horse” or “charger”.
Rampart – embodying the protective and sturdy nature of a fortress.
Conquest – symbolizing the victorious and triumphant spirit of a warhorse.
Lancelot – inspired by the legendary knight, representing bravery and chivalry.
Steedly – blending “steed” with “deadly”, perfect for a horse that charges fearlessly into battle.
Centaurion – merging the image of half-man, half-horse with powerful leadership in battle.
Joust – a name evoking the traditional medieval sport of mounted combat.
Warrior’s Heart – symbolizing the courage and loyalty of a warhorse.
Knightmare – playing on the word “nightmare”, perfect for a horse that strikes fear in enemies.
Valiant – embodying bravery, strength, and determination.
Ragnarok – inspired by Norse mythology, representing the end of days and ultimate battle.
Savagery – evoking the primal and ferocious nature of war.
Excalibur – referencing King Arthur’s legendary sword, symbolizing noble power and strength.
Pegasus – in ancient Greek mythology, this winged horse was known for its speed and agility.
Crusader – reflecting the holy mission and bravery of medieval knights.
Brutality – embodying the harsh reality of war and its devastating effects.
Thunderhoof – a horse with a powerful, thunderous presence on the battlefield.
Saberclaw – reminiscent of a fierce predator’s sharp teeth, perfect for a warhorse that strikes fear in enemies.
Gladiator – evoking images of ancient Roman battles and strength in combat.
Warlock – playing on the word “war” and reflecting a horse with dark, mysterious power.
Shieldbearer – symbolizing the protective role of a horse in battle.
Barbarian – embodying the ferocity and strength of ancient warriors.
Warpath – a name that captures the determined and fierce nature of a warhorse charging into battle.
Dragonheart – merging mythical power with bravery and loyalty on the battlefield.
Battleborn – evoking images of a horse bred for war, ready to fight at any moment.
Crusade – a name that represents a holy mission or quest for victory in battle.
Inferno – playing on the word “fire”, symbolizing the intense and destructive nature of war.
Ironfist – embodying unyielding strength and the powerful punch of a well-trained warhorse.
Tempest – reflecting a stormy, chaotic presence on the battlefield.
Tyrant – a name that exudes domination and power.
Warhammer – symbolizing a devastating, crushing force.
Griffon – inspired by the legendary creature, blending strength and majesty.
Paladin – evoking the image of a holy warrior with noble purposes.
Berserker – capturing the fierce, frenetic energy of a warrior in battle.
Titan – reminiscent of the giants of ancient mythology, showcasing immense strength.
Sabre – symbolizing the sharp, precise movements of a skilled warrior.
Blitzkrieg – a name evoking rapid, overwhelming force in combat.
Ravager – embodying the destructive power and ferocity of a warhorse.
Archer – named after the skilled marksmen of medieval times, representing precision and focus.
Legion – evoking the combined strength of many in one powerful horse.
Juggernaut – symbolizing an unstoppable, massive force on the battlefield.
Magnus – a name conveying greatness and commanding presence.
Scimitar – reflecting the curved, deadly blade of traditional weaponry.
Warspike – inspired by the piercing impact of a spiked weapon in battle.
Dreadnought – a name that instills fear, representing vast power and resilience.
Phantom – capturing the elusive, ghost-like presence of a stealthy warhorse.
Requiem – a name that embodies solemnity and the end brought by a mighty warhorse.

Conclusion

Medieval horse names offer a fascinating glimpse into a time when horses were central to society’s function and folklore.

From their roles in warfare and agriculture to their presence in myths and legends, horses held a place of high esteem.

In naming horses, medieval people drew inspiration from various sources, bestowing names rich with meaning and symbolism.

When choosing a name for your horse today, consider drawing from this rich historical tapestry to find a name that conveys both the majesty and the legacy of medieval times.