Are dragons even real?
Well, if dragons are every bit as terrifying as you've ever read about, then you should be thankful they don't exist in our world today. Such is their wondrous power that many dragons in fantasy books have been elevated to legendary status even in the waking world.
Dragon names, even fictitious as they are, are just as fascinating as the species themselves, representative of the cunning, terror, and respect they inspire and command.
Here are ten of the best dragon names in fantasy fiction that have left their mark:
What list of fantasy dragon names would be complete without Smaug, The Chiefest and Greatest of Calamities, the Tyrannical, the Unassessably Wealthy?
A fire-drake of the Third Age, Smaug is one of the most famous male dragon names in fantasy literature. As the primary antagonist in The Hobbit, he is a massive, treasure-hoarding dragon with nearly impenetrable scales.
Known for his intelligence, arrogance, and devastating fire breath, Smaug is the epitome of a classic fantasy dragon—both terrifying and fascinating. His obsession with gold and ability to detect the smallest disturbances in his hoard make him one of the most iconic dragons ever written.
If you’re looking for female dragon names, Saphira is one of the most beloved dragons in fantasy literature. Hers is also one of the most nice-sounding dragon names you'll ever find (the name Saphira hardly inspires dread now, does it?).
Bonded to Eragon, a young Dragon Rider, and plays a vital role in his journey, Saphira is both wise and fiercely loyal, offering guidance and companionship to her rider. She possesses shimmering blue scales and a deep sense of honor. The very opposite of Smaug, if there ever was one!
Named after Daenerys Targaryen’s late husband, Drogon is a cool dragon name that bellies the personality of the fiercest of the three dragons in Game of Thrones. With black scales and red eyes, he is the largest and most aggressive of Daenerys’s brood.
Drogon embodies both destruction and power, serving as a formidable weapon in her quest for the Iron Throne.
Another standout from the Inheritance Cycle, Glaedr is an ancient, golden-scaled dragon whose wisdom surpasses that of many creatures. He serves as a mentor to Eragon, offering advice and guidance even after his physical form is lost.
As one of the most respected dragons in the series, Glaedr is a perfect representation of strength and intellect, making his one of the nicest dragon names in fantasy.
Another cool dragon's name is Ancalagon the Black, who's the largest dragon ever to exist in Middle-earth, he was bred by the dark lord Morgoth to be the ultimate war machine.
His sheer size and power were enough to crush entire armies, and his name still inspires awe among Tolkien fans.
Firnen is a smaller but incredibly fast and intelligent dragon. As one of the rare green-scaled dragons, his presence is significant in the final book of the Inheritance Cycle.
If you’re looking for male dragon names that represent agility and intelligence, Firnen is an excellent example.
Also known as The Great Dragon, Kilgharrah is a wise and ancient dragon from Arthurian legend, brought to life in both The Crystal Cave and the Merlin TV series.
With his deep, resonant voice and cryptic prophecies, he serves as both an ally and a warning to young Merlin. His name is one of the cool dragon names that carries an air of mystery and wisdom.
Temeraire is one of the most unique dragons in fantasy literature, blending intelligence, humor, and fierce loyalty.
Bonded to Captain Laurence, he becomes a key figure in a world where dragons are used in aerial combat during the Napoleonic Wars. His name evokes both elegance and strength.
Thorn, a red-scaled dragon, is bonded to Eragon’s rival, Murtagh. Unlike many other dragons in the series, Thorn is raised under brutal conditions, making him more aggressive and wary.
Despite his tragic past, he is fiercely protective of Murtagh, highlighting his deep sense of loyalty. If you’re searching for male dragon names that evoke both tragedy and strength, Thorn is a powerful choice.
Perhaps the most beloved dragon in modern fantasy, Toothless is the star of the How to Train Your Dragon series.
Although different in the books than in the movie adaptations, Toothless is a clever and mischievous dragon who forms an unbreakable bond with Hiccup, with his playful personality and unwavering loyalty making him extremely lovable.
Dragon names in fantasy vary as greatly as their personalities. Traditionally depicted as fearsome creatures, modern representations of dragons often show a warmer side to them than the going stereotype.
From the legendary Smaug to the noble Saphira and the endearing Toothless, dragons in fantasy books come in many forms—wise mentors, fearsome warriors, and loyal companions.
Let us know in the comments which dragon name in fantasy stands out the most for you!
Balerion the Dread: His flames forged the Iron Throne and brought the Seven Kingdoms to heel.
Balerion trumps Drogon!😠