Galloping Through Time: The Most Iconic Horse-Inspired Baby Names
Horse names are a big deal, especially in the horse racing industry. If you are a horse racing fan, you’ve probably noticed the strange names that horses have, but none of them are accidental.
In fact, horse names are there to represent something and carry a hidden message. They are usually tied with a lot of symbolism, which is why some people are interested in naming their newborns with horse inspired names.
So, if you’ve been around horses and they are huge part of your life, maybe you should pass the torch (passion) to your little ones by giving them a horse-inspired name. Plus, these names are unique, and not exactly mainstream, which is perfect if you are looking for a name that stands out.
This got us thinking, which are some of the best horse-inspired baby names? Let’s find out.
Colt
We cannot talk about horse names without mentioning Colt. It’s actually a great horse-inspired name, for a number of reasons. First of all, it is short, punchy, and brings to mind a young horse full of energy, kicking up some dust.
This is not a new name, in fact, it has been around us for decades. Back in the ‘50s, it was really popular thanks to Western dominating TV screens, and never really left. Nowadays, Colt it is ranked among the top 200 U.S boy names, according to the Social Security Administration.
To be honest, it is easy to see why. The name has that rugged, free-spirit vibe, without trying too hard. And it is unique, so your boy can stand out from the crowd.
Sadie
Then we have Sadie, which feels like a warm hug from someone. You are probably thinking what does Sadie has to do with horses? Well, it is tied to “saddle” and people that have been around horses know to say Sadie short for Saddle.
This is a name that its roots can be traced back to the 19th century and peaked during the Victorian age when horse-drawn carriages were the norm.
The name itself is soft and warm, which is why it is now coming back as a trend and it is included in the top 50 girl names in the United States.
My neighbor named her daughter Sadie after a favorite mare her grandpa used to ride, and it fits her little firecracker perfectly. It’s got that old-soul charm with a modern twist.
Maverick
Maverick’s another one that gallops right in. Originally slang for an unbranded horse roaming free, it’s got this untamed, rebel energy. It started picking up steam in the ‘90s—thanks, Top Gun—but its horse connection goes way back to the cattle drives of the American West.
Today, it’s a top 50 boy name, and you can see why: it’s bold, a little cheeky, and screams independence. It kind of reminds us of a horse running on the road to the Kentucky Derby races. Fearless and ready for some action.
So far, he’s living up to it—climbs everything in sight.
Belle
Belle’s got a gentler gait. Meaning “beautiful” in French, it’s long been a nickname for a pretty horse—think of those glossy mares prancing in old storybooks. It’s been a steady pick since the 1800s, often paired with “Anna” or “Rose” for extra flair.
In the South, where horse culture runs deep, Belle still feels like a porch-swing classic. It cracked the top 100 girl names again in 2024, maybe because it’s got that fairy-tale softness with a nod to the stables.
Trigger
Okay, Trigger’s a wild card—it’s not topping any charts, but it’s iconic. Named after Roy Rogers’ golden palomino, this one’s got a Hollywood sparkle. It peaked in the ‘40s and ‘50s when cowboy fever was high, and while it’s rare now, it’s got a quirky, nostalgic kick.
I met a guy named Trigger at a bar once—his mom was a huge Western fan—and he owned it like a badge of honor. It’s less “baby name” and more “conversation starter,” but it’s too fun not to mention.
Blaze
Blaze is all about that streak of color cutting through a horse’s coat—usually a bold white stripe down the face. It’s got a rugged, outdoorsy feel, like a horse blazing a trail through the wild. This one’s been around as a nickname forever, but it’s picking up as a first name now, especially for boys.
It’s not in the top charts yet—still under the radar—but it’s got that spark. It’s short, snappy, and feels like adventure waiting to happen.
Sterling
Sterling’s a gem—literally means “pure” or “high quality,” like a silver-coated horse gleaming in the sun. It’s got a regal air, calling back to those stately stallions in old paintings or parade grounds.
It’s been a slow burner, popping up more for boys lately, though it’s unisex enough to work either way. In 2024, it was just outside the top 500, but it’s got staying power.
So, it seems like these horse-inspired names are coming back as a trend. Which of these names do you think is best for your newborn?
