Things
ByL. Riley
In the pantheon of fantasy, horses are not mere beasts of burden or simple modes of transport, they are majestic creatures that gallop through the pages of ancient myths, soar across the landscapes of our favorite video games, and prance in the fabled worlds of popular culture. From ethereal steeds that pull chariots for gods to whimsical mounts that carry heroes to victory in epic battles, horses have always held a special place in the tapestry of fantasy and mythology. And their names are no exceptions.
Saddle up and ride with us through a list of fantasy horse names that celebrates the spirit of these noble and magical steeds.
Table of Contents
Mythological Horses
Step into the mystical stables of yore, where mythical steeds prance and neigh, bridging the worlds of mortals and gods. These are the horses that boast wings that slice through the heavens, hooves that spark flames, and speeds that blur the boundaries of time and space. From the noble Pegasus, soaring high above Greek mythology, to the swift Sleipnir, galloping across Norse legends with its eight formidable legs, our journey through the annals of ancient folklore unveils a pantheon of extraordinary equines.
- Pegasus – The most famous winged horse of Greek mythology, born from the blood of Medusa when Perseus beheaded her. Pegasus is synonymous with freedom and poetic inspiration.
- Sleipnir – In Norse mythology, Sleipnir is the eight-legged horse of Odin, known for being the swiftest horse in all the realms. Sleipnir could travel to the underworld and across the sky and sea.
- Bucephalus – The legendary horse of Alexander the Great, known for its remarkable speed and courage. Bucephalus and Alexander shared a bond of trust and respect, making Bucephalus one of history’s most famous war horses.
- Arion – A divine horse in Greek mythology that was said to be capable of human speech. Arion was incredibly swift and was sired by Poseidon.
- Chollima – A mythical horse from East Asian folklore, often depicted as too swift to be mounted by any mortal. Chollima symbolizes rapid economic development, particularly in North Korea.
- Xanthos and Balius – The immortal horses of Achilles, gifted to his father Peleus by Poseidon. These horses were swift and played a role in many battles during the Trojan War.
- Uchchaihshravas – In Hindu mythology, this seven-headed flying horse emerged from the churning of the ocean, known as Samudra Manthan. Uchchaihshravas is considered the king of horses.
- Hippogriff – Though more commonly associated with later fantasy literature, the hippogriff originates from mythical traditions as a creature with the front half of an eagle and the hind half of a horse, symbolizing the impossible or the union of contradictions.
- Al-Buraq – In Islamic tradition, Al-Buraq is a steed that carried the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to the heavens during the Isra and Mi’raj. It is described as a white animal, smaller than a mule but larger than a donkey, with wings on its sides.
- Tianma – A flying horse of Chinese mythology that symbolizes speed, elegance, and the ability to travel between the heavens and the earth.
- Epona – A horse goddess from Celtic mythology, Epona was revered as a protector of horses, donkeys, and mules. She was also associated with fertility and accompanied souls in the afterlife.
- Grani – In Norse mythology, Grani is the horse descended from Sleipnir, owned by the hero Sigurd. Grani is often associated with the Sigurd saga and his exploits.
- Skínfaxi and Hrímfaxi – In Norse mythology, these are the horses that pull the chariots of Dagr (day) and Nótt (night) across the sky, respectively. Skínfaxi’s mane lights up the sky and the earth, while Hrímfaxi’s frothing mouth brings the dew each morning.
- Kanthaka – In Buddhist texts, Kanthaka was the beloved horse of Prince Siddhartha, who later became the Buddha. Kanthaka carried Siddhartha on the night of his departure from the palace in search of enlightenment.
- Rakush – The faithful horse of the Persian hero Rostam, featured in the epic “Shahnameh” or “The Book of Kings.” Rakush was known for his loyalty, strength, and unparalleled speed, playing a crucial role in many of Rostam’s victories.
- Gulltoppr – Another horse from Norse mythology, Gulltoppr (“golden mane”) belongs to Heimdallr, the watchman of the gods. Like Sleipnir, Gulltoppr could travel through the air and over the sea.
- Aethon, Eous, Phlegon, and Pyrois – These are the four horses that pull the chariot of the sun god Helios across the sky in Greek mythology. Each is associated with a different aspect of the sun’s light.
- Llamrei and Hengroen – Horses of King Arthur in various Arthurian legends. Llamrei is often mentioned as Arthur’s mare, while Hengroen is sometimes referred to as his steed.
- Embarr – In Irish mythology, Embarr is the horse of the sea god Manannán mac Lir and could travel over water as easily as land. It was given to the hero Lugh to use in his adventures.
- The Kelpie – A shape-shifting water spirit inhabiting the lochs and pools of Scotland. It is often described as appearing as a horse but is known to transform into human form to lure people into traps.
- Bai Ze – In Chinese mythology, Bai Ze is a mythical beast with the body of a horse and the head of a lion, adorned with six antlers. It was said to possess knowledge of all supernatural creatures.
- The Nuckelavee – A horse-like demon from Orcadian mythology that combines equine and human elements in its terrifying form, known for bringing disease and drought.
- Hengroen and Llamrei – These are King Arthur’s horses in various Arthurian legends. While not as prominently featured in modern adaptations as some other characters, their presence in the legends speaks to the enduring importance of horses in epic tales of heroism and adventure.
Horse Names in Fantasy Pop Culture
Dive into the spellbinding realms of pop culture, where legendary horses gallop off the pages of literature, spring to life on the silver screen, echo through the corridors of television, and dash across the digital landscapes of video games. From the swift strides of Shadowfax in the epic tales of Middle-earth to the doomed Artax in the The Neverending Story, each name carries a legacy. These equine legends transcend their mediums, becoming icons of courage, loyalty, and freedom.
- Shadowfax – From J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” Shadowfax is the Lord of all horses, a magnificent, silver-grey stallion, the chief of the Mearas, capable of understanding human speech and running faster than the wind.
- Roach – Geralt of Rivia’s faithful steed in “The Witcher” series by Andrzej Sapkowski and its popular video game adaptations. Geralt names all his horses Roach, making the name synonymous with loyalty and companionship in the face of danger.
- Epona – Link’s loyal horse in “The Legend of Zelda” series. Epona is known for her brown coat, white mane, and the ability to come when called by playing Epona’s Song on the ocarina.
- Agro – The loyal horse of Wander in the game “Shadow of the Colossus.” Agro is a black horse with a white blaze and plays a critical role in navigating the game’s vast landscape and assisting in battles against the colossi.
- Artax – The horse belonging to Atreyu in “The NeverEnding Story,” a novel by Michael Ende that was adapted into a film. Artax’s tragic scene in the Swamps of Sadness is iconic and heart-wrenching.
- Binky – Death’s steed in Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld” novels. Binky is a living, white horse who can fly and travel through time and space, chosen by Death for his reliability.
- Windfola – A horse in “The Lord of the Rings,” ridden by Éowyn into the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, showcasing Tolkien’s love for noble steeds in his epic tales.
- Scadrial – A horse in Brandon Sanderson’s “Mistborn” series, specifically within the second era books. Scadrial’s horses are noted for their strength and speed, vital for navigating the rough terrains and intense action sequences.
- Bill the Pony – Another of Tolkien’s creations, Bill is a sturdy, loyal pony who accompanies the Fellowship of the Ring part of the way on their journey. Despite being a smaller creature, Bill’s courage and endurance endear him to both the characters and the readers.
- Arod – Also from “The Lord of the Rings,” Arod is a horse given to Legolas and Gimli to ride after the fall of Isengard. Arod is known for his speed and keen understanding of his riders’ needs.
- Plot – In George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, several horses are named, but one notable example is the silver mare given to Daenerys, which becomes symbolic of her journey and growth as a character.
- Brego – A horse of Rohan, Brego is initially the mount of Théodred, Théoden’s son, in “The Lord of the Rings.” After Théodred’s death, Aragorn heals Brego’s spirit, and the horse chooses Aragorn as his new master. Brego’s intelligence and loyalty make him an invaluable companion to Aragorn, particularly in moments of peril, such as rescuing him from the brink of death after the battle of the wargs.
- Asfaloth – In J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Fellowship of the Ring,” Asfaloth is the swift horse ridden by Glorfindel, an Elf-lord of Rivendell. When Frodo is wounded by the Morgul blade, it is Asfaloth, under Glorfindel’s command, who carries him safely to the Ford of Bruinen, outpacing the Black Riders. Asfaloth’s speed and grace are emblematic of the Elves’ mastery over nature and their role as protectors of Middle-earth.
- Smoky – In Robin Hobb’s “The Farseer Trilogy,” Smoky is one of the horses at Buckkeep. While not as prominently featured as the other animals in Hobb’s world, the horses in the Farseer and subsequent series underline the importance of the bond between humans and animals within the Six Duchies, serving as loyal companions and vital means of transportation in a land fraught with danger and intrigue.
- Felaróf – In Tolkien’s legendarium, Felaróf is the steed of Eorl the Young, the founder of the kingdom of Rohan. According to “The Lord of the Rings” appendices, Felaróf was the first of the Mearas and could understand the speech of men. His bond with Eorl and their heroic deeds are legendary in Rohan’s history.
- Windrunner – In the “Wheel of Time” series by Robert Jordan, several horses play significant roles, but Windrunner, Lan Mandragoran’s horse, stands out. As a battle-hardened steed of the Malkieri king, Windrunner embodies the resilience and steadfastness of the series’ characters.
- Firefoot – Éomer’s horse in “The Lord of the Rings.” Firefoot is known for his great speed and strength, carrying Éomer into numerous battles. The Rohirrim’s relationship with their horses is deeply woven into Tolkien’s narrative, and Firefoot is a prime example of this bond.
- Strider – In “The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini, Strider is the horse given to Eragon by Brom. While not as central to the plot as Saphira, Eragon’s dragon, Strider’s reliability and the journey he facilitates are crucial in the early part of Eragon’s adventure.
- Surefoot – A horse in Terry Brooks’ “Shannara” series, ridden by various members of the Ohmsford family. The Shannara series, rich with magical landscapes and epic quests, also includes these faithful animal companions that play vital roles in the characters’ journeys.
Fantasy Names for Horses
While there are a lot of great horse names in mythology and pop culture, there are still plenty of fantastical equine monikers out there for the taking. These original names, from the simple to the multi-syllable are infused with magic and adventure, making them ideal names for mystical realms and worlds unbounded by reality.
- Aether
- Arcane Storm
- Arcane Whisper
- Arcanefire
- Arcanum
- Astral Archer
- Aurora
- Autumn Whisper
- Banebloom
- Blizzard
- Celestia
- Celestial Cipher
- Celestial Navigator
- Cosmic Dust
- Crescent
- Dawn’s Ember
- Driftwood
- Eclipse
- Eldorado
- Elemental Echo
- Elysium
- Emerald Tempest
- Enchanted Ember
- Enigma
- Eterna
- Everglow
- Flameheart
- Frostfire
- Frostmane
- Galadriel
- Galaxy’s Edge
- Galeforce
- Glacial
- Glimmer
- Glyph Galloper
- Golden Twilight
- Halcyon
- Hallowmist
- Inferno
- Ivory Mist
- Lumina
- Mana Mirage
- Midnight Sunbeam
- Mirage
- Moonlight Majesty
- Moonshadow
- Myst
- Mystic Shadow
- Mystique
- Mystvein
- Mythril
- Nebula
- Nightshade
- Nightweaver
- Nova
- Obsidian
- Omen
- Orion
- Pearl Moon
- Phantom
- Phoenix Feather
- Quasar
- Radiant
- Rune
- Sable
- Sapphire Dream
- Seraphim
- Shadowmere
- Silver Serenade
- Solar Flare
- Solstice
- Spectra
- Spirit Flare
- Starlight Whisper
- Starpath
- Starwhisper
- Starwind
- Stormbringer
- Summer Flame
- Sunfire
- Sunset Mirage
- Sylvan
- Tempest
- Thundering Silence
- Tidal Spirit
- Tide Caller
- Twilight
- Valkyrie
- Wandering Willow
- Whisper
- Whispering Wind
- Winterwisp
- Wraith
- Zenith
- Zephyr
Magical Horse Names
- Arcana
- Celest
- Charm
- Charmcaster
- Conjure
- Cosmos
- Divination Drifter
- Divine
- Dreamglyph
- Eclipse
- Eldritch
- Enchant
- Flamehex
- Galaxy
- Galdr
- Glimmercraft
- Glyph
- Grimoire
- Hexa
- Incanto
- Jadehex
- Lore
- Luminshard
- Magika
- Mana
- Mystere
- Mystic
- Mystic Rune
- Mystix
- Nebulancer
- Necrofrost
- Nether
- Nimbus
- Oath Binder
- Oracle
- Phantom
- Pyxis
- Rune
- Runekeeper
- Sage
- Seer
- Seraph
- Shadowmeld
- Sigil
- Sorcel
- Sorcerer’s Shadow
- Specter
- Spellbinder
- Spellbound
- Spellweaver
- Thaum
- Twilight Hex
- Verve
- Wizent
When it comes to fantasy horse names, the realms of myth, pop culture, and the boundless landscape of creativity provide a lexicon of inspiration. From ancient legends to the echoes of hooves in our own stories, these names hold the power to unlock tales of heroism, magic, and the enduring spirit of adventure that gallop across the vast plains of fantasy.
