Enchanted Boat Names: An Elf's Creative Voyage

Elves are known to be skilled mariners and shipbuilders, with a rich history of sailing in the world of Arda. Their ships are often small, fast, and lightly armed, with spellcasters as their main offensive weapon. When it comes to naming their vessels, elves might draw inspiration from nature, such as stars or trees, or opt for names that reflect their cultural heritage and language. In Elvish, the word for ship is cirya, and we can see this root in names like Alquacir (Swan-ship) and Mithalqua (Grey Swan). Other names might include Cair Andros (Ship of Long Foam) or Pelargir (Garth of Royal Ships). Elven ship names can also be more poetic or luxurious, reflecting the elegance and swiftness of their vessels.

Elvish words for ship

In the elvish language, there are several words for 'ship'. In Quenya, the word for ship is 'cirya', which means '(sharp-prowed) ship' or 'swift gliding'. In Sindarin, the word for ship is also 'cirya', with the same meaning as in Quenya. Additionally, the Sindarin word 'aran cîr lim' means 'king of swift ships'. In Noldorin, the word for ship is 'cīr'.

In Middle Primitive Elvish, the word for ship is 'kirya', which is also used in the older language of Qenya. In the even older language of Ilkorin, the word for ship is either 'cir' or 'cîr'.

When it comes to naming their ships, elves might use names that reference nature, such as 'Alquacir' (Swan-ship) or 'Mithalqua' (Grey Swan). They might also use names that reflect their culture and history, such as naming their ships after elven kings, heroes, or poets. For example, an elvish ship name could be something like 'Fury of the Wind', 'Red Wave', 'Blade of the Mourning Tide', or 'Noble Ship' in their own language.

Names of elven ships in fiction

Elven ships in fiction are often named after animals, nature, or poetry. In J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings' universe, the Falmari and Falathrim elves were master shipbuilders and mariners. Their ships were mainly used for travel, rather than exploration or warfare. Some examples of elven ship names from this fictional world include:

• Hirilondë, one of Aldarion's ships
• Alquacir (Swan-ship)
• Mithalqua (Grey Swan)

In the Fourth Age of Middle-earth, Legolas of the Woodland Realm built a ship to sail to Valinor with Gimli the Dwarf.

In a discussion on EN World, a user suggested elven ship names such as "Fury of the Wind", "Red Wave", "Black Sparrow", and "Blade of the Mourning Tide". The user also suggested that elven ships could be named after elven heroes or kings, or that the names could be so obscure in elvish that non-elves wouldn't recognise the words.

Naming conventions for elven ships

Elves are known for their mastery of shipbuilding and seamanship, and their vessels are often given distinctive names that reflect their culture and traditions. Here are some of the common conventions used in naming elven ships:

Elven ships may be named after stars or trees, reflecting their connection to the natural world and the celestial realm. Names like "Alquacir" (Swan-ship) or "Mithalqua" (Grey Swan) evoke a sense of grace and beauty, much like the elegant swans themselves.

Elven languages, such as Quenya and Sindarin, offer a rich source of inspiration for ship names. For example, the Quenya word "cirya" means "ship", while "luntë" means "boat". Sindarin has similar words with slight variations, such as "aran na chîr lim", which means "king of swift ships". Elven ship names may also incorporate words from their language that describe the ship's characteristics, such as "Cair Andros", which means "Ship of Long Foam".

Elven ships might also bear names that allude to their speed and agility. Given their preference for small, fast vessels, names like "Swift Glider" or "Sharp Prow" would be fitting, reflecting their sleek and nimble design.

In some cases, elven ships may be named after notable figures in elven history, mythology, or royalty. Names like "Ciryaher" (Ship-lord), "Ciryandil" (Ship-friend), or "Ciryatan" (Ship-builder) pay homage to important figures associated with seafaring and shipbuilding.

Additionally, elven ships could be named after abstract concepts or qualities they wish to embody. Names like "Fearless", "Dreadnought", or "Dauntless" convey a sense of power and courage, while names inspired by nature, such as "Storm Witch" or "Red Witch", evoke a sense of mystery and magic.

Lastly, elven ships might be given names that are unique and obscure to those outside their culture. Using words or phrases that hold special meanings in their language, they create ship names that are shrouded in elven lore and tradition, adding an air of intrigue to their vessels.

Human names for ships

Names from Mythology and Folklore

Humans have often looked to the heavens for inspiration, naming their vessels after gods, goddesses, constellations, and other celestial bodies. Some examples include:

• Zodiac signs: Aquarius, Pisces
• Constellations: Big Dipper, Orion's Belt
• Gods and Goddesses: Poseidon, Athena, Zeus

Names from Literature, Art, Classical Music, and Philosophy

These names reflect the owner's personality, heritage, and education:

• Literary characters: Robin Hood, Alice
• Artists: Van Gogh, Monet
• Musicians: Beethoven, Mozart
• Philosophers: Socrates, Plato

Names from Birthplaces and Locations

These names can be inspired by the vessel's home port, a favourite beach, or a dream destination:

• Imported boat names: Aussie Battler, Pommy Bastard
• Indigenous names: Kunga Wonga, Pindari
• City names: London Fog, Irish Mist

Names from Foreign Languages

Short phrases or sayings in foreign languages are also commonly used, reflecting personal mantras or descriptions of the boat and its home port:

• Carpe Diem (Latin for "seize the day")
• Volver (Spanish for "to fly")
• Aloha (Hawaiian for "love, kindness, affection, goodwill")

Names from Personal Life

Using the names of loved ones or combining names to create unique monikers is a popular choice:

• Marabel (combination of Mary and Belle)
• Mikeva (combination of Mike and Eva)
• Kerryann, Maryjane, Joanna

Names from Occupations

Occupations can be a source of pride and identity, so using terms related to one's profession is a fun way to name a vessel:

• Novelist, Counsellor, Barrister
• PilotHouse, AnchorMan
• Singer, Nightingale

These are just a few examples of the many ways humans might name their ships, reflecting their creativity, interests, and personal connections.

Orc and hobgoblin ship names

While there is no specific information on what an elf would name a boat, one source suggests that elven ships are small, light, and fast, and that their names would be obscure to non-elves. It is also suggested that elven ships could be named after animals, poetry, elven heroes, or nature metaphors.

Orc Ship Names

• Tog-Suhk (Wave-beater)
• Nak-Dah (Foe-Hammer)
• Asuvial's Doom
• McBrady's Folly
• Kazak's Coffin
• Bloody Mountain
• Storm's Peak
• Black Moon
• Gray-Faced Doom

Hobgoblin Ship Names

Hobgoblin ships are described as sturdier and faster than Orc vessels, designed for ramming and boarding.

• Jack-Dah (Sea-Hammer)
• Tog-Krish (Wave-Slicer)
• Vregar's Blade
• Shasruth's Hammer
• The Ironclad of Hakkar
• King Forgun's Cutter
• His Majesty Drastun
• Gray Sword of Magdur
• Iron Spear
• Bloody Scimitar

Frequently asked questions