400+ Cute, Cool & Funny Insect Names
Insects may be tiny, but they’re full of personality—and naming one can be surprisingly fun. Whether you’re looking for a name for a pet bug, writing a story, or just geeking out over the world of insects, the right name adds a personal touch. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of the best insect names with meanings, ranging from cute and funny to cool and scientific, all in one place.
From fluttering butterflies and buzzing bees to glowing fireflies and speedy flies, insects come in all shapes and styles—and so do their names. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of pretty insect names or the clever twist of funny ones, this article has you covered. Want something light and mystical? Our section on light insect names captures the beauty of fireflies, glowworms, and more. Looking for something brainy? We’ve included scientific insect names for all the entomology lovers out there.
If you’ve got a tiny pet bug or a classroom insect project, there are plenty of pet insect name ideas that are simple, sweet, and just the right fit. You’ll even find fun names for specific types like fly insect names or names inspired by how they move, look, or glow.
If you’re looking to name a bug or just want some fun ideas, take a look here. These names are made to bring a little joy and creativity to even the smallest creatures!
Cool and Curious Facts About Insects
1. Tiny but mighty
Insects may be small, but don’t let that fool you—they’re some of the strongest and smartest creatures on Earth. Imagine lifting a car… that’s what an ant does every day (in bug terms)!
2. Always rockin’ six legs
If you ever see a bug and want to know if it’s an insect—count the legs. Six legs? Yep, you’ve got yourself an insect. That’s their signature look.
3. Built in three parts
Their bodies come in three main sections: the head (for thinking and sensing), the thorax (where all the legs and wings are), and the abdomen (where the real bug business happens, like digestion and laying eggs).
4. Not all insects crawl—some FLY!
Ever been buzzed by a bee or amazed by a butterfly? That’s because many insects have wings, and some can move them so fast it sounds like a motor. Dragonflies can even fly backward!
5. Antennae = their built-in sensors
While we use noses and ears, insects rely on their antennae to pick up smells, vibrations, and changes in the air. Basically, it’s their way of staying aware and alive.
6. Eyes like a sci-fi movie
Many insects have compound eyes, which means they see through thousands of tiny lenses. They don’t see exactly like we do, but they can catch movement super quickly.
7. Life-changing transformations
Some insects live completely different lives before becoming adults. Caterpillars turning into butterflies? That’s called metamorphosis—and it’s basically nature’s magic trick.
8. There are MILLIONS of them
No joke—scientists estimate there could be over 5 million species of insects. That’s more than all other animals combined. You’re almost never more than a few feet from one!
9. Planet-saving pollinators
Bees, butterflies, and some beetles are superstars in nature. They pollinate flowers, which helps plants grow—and that keeps our food chain alive. So yes, insects help you eat!
10. Cold-blooded and sun-powered
Like snakes, insects don’t make their own heat. They soak up warmth from the sun or cozy spots. That’s why you’ll find them sunbathing on rocks or leaves.
Insect Names Generator
Top Insect Names
Insects are tiny marvels of nature, buzzing with personality and flair. When choosing top insect names, think of their quirks—fluttering wings, speedy legs, or sneaky moves. These names bring their small but mighty charm to life.
| Hornet | Midge | Scout |
| Stinger | Willow | Skipper |
| Twitch | Wriggle | Spark |
| Bumble | Firefly | Glimmer |
| Jewel | Lumen | Nectar |
| Pollen | Silk | Thistle |
| Velvet | Whirl | Zest |
| Beetle | Moth | Antsy |
| Clover | Dragon | Fig |
| Gnat | Hummer | Jitter |
Cute Insect Names
People often choose these names to show how cute and gentle insects are. They highlight their small size, delicate look, or harmless nature, making these little creatures sound sweet and lovable.
Dot: Small spot.
Speck: Tiny mark.
Pip: Small sound.
Button: Small and cute.
Tiny: Very small.
Sweetie: Affectionate term.
Baby: Young insect.
Boo: Endearing sound.
Dimple: Small cute mark.
Fuzzy: Soft appearance.
Lambkin: Gentle creature.
Lovie: Affectionate.
Peewee: Very small.
Snuggle: Cuddly (in concept).
Sugar: Sweet nature.
Winkie: Cute little eye.
Angel: Gentle spirit.
Cherub: Sweet and innocent.
Cupid: Brings affection.
Darling: Sweet and beloved.
Elfling: Small and graceful.
Fawnling: Little fawn (small).
Honeybun: Sweet and small.
Innocent: Pure and gentle.
Moonbeam: Gentle light.
Petal: Soft and delicate.
Ribbon: Graceful form.
Teeny: Very small.
Tweetums: Affectionate term.
Bubbles: Light and airy.
Cool Insect Names
Insect names usually try to sound fun and highlight their special skills or bright colors. They help make these small creatures feel more interesting and exciting.
Atlas Moth – Wings bigger than your face
Assassin Bug – Kills prey with stealth strike
Bombardier Beetle – Sprays boiling chemicals when threatened
Cicada – Loud summer singer from underground
Praying Mantis – Still. Silent. Deadly arm striker
Tiger Beetle – Runs faster than most insects
Stag Beetle – Giant jaws for beetle battles
Velvet Ant – Furry but stings like fire
Goliath Beetle – One of Earth’s heaviest insects
Dragonfly – Flying sniper with 360° vision
Firefly – Lights up like living glowstick
Leafcutter Ant – Saws leaves for mushroom farms
Orchid Mantis – Looks like a flower trap
Devil’s Coach Horse – Raises tail, bites hard
Lanternfly – Colorful hopper, not a true fly
Walking Stick – Pretends to be a twig
Bullet Ant – Sting feels like gunshot pain
Robber Fly – Airborne predator with punch
Giant Water Bug – Toe-biting pond monster
Bee Fly – Fuzzy bee copy with tricks
Hawk Moth – Fast-flying nighttime nectar thief
Katydid – Leaf mimic that chirps loud
Indian Moon Moth – Looks magical, lives briefly
Ichneumon Wasp – Lays eggs inside live hosts
Dung Beetle – Rolls poop like treasure
Lacewing – Gentle predator with delicate wings
Silverfish – Shimmery, speedy book-loving bug
Net-winged Beetle – Orange warning with netted wings
Mayfly – Born, mates, dies—all in days
Spiny Flower Mantis – Looks cute, strikes fast
Funny Insect Names
These names are intended to be light-hearted and amusing, often playing on insect appearances, behaviours, or common associations in a humorous way. These names aim to bring a smile.
Leggy: Many legs.
Antsy: Restless behavior.
Buzz Aldrin: Space association (flying).
Sir Flitters: Formal flying.
Professor Wiggles: Moving oddly.
Captain Hopper: Prone to jumping.
The Great Buzzer: Loud wings.
Creepy Crawler: Slow movement.
Stinky: Bad odor (some insects).
Googly Eyes: Large, staring eyes.
Fuzzybutt: Silly rear.
Sir Chomp-a-Lot: Big appetite.
Zoom (not): Very slow mover.
Flash (not): Very slow flier.
Speedy (not): Moves slowly.
Turbo (not): Opposite of fast.
Slinky: Smooth, odd movement.
Wormy: Resembles a worm.
Eyeball: Prominent eyes.
Stare: Fixed gaze.
Nibbles: Gentle biting.
Crunchy: Sound when stepped on.
Squishy: Soft body.
Antoinette: Fancy ant.
Beetlejuice: Movie reference.
Flynn Rider: Tangled reference.
Mothra: Giant moth reference.
Spider-Man (small): Ironic hero.
Webby: Makes webs.
Stinger: Has a stinger.
Weird Insect Names
Weird insect names often sound like something out of a bizarre sci-fi sitcom. Think toe-biters, assassin bugs, or fairy wasps—creepy, quirky, and oddly human. These names pack personality, sting with charm, and crawl right into your imagination.
| Giant Weta | Hummingbird Hawk-Moth | Lanternfly |
| Goliath Beetle | Hercules Beetle | Titan Beetle |
| Atlas Moth | Cuckoo Wasp | Dung Beetle |
| Aha ha Wasp | Stalk-eyed Fly | Venezuelan Poodle Moth |
| Diabolical Ironclad Beetle | Ogre-Faced Spider | Trap-Jaw Ant |
| Giraffe Weevil | Orchid Mantis | Walking Stick |
| Leafcutter Ant | Bullet Ant | Green Milkweed Grasshopper |
| Stump Stabber | Bird-Poop Weevil | Eastern Kayak Pond Skater |
| Leather Jacket (larva) | Snow Flea | Snow Scorpionfly |
| Winter Cutworm | Hide Beetle | Cockchafer |
Read More: Bee Names
Light Insect Names
The names for these insects come from the soft light they give off, like fireflies. They show how bright and lovely these bugs are.
Glow: Emits light.
Spark: Small light.
Beam: Ray of light.
Shine: Bright light.
Glimmer: Faint light.
Glisten: Sparkling light.
Radiant: Emitting light.
Luminous: Glowing.
Aurora: Dawn light.
Halo: Ring of light.
Glowworm: Larva that glows.
Firefly: Flying light.
Photinus: Genus of fireflies.
Lampyris: Genus of glowworms.
NiteLite: Night light.
Star: Small point of light.
Twinkle: Intermittent light.
Flare: Sudden bright light.
Kindle: To ignite (light).
Beacon: Guiding light.
Ray: Beam of light.
Glitter: Sparkling particles.
Shimmer: Soft, wavering light.
Effulgent: Shining brightly.
Resplendent: Shining brilliantly.
Illume: To light up.
Luminary: Source of light.
Sol: Sun (source of light).
Luna: Moon (reflects light).
Aura: Glowing atmosphere.
Pet Insect Names
These names are specifically chosen for insects kept as pets, often reflecting a close bond or endearing personality traits observed in captivity. These names aim to create a sense of companionship.
Buzz – Always on the move
Dot – Tiny and adorable
Zippy – Fast and full of energy
Speck – Just a little guy
Flutter – Light, soft, and floaty
Flick – Quick and twitchy
Mitey – Small but mighty
Pip – Cute and cheerful
Scurry – Runs like it’s urgent
Nib – Tiny like a pen nib
Bitty – Absolutely tiny friend
Nudge – Soft but persistent
Crisp – Sharp and neat
Twix – Sweet and fast
Wiggle – Always moving just a bit
Blink – Here, then gone
Skitter – Shifty little speedster
Fuzz – Soft and round
Boop – Playfully cute
Spindle – Long and thin
Dart – Fast as a flash
Zippo – Full of zip
Grubz – Wiggle-mode all day
Blinky – Never still
Hush – Quiet and sneaky
Mini – Just so small
Twitch – Nervous and cute
Wisp – Barely there
Click – Makes tiny noises
Pebs – Like a pebble—small & solid
Pretty Insect Names
Insect names often focus on their bright colors, pretty wing designs, or smooth movements. These names try to show how beautiful and delicate insects really are.
Cerulean: Deep blue.
Emerald: Green jewel-toned.
Golden: Yellow like gold.
Silverwing: Shiny wings.
Scarlet: Bright red.
Violet: Purple hues.
Opal: Iridescent colors.
Jasper: Varied colors.
Agatewing: Banded wings.
Beryl: Green or blue.
Topaz: Yellow or orange.
Amethyst: Purple gem-toned.
Garnet: Deep red.
Lace: Intricate wing patterns.
Swallowtail: Elegant wing shape.
Monarch: Regal appearance.
Queen: Royal presence.
Jewelwing: Shiny wings.
Gossamer: Delicate wings.
Iridescent: Shimmering colors.
Opalescent: Milky sheen.
Prismatic: Rainbow-like colors.
Butterfly: Beautiful wings.
Dragonfly: Graceful flier.
Damselfly: Delicate wings.
Wasp (sleek): Streamlined form.
Hornet (striking): Bold colors.
Ant (shiny carapace): Gleaming body.
Bee (golden fuzz): Soft appearance.
Walking Stick (leaf-like): Natural beauty.
Scientific Insect Names
These names are inspired by the scientific classification or notable characteristics of various insect orders, families, or genera. These names aim for a sophisticated and knowledgeable feel.
Coleoptera: Sheathed wings (beetles).
Lepidoptera: Scaly wings (moths, butterflies).
Diptera: Two wings (flies).
Hemiptera: Half wings (true bugs).
Phasmatodea: Phantom-like (walking sticks).
Mantodea: Soothsayer (praying mantises).
Isoptera: Equal wings (termites).
Dermaptera: Skin wings (earwigs).
Neuroptera: Nerve wings (lacewings).
Mecoptera: Long wings (scorpionflies).
Siphonaptera: Wingless siphon (fleas).
Thysanoptera: Fringe wings (thrips).
Trichoptera: Hair wings (caddisflies).
Zygentoma: Bristle tails (silverfish).
Blattodea: Cockroaches and termites (related).
Psocodea: Booklice and barklice.
Mallophaga: Biting lice.
Anoplura: Sucking lice.
Gryllidae: True crickets.
Acrididae: Grasshoppers.
Formicidae: Ants.
Apidae: Bees.
Vespidae: Wasps and hornets.
Culicidae: Mosquitoes (flies).
Muscidae: House flies.
Drosophilidae: Fruit flies.
Papilionidae: Swallowtail butterflies.
Sphingidae: Hawk moths.
Saturniidae: Giant silkworm moths.
Arctiidae: Tiger moths.
Rare Insect Names
Rare insect names, when chosen thoughtfully, echo nature’s marvels—tiny creatures with colors like gemstones and movements like dancers. These names often carry an ancient rhythm, a wild mystery, and a whisper of wings brushing against forgotten leaves.
| Snakefly | Caddisfly | Atlas Moth |
| Rosy Maple | Dead Leaf | Orchid Mantis |
| Giant Weta | Tarantula Hawk | Bullet Ant |
| Executioner | Elephant Beetle | Rhino Beetle |
| Lanternfly | Assassin Bug | Jewel Beetle |
| Dragonfly Mantis | Ghost Mantis | Thorn Bug |
| Picasso Bug | Giraffe Weevil | Sparklewing |
| Velvet Ant | Ironclad | Harlequin |
| Ambush Bug | Robber Fly | Leaf Insect |
| Spiny Flower | Hercules Beetle | Hellgrammite |
Fly Insect Names
People often name these insects based on how they fly, their size, or what stands out about them. These names show their fast flying and buzzing nature.
Buzz: Sound of flying.
Whirr: Fast wing sound.
Flutter: Light wing movement.
Swarm: Group in flight.
Dart: Quick flight.
Flit: Quick, erratic flight.
Hover: Stationary flight.
Zoom: Fast movement.
Zippy: Quick flier.
Swift: Fast in flight.
Aero: Relating to air.
Skyer: One who flies.
Wing: Flight appendage.
Airy: Light and graceful.
Breeze: Gentle air movement.
Gust: Sudden air movement.
Zephyr: Gentle wind.
Midge: Small fly.
Gnat: Tiny biting fly.
Drone: Male bee (flies).
Mosquito: Biting fly.
Housefly: Common fly.
Fruit Fly: Small, attracted to fruit.
Horsefly: Large, biting fly.
Deer Fly: Biting fly.
Crane Fly: Large, delicate fly.
Hoverfly: Mimics wasps/bees.
Black Fly: Small, biting fly.
Sand Fly: Small, biting fly.
Stable Fly: Biting fly.
A-Z Insect Names
From agile ants to zesty zebra bugs, insect names from A to Z spark curiosity and charm—each one buzzing with personality, wonder, and a little touch of nature’s magic.
| Letter | Insect Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A | Ant | Tiny, industrious social insect. |
| B | Bee | Buzzing, honey-making insect. |
| C | Cricket | Insect known for its chirping sound. |
| D | Dragonfly | Large, fast, winged insect. |
| E | Earwig | Common elongated garden insect. |
| F | Fly | Very common flying insect. |
| G | Gnat | Tiny, often biting insect. |
| H | Hornet | Large, stinging wasp. |
| I | Inchworm | Caterpillar that moves by arching. |
| J | Jigger | Type of burrowing flea. |
| K | Katydid | Green, leaf-like chirping insect. |
| L | Ladybug | Small, spotted beetle. |
| M | Moth | Nocturnal flying insect. |
| N | Nymph | Immature form of some insects. |
| O | Odonata | Order including dragonflies/damselflies. |
| P | Praying Mantis | Predatory insect with folded front legs. |
| Q | Queen | Reproductive female in social insects. |
| R | Roach | Common, fast-moving insect. |
| S | Stag Beetle | Beetle with large mandibles like antlers. |
| T | Termite | Wood-eating social insect. |
| U | Underwing | Type of moth with colorful hindwings. |
| V | Vespa | Scientific name for a wasp. |
| W | Wasp | Stinging, winged insect. |
| X | Xylocopa | Scientific name for a carpenter bee. |
| Y | Yellowjacket | Common type of wasp with yellow/black stripes. |
| Z | Zebra Butterfly | Butterfly with striped wings. |
Read More: Bee Names
Conclusion
Even though insects are tiny, their names can be really fun and full of character! Whether you want a cute, funny, or cool name, this list has something for every little bug. From fireflies to flies, you’ll find a name that fits their look and personality. So go ahead and pick a name that makes your insect friend stand out!
FAQs
What are some cute names for insects?
Cute insect names include Buzz, Tiny, Flicker, Dot, and Glowee. These names are perfect for gentle, small, or glowing bugs like ladybugs or fireflies.
Can I give my insect a funny name?
Absolutely! Funny insect names like Sir Wings-a-Lot, Bugzilla, Buzz Lightyear, or Wiggles can add humor and personality to your pet or project bug.
What’s a good scientific name for an insect?
If you prefer a more scientific approach, names like Coleo (from Coleoptera), Hexa (six legs), or even Lepida (from Lepidoptera) add an educational twist while sounding cool.
Are there good insect names based on light or glow?
Yes! For glowing or light-themed insects, try names like Spark, Luma, Glowbug, or Flare. These names are especially great for fireflies and bioluminescent insects.
Rus Camelia is the founder of NamesBirds.com and the creative force behind it. She has always loved animals and stories, and that love shows in the way she creates names. For Rus, naming is more than just picking words. It’s about giving something a little personality and meaning. She gets her ideas from nature, myths, and her imagination, which helps her create memorable and unique names. Whether it’s for a pet bird or a character in a story, Rus puts care into every name she creates. That’s why so many people come to NamesBirds.com for names that feel thoughtful, fun, and full of life.
