Skip to content 
Africa’s central rainforests shelter a great beast; the gorilla. Over centuries, these calm giants have been the object of fascination for humans by virtue of their huge bodies, intelligence, and exceptional family ties. Nonetheless, the meaning behind their names is often overlooked.
From comical titles to those that commemorate fallen heroes, names given to gorillas provide a fascinating insight into these magnificent creatures’ amazing stories and individualities.
The main aim of this article is to delve into the captivating world of gorilla names. The background, significance, and heart-rending narratives behind some of the most famous names ever given to these extraordinary primates will be unraveled here.
Brace yourself for an expedition into the wilderness that are gorilla names!
Gorilla Names
Harambe – Harambe is globally known, and his story clearly demonstrates how man interacts with animals.
Koko – She became famous for using sign language in communication and served as a perfect example of an intelligent gorilla.
Titus – A legendary silverback from Rwanda, Titus was a symbol of leadership and power.
Zuri – This name means beautiful in Swahili – a suitable description for a breathtaking gorilla.
Mzee – A name which means elder in Swahili fits well with an aged gorilla who is knowledgeable about the world.
Bakari – Meaning promising in Swahili would perfectly depict an enthusiastic young hopeful Gorilla.
Akili – The Swahili word meaning “smart” could be used to refer to an astute vigilant gorilla.
Shamba – It is a Swahili word meaning farm; hence it denotes the natural environment of the gorillas
Kiongozi – Dominant silverbacks can be given this name as it means leader in English
Amani – In English it means peace; this is therefore ideal for a gentle calm Gorilla
Kifaru – This is because Kifaru is Swahili for rhinoceros; hence signifies strength and power respectively
Pendo – Pendo means love in Kiswahili so it’s appropriate for an affectionate caring Gorilla.
Bwana – Bwana translates to gentleman in Swahili; thus perfect for well-behaved male gorillas.
Nia – Nia also stands for purpose in Kiswahli, thus showing that their life has significance
Zawadi – Zawadi may also mean a gift in Kiswahili this tells of how precious they are.
Famous Gorilla Names
HARAMBE – His death at Cincinnati Zoo is remembered tragically and led to a global discussion on whether zoos are ethically right.
KOKO – The gorilla that used American sign language to communicate with humans and captured the hearts of many.
TITUS – Counted in numerous documentaries as one of the most studied free-range Mountain gorillas.
BINTI JUA – An animal in Brookfield Zoo that saved a little boy who had fallen into her enclosure.
ISHMAEL – A father to many offspring, contributing significantly towards conservation efforts.
MUNYAGA – A well-known ape in Rwanda because of his identifying white beard.
SULLY – He is a friendly monkey from the San Diego Zoo, who enjoys playing with people.
KAMOK -The Virunga National Park’s motherly gorilla
GORILLA KING – It describes several dominating silverbacks throughout time or strong ones
MAKUMBA – A prominent member of the Gorilla group found within the Central African Republic protected area called Dzanga-Sangha Reserve
NASH – A lively fellow from the Bronx Zoo who loved being an entertainer
KWITA IZINA – He was a mountain gorilla from Rwanda who was named during the Rwandan naming ceremony every year
YEBOAH – a quiet silverback living at the Apenheul Primate Park
Best Gorilla Names with Short Descriptions
Apollo,- the god of strength and power behind it.
The name Echo is suitable for a gorilla with a low-pitched voice that can be heard from afar.
Used to describe a particular character trait in gorillas, indigo is an appropriate name.
Jasper – sounds tough and dependable.
Luna – symbolizes calmness and tranquility.
Orion – represents a conspicuous gorilla like the constellation.
Phoenix – stands for rebirth and resilience
Quasar – would be another good name for an energetic ape who likes to play wild games.
Sable – has been mentioned as an epithet for any powerful dark-colored gorilla
Titan – is about strength and dominance
Vega – means light and would thus be perfect for an exceptional gorilla.
Willow – pretty tough but not scary—like female apes I guess.
Zephyr – The mild strong wind that shows how gentle yet strong such beasts are.
Zenith – That’s what strength looks like at the peak of grace.
Funny Gorilla Names
Banana – is playful and humorous, making it perfect for a cheeky ape.
Giggles – this fits well on an ape that has a cheerful character.
Mr. Fuzzy – this name depicts the silky appearance of a gorilla.
Chewbacca -the Star Wars series character inspired this.
Snickers – this is the name given to a gorilla that just loves to play and have fun.
Hulk – makes light of Marvel superhero’s name
Jumbo – and easy going name for an enormous gorilla
Frodo – a small though strong gorilla is called this
Monkeyshines – shows how playful and mischievous they are
Waffles – sounds funny and silly but also cute as well
Bubbles – this term describes an energetic bubbly monkey perfectly
Doodle – speaks of a creative and curious soul inside her
Squishy – what else could be better than hugging squishy?
Noodle – such a word may describe a young wild animal in the zoo who likes playing with his mates.
Gizmo -from “Gremlins”.
Cute Gorilla Names
Coco – A sweet and lovely name, she is very suitable for a docile gorilla.
Pebbles – Cute and tiny, good for a baby gorilla.
Buttercup – It is a sweet and tender name.
Daisy – Vibrant and joyful like a playful gorilla.
Pippin – Being cute and whimsical, it will be appropriate for an inquisitive gorilla.
Mocha – This is the sweet hot drink that warms you up; its taste can be compared with none other but that of Mocha itself.
Cupcake – For this endearing type of animal this is simply the best name to suit them aptly.
Sunshine – A bright personality for someone who likes smiling always.
Pumpkin – The perfect name for an autumn-born gorilla: adorable.
Sugar – loveable kind gentle guerillas.
Twinkle – As twinkle twinkle little star in poetry says it all with such names we have stars shining cutely before our eyes.
Poppy – Brightened up by nature’s sunflower.
Boo – Such playfully affectionate animals deserve cuddly names like these ones. Very cute!
Blossom – Juliet, the rose by any other name will smell as sweet. And so is Blossom…always impressive.
Marshmallow – soft, sweet like tender guerillas.
Cool Gorilla Names
Axel – ideal for an aggressive gorilla
Blaze – shows a fiery and strong personality.
Diesel – ideal for a robust gorilla
Maverick – the spirit of independent and audacious gorillas
Ranger – signifies the strong sense of adventure
Storm – just like the weather, dynamic and powerful,
Zane – fits a unique gorilla, cool and contemporary.
Jet – being sleek and fast it is very suitable for an agile gorilla.
Titan – stressing strength and dominance in apes.
Hawk – because it is sharp and keen it reflects its perceptive nature.
Ace – For standout gorillas that are cool and confident
Blitz – fast, dynamic, perfect for energetic Gorillas.
Knight – strong, noble, fits protective Gorillas
Rogue – independent, daring-like bold Gorillas
Shadow – mysterious or sleek as describing stealthy Gorillas.
Male Gorilla Names
Brutus – Strong and commanding, perfect for a dominant male.
Maximus – Reflecting greatness and strength.
Samson – Inspired by the biblical figure known for his strength.
Goliath – Emphasizing power and size.
Thor – Inspired by the Norse god of thunder.
Leo – Reflecting bravery and leadership.
Atlas – Symbolizing strength and endurance.
Zeus – Named after the king of the Greek gods.
Apollo – Reflecting strength and beauty.
Hercules – Inspired by the legendary hero known for his strength.
Maverick – Bold and independent, ideal for a unique gorilla.
Duke – Strong and noble, perfect for a dignified gorilla.
Rex – Meaning “king,” ideal for a dominant silverback.
Hunter – Reflects a strong and adventurous nature.
Titan – Emphasizing strength and dominance.
Female Gorilla Names
Athena – Inspired by the Greek goddess of wisdom and war.
Luna – Reflecting a calm and serene nature.
Zara – Modern and elegant, perfect for a graceful gorilla.
Bella – Meaning “beautiful,” ideal for a stunning gorilla.
Willow – Graceful and strong, fitting for a female gorilla.
Nala – Inspired by the lioness from “The Lion King.”
Nova – Bright and shining, like a star.
Kira – Meaning “light,” ideal for a gentle gorilla.
Arya – Strong and independent, inspired by the “Game of Thrones” character.
Ella – Simple and elegant, perfect for a graceful gorilla.
Sable – Strong and sleek, fitting for a powerful female.
Juno – Inspired by the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth.
Ivy – Reflecting growth and beauty.
Aurora – Inspired by the natural light display in the sky.
Maya – Meaning “illusion,” perfect for a mysterious gorilla.
Baby Gorilla Names
Coco – Adorable and sweet, perfect for a baby gorilla.
Pebbles – Small and endearing, great for a baby gorilla.
Buttercup – Reflecting a sweet and gentle nature.
Daisy – Bright and cheerful, ideal for a playful gorilla.
Pippin – Cute and whimsical, fitting for a curious gorilla.
Mocha – Sweet and warm, like the beloved drink.
Cupcake – Perfect for a sweet and lovable gorilla.
Sunshine – Bright and happy, reflecting a cheerful personality.
Pumpkin – Endearing and perfect for an autumn-born gorilla.
Sugar – Sweet and lovable, ideal for a gentle gorilla.
Twinkle – Cute and sparkling, like a star.
Poppy – Bright and cheerful, like the flower.
Boo – Adorable and perfect for a lovable gorilla.
Blossom – Reflecting growth and beauty.
Marshmallow – Soft and sweet, fitting for a gentle gorilla.
African Gorilla Names
Zuri – Meaning “beautiful” in Swahili, ideal for a stunning gorilla.
Mzee – Swahili for “elder,” a fitting name for a wise, older gorilla.
Bakari – Meaning “promising” in Swahili, ideal for a young, hopeful gorilla.
Akili – Swahili for “intelligent,” great for a smart and observant gorilla.
Shamba – Meaning “farm” in Swahili, reflecting the gorilla’s natural habitat.
Kiongozi – Swahili for “leader,” perfect for a dominant silverback.
Amani – Meaning “peace” in Swahili, a gentle name for a calm gorilla.
Kifaru – Swahili for “rhinoceros,” symbolizing strength and power.
Pendo – Meaning “love” in Swahili, suitable for a loving and affectionate gorilla.
Bwana – Swahili for “gentleman,” ideal for a well-mannered male gorilla.
Nia – Swahili for “purpose,” reflecting the meaningful existence of the gorilla.
Zawadi – Meaning “gift” in Swahili, celebrating the precious nature of gorillas.
Kazi – Swahili for “work,” ideal for a diligent gorilla.
Kijana – Swahili for “youth,” perfect for a young gorilla.
Hekima – Meaning “wisdom” in Swahili, fitting for a wise and knowledgeable gorilla.
Final Thoughts on Gorilla Names
Having taken a close look at a variety of gorilla names, it is obvious that these marks are more than mere tags. They are verbal threads of stories that show bravery, love, and compassion for others among other qualities in the gorillas’ world.
By honoring fallen heroes, appreciating cultural roots or even noting specific traits of these docile giants; gorilla names make us aware that we are part and parcel of nature. We must appreciate the beauty and diversity of life as well as fight for the animals and their homes.
Thus, when you hear a name given to a gorilla just take time and listen to what it speaks about. It will transport to Africa’s central rainforest where they are located in large numbers. You may want to be part of those who work day in and day out so that such names do not disappear from our environment along with their owners.
