Nosferatu: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Table of contents

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Nosferatu mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Slavic: Undead or vampire
Romanian: Carrier of plague or cursed one

Gender: Male

Syllables: 4

Pronunciation: The name Nosferatu is pronounced noss-feh-RAH-too

Nosferatu is of Slavic and Romanian origin and means "undead" or "carrier of plague." This name embodies mystery and dark folklore, making it a unique choice for a distinctive and possibly shadowy persona.

Nosferatu in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?

Nosferatu from Nosferatu (1922) - A silent horror film featuring Count Orlok, a vampire whose eerie appearance and terrifying presence set the standard for cinematic vampires. His other name, Nosferatu, is often synonymous with the undead in popular culture.
Nosferatu Zodd from Berserk - A powerful and fearsome apostle in the dark fantasy manga and anime series. Zodd is a warrior driven by an eternal search for worthy opponents, embodying both brutality and honor.
Nosferatu (Cameo) from SpongeBob SquarePants - In a comedic twist, Nosferatu makes a surprise appearance in the episode "Graveyard Shift," humorously flickering the lights, showcasing the character's cross-genre influence even in children's television.
Nosferatu the Vampyre from Nosferatu the Vampyre - Werner Herzog's reimagining of the original silent film adds sorrow and depth to Count Dracula, portrayed by Klaus Kinski, while honoring the haunting atmosphere of gothic cinema.
Petyr from What We Do in the Shadows - A Nosferatu-like vampire featured as a comedic yet chilling tribute to the original character in the mockumentary film and series.
Nosferatu from Educated Horses - A song from Rob Zombie’s 2006 album, "Nosferatu" was directly inspired by the iconic vampire mythology and packed with horror-themed imagery in its lyrics.
Nosferatu from Nosferatu - A modern reimagining of the 1922 classic, the character pays homage to the original while offering a fresh take on the gothic horror tale of Count Orlok/Nosferatu.

Popularity of the Name Nosferatu

According to Social Security Administration data, Nosferatu has never been a common name in the U.S. or globally. Its origins lie in Romanian folklore, where the term "nosferatu" is often linked to vampires or the undead. The name gained widespread recognition through the 1922 silent film Nosferatu, which introduced the infamous vampire Count Orlok. Despite its dark connotations, the name remains an iconic reference within horror and fantasy genres. While not used as a traditional given name, its cultural and cinematic significance has endured for over a century.