Streamlined Baby Names

A feminine multicultural nickname name perfectly able to stand on its own.

This was the name of two men mentioned in the Bible; Aziza might be a better choice.

Introduced via Sopranos star Drea (born Andrea) de Matteo, and catching on with a wider audience.

Minta is an eighteenth century short form of a literary beauty still used in England today, but yet to be discovered by American baby namers. It has a fresh and dainty feel.

Anastasia is a lovely yet very long name, and Stasia is a fresher, classier short form than Stacy.

Netta ranked in the US Top 1000 in the 1880s, when it was often used as a short form of names such as Jeanette, Annette, and Antoinette. In Jewish families, Netta was typically seen as a variation of the Hebrew name Neta.

Adds some dash and substance to Lon.

Back in Patricia's midcentury heyday, Patty/Patti was the plebeian nickname while Tricia/Trisha and Tish/Trish carried a snobby-yet-insubstantial image associated with then First Daughter Tricia Nixon.

Wheezy short form of lovely name, featured in the movie "Steel Magnolias." Go for Lou or Lulu instead.

Cindy for the 21st century.

The initial X is pronounced like a Z. Confusing? Potentially. But there are enough Alexandras and Xanders through the Western World these days that this spelling wouldn't seem outlandish.

Actor Rhames's imaginative shortening of the prosaic Irving, giving it new life and energy.

Calls to mind the world Jellicle, as in CATS. But still classier than Angie.

The full version is prettier.