Cool Baby Names That Start with P

The name of one of the greatest Western philosophers is often used as a first name in its land of origin, Greece, and would make a really interesting, thought-provoking choice here. It is remembered here as the nickname of the memorable character played by Sal Mineo in the classic film "Rebel Without a Cause."

Common surname rarely used as a first.

This rare name crosses cultures. With the popularity of Ella and Bella, perhaps we'll hear more of Pella one day soon?

This Dutch name stems from the Greek root word "philos" meaning "love". It is relatively common in the Netherlands.

Patterson is an upscale name worth considering if you're looking to continue a line of Peters, but soundalike Paterson is a downscale city in New Jersey.

Powerful surname choice with many distinguished bearers, fresher sounding than Parker.

A popular female name in India, Priti (or Preeti) is a sweet and pretty-sounding option.

A grassy place with trees is a nice image to attach to a name.

Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.

Pompeo is a masculine name of Italian origin, derived from the Latin name 'Pompeius,' which was a Roman family name. Historically, it's associated with the ancient Roman general Pompey the Great (Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus). The name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and classical heritage. In modern times, Pompeo functions primarily as a surname in Italian communities, though it occasionally appears as a first name. It gained some recognition in the United States through public figures like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and actress Ellen Pompeo. The name has a melodic quality with its strong 'o' sounds and projects an air of sophistication and classical education.

Variation of Pema.

Placido was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.

Pembroke's brother.

The name Parson might have seemed ridiculous even a few years ago, but when Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe named their son Deacon, they opened up a whole new field of ecclesiastical cool. Bishop, Priest, and Pastor are other possibilities.

This rare English surname's most famous bearers are Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie: the four siblings who are the protagonists of C. S. Lewis' Narnia books. It probably derives from Pevensey, the name of the bay in East Sussex, England where William the Conqueror landed in 1066.

Padgett is an occupational surname name related to page, meaning not a page in a book but a page or attendant in the Senate or a royal court.

There are two lovely Portlands, in Maine and Oregon, but not many babies with their name.

Peace may be an admirable sentiment to convey in a child's name, but the translated and thus more subtle versions, like Pax or Placido, might work better as first names.

A Puritanical virtue name and also a place name, belonging to the state capital of Rhode Island and several other towns and cities in the US.

Penzance is a port town at the very tip of Cornwall. With its associations with operetta and pirates, Penzance packs quite a bit of zip for a name.