classic and unusual character names for Women
- Arcangela
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"high-ranking angel"Description:
Arcangela is a heavenly possibility if Angel or Angela isn't elevated enough for you.
- Pecola
Origin:
Literary nameDescription:
Name of the winning young heroine of Toni Morrison's first novel, The Bluest Eye.
- Escarleth
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"scarlet"Description:
Scarlet or Scarlett with a Spanish twist, based on the Spanish pronunciation of the name. Escarlett and Escarlet are also occasionally used.
- Ethelinda
Origin:
German, Spanish compound name, Ethel + LindaMeaning:
"noble + pretty"Description:
Ethelinda is a feminine name that combines the elements "ethel" meaning "noble" or "of noble birth" and "linda" meaning "pretty." The name was used in medieval England but became less common after the Norman Conquest and is virtually extinct today, given to no baby girls in the US at the most recent count.
- Tarana
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"music, song"Description:
Both graceful and melodious.
- Cezelia
Origin:
Variation of Cecelia or CeciliaDescription:
While this name has some usage dating back to immigrants to the United States in the ninteenth and early twentieth centuries, today it would come off as nothing more than a creative variation of Cecelia/Cecilia. The one advantage of this spelling is that it could lead to the modern-feeling nickname Zelia.
- Jonte
Description:
Jonte is a modern masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Jontae or Jonte', which emerged in American naming patterns in the late 20th century. The name could also potentially be connected to the French name Jonté or represent a shortened form of Jonathan (Hebrew origin meaning 'gift of God'). Another possibility is that it derives from a surname or represents a creative modern coinage. In some Scandinavian contexts, particularly Swedish, Jonte can be found as a nickname for Jonathan. Usage patterns show Jonte appearing in US naming records from the 1980s onward, though it has remained relatively uncommon. The name has a distinctive, contemporary sound with its compact two-syllable structure and strong ending.
- Energy
Origin:
Word name, English from GreekMeaning:
"energy"Description:
Better than Synergy.
- Lisaveta
Description:
Lisaveta is a feminine name of Slavic and Russian origin, serving as a variant of Elizabeth. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God.' Lisaveta emerged as a diminutive form used in Russian-speaking regions and appears in classic Russian literature, notably in Dostoevsky's works. While maintaining the elegance of Elizabeth, Lisaveta offers a distinctive Slavic flavor that sets it apart from more common variants. The name has a melodic quality with its four syllables and soft consonants. Though not widely used outside Eastern Europe, it provides an intriguing option for parents seeking a name with classical roots but a unique cultural twist. Lisaveta combines literary associations with a graceful, feminine sound.
- Olimpiada
Origin:
Russian and Ukrainian feminization of Olympias, GreekMeaning:
"from Mount Olympus"Description:
At a whopping five syllables long, Olympiada is a lot of name for a little girl. Thankfully, nicknames abound. Try Pia, Ollie, or Ada.
- Hanita
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"divine grace"Description:
The added h turns Anita alluring and breathy.
- Pascualina
Description:
Pascualina is a feminine name of Spanish origin, derived from the male name Pascual, which comes from the Latin name Paschalis, meaning "relating to Easter" or "born during Passover". This charming name carries religious significance in Christian communities, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries where Easter celebrations are important cultural events. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Pascualina maintains moderate popularity in Latin American communities and Spain. The name conveys a sense of springtime, renewal, and spiritual celebration. Bearers of this name might use the nicknames Pasqua, Lina, or Pascua.
- Berengaria
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"bear spear"Description:
Berengaria was one of the medieval queens of England - married to Richard I (also known as Richard the Lionheart). She was originally from Navarre (in modern northern Spain) and despite being the Queen of England, she only lived in England after her husband had died. Despite its royal roots, Berengaria is one of the less attractive medieval names, although it gets points for having an unusually strong meaning for a feminine name.
- Elbertine
Description:
Elbertine is a rare feminine name derived from Germanic elements. It likely developed as a feminine form of Elbert, which combines the elements "noble" and "bright." Elbertine follows the pattern of creating feminine names by adding the suffix "-ine" to masculine forms, common in many European naming traditions. The name saw modest usage in the early 20th century, particularly in communities with German heritage, but has since become exceedingly rare. With its vintage charm and dignified sound, Elbertine might appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive name with historical roots. Despite its rarity, it maintains a classic elegance and offers the friendly nickname options Ellie or Bertie.
- Athaliah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is exalted"Description:
Unisex name from the Old Testament, which is very in-keeping with current naming trends for girls.
- Moriel
Description:
Moriel is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, though it can occasionally be used for boys as well. The name combines elements 'mor' (myrrh, a fragrant resin) and 'el' (God), meaning 'God is my myrrh' or 'myrrh of God.' In Hebrew tradition, myrrh symbolizes bitterness transformed into sweetness, giving the name a profound symbolic meaning. Moriel remains quite rare in most Western countries, making it an uncommon choice with a distinctive sound and spiritual significance. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending. Its Biblical connections and meaningful etymology may appeal to parents seeking a name with spiritual depth and uniqueness without being difficult to pronounce.
- Lyonechika
Description:
Lyonechika is an extremely rare feminine name with multicultural influences. It appears to blend elements that might include French ('Lyon,' meaning lion), Japanese ('chika,' which can mean 'wisdom' or 'scattered flowers' depending on the kanji used), and Slavic feminine endings. This distinctive combination creates a unique global fusion name. Due to its rarity, Lyonechika has no established traditional usage pattern or widespread recognition. The name's exotic sound and unusual letter combination give it a memorable quality. While challenging to pronounce for some, its uniqueness ensures individuality. Lyonechika might appeal to parents seeking an extremely distinctive name with international elements, though its complexity and unusual structure mean bearers would likely need to frequently explain both pronunciation and origin.
- Ashla
Description:
Ashla is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Ashley, which derives from Old English elements meaning 'ash tree meadow,' or it could be related to the Hebrew name Ashla meaning 'meadow' or 'grove of oaks.' In some contexts, it appears as a feminine form of Ashton. The name has a gentle, nature-inspired quality with its soft sounds and connection to trees and landscapes. Ashla emerged in the late 20th century when parents began seeking variations on more common names like Ashley. While never reaching widespread popularity, it appeals to those who appreciate its delicate sound and natural associations. The name has a contemporary feel while still connecting to traditional naming elements and nature-inspired themes.
- Seraphe
Description:
Seraphe is a feminine name with celestial origins, derived from 'seraph' (plural: seraphim), referring to a type of heavenly being or angel in religious texts. These celestial entities are often depicted with six wings and are considered among the highest order of angels. The name carries connotations of divine light, purity, and spiritual devotion. Seraphe is quite rare in usage, giving it an ethereal, distinctive quality. The name has multicultural appeal, with connections to Hebrew, Christian and Islamic angelology. Its melodic sound with the soft 'ph' ending creates a gentle yet mystical impression, appealing to parents seeking a name with spiritual significance and uncommon beauty.
- Izora
Origin:
Variation of Isaura
