Names of imaginary childhood friends

Like Sky and Sunshine, this fluffy name from the hippie 1970s has floated back onto the naming radar. It's similarity of Clyde and Claude help to ground it.

Sharper and steelier than Martha, but with the same underused vintage appeal.

Dominika is the feminine form of Dominic, with Slavic origins particularly popular in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries. The name derives from the Latin "dominicus," meaning "of the Lord" or "belonging to God," reflecting its religious roots. Traditionally associated with Sunday (the Lord's day) or children born on Sunday, Dominika carries spiritual significance. The name gained popularity in Eastern Europe after Saint Dominic founded the Dominican Order in the 13th century. In the United States, Dominika remains uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being relatively easy to pronounce. Its four syllables create a rhythmic, musical quality. The name conveys strength and femininity simultaneously, with nickname options including Nika, Mika, or Domi, offering versatility for different stages of life.

A sweet and international short form of Catherine, pronounced like Katya and used in various European languages.

The K makes this slightly more modern than its more traditional original

There are many in Japan, but for most Americans there's only one Yoko.

Ewa is a feminine name primarily used in Polish culture as a variant of Eve or Eva. Its origins trace back to the Hebrew name Chavah, meaning 'life' or 'living one.' In Biblical tradition, Eve was the first woman created by God. This short, two-syllable name has a simple elegance with its clear vowel sounds. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ewa is well-established in Poland and some other Eastern European nations. The name combines ancient religious heritage with a clean, modern sound. Its brevity makes it practical across language barriers, though English speakers might mispronounce it as 'EE-wah' rather than the correct 'EH-vah.' Ewa offers a subtle international flair while maintaining connections to one of the most recognizable female names in Western tradition.

Tifa is a feminine name that gained significant recognition through the character Tifa Lockhart in the popular video game series Final Fantasy VII. While the name has Japanese associations due to its appearance in Japanese gaming culture, it doesn't have traditional Japanese roots. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and open vowel ending. Prior to the game's release in 1997, Tifa was extremely rare, but has since developed a small but dedicated following among gaming enthusiasts and parents drawn to its modern, distinctive sound. The name carries associations of strength and loyalty based on the character's traits. Beyond gaming culture, Tifa appears occasionally in various cultures, sometimes as a variant of Tiffany or as a standalone modern creation.

An international variation of Sophia that ranks in the Top 10 in Poland and the Top 1000 in England and Wales. Zosia is a charming diminutive.

As seen on SNL, Pat is the ultimate androgynous name. Stick with long form Patrick, and make sure everyone calls him Patrick.

This once vivacious midcentury nickname is rarely used for modern babies.

An international variation of classic Alexander, this form has slightly softer sounds, yet feels just as strong. Popular in Poland, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia, but familiar in the UK too, short forms include Aleks, Sander, Sandi, and Sašo (Sasho).

Sylwester is the Polish variant of Silvester, a name with Latin origins meaning 'of the forest' or 'woodland dweller' (from 'silva' meaning woods or forest). The name carries historical significance through Saint Sylvester, who was Pope during the time of Roman Emperor Constantine. In Poland, Sylwester also refers to New Year's Eve celebrations, creating an association with festivities and new beginnings. While common in Poland and other Slavic countries, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. The name has a distinguished, somewhat scholarly sound and offers the friendly nickname Syl. Men named Sylwester might appreciate the name's connection to nature and its rich cultural heritage.

Leokadia is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from the male name Leocadius, which means "from Leucadia" (referring to a Greek island). In Christian tradition, Saint Leocadia was a 3rd-century martyr from Toledo, Spain. The name is most commonly used in Poland (as Leokadia) and other Slavic countries (often as Leokadija), where it gained popularity through religious veneration. In Poland, the diminutive form Lodzia is affectionately used. While rarely encountered in English-speaking countries, Leokadia remains a traditional choice in Eastern European communities. The name has a dignified, classical quality with its Greek roots and historical connections, offering a distinctive alternative to more common Leo-derived feminine names like Leona or Leonie.

Tidus is a masculine name that gained recognition primarily through the popular video game 'Final Fantasy X,' where it belongs to the main protagonist. The game's creators derived it from the Okinawan word 'tida' meaning 'sun.' Despite its fictional origins, Tidus has gained modest real-world usage since the game's release in 2001. The name has a contemporary, distinctive sound with its short two-syllable structure (TIE-dus). While uncommon, it appeals to parents who appreciate its modern feel, unique quality, and possible connection to gaming culture. The name's association with a heroic character and its meaning connection to the sun give it positive connotations.

This form of Irene feels fresher and gives the classic name a chic, international flair. It's most commonly used in Eastern Europe.

Nataniel represents a distinctive variation of Nathaniel, which derives from the Hebrew name Netan'el meaning 'gift of God.' This spelling variation maintains the name's biblical connections while offering a slightly different visual and phonetic presentation. The name appears across several European languages, particularly in Scandinavian countries, Poland, and parts of Latin America. While less common than the traditional Nathaniel in English-speaking countries, Nataniel has the same rich heritage connecting to the biblical figure who was called by Jesus in the New Testament. The name carries connotations of divine blessing and spiritual significance. Nataniel offers parents a slightly unconventional alternative that remains recognizable and meaningful.

Genowefa is a feminine name of Polish origin, derived from the Germanic name Genovefa (Geneviève in French). The name combines elements meaning 'tribe' or 'race' (gene) and 'woman' (wefa). Genowefa was particularly popular in Poland during the early to mid-20th century but has declined significantly in usage in recent decades, now considered somewhat old-fashioned. The name carries connections to Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris, who lived in the 5th century. Traditional Polish families may still use this name to honor family heritage or religious devotion. While rare among younger generations, Genowefa represents a strong connection to Polish cultural traditions and naming practices, embodying the blend of Germanic influence with distinctly Polish phonology.

Aleksandra is the preferred spelling in many Eastern European languages and cultures, but for English-speakers it's ironically more confusing if also perfectly phonetically clear.