Names of Real People I Know
- Heywood
Description:
Heywood is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a surname referring to 'the enclosed forest' or 'fenced wood' in Old English. As a given name, Heywood emerged from the English tradition of using family surnames as first names, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While never extremely common, it gained some recognition through notable bearers like American filmmaker Heywood Gould and jazz musician Heywood Henry. The name conveys qualities of stability, tradition, and natural strength. It has an aristocratic English feel with its connection to land ownership and geography. Though Heywood has declined in usage in recent decades, it retains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive name with Anglo-Saxon roots and woodland associations.
- Jeannine
Origin:
French variation of JeanMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
This feminine form of Jean was most popular in the 1930s in its home country, and in the 1960s in the US. It's fallen off the Top 1000 list since, but perhaps cute retro nickname Jeannie could tempt some vintage-loving parents back.
- Serina
Description:
Serina is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Serena, derived from the Latin word "serenus" meaning "clear, tranquil, or serene." Alternatively, it could be related to the Greek name Seira meaning "chain" or have Persian roots as a variant of Shireen, meaning "sweet." The name has a gentle, melodious quality and has maintained modest popularity across several decades without becoming overly common. Serina appears in various cultures, including Italian, English, and Arabic contexts. The name evokes a sense of peacefulness and grace, with its soft sounds and flowing rhythm making it both elegant and approachable.
- Angeli
Description:
Angeli is a feminine name with Italian and Greek roots, derived from 'angelo,' meaning 'angel' or 'messenger.' In Greek, 'angelos' referred to a divine messenger, later adopted into Christian traditions as heavenly beings. The name Angeli represents the plural form of angel in Italian, giving it a collective sense of divine protection. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it enjoys greater recognition in Italy, the Philippines, and other regions with strong Catholic influences. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its soft consonants and open-vowel ending. Angeli conveys a sense of ethereal beauty and spiritual significance without being overly religious. Its international character makes it recognizable across different cultures while maintaining its distinctive charm.
- Felicitas
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"good luck, fortune"Description:
In Roman mythology. Felicitas was the deity of good luck.
- Brianda
Description:
Brianda is a feminine name with Spanish and Portuguese origins, derived from a feminine form of Brian. The original name Brian comes from Celtic roots meaning 'high' or 'noble.' Brianda carries a romantic, flowing quality typical of Iberian naming traditions, with its graceful ending and melodic sound. While not among the most common Spanish names, it has consistent usage throughout Spanish-speaking countries and communities with Portuguese heritage. The name blends traditional roots with a distinctive character that isn't overly common. Brianda offers families a connection to Hispanic or Lusophone cultural traditions while providing a name that stands out without being difficult to pronounce or spell in international contexts.
- Jewelina
- Aiyan
- Yarissa
- Biridiana
- Modesto
- Anelynn
- Analine
- Myrka
- Fany
- Wyneth
- Caramia
- Abidael
- Alexza
- Araya