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Distant Relatives

  1. Mayo

    • Origin:

      Irish place-name

    • Meaning:

      "yew-tree plain"

    • Description:

      When ordering a baby name, hold the mayo.
  2. Zelman

    • Description:

      Zelman is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, derived from the name Zalman, which itself is a variant of Solomon. The name Solomon comes from the Hebrew word 'shalom' meaning 'peace.' Zelman was commonly used among Eastern European Jewish communities, particularly in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. As a name with strong Jewish cultural ties, it often appeared in immigrant communities in the United States and other Western countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While less common today, Zelman represents a connection to Jewish heritage and tradition, and might be chosen by families seeking to honor ancestors or cultural roots.

  3. Gervase

    • Origin:

      Variation of Gervaise, French

    • Meaning:

      "skilled with a spear"

    • Description:

      This venerable name was introduced to England by the Normans after the conquest of 1066 and was relatively common during the Middle Ages. Saint Gervase, a Christian martyr from Milan, has lent the name religious significance.
  4. Levina

    • Description:

      Levina is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Lavinia, an ancient Roman name associated with Latin roots meaning 'woman of Rome' and featured in Virgil's 'Aeneid.' Alternatively, it could derive from Lovina, a name with Germanic origins meaning 'beloved friend.' In some contexts, Levina may also connect to names like Levin or Levi, which have Hebrew origins meaning 'joined' or 'attached.' Throughout history, Levina has remained relatively uncommon, appearing sporadically in English-speaking countries and parts of Europe. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft sounds and elegant ending, making it appealing to parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name with historical resonance.

  5. Experience

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Description:

      Experience is a word name used by the New England Puritans but probably too joke-worthy for a modern child...or teenager. It does not have as direct a biblical reference as most Puritan names.
  6. Orris

    • Description:

      Orris is a masculine name with roots in both Latin and Old Norse languages. In Latin, it's derived from 'horridus' meaning 'bristly' or 'rough,' while in Old Norse it may relate to names containing 'ørr' meaning 'arrow.' Historically, Orris was used as a surname before evolving into a given name. It shares connections with the iris flower, as orris root is derived from certain iris species, giving it botanical associations. Orris has remained quite rare throughout history, never reaching high popularity rankings in the United States or other English-speaking countries. The name carries a distinctive, vintage quality that sets it apart, while its rarity makes it an uncommon choice for modern parents seeking a unique masculine name with historical depth.
  7. Amasa

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "burden"

    • Description:

      Amasa is a rare Biblical name borne by two figures. One is the son of Abigail and nephew of King David, who named him commander of the rebels. This Amasa met a tragic end when he was murdered by Joab. The other Biblical Amasa was one of the Children of Ephraim.
  8. Eliphalet

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "God has judged"

    • Description:

      A bit too elephantine for a modern child.
  9. Alfreda

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "elf power,"

    • Description:

      With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.
  10. Granville

    • Description:

      Granville is a distinguished English place name and surname that originated from the Norman-French "grande ville," meaning "large town." Dating back to medieval times, it gained usage as a given name in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly among families with connections to various Granville locations across England and France. The name carries an air of aristocratic heritage and old-world sophistication. While never extremely common, Granville experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century before declining in usage. Today, it represents a distinguished, vintage choice that suggests refinement and classic elegance. The name may appeal to parents interested in surnames as first names or seeking a dignified traditional option with historical resonance.

  11. Gunhilda

    • Origin:

      Norse

    • Meaning:

      "battle maid"

    • Description:

      At the very least, shorten it to Hilda.
  12. Alvah

    • Description:

      Alvah is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, meaning 'his highness' or 'sublimity.' Appearing in the Bible as a descendant of Esau, Alvah carries ancient roots and religious significance. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite uncommon, giving it a vintage charm. Alvah has a soft yet strong sound that distinguishes it from more popular biblical names. Its short, two-syllable structure makes it accessible and easy to pronounce, while its rarity offers uniqueness without being difficult or unfamiliar in structure.
  13. Abisha

    • Description:

      Abisha is a masculine name with biblical Hebrew origins, appearing in the Old Testament as 'Abishai' (meaning 'father of a gift' or 'my father is a gift'). This shortened form maintains the spiritual significance while offering a more streamlined pronunciation. In some cultures, particularly in parts of India, Abisha can also be used as a feminine name. The name carries connotations of blessing and divine favor across different cultural contexts. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, it has seen periodic usage in Christian communities and among those seeking names with biblical significance. Abisha offers the appeal of ancient roots combined with a distinctive sound that works well in contemporary naming landscapes.
  14. Tristam

    • Description:

      Tristam is a masculine name of medieval origin, a variant of the more common Tristan. It derives from the Celtic name Drustan, which means 'tumult' or 'clamor.' The name gained prominence through the legendary tale of Tristam and Isolde (or Tristan and Iseult), a tragic love story that became one of the most popular romances of medieval Europe. Tristam has never been among the most popular names but maintains a steady appeal for parents seeking a name with literary and historical significance. The name has an aristocratic, somewhat melancholic air that reflects its connection to the romantic tragedy. While less common than Tristan, Tristam offers a distinctive alternative with the same rich cultural heritage.
  15. Nahum

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "comfort"

    • Description:

      An underused Biblical name borne by a New Testament prophet, Nahum feels like a good option for parents looking for a rare but traditional name that fits in with current trends.
  16. Bethia

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "daughter of Jehovah"

    • Description:

      Long forgotten Old Testament name with modern potential.
  17. Volney

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "spirit of the people"

    • Description:

      Has a rather heavy surname feel.
  18. Peace

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Meaning:

      "peace"

    • Description:

      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.
  19. Huldah

    • Description:

      Huldah is a feminine name with ancient Hebrew origins, appearing in the Old Testament as a prophetess and advisor to King Josiah. The name means 'weasel' or 'mole' in Hebrew, though its biblical associations have given it more dignified connotations of wisdom and prophetic insight. Huldah was moderately popular among Puritans in the 17th century but has remained rare in modern times. The name carries a strong sense of biblical heritage and conveys qualities of wisdom, counsel, and spiritual authority. Despite its antiquity, Huldah has a distinctive sound that might appeal to contemporary parents interested in uncommon biblical names with strong feminine historical associations and a connection to wisdom traditions.
  20. Achsah

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "adorned"

    • Description:

      Spelled with or without the final "h," Achsah, pronounced AK-suh, was the daughter of Caleb in the Old Testament. We can't imagine anyone finding it greatly appealing.