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Names by Nickname

  1. Anke

    • Description:

      Anke is a feminine name of Dutch and German origin. In Dutch, it developed as a diminutive of the name Anna, which means "grace" or "favor." In German usage, it can also be considered a variant of Anke, derived from the Hebrew name Hannah. The name is characterized by its simplicity and distinctive short sound. Anke has been consistently popular in the Netherlands, northern Germany, and Scandinavian countries, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking nations. The name peaked in popularity in Europe during the mid-20th century but continues to be used. Anke is appreciated for its clean, crisp sound and international recognizability while still maintaining a sense of uniqueness in many regions.

  2. Dag

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian

    • Meaning:

      "daylight"

    • Description:

      Norse god who's the son of light plus historic diplomat Dag Hammarskjöld and author Dag Solstad combine to boost this Nordic name's appeal, but this could be difficult in English-speaking countries where the obvious tease will be "daggy Dag."
  3. Herb

    • Description:

      Herb is a masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' Primarily used in English-speaking countries, Herb peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that reflects its association with everyday herbs and plants, despite its martial etymological origins. Herb gained cultural recognition through notable bearers like American bandleader Herb Alpert and basketball player Herb Williams. While rarely given as a formal name to newborns today, it retains a warm, vintage charm that evokes the mid-century era. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it an accessible, down-to-earth character.
  4. Frici

    • Description:

      Frici is an uncommon feminine name with Hungarian origins, functioning primarily as a diminutive form of names like Frederica or Friederike. This short, distinctive name carries a playful and affectionate quality typical of Hungarian nicknames. While rarely used as a formal given name outside of Hungarian communities, Frici maintains cultural significance within Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora. The name is characterized by its brevity and distinctive sound, making it memorable despite its rarity. Historically, it would have been used as a term of endearment rather than a given name on birth certificates. Frici lacks widespread international recognition but may appeal to parents with Hungarian heritage or those seeking an exceptionally uncommon name with authentic cultural roots. Its compact form contrasts with the trend toward longer, more elaborate feminine names.
  5. Cressie

    • Origin:

      Short form of Cressida, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "gold"

    • Description:

      Derived from the Shakespearean Cressida, or perhaps from Crescentia or Lucrezia, Cressie is a sweet but unexpected nickname-name, reminiscent of Essie, Josie, Jessie, Cassie, and Lettie. For some, however, it might be too close to the salad garnish.
  6. Dessie

    • Description:

      Dessie is a masculine name of Scottish origin, derived from the place name Dessie in Ethiopia or potentially as a diminutive of Desmond. The name carries connotations of sweetness and pleasantness, possibly connected to the French word 'dessert.' Dessie has maintained a modest presence in English-speaking countries throughout the 20th century, though it's considered relatively uncommon for boys. It's sometimes used as a nickname for Desmond or as a standalone name. The name has a warm, friendly quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet approachable for their sons.

  7. Charo

    • Origin:

      Spanish nickname for Rosa or Rosario

    • Meaning:

      "rose or rosary"

    • Description:

      A nickname-name made famous by the uni-named Spanish singer Charo, whose full name was María del Rosario Pilar Martínez Molina Gutiérrez de los Perales Santa Ana Romanguera y de la Hinojosa Rasten.
  8. Cynthie

    • Description:

      Cynthie is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Cynthia, which derives from Greek mythology as an epithet of Artemis, goddess of the moon, who was born on Mount Cynthus. This variation adds a sweet, informal quality to the classic name through the '-ie' ending. While Cynthia saw peak popularity in the mid-20th century, Cynthie remains relatively uncommon, offering a slightly distinctive alternative to the more traditional form. The name carries the same lunar associations as Cynthia, evoking celestial imagery and mythology. Cynthie creates a friendly, approachable impression while maintaining connections to its more formal counterpart and its rich classical heritage.
  9. Tacy

    • Origin:

      American invented name

    • Description:

      Looks very much like it lost its first initial.
  10. Hassie

    • Description:

      Hassie is a vintage feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Hasselene or as a nickname for names beginning with 'Has-'. It also appeared as a pet form of Hester or Esther in some communities. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the southern United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has become extremely rare today. Hassie has the characteristic friendly, informal quality of many nickname-names ending in '-ie' from that era. Like other revival vintage names, it combines old-fashioned charm with a distinctive quality that sets it apart from contemporary popular choices. The name's simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible despite its unfamiliarity to modern ears. Hassie represents a category of names now being rediscovered by parents interested in authentic historical choices.

  11. Ganya

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "clever"

    • Description:

      Tanya with a G.
  12. Florry

    • Description:

      Florry is a feminine name typically considered a diminutive of Florence or Flora. These parent names have Latin origins related to 'flowering' or 'flourishing.' Florry has a distinctively vintage charm that recalls the early 20th century when nickname forms were commonly used as given names. While Florence has experienced periods of popularity, Florry has always remained a less common variant, giving it a unique quality. The name has a light, playful sound that contrasts with the more formal Florence. In the UK and Ireland, Florry might occasionally be encountered as a family nickname, though it's rarely found on birth certificates in recent decades. Its cheerful sound and floral associations give it a sweet, nostalgic quality that could appeal to parents seeking vintage charm.

  13. Vroula

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "cross"

    • Description:

      Diminutive of Stavroula
  14. Ode

    • Origin:

      Word name or medieval English form of Otto

    • Description:

      If Story and Poet and Sonnet can be names that work as well for girls as for boys, why not Ode?
  15. Katica

    • Description:

      Katica is a feminine Hungarian name that serves as a diminutive form of Katalin (the Hungarian equivalent of Katherine). The name carries a delicate, melodic quality with its distinctive Eastern European flair. In Hungarian, the suffix "-ica" adds an endearing, affectionate tone, making Katica feel warm and approachable. The name derives ultimately from the Greek name Aikaterine, whose meaning remains debated but may relate to "pure" or "each of the two." While Katica is relatively common in Hungary and some surrounding regions, it remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic appeal. The name combines cultural authenticity with a pleasant, accessible pronunciation that travels well across language boundaries.
  16. Pet

    • Description:

      Pet is an unusual feminine name that originated as a diminutive nickname form of names like Patricia or Petra. It derives from the same Latin root 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' While more commonly recognized as a term for a beloved animal companion, Pet as a given name has historical usage particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. It remains extremely rare in modern naming practices. The name can be seen as endearing and affectionate, suggesting someone who is cherished or treasured. Its brevity gives it a simple, distinctive quality, though parents might hesitate due to its stronger association with companion animals.
  17. Teza

    • Description:

      Teza is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots. In Ethiopian culture, particularly in Amharic, Teza relates to 'dew' or 'morning freshness,' symbolizing purity and new beginnings. The name may also have Slavic origins in some contexts, possibly as a diminutive of Teresa. In other cultures, it might be connected to the Greek 'theseus' meaning 'to set' or 'to place.' Teza has a distinctively international feel with its simple two-syllable structure and strong 'z' sound. Though uncommon in Western countries, its brevity and exotic quality appeal to parents seeking a cross-cultural name that's both distinctive and easy to pronounce. The name carries a bright, fresh energy with its open vowel sounds.
  18. Zsa

    • Origin:

      Hungarian, diminutive of Susan

    • Description:

      Though she's left the large and small screens, Zsa Zsa (born Sári) Gabor is not forgotten, and this name will forever be associated with her.
  19. Petta

    • Description:

      Petta is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be derived from the Italian 'Peta' or 'Petra,' meaning 'rock' or 'stone,' symbolizing strength and stability. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive form of Elizabeth or Patricia in some cultures. The name has Greek connections through its similarity to Petra, and possible Scandinavian roots as a variant spelling of feminine names. Petta remains quite uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a rare name with a melodic quality. The name has a pleasant rhythm with its double 't' creating a gentle emphasis. While not widely used, Petta's simplicity makes it accessible and memorable, combining traditional roots with a unique presentation that sets it apart from more common feminine names.

  20. Docia

    • Description:

      Docia is a vintage feminine name with Greek origins, functioning as a diminutive of Eudocia, meaning 'good teaching' or 'good doctrine.' The name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Docia has a sweet, nostalgic quality that aligns with the revival of other vintage names, though it remains distinctively uncommon. In some Southern American communities, it persisted as a traditional family name passed through generations. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds give it a gentle, approachable quality. With its classical roots and antique charm, Docia offers an option for parents seeking something with historical depth yet seldom encountered in contemporary use.