Gutsy Gals

Short, but still kind of a mouthful.

A heroine in a Victorian novel written with a quill pen, has an unusual, offbeat charm.

In fashion limbo with Anita and Juanita.

A jewel-encrusted choice, far more unusual than Pearl.

Pretty and distinctive choice for poetry lovers.

Clia could be seen as a variation of Clea (probably another invented literary name), or the creation of L. Frank Baum for a mermaid Princess character in one of his Oz books. Offers a similar choice to Cleo vs Clio.

Lilabet is a charming feminine name that originated as an affectionate Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth. The name gained wider recognition as it was the childhood nickname of Queen Elizabeth II, used by her close family members, particularly her father, King George VI. Lilabet combines the popular 'Lil' prefix seen in names like Lily and Lillian with a shortened version of Elizabeth, creating a name that feels both familiar and distinctive. Though uncommon as a formal given name, it offers a sweet alternative to the more common Elizabeth derivatives like Liz, Beth, or Eliza. The name carries a cozy, intimate quality while maintaining royal associations. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical connections yet an uncommon presence in modern naming trends.

Has an incomplete feeling....

Virtually never heard in this country, with a quirky quality.

Xanthipe, also spelled Xanthippe, is the name of the wife of Socrates. Challenging for English speakers, it's also dramatic and alluring.

Tulia, rhyming with Julia, is one of several offshoots of the noble Roman family name Tullius, best known as the middle name of the philosopher Cicero. While the single L is considered the Spanish and Polish form, Tullia may be used in Italy. There's also Túlia, a Hungarian form of Finnish Tuuli, meaning "wind".

The "Little Dorrit" title character of Charles Dickens' novel was actually named Amy; Dorrit was her last name. The Dorit spelling is a short form of Dorothea in Danish and Dorrit has been used as a first name, but its origins are as a surname derived from Dorothea or Durward.

Like Minnie and Winnie, eccentric enough to appeal to the iconoclastic parent.

Gussy is a feminine name that typically functions as a diminutive or nickname for names like Augusta, Augustine, or Gustava. With English origins, it carries a vintage, playful charm reminiscent of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name evokes a sense of nostalgic whimsy and has occasionally appeared as a standalone given name. In literature and period dramas, Gussy often characterizes spirited, vivacious female characters. Though rarely found in contemporary birth records as a formal name, it continues to serve as an affectionate nickname. The name's cheerful, unpretentious quality gives it a friendly, approachable character.

Selda is a feminine name with Turkish origins, derived from the elements 'sel' meaning 'flood' or 'stream'. In Turkish culture, the name carries connotations of flowing beauty and natural grace. While primarily used in Turkey and among Turkish diaspora communities, Selda has gained some recognition internationally through notable figures like Turkish folk singer Selda Bağcan. The name remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality for those who bear it. Its melodic sound and meaningful etymology make it appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural significance and aesthetic appeal.

Delly is a feminine name that typically functions as a diminutive form of names like Adele, Cordelia, or Delilah. With English origins as a nickname, it has occasionally emerged as a given name in its own right. The name has a cheerful, friendly quality with its bouncy sound and '-ly' ending. Delly gained some recognition following the popularity of Australian basketball player Matthew Dellavedova, nicknamed "Delly." As a standalone name, it remains uncommon, making it distinctive without being unrecognizable. The name evokes a sense of warmth and approachability with its informal, endearing quality. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across different languages and cultures.

A beautiful flower name deriving from the Latin word for dove. Sadly, in America this name is now forever linked with a tragic terrorist attack on a Colorado high school.