Names That Mean Loving
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About this list
The names
Annabelle
Combination of Anna and Belle or French form of Amabel
"loving"
This is a charming name that rose steeply along with other-belle names, such as Isabelle, until the horror film Annabelle and its sequels knocked it out of favor. Made famous by the Edgar Allen Poe…
Anabel
Spanish variation of Annabelle, combination of Anna and Belle or variation of Amabel
"loving"
Anabel is the sleekest version of this lovely name with so many variations, all of them correct. But Anabel and all her sisters -- Annabel, Annabelle, Anabella etc. -- took a downward turn after the…
Anabella
Spanish variation of Annabel
"loving"
We like all forms of this name—Annabel, Anabel, Annabelle, Anabela, and Annabella—so you decide how elaborate you want to get. Actress Sela Ward chose the Anabella spelling.
Annabel
Scottish variation of Amabel
"loving"
Annabel is a spirited name that embodies quirky British gentility. Appearing in Scotland as early as the twelfth century, where it was a royal name, it also recalls the romantic Edgar Allan Poe poem…
Philo
Greek
"loving"
Could Philo be the next Milo? We love the o-ending and sweet meaning of this dynamic and distinctive Greek name, often used in literature, but never particularly popular. The ancient Philo (aka Philo…
Annabella
Variation of Annabel or English compound name, Anna + Bella
"loving or grace + beautiful"
Annabella is one of a constellation of names that include Anabella, Annabelle, Annabel, Anabel, Annabelle, and Annabell -- all lovely names that have suffered from their association with the…
Prisha
Hindi
"loving"
One of the most popular Indian names for girls in the US.
Eri
Japanese
"loving reason; blessing + reason; hometown blessing; picture + pear"
Short and sweet Eri is a common female name in Japan that could cross cultures quite easily.
Thandie
South African, Xhosa
"beloved"
A captivating and sprightly name brought into the limelight by actress Thandiwe Newton.
Doherty
Irish
"not loving"
Surname that could have pronunciation problems -- it's Dorrity -- as well as having an off-putting meaning.
Philander
Greek
"loving mankind"
A Greek name with a charming meaning and mythological ties, Philander has long been too close to "philanderer" for English speakers to consider.
Maitreya
Sanskrit
"loving kindness"
According to Buddhist eschatology, Maitreya is next great Buddha who will appear on Earth, following Gautama Buddha. Though this messianic figure is usually (if not exclusively) depicted as a male,…
Carthach
Irish
"loving"
An Irish form of Caractacus or Caradoc, borne by two Irish saints.
