Latin Names

Embodies both color and operatic style.

Has the fusty charm of recently excavated ancient Roman male names like Augustus and Magnus, which might just appeal to the fearless baby namer.

Cute as a nickname, slight as a first.

Hilaria, the ancient Roman form of Hilary also given to joyous festivals, is still used in Spain and Poland, while the intriguing Italian version is Ilaria. A notable current bearer is fitness expert and wife of Alec, Hilaria Baldwin, who was born Hillary.

This Late Roman name is little-used in modern times, though the feminine forms Feline and Felina are popular in Europe. While some relate it to the happy-go-lucky Felix, it actually has a cat-like meaning. St. Felinus is a legendary third-century martyr.

This Italian saint's name is one of the most unusual of the o-ending names.

One high-fashion brand that's actually a legitimate first name, though still linked to the tainted Adolph.

Semiramis/Semiramide was the most important Queen of Assyria, who conquered much of Asia. Semiramis restored ancient Babylon and protected it with a high brick wall that completely surrounded the city. Then she built several palaces in Persia, reigned much of Asia Minor effectively and conquered Libya and Ethiopia. The version Semiramide was used by Giacomo Rossini in his opera of the same name.

Delicate and obscure version of this many-faceted name.

Octavia has the numerical meaning doubled (eighth) and is much more user-friendly.

Unfortunately, everyone will hear Crispina, the feminine form of Crispin, as Christina.

Enshrined in the Latin and Catholic culture.

Completely undiscovered double-l name with an abundance of rhythmic charm.

The name of Beethoven's third symphony, and too close to the word erotica.

This name of eight popes might appeal to confirmed city-dwellers, but Urbana would be more feminine.

Real name that sounds like a made-up combination of Dillon and Lillian.

If you live in the city, you might call your urban baby Urbana; if you live in the suburbs--don't even think of Surbana.

Dexter turned ultracool for a girl when Diane Keaton named her daughter Dexter Dean. Dexter is getting a new style gloss for both genders thanks to (unlikely) baby name role model, television's Dexter the genial serial killer.

Has a medieval, slightly fusty but romantic feel.