Names That Mean Lord

Most modern parents would drop the Jo, leaving the superpopular Ella.

An Italian form of expressive Hosanna, this spiritual name might appeal to those who enjoy nicknames Ozzy or Anna. Borne by a number of saints, including a 15th century Italian mystic, Osanna also appears as Ozana and Osanne in Romania and France respectively. The traditional Hosanna may work better however in English speaking countries if you want the religious expression to be obvious.

French variant of Isaiah

Beelzebub was a god formerly worshipped in Ekron, but has been adapted by Ibrahimic religions to be synonymous with Satan.

Natale is the handsome gender-neutral Italian spin on Natalia or Natalie or Noel, traditionally given to babies born on Christmas Day. English speakers might stumble over the pronunciation -- Natalie? Natal? -- but they'll catch on. Babbo Natale is the Italian name for Santa Claus. Natalino is the adorable short form.

Unusual Daniel relative.

Rare Scottish variant of John, with multicultural overtones.

Zakk is an ekstra-kinetic spelling of a short form that's more and more often standing on its own, also as Zac, Zak, Zach, and Zack. This version is largely associated with musician Zakk Wylde.

Eliot is the sleekest spelling of the original, very occasionally used for girls, perhaps to honor novelist George Eliot.

Gila and its variants have joyous meanings in Hebrew, but other kids might connect them to the monster.

Modern Hebrew spelling (and pronunciation) of the biblical Jedidiah, another name of King Solomon.

French variant of Isaiah

A name rarely heard these days, it was the moniker of several early saints.

A multi-cultural choice overflowing with charm.

Hrisihikesh (the first H is silent) is another name for Lord Vishnu. Musician Hrishikesh Hirway is the creator of the popular podcast Song Exploder. The internationally-friendly short form is Hrishi, pronounced like Rishi.

Diminutive of Welsh Maredudd, the original (masculine) form of Meredith.

Noadiah has biblical namesakes both male and female. The female Noadiah is a prophetess in the Book of Nehemiah, while the male Noadiah is mentioned in the Book of Ezra. Noa is a sweet and logical short form.

This name of a saint from Galway whose monastery became a center of learning, is an undiscovered Gaelic gem.

A 7th century Breton saint's name which is the origin of the names Joyce and Jocelyn (both originally masculine). St Judoc was a Breton prince who renounced his power and wealth to live as a hermit. His name would make for a handsome and unexpected alternative to popular Jude.