Turtle Names

Gert is an old school nickname for one of the oldest school names, Gertrude. Only the most adventurous, so-far-out-it's-in baby namers will choose Gertrude or Gert today, but it's definitely geek chic.

Bertina is a feminine name with Germanic origins, serving as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. It can be considered a feminine variant of names like Albert, Bertram, or Robert, or a diminutive of Roberta or Alberta. Popular primarily in the mid-20th century, Bertina has since become less common, giving it a vintage charm. The name carries connotations of intelligence and radiance, thanks to its etymological connection to brightness. In Italy and Spain, Bertina may also be used as a nickname for names like Albertina or Robertina. While not widely used in English-speaking countries today, it retains appeal for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name with European roots.

Gilberta is a feminine name derived from the Germanic masculine name Gilbert, which combines the elements 'gisil' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous.' As the feminine form, Gilberta emerged primarily in Romance language countries, particularly in Italian and Spanish-speaking regions. The name saw modest popularity in the early 20th century but has become increasingly rare in recent decades. Gilberta carries an old-world charm and sophistication, appealing to those drawn to vintage or traditional naming patterns. The name suggests a woman of substance and determination, with potential nicknames including Gil, Gilly, or Berta.

Old fashioned nickname that some girls just might be able to pull off. You'd just have to be sure your little Fancy was one of them.

Tornado first meant thunderstorm and only later came to mean whirlwind, the common modern meaning. More recently, Tornado is the first name of a tennis-playing teen whose sister is called the equally attention-getting Hurricane. Both names work for either gender, if you think you can withstand the storm jokes.

You’re unlikely to hear Howardena on a baby girl today, but art lovers may recognize it as the name of Howardena Pindell, an American painter and mixed media artist.

Until now, most girls called Shell used it as a nickname for Shelley or Michelle. Today's Shell is much more likely to be a nature name, cool and beachy, fit for all genders.

This Spanish place name derives from a Basque word meaning "pond".

If you love the venerable Southwestern painter but feel Georgia's gotten too overheated, you might want to go all the way to this Irish surname in the fashionable O' family.

Gertina is a feminine name that appears to be a diminutive or variant form combining elements of Gertrude, Greta, or Gertie with the feminine suffix '-ina.' The name has Germanic roots, as Gertrude derives from elements meaning 'spear' and 'strength.' Gertina softens the more formal Gertrude while maintaining its traditional European heritage. This name has an old-world charm and vintage quality that connects to early 20th century naming styles. Though uncommon in contemporary use, Gertina might appeal to parents looking for a unique name with historical resonance that isn't widely used. The '-ina' ending gives it a gentle, feminine quality while preserving connections to the strength implied in its Germanic origins.