Classic Baby Names with a Twist
- Victory
Origin:
English word nameMeaning:
"victory"Description:
A winning unisex word name, fresher than Victoria or Victor.
- Christiana
Origin:
Feminine variation of ChristianMeaning:
"follower of Christ"Description:
Not cutting edge, but still graceful and feminine.
- Christo
Origin:
SlavicMeaning:
"one who carries Christ"Description:
This unusual name, which is jauntier than Chris when used as a diminutive of Christopher, is associated with the Bulgarian installation artist of that name, responsible for wrapping many public institutions and known especially for The Gates of Central Park and Running Fence. Christo is his full given name.
- Jennica
Origin:
Compound name, from Jenifer and JessicaMeaning:
"bright white to behold"Description:
Two past favorites blended into one, but Jennica has never made the US Top 1000.
- Ashling
Description:
Ashling (also spelled Aisling) is a feminine Irish name derived from the Gaelic word "aislinge," meaning "dream" or "vision." In Irish literary tradition, an aisling was a poetic genre involving dream-vision poems where Ireland appeared to the poet as a woman. The name emerged in popularity during the Irish cultural revival of the 20th century and has become increasingly popular among diaspora families seeking to connect with their Irish heritage. While relatively uncommon outside Ireland and Irish communities, Ashling offers a lyrical quality with its soft sounds and meaningful heritage. The name represents imagination, hope, and the mystical aspects of Irish cultural tradition.
- Dorit
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"of this generation"Description:
Popular in Israel, sounds a lot more current than Doris.Brings to mind Dickens' Little Dorrit, though Dorrit was the surname of its heroine Amy.
- Madelena
Description:
Madelena is a graceful feminine name representing a variation of Magdalena, ultimately derived from Magdala, an ancient place name meaning "tower" in Aramaic. This name connects to the biblical figure Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus. Madelena combines elements of both Magdalena and Madeleine, creating a melodious alternative with Mediterranean charm. Particularly appreciated in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian-speaking cultures, Madelena carries an elegant, romantic quality. While less common than Madeline or Magdalena in English-speaking countries, Madelena offers a distinctive option with familiar roots. The name's flowing syllables and historical depth make it timelessly appealing while providing nickname options like Lena, Maddie, or Elena.
- Chas
Origin:
Diminutive of Charles, French from GermanMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Retro nickname for Charles that has the potential for revival, a la Hal, Ike, and Gus.
- Tereza
Origin:
Portuguese, Czech, and Romanian variation of TheresaMeaning:
"to harvest"Description:
A favorite in Brazil, with the z adding extra zest.