Names That Mean Strong

Variously spelled Swithun or Swithin, and associated with St. Swithin's day, July 15th, which is famous as a weather predictor a la Groundhog's Day: supposedly, the weather on his feast day will continue for 40 days. This would certainly make a unique choice.

Beren is a gender-neutral name that's rare in the US, given last year to 20 baby boys and only five baby girls. But it's simple, distinctive, and yes, strong, plus it comes with an amazing nickname -- Berry.

In Greek mythology Alcmene was mother of Herakles by Zeus, who tricked her by disguising himself as her absent husband. The name has the evocative meaning "strength and power of the moon", made from combining the Greek elements alke (power) and mene (moon), although "strength and wrath" is another possible interpretation, using the element menis.

Denzell appears to be a variant spelling of the surname Denzel, which originated as an English surname derived from a place name in Cornwall combining the Cornish elements 'din' (fort) and 'hal' (moor). As a given name, it gained significant popularity following the rise to fame of American actor Denzel Washington in the 1980s and 1990s. The doubled 'l' spelling (Denzell) represents a common phonetic variation that emerged as the name gained usage as a first name. This pattern of surnames becoming given names, often with modified spellings, is common in modern naming practices. Usage data shows a notable increase in babies named Denzell/Denzel during the height of Washington's fame, demonstrating the significant influence of celebrities on naming trends. While less common today than in the 1990s, the name continues to be used, appreciated for its strong consonant sounds and cultural associations with talent and success.

Also appearing as Amoz, and not to be confused with Amos, Amotz is a Hebrew name, borne by the father of the Prophet Isaiah, who is also theorized to be the brother of Amaziah, King of Judah. Notable bearers include biologist Amotz Zahavi and composer Amotz Plessner.

Clunky Gertrude is heading towards obscurity in the US, but here's a variation that might intrigue - Gesine, also spelled Gesina.

A powerful Igbo name with spiritual meaning.

Maoz is a symbolic name given to boys born at Hannukah because of the song "Maoz Tzur," "Rock of Ages," which is sung at that time.

Pacome is a French saint's name rarely heard in this country, but currently being revived in its native France.

Some variants are Pacomi, Pacomio and Pacomius.

This strong (literally) African name comes from the Chewa language of southern Africa.

Seen as both a first name and surname in Turkey.

Long considered Mr. Hall's exclusive property, it's now ready to be adopted by others.

Slightly awkward girl's version of a straightforward male name.

Nerio was one of the Roman goddesses of war and a wife of Mars. Her name is among the many intriguing names that mean strong.

This name was used by the royal House of Luxembourg in the Middle Ages, as a diminutive of Irmentrude. We definitely think this spunky shortening improves upon the heavy German original.

Not to be confused with the name Amos, Amoz is a separate Hebrew name, borne by the father of the Prophet Isaiah, and also theorized to be the brother of Amaziah, King of Judah. It can also be written as Amotz.