Fancy Girl Names
- Leontyne
Origin:
English female form of Leontios, GreekMeaning:
"lion"Description:
Almost exclusively associated with opera diva Leontyne Price. If you want to use the suddenly-stylish Leontyne, we'd recommend the French Leontine spelling.
- Swanhild
Origin:
SaxonMeaning:
"battle swan"Description:
An ancient name belonging to "the most beautiful of all women" in Germanic mythology, whose tragic story features in many northern European legends. The daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun, her jealous husband had her murdered after she was accused of infidelity, and was then himself killed by Swanhild's brothers.
- Abyssinia
Origin:
African place-nameDescription:
Abyssinia is the ancient name of the Ethiopian Empire, no longer found on any map but with a possible future as a melodic girls' name in the ever-expanding place-name category. Among African names for girls, this one is undiscovered.
- Heliotrope
Origin:
botanical nameDescription:
Despite the beauty of this flower's appearance and fragrance, this is one of the clumsier flower names.
- Cipriana
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"from the Island of Cyprus"Description:
Offbeat and romantic place-name.
- Swanhilde
Origin:
GermanicMeaning:
"swan battle"Description:
Form of Swanhild
- Veridian
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"green"Description:
Veridian is a variation on Viridiana or Viridis, meaning green. Veridian is also the name of an American aeronautical company, so we recommend you stick with the alternatives.
- Belphoebe
Origin:
Invented literary nameMeaning:
"beautiful shining one"Description:
The name of the character in Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene" whom the poet intended as a representation of Queen Elizabeth I. While it will no doubt thrill your daughter's English professor, the addition of the "Bel" to already great Phoebe is on the fussy side.
- Petronilla
Origin:
Roman and Italian feminine variation of PetroniusMeaning:
"yokel, woodpecker, stone"Description:
Petronilla is an ancient saint's name that relates to the Roman family name Petronius, thought to mean yokel or woodpecker, though some connect it with Petra or Peter, meaning stone. With the resurgence of so many ancient Roman names, the elaborate and pretty Petronilla or its French form Petronille seem more usable these days than they have in centuries.
- Leopoldine
Origin:
French feminine version of LeopoldMeaning:
"brave people"Description:
A sophisticated girls' name for those attracted to Leona, Leonie and Leonore.
- Petronia
Description:
Petronia is the feminine form of Petronius, a Roman family name derived from the Latin 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' With ancient Roman origins, it shares its roots with more common names like Peter and Petra. Petronia carries an air of classical dignity and strength. While never widely popular, the name has historical significance and has been used intermittently throughout European history, particularly in regions with strong Roman influence. The name possesses a formal, somewhat aristocratic quality with its classical roots and rhythmic three-syllable pronunciation. Petronia might appeal to parents interested in history or seeking a feminine name with substance and gravitas that remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage.
- Scirocco
Origin:
Italian, from ArabicMeaning:
"warm wind"Description:
A cool and breezy nature name with a stylish sound, used by Volkswagen for one of its cars.
- Arcangela
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"high-ranking angel"Description:
Arcangela is a heavenly possibility if Angel or Angela isn't elevated enough for you.
- Parthenia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"chaste maiden"Description:
Parthenia may be a bit unwieldy, but does conjure up majestic images of the Parthenon. It was briefly in the US charts in the late 19th century.
- Elocadia
Description:
Elocadia is an extremely rare feminine name with Latin roots. It likely derives from the Latin word 'eloquentia' meaning eloquence or fluent speech, possibly connected to the concept of elocution. The name carries an elegant, classical quality with its flowing syllables and melodious sound. Elocadia has never achieved widespread popularity, remaining a truly uncommon choice throughout recorded naming history. The name has an antique, scholarly feel that evokes images of classical literature and refined education. With its distinctive sound and unusual letter combination, Elocadia offers a truly unique option for parents seeking a name with historical depth that few others will share. The name's elaborate structure gives it a formal, dignified quality while still maintaining feminine grace.
- Polyxena
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"very hospitable"Description:
Polyxena was a minor figure in Greek mythology - a daughter of King Priam and a love interest of the famed warrior Achilles. The name is a bit clunky but could be pulled off by the right woman.
- Preciosa
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"precious, valuable"Description:
See PRECIOUS.
- Fidelity
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Fidelity is an admirable virtue, yes, but as a name it tends to sound like a financial institution. Faith, Honor, or Patience would be easier to live with than Fidelity.
- Samaria
Origin:
Place-name, HebrewMeaning:
"to guard, to keep"Description:
Similar to but distinct from Samara, this pretty name was chosen for his daughter by rapper LL Cool J. It's the name of an ancient Palestinian city, located in present-day Jordan, and is associated with the Biblical story of "The Good Samaritan" who came from Samaria. Derived from shamar meaning "to guard" this name was chosen for 100 girls in 2023 in the US.
- Illuminata
Description:
Illuminata is a rare feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'illuminatus' meaning 'enlightened' or 'illuminated.' This distinctive name carries connotations of brightness, knowledge, and spiritual enlightenment. Historically, it appeared in religious contexts, sometimes given to girls born on feast days associated with light or to honor St. Illuminata, an early Christian martyr. Despite its beautiful meaning and melodious quality with its flowing syllables, Illuminata remains extremely uncommon in modern usage. The name offers potential nicknames like Lumi, Mina, or Nata, making this elaborate name more accessible for everyday use while maintaining its unique heritage and profound significance.
