Medieval Names

Once a short form of names containing this syllable, it is now used on its own, though we'd prefer Sven.

Although Gracia is the literal Spanish translation of Grace and is used as the Grace equivalent in Spanish-speaking countries, where it's pronounced grah-see-ah or grah-thee-ah, it's also a long-time if unusual Grace variation pronounced gray-sha. You might consider Gracia if Grace is getting too commonplace for you.

Idonia is a feminine name of medieval English origin, derived from Old French and Germanic roots. The name likely comes from the Germanic element 'id' meaning 'work' or 'labor,' combined with elements suggesting nobility or worthiness. Idonia was used in England during the Middle Ages but gradually faded from common usage by the Renaissance period. The name has a distinctly antique quality with its melodic four syllables and elegant sound pattern. Extremely rare in modern times, Idonia might appeal to parents drawn to historical revival names with an aristocratic flair. Its obscurity makes it an option for those seeking a name with medieval authenticity that remains largely undiscovered in contemporary naming circles.

Also a medieval short form of Nicholas, it is still heard in Ireland and Scotland, where it has mythological resonance – Colla Uais was an ancient Irish prince who ruled over northern Britain before the arrival of Scottish settlers.

Properly written Ælfric, this Anglo-Saxon name derives from Old English name elements meaning "elf" and "power". It belonged to several notable medieval churchmen, and is thought to be the origin of the English names Auberon and Aubrey.

Atkin is a short form of Adam that originated in Medieval England. It's now obsolete, but traces remain in surnames such as Atkins and Atkinson.

This cool, sauntering boy's name would fit in and stand out in a classroom today. Other similar diminutives more distinct than Xander or Zander include Saunders, Sander, and Sanders.

Probably too odd and elven for mainstream success, but there are certainly circumstances in which this would make a nice boys' name. It might be a nice way to honor a surname from some distant branch of your family tree, for instance. But make no mistake: Most boys with this as a full name will go by Will most of the time.

Another name for the herb sage -- which sounds younger and more modern than this version.

Amice is a name that was used in the Middle Ages but has fallen out of use now. It seems completely suited for modern life, though, with a pronunciation that's like Alice wth an m.

Wybert is a medieval variation of the Old English name Wigberht, from the components wig, meaning "battle," and beorht, "bright."

More modern and alluring than Silver, Argenta is one of the few mineral/metal-related names.

Aladár is believed to be of Germanic origin, as a Hungarian form of Aldric, meaning old, wise ruler, or Aldemar, meaning old and famous. This Hungarian variant comes from medieval Hungarian legend, where Aladár was the son of Attila, king of the Huns, considered the ancestor of the Hungarians in the local folklore. Aladár's use as a name gained traction again in the 19th century and has continued to see occasional use since then, ranking as the 99th most common male name in the country in 2006.

An ancient Germanic name that's so clunky and contrarian it's actually brilliant. One famous Hermelinda was a medieval queen of the Lombards; another was a Belgian saint.

Serious surname choices, the latter form known via award-winning author Reynolds Price.

Lella is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Italian, it functions as a diminutive of names like Gabriella, Raffaella, or Donatella, conveying affection and familiarity. In Arabic cultures, Lella is an honorific title meaning 'lady' or 'madam,' used particularly in North African regions to show respect to women of importance. The name has a melodic quality with its repeated 'l' sounds creating a gentle, flowing pronunciation. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Lella offers cross-cultural appeal with its simplicity and warmth. The name's brevity makes it accessible and memorable, while its international connections give it depth and character beyond its compact form.

Hawise is a medieval name that started with Hadewidis. In France, Hadewidis evolved into Haueis, which then became Hawise when the Normans brought the name to England. Hawise and Hawis were also somewhat common in 19th-century Wales.

Gandolf and variant Gandulf are legitimate names used in medieval Europe, including by several bishops and dukes. From it comes the name of Castel Gandolfo, the pope's summer residence. However, to most people this will feel like a misspelling of the wizard Gandalf.

Poppa of Bayeux was a matriarch of the family that became the House of Normandy. Poppa is a fresh and unexpected medieval name that would work today, given the popularity if Pippa and Poppy.

Derived from the components al, meaning "each" or "every," and gandas, "rumor" or "news." Algirdas is best known as the name of a medieval Lithuanian ruler, son of Gediminas.