Phyllida

Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.

It's a name used by sixteenth century poets and writers: Lyly has a character named Phyllida in his 1592 play Galathea, and there is a poem of the same period called Phyllida and Corydon.

The distinguished Scottish actress Phyllida Law is the mother of actresses Emma and Sophie Thompson; Phyllida Lloyd directed such films as Mamma Mia! and The Iron Lady.

Pronounced FIL-i-duh.