Female Royalty Names

  1. Constance
    • Origin:

      English version of Latin Constantia
    • Meaning:

      "steadfastness"
    • Description:

      Constance is one of the more subtle of the virtue baby names, but still has quite a prim and proper image. One impediment to its revival has been the decidedly dated nickname Connie, though modern parents might well opt for using the strong and dignified name in full.
  2. Amalia
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "work"
    • Description:

      Amalia is a widely cross-cultural name, heard from Italy to Romania, Germany to Scandinavia. The current heir to the Dutch throne is Princess Catharina-Amalia of Orange. It can be pronounced ah-MAH-lee-a or ah-mah-LEE-a.
  3. Joan
    • Origin:

      English feminine variation of John, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      Joan was the perfect name choice for one of the leading characters on Mad Men, being a quintessential girls' name of the period. A Top 10 name in the 30s, a Top 50 name from the 40s through the early 60s, it was the fifth most popular name in the country for three years running and ranks as one of the most common names for girls in the 20th century. But alas, Joan hasn't even appeared in the Top 1000 for a dozen years, and these days it's primarily associated with Joans of the generation of Joan Crawford, Joan Collins and Joan Rivers--just a few of the noted Joans whose ranks also include the singers Joan Sutherland, Joan Baez, Joan Armatrading and Joan Jett. But it's possible that modern parents who are reviving Jane might move on to Joan, inspired by Joan Hollaway Harris.
  4. Elvira
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "white, fair"
    • Description:

      Before there was the campy TV Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Elvira was the long-suffering wife of Don Juan, and remnants of those negative, gothic images still cling to it, though they are fading.

      Other references include the romantic film Elvira Madigan, based on a real person, and the main ghostly character in Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit, as well as appearances in several operas.

  5. Valeria
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "strength, health"
    • Description:

      Valeria -- the original form of the name, used by early Christians --has been experiencing significant popularity in recent years. While Valeria was nearly always on the charts, the name peaked in 2009 at #72, surpassing the longtime Franco-American version Valerie. Today Valeria and Valerie are at about equal rankings, sitting in the 150s.
  6. Adele
    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Adelaide
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"
    • Description:

      Credit the award-winning single-named British singer for taking the girls’ name Adele from a quiet semi-retirement back into currency. Adele reentered the US Top 1000 popular baby names in 2011 and has remained there ever since.
  7. Euphemia
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "fair speech"
    • Description:

      Ancient martyr's name that, though not especially appealing, might still be mildly possible, especially for Anglophiles. It was widely used in early Scotland, but was overtaken by its nickname, Effie.
  8. Artemisia
    • Origin:

      Greek, variation of Artemis
    • Description:

      You might think Artemisia is the feminine form of the name, but in fact the original Artemis is feminine too, the name of the Greek mythological goddess of the moon. Artemisia Gentileschi was an esteemed Italian Baroque painter, unusual in an era when not many women were acknowledged. Artemisia is also a genus of plants which include sagebrush and tarragon.
  9. Adela
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      A vibrant variation of Adele, with a bit of extra flair from that "-a" ending. It could join the army of popular A girls' names, especially with its tie to the success of singer Adele.
  10. Alix
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "noble type"
    • Description:

      A chic and sassy French choice, popular in France but likely to be confused with the more prosaic Alex in English-speaking countries. Although sometimes used in the US as a variant spelling of Alex, the French name Alix actually derives from a medieval French form of the name Alice or Adelaide.
  11. Cleopatra
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "glory of the father"
    • Description:

      A royal name in ancient Egypt that's never quite made it to the modern world, though nickname Cleo is widely used. Other now-extinct Cleopatra diminutives, including Cleora and Cleola, achieved some popularity in the early 20th century when there was a crazy for all things Egypt-related as the ancient tombs were opened and artifacts displayed. In the US, Cleopatra became a popular silent film in 1917 starring Theda Bara.
  12. Anabella
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Annabel
    • Meaning:

      "loving"
    • Description:

      We like all forms of this name—Annabel, Anabel, Annabelle, Anabela, and Annabella—so you decide how elaborate you want to get. Actress Sela Ward chose the Anabella spelling.
  13. Adelais
    • Description:

      Adelais is a feminine name of Old German origin, representing a beautiful medieval variant of Adelaide. The name means 'noble kind' or 'of noble type,' combining 'adal' (noble) and 'heid' (kind, type). Popular among European nobility during the Middle Ages, Adelais carries an aristocratic, vintage charm. The name fell from common usage by the Renaissance but has seen occasional revivals among those appreciating historical names. Its pronunciation (AD-eh-lays) offers a pleasing rhythm, while its spelling evokes images of medieval courts and chivalry. Though rare today, Adelais provides a distinctive alternative to the more common Adelaide or Adeline, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and feminine elegance.

  14. Germaine
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Germain, French
    • Meaning:

      "from Germany"
    • Description:

      Linked to the early days of feminism via Germaine Greer, this saint's name feels neither French nor German enough -- which just might make it the perfect blend of the two cultures. All forms of Germain derive from the Latin Germanus, referring to a person from Germany.
  15. Bonne
    • Description:

      Bonne is a feminine name of French origin meaning 'good' or 'kind.' Derived directly from the French word for good (bon/bonne), this simple, elegant name embodies positive qualities and virtuous character. Historically, it appeared occasionally in medieval France but has remained quite rare in the English-speaking world. The name has connections to the phrase 'bonne femme' (good woman) in French culture. While uncommon today, Bonne offers a straightforward, positive meaning with a distinctive French flair. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contrast with longer trending names, potentially appealing to parents seeking a simple yet meaningful name with European roots.

  16. Gisela
    • Origin:

      German; Dutch; Spanish; Portuguese
    • Meaning:

      "pledge, hostage"
    • Description:

      A variation of Giselle.
  17. Modena
    • Description:

      Modena is a feminine name with Italian geographic origins, named after the historic city in northern Italy famous for its balsamic vinegar and Ferrari heritage. The name carries an elegant, melodic quality with its three flowing syllables. Modena conveys sophistication and a connection to Italian culture and artistry. As a personal name, it remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality that stands out without being difficult to pronounce or spell. The name has subtle vintage charm while still feeling fresh and usable in contemporary contexts. For parents seeking a name with European flair and cultural significance without overwhelming popularity, Modena offers an intriguing option that combines historical depth with aesthetic appeal.

  18. Fey
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      Fey, for middle name purposes, could be thought of as a fey spelling of Fay. These days, however, Fey would be considered by most people to be honoring comedian Tina.
  19. Sybilla
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "seer, oracle"
    • Description:

      Sybilla and its near-identical twin Sibylla are dainty and demure names with a powerful namesake that also happen to be extremely rare -- no baby girls were given either name in the US last year.
  20. Nonia
    • Description:

      Nonia is a feminine name with ancient roots, potentially deriving from Latin origins where it may have been used as a feminine form of Nonius, a Roman family name. In some cultural contexts, it might be connected to the Spanish 'nona,' meaning 'ninth.' Nonia has an elegant, classical feel with its open vowel sounds and flowing quality. The name has remained quite rare throughout history, making it an uncommon choice that nonetheless carries historical legitimacy. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across different languages and cultures. Nonia might appeal to parents seeking a name with ancient resonance and feminine elegance that remains distinctive in modern contexts. The name's brevity and melodic nature give it a timeless quality.