Lyonel is a masculine name with French and medieval origins, representing a variant spelling of Lionel. Derived from the Latin word 'leonellus,' meaning 'young lion,' it conveys strength and nobility. The name gained significance in Arthurian legend through Sir Lionel, a Knight of the Round Table. This alternative spelling with 'y' adds a distinctive, somewhat archaic flair that evokes images of medieval chivalry and courtly romance. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Lyonel maintains a timeless appeal, particularly among parents drawn to names with historical depth. The lion association gives the name a powerful symbolic quality representing courage and leadership.

Gilly is a name that's popped up from time to time in different contexts: As a nickname for Gillian, for instance, and as the name of a town in Switzerland. But it's increasingly associated with Hannah Murray's character Gilly in HBO's Game of Thrones, whom Sam Tarly rescued from Craster's Keep.

A short form of Alexandra and Alice used everywhere from Russia to Spain. A fresh alternative to Allie.

An old royal name in England and Scotland that's also spelled Marjorie. Popular in the Middle Ages and Tudor period, it was revived at the end of the 19th century, peaked in 1921 and dropped off the list in 1958, enough time to be reconsidered as a Margaret alternative. The name Margery Daw is familiar via the seesaw nursery rhyme and Margery Williams wrote the children's classic The Velveteen Rabbit..

Popular in Wales, familiar across the UK, and ultimately derived from the Germanic Adalheidis, this isn't a creative respelling of a classic, but the Welsh variant of it.

Variant of Eamonn, itself a form of Edmund

Kevan is a masculine name of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, a variant of Kevin, derived from 'Caoimhín,' meaning 'handsome birth' or 'gentle birth.' This spelling variation emerged as an alternative to the more common Kevin, offering a slightly distinctive touch while maintaining the same pronunciation. While Kevin peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, Kevan has remained a less common alternative, appealing to parents seeking a familiar name with a unique spelling. The name carries Celtic heritage and has maintained steady though limited usage throughout English-speaking countries, offering a subtle twist on a classic name.

Tyrion is one of the many new names entering the lexicon thanks to George R. R. Martin, author of the Game of Thrones book. Tyrion's name shares its first two letters with those of his father Tywin and his grandfather Tytos. The Tyrion Lannister character, a dwarf, is played by award-winning actor Peter Dinklage. Martin has said he saw the Tyrion character as being both the ugliest and the most intelligent person in the world, a mixed legacy for any child.

King Joffrey Baratheon, the petulant biological son of siblings Cersei and Jaime Lannisters, is perhaps the most notorious villain in the entire Game of Thrones canon. His name is practically a byword for sadism among fans of the show and George R.R. Martin's books. As such, we think it's probably a name best avoided IRL.

Elyn is a feminine name with Welsh and English influences, often considered a variant spelling of Ellen or Elin. These names ultimately derive from Helen, meaning 'bright, shining light' or 'torch' in Greek mythology. The distinctive spelling gives this classic name a contemporary feel while preserving its traditional roots. Elyn has a delicate, flowing quality with just two syllables that make it both simple and elegant. While not among the most common names, it has periodically appeared in usage throughout English-speaking countries, offering a slightly unconventional alternative to more familiar forms. Its brevity and melodic sound make it both distinctive and accessible.

Rickard is a Germanic and Scandinavian variation of Richard, a classic masculine name composed of elements meaning "powerful" and "brave ruler." This particular spelling is especially common in Sweden, though it appears throughout Northern Europe. While less frequent than the standard Richard in English-speaking countries, Rickard maintains the same distinguished history and strong connotations of leadership. The name has been borne by kings, warriors, and nobles throughout European history. In contemporary usage, Rickard offers a subtle alternative to the more common spelling while preserving familiar nickname options like Rick or Ricky. Its Scandinavian connections give it a distinctive character while remaining easily recognizable and pronounceable across cultural boundaries.

Daenerys is yet another girls' name invented by "Game of Thrones" author George R. R. Martin that is beginning to gain some traction in real life. Daenerys was used for 67 baby girls in 2013 while one of the character's titles, Khaleesi, was given to 241 baby girls. And the name Arya, also from the hyper-popular series, is one of the fastest growing girls' names in the country.

A character name in George R. R. Martin's Song of Ice and Fire series, featured in the GOT prequel House of the Dragon, based on the name Stephen or Stefan.

The version of Rob used in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire books and HBO's Game of Thrones.

The name of a warrior and dragonrider in the Game of Thrones universe, played by Matt Smith in the HBO prequel House of the Dragon. The word daemon also features in the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman, as the physical manifestations of humans' souls in the form of an animal.

Luthor is a masculine name with Germanic origins, likely a variant spelling of Luther, which derives from the Germanic elements 'hlud' meaning 'famous' and 'heri' meaning 'army.' The name carries strong historical associations through Martin Luther, the seminal Protestant Reformation figure. In popular culture, the name gained additional recognition through the fictional character Lex Luthor from Superman comics. This spelling variation with an 'o' gives the traditional name a slightly more dramatic quality. Luthor projects strength and authority with its firm consonants and historical weight. Though uncommon as a given name, it offers a powerful alternative to more popular options. The name's distinctive sound and spelling ensure recognition while its historical and fictional associations provide it with rich character and depth.

Dacey is a delicate and lacy Irish name with real possibilities.

One of the many faux-Medieval names invented by George R.R. Martin for his A Song of Ice and Fire series of books, the source of HBO's Game of Thrones. Princess Myrcella Baratheon is the daughter of Cersei Lannister and (secretly) her brother Jaime. Their younger brother Tyrion sends her to Dorne to be married to the Dornish prince Trystane Martell to seal an alliance between the two houses.