Non-English Virtue Names

Native-American feel via similarity to Winona.

Traditionally, Xolani is a masculine Zulu name stemming from the word "uxolo", which means peace and goodwill. Beware – in this case, the X is pronounced as a one of the famous Zulu clicking sounds rather than the "z" or "sh" sound you might expect.

Amal is an attractive name with a wonderful meaning that has long been used in many Middle Eastern countries, especially Lebanon (and migrant communities). It is of course getting a lot more coverage now since the fame of international human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin Clooney, who's singlehandedly made this one of the best-known Arabic names for girls.

Another traditional Indian name, best known here via novelist Vikram Seth.

A variation of Tobit in Hebrew and a form of Tobias in Belarusian, Tovi ultimately comes from the Hebrew meaning "good".

This rarified Greek name -- in classical mythology Pallas Athena was the goddess of wisdom and the arts -- might appeal to literary-minded parents. Among the raft of stylish girl names that start with P, Pallas is one rare choice that is often overlooked....but shouldn't be.

Pretty and feminine Muslim name popular in Egypt.

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.

This name of the goddess of peace creates a lovely ideal.

One African name that's virtually unknown in the western world, but sounds both soft and strong.

A beautiful Yoruban name associated with honor and good fortune. Both fy-o-la and fay-OH-luh are used as pronunciations.

Literary Indian choice, best known here via acclaimed writer Ved Mehta, who lost his sight at the age of four.

Japanese classic with optimistic meaning.

A Czech surname derived from the word for "green", which has a certain spark.

Esme and by extension Esmee have gotten more popular in the US in recent years, but that extra e can confuse an already-confusing pronunciation, especially if you start adding accents.

Short form of the name Anglicized as Saladin, very popular throughout the Arab world.

This version adds some Italian flair to the somewhat stolid Constance.

Ventura started life as a shortening of Bonaventura, Spanish for good luck or good fortune, but now stands on its own. It has a pleasant sound and the stylish 'V' ending, but Angelenos would associate it with the Valley's main stem--Ventura Boulevard, and others might think of Ace or Jesse Ventura.

A name whose sweet sound matches with its meaning, Habiba is popular in Somalia and North Africa. It comes from the Arabic habib meaning "dear, beloved", making it a bright and endearing choice.

Igbo name made more familiar by its relationship to the popular Belle and Bella.