Inspiration
- Lisette
Origin:
French, diminutive of Elizabeth or LiseMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Lisette, also spelled Lizette, is a dainty,, if somewhat dated, Gallic offshoot of Elizabeth. It reached its U.S. peak of popularity in 1999, then fell off the list in 2001.
- Hamilton
Origin:
English and ScottishMeaning:
"treeless hill"Description:
Unless it runs in your family, or Alexander Hamilton is your particular hero, you might consider something less imposing -- and without the teasable nickname Ham.
- Angeline
Origin:
French variation of AngelaMeaning:
"angel"Description:
With Angelina becoming so popular thanks to Ms. Jolie, this could be a new twist—but everyone will always misunderstand it as Angelina. While it currently ranks at Number 951 in the US, it's Number 352 in France.
- Ria
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"small river"Description:
Short and feminine, Ria has a rhythmic flow.
- Abelia
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"sigh, breath"Description:
This feminine form of Abel is also a flower name and makes a distinctive alternative to the widely used Abigail. There is a similar name, Adelia, that is beginning to be rediscovered thanks to the trend for all names Adel- related.
- Odysseus
Origin:
Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"wrathful"Description:
The name of the brave, resourceful hero of Homer's epic saga has almost always been considered too weighty for a child to bear, but at this point, some brave, resourceful parents out there might be willing to take it on.
- Tristan
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"noise or sorrowful"Description:
Though Tristan was the male figure in the romantic legend and his name has become trendy for boys, it's used now for girls, too: About 15 percent of the baby Tristans are female. And about three times as many girls are named Tristan as are named Isolde, Tristan's mythical female counterpart. There are also feminizations of Tristan, such as Tristana and Tristine, but these are much more rare than the original.
- Narelle
Origin:
Australian AboriginalMeaning:
"little river"Description:
The Narellan is the name of a river in New South Wales. From this name comes this quasi-French girls' name, which is quite common in Australia.
- Amica
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"female friend"Description:
Amica is a word meaning girlfriend that is not often used as a name in Italy, but it would sound pretty and name-like elsewhere.
- Amelda
Description:
Amelda is a feminine name that likely developed as a variant of Amelia or Imelda. If derived from Amelia, it shares the Germanic root 'amal' meaning 'work' or 'industrious'. If connected to Imelda, it comes from the Germanic elements 'ermen' (universal) and 'hild' (battle). This uncommon name has appeared sporadically throughout Europe and English-speaking countries without achieving widespread popularity. Amelda has a vintage, slightly ornate quality that evokes the early 20th century. The name carries a distinctive melody with its three syllables and soft ending, appealing to parents seeking something familiar-sounding yet uncommon, with a touch of antique elegance.
- Mena
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of FilomenaDescription:
Actress Mena Suvari (named after an Egyptian hotel) made this name seem especially appealing. Mena is also a minor Roman goddess of fertility.
- Zedekiah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"the Lord is just"Description:
The name of an Old Testament king, and yet another 'Z' choice from the Bible that still retains some zip, especially with the appealing nickname Zed. Zedekiah was the name of the last king of Judea before the city was destroyed by Babylon.
- Albia
Origin:
LatinDescription:
A rarely heard ancient Latin names for girls that has a not-so-appealing brand name feel. Try Alba instead.
- Larina
Description:
Larina is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Lara or Laura, ultimately deriving from Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree,' a symbol of victory and honor in ancient Rome. Alternatively, it could be related to the Latin 'lararium,' a shrine dedicated to guardian spirits. The name has a lyrical, romantic quality with its flowing sounds and gentle rhythm. Larina appears in literature, notably as a character in Pushkin's Eugene Onegin, which has helped maintain its literary associations. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Larina has maintained a steady presence among parents seeking a name with classical overtones and feminine elegance without being overly common. The name strikes a balance between familiar and distinctive.
- Versa
Description:
Versa is an uncommon feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Latin, where 'versa' relates to turning or change, suggesting versatility and adaptability. Alternatively, it could be a modern invention or a shortened form of names like Versailles. In Italian, 'versa' means 'to pour,' adding a fluid, giving connotation. The name's brevity and strong 'v' sound give it a contemporary feel despite its classical roots. Versa remains rare in most countries, making it a distinctive choice. Its simplicity allows for easy pronunciation across cultures while maintaining a unique quality that stands out in a classroom or professional setting.
- Daralyn
- Darling
- Opheline
- Adrasteia