Ballet Names

Dulcinea

Spanish

"sweetness"

Miguel de Cervantes invented this elaborate-sounding name -- which roughly translates as "sweetness" -- for the beautiful maiden Don Quixote is obsessed with in his great novel. Even in the fictional…

Graziosa

Graziosa is a feminine Italian name meaning "graceful" or "full of grace," derived from the Latin "gratiosus." This elegant name embodies feminine beauty, refinement, and charm in Italian culture.…

Odile

French variation of German Otthild

"prospers in battle"

Odette's evil Swan Lake twin -- gives the name a sinuous, sensuous appeal. It was a popular choice in France in the 20th century and made the Top 40 back in 1952, however, it has since fallen out of…

Raymonda

German

"wise protector"

More out of style than Raymond.

Hermia

Greek, female form of Hermes

"cairn, pile of stones, boundary marker"

Though we've gotten used to Hermione via Harry Potter , and even Hermes with its godlike and fashion associations, most people would still have a problem with Hermia (too close to hernia?) and…

Ondine

Latin

"little wave"

Mythological spirit of the waters; spelled Undine, she was an Edith Wharton heroine.

Perdita

Latin

"lost"

A Shakespearean invention for an abandoned baby in The Winter's Tale , Perdita's sense of loss has always been off-putting to parents. But her image was somewhat resuscitated by its association with…