Female Names

First-wave Irish name and place name—the poetic name for Ireland—now supplanted by newer alternatives such as Maeve and Delaney.

Kittie is a diminutive form of Katherine or Catherine, originating from Greek roots meaning 'pure.' As a nickname-turned-independent name, Kittie emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when pet forms of names were commonly used as given names. Its playful, affectionate quality made it modestly popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name has declined in use since the mid-20th century, with many parents now preferring either the full Katherine/Catherine or other diminutives like Kate or Katie. Kittie also naturally evokes feline associations, which can add to its sweet, gentle character.

Morwenna is an ancient Cornish name now being revived in Wales, deriving from a Celtic word meaning "maiden", although the Mor- syllable means that it's often associated with the sea. It's been heard in the British series Doc Martin and Poldark. Morwenna Banks is a British actress.

The menu of usable month names seems to expand every, well, month, with such choices as November, October, and January joining more established names like April, May, June and August. Logical November nicknames include Nova, Novi, or Ember, making this a natural (if adventurous) choice for a baby girl. November is also, obviously, one of the perfect names for November babies.

Piper's rising popularity for girls makes it an unlikely masculine choice.

Skylar is a name with a hint of both edginess and whimsy and it makes for a nature-inspired choice that is neither too wordy nor too floral. Popular since the 90s, Skylar has remained in the US Top 100 for over a decade and is the most popular spelling of the name for girls.

Theodora is one of the most revival-worthy of the charmingly old-fashioned Victorian valentine names, softly evocative but still substantial, as is the reversed-syllable Dorothea.

An ancient tree that figures in literature from Shakespeare to Harry Potter and is believed to possess magical powers, Willow is a lovely name, as graceful as its inspiration.