26/2016
- Hieronymus
Origin:
German variation of JeromeMeaning:
"sacred name"Description:
This cognate of Jerome (of all things), familiar via the Dutch painter of fantastical scenes, H. Bosch, would appeal only to the most audacious, intrepid, attention-seeking baby namer. It is, however, still used in Germany, especially in Catholic Bavaria and in the north German Rhineland.
- Alberta
Origin:
English, feminine variation of AlbertMeaning:
"noble, bright"Description:
This jazzy old name could make a comeback, the way Josephine and Ella have. In England the name was popularized by Queen Victoria's daughter Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, after whom her governor general of Canada husband named the North American province. Jazz singer Alberta Hunter was a noted bearer.
- Arvin
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"friend of the people"Description:
This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).
- Constantin
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"steadfast"Description:
More likely to be spelled Constantine, this was the name of the first Christian emperor of the Roman empire, as well as three Scottish kings. Previously thought of as too bulky and unwieldy a name for a modern child, these days it would be perfectly acceptable.
- Merle
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"blackbird"Description:
A sleek, smooth, understated name off the grid in the US but among the Top 100 girl names in Germany. In the US, it is a unisex name, while in Germany and the Netherlands, it is predominantly feminine.
- Theodor
Description:
Theodor is a classic masculine name of Greek origin meaning "gift of God," derived from the elements "theos" (God) and "doron" (gift). This spelling variant is particularly popular in Germanic and Scandinavian countries, including Germany, Austria, Norway, and Sweden. While the Theodore spelling is more common in English-speaking regions, Theodor has gained appreciation for its sophisticated European flair. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including composer Theodor Adorno, writer Theodor Herzl, and children's author Theodor Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss). Theodor offers parents a timeless yet distinguished name option with appealing nickname possibilities including Theo, Ted, and Teddy.
- Jari
Origin:
Short form of Jalmari, FinnishMeaning:
"helmet protector"Description:
Sleek modern short form of a classic Scandinavian name.
- Renesmee
Origin:
Literary inventionDescription:
Invented by author Stephenie Meyer for the Twilight series for the half-human, half-vampire daughter of Edward Cullen and Bella Swan, it's an amalgamtion of the names of Bella's mother Renee and Edward's adoptive mother Esme. Much to our surprise, some people are trying this at home.
- Jakob
Origin:
German, Norwegian, and Slovenian variation of Jacob, Hebrew variation of JamesMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
After cracking the US Top 200 in the early 2000s, fueled by Jacob's rise, this name has been losing steam in recent years. But Jakob is the top form of the name in many other countries, cultures, and languages, ranking highly in Germany, Norway, Austria, Iceland, and Slovenia. Jakub is the Polish variation.
- Willi
Description:
Willi is a masculine name primarily used in German-speaking countries as a diminutive form of Wilhelm, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'will' or 'desire' and 'helmet' or 'protection.' This shortened variant maintains the friendly, approachable quality common to nickname forms while functioning as a standalone given name. In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Willi enjoyed considerable popularity throughout the 20th century, particularly among generations born between 1920-1960. The name carries a classic, somewhat vintage appeal in its native regions. Outside German-speaking areas, Willi might be chosen to honor German heritage or appreciated for its simple, friendly sound. The spelling variant 'Willy' is more common in English-speaking countries.
- Annik
Origin:
Russian diminutive of Annika or AnnMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Annik is a pleasing combination of unusual and familiar. As first Ann and now Anna become overused, you might want to explore its wilder variations such as this Eastern European short form.
- Lisbeth
Origin:
German, diminutive of ElizabethDescription:
Lisbeth is one of the many short forms of Elizabeth that are used on their own. Not only is it the name of the mother of the main character in George Eliot's novel Adam Bede, but it takes on a whole new, powerful image as the heroine of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo trilogy. Lizbeth is another spelling.
- Fabio
Origin:
Italian and Spanish variation of FabianMeaning:
"bean grower"Description:
Sounds like exactly what it is: The name of a romance novel hero.
- Henrika
Description:
Henrika is a feminine name of Germanic origin, essentially serving as the feminine form of Henrik or Henry. These names derive from 'Heimrich,' composed of the elements 'heim' meaning 'home' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power,' thus conveying 'ruler of the home.' The name has particularly strong usage in Scandinavian and Finnish cultures. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Henrika maintains steady though modest usage in Northern Europe. This name carries a distinguished feel with its royal connotations, as many King Henrys have ruled throughout European history. The feminine ending softens the strong Germanic root, creating a balance between strength and elegance. Henrika offers parents a distinctive alternative to more common feminine forms like Henrietta or Harriet.
- Milane
Description:
Milane is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It could be derived from Slavic roots related to 'mila' meaning 'dear' or 'gracious,' or connected to the Italian city Milan. In some contexts, it may be seen as a feminine form of Milan, which itself has origins meaning 'gracious' or 'pleasant.' The name has a modern, sophisticated sound while maintaining a connection to traditional naming elements. Milane offers the appealing nickname Mila, which has gained popularity internationally. With its flowing, two-syllable structure and soft ending, Milane strikes a balance between uniqueness and accessibility. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it has a cosmopolitan flair that travels well across cultural boundaries.
- Arda
Origin:
Turkish, Hebrew, or EnglishMeaning:
"scepter, bronze, or forest"Description:
Arda is a simple gender-neutral name with several possible origins and meanings. As a Turkish name, it's usually used for males and means scepter. There is also a river in Turkey called the Arda. The Hebrew name Arda means bronze. And Arda may also be a variation of the English Arden, the name of a magical Shakespearean forest.
- Pepe
Origin:
Spanish variation of JosÉDescription:
Le Pew. We don't think so, although it's a megacommon nickname name in Latino countries.
- Manfred
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"man of peace"Description:
Hipsters might consider reviving this old German name, though we're not so sure their sons wouldn't have preferred the classic Fred name Frederick. Manfred B. Lee (born Manford) was half of the team of detective story writers who used the pseudonym Ellery Queen; Manfred Mann was a British pop group of the 1960's, with Manfred Mann (born Michael Liebowitz) at the keyboard. There's also a wooly mammoth named Manfred, and nicknamed Manny, in the film Ice Age.
- Charlott
Description:
Charlott is a feminine given name that represents a variation of Charlotte, which itself derives from the French feminine form of Charles. The name ultimately comes from Germanic origins, meaning 'free man' or 'strong'. While less common than Charlotte, Charlott maintains the same sophisticated and classic appeal but with a slightly more distinctive spelling. Popular throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavian countries, Charlott offers parents a way to honor traditional naming while incorporating a subtle twist. The name has never reached the heights of popularity that Charlotte has enjoyed, but it maintains a steady presence, appealing to those seeking a name with historical roots and elegant character.
- Mathea
Description:
Mathea is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from the masculine name Matthew (Matthaios), meaning 'gift of God' or 'gift of Yahweh.' This elegant variation maintains the meaningful roots while offering a distinctly feminine form. Popular in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway, Mathea has a timeless quality that bridges ancient origins with contemporary appeal. The name has been gradually gaining recognition in other parts of the world as parents seek names with historical depth and meaningful etymology. Mathea offers the appealing combination of biblical connections through its relation to Matthew while providing a less common alternative to more frequently used names like Matilda or Matea. Its pronunciation (mah-TAY-ah) gives it a melodic, graceful quality.
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