Names I Like
- Julen
Origin:
Basque variation of Julian, EnglishMeaning:
"youthful; downy"Description:
The Basque form of Julian is pared down and may appeal to parents looking for a less-syllabic option. It’s not typically used outside of Spain, but it would make an easy import.
- Katharine
Origin:
Spelling variation of Katherine, GreekMeaning:
"pure"Description:
This is the spelling that old-time film star Katharine Hepburn used, and it's still favored by fans wanting to reference her classic strength and beauty. But in general, it's losing ground to Katherine and even Ms. Hepburn's own favorite short form, Kate.
- Munro
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"mouth of the river Ro"Description:
Takes Monroe out of the Dead Presidents category and gives it new life.
- Valora
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"courageous"
- Carlin
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little champion"Description:
Stronger and more contemporary twist on Carla or Carly, Carlin was used just about equally for girls and boys in the US last year.
- Romola
Origin:
Latin, Italian variation of Romulus, one of he founders of RomeDescription:
Romola is a literary name most notably used by George Eliot for her eponymous 1862 novel set in fifteenth-century Florence. It just may appeal to the parent looking for a name that embodies the ideal blend of the feminine, unusual, and strong. A current bearer is British actress Romola Garai.
- Lexa
Description:
Lexa is a feminine name with multiple origin possibilities. Most commonly, it's considered a shortened form of Alexandra, which derives from Greek elements meaning 'defender of mankind.' It also functions as an independent diminutive of Alexis or Alexa. In Slavic languages, particularly Czech and Slovak, Lexa can be a nickname for names containing the Alex- element. The name gained modest recognition following the introduction of the character Commander Lexa in the television series 'The 100' (2014-2016). With its crisp, modern sound combining the popular 'Lex' sound with a feminine ending, Lexa appeals to parents seeking short, strong feminine names that balance contemporary style with classical roots.
- Kelley
Description:
Kelley is primarily a feminine name in modern usage, though it originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Ceallaigh' meaning 'descendant of Ceallach' (bright-headed or troublesome). As a given name, Kelley represents one of several spelling variations including Kelly, Kelli, and Kellie, with this particular spelling adding a touch of distinction. It gained popularity as a first name in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, riding the wave of surname-to-first-name conversions. Kelley maintains a friendly, approachable quality while honoring Irish heritage. The name strikes a balance between familiarity and uniqueness – recognizable but not overly common. Though its peak popularity has passed, Kelley continues to be appreciated for its Celtic roots and gender-versatile appeal.
- Daven
Description:
Daven is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be an Anglicized form of the Irish name Damhan (pronounced DAV-awn), meaning 'little stag,' or possibly a variant of Davin, a diminutive of David. In Hebrew, where David originates, the meaning is 'beloved.' The name has also gained some usage as a modern invented name, appreciated for its contemporary sound while maintaining a traditional feel. Daven has risen in popularity since the 1970s but remains relatively uncommon, giving it distinction without being completely unfamiliar. The name carries a strong yet accessible quality, with its two-syllable structure and familiar sounds making it easy to pronounce across cultures. Parents might choose Daven for its subtle connection to traditional names while still offering a fresh alternative to more common choices like David or Devin.
- Ryann
Origin:
Spelling variation of RyanDescription:
An attempt to make this name swing more to the feminine side, though the original Ryan is becoming perfectly acceptable for girls.
- Abbey
Origin:
English word name or short form of AbigailDescription:
Abbey might sound exactly like the popular Abigail nickname Abby or Abbie, but spelled this way it is also a churchy word name with a Gothic feel. But hearing it, no one will know the difference.
- Seanan
Origin:
Modern form of Senán or elaboration of Sean, IrishMeaning:
"little old one; God is gracious"Description:
Seanan might be considered an Anglicized form of Seanán, itself a modern form of Senán, an Old Irish name meaning "little old one", giving it a wise and ancient feel. The name of a 6th century saint and monk, Seanan might also be considered an elaboration or a diminutive of Sean, the Irish variation of John. By combining it with the -an suffix (meaning "descendent of" or more literally "little") it could be a way to freshen up the now well-travelled Irish name.
- Roslin
Description:
Roslin is a feminine name with Scottish origins, derived from the place name Roslin (or Rosslyn), a village near Edinburgh famous for its historic chapel. It can be interpreted as 'ridge of the waterfall' or 'ancient knowledge' in Celtic elements. The name gained contemporary recognition through the character Laura Roslin in the television series 'Battlestar Galactica.' Roslin has never been widely used, maintaining its distinctive quality. It offers the charm of floral-adjacent names like Rose or Rosalind but with a unique twist. The name carries associations with Scottish heritage, natural beauty, and mysterious history, appealing to parents looking for something uncommon yet accessible with rich cultural connections.
- Aderyn
Origin:
CornishMeaning:
"bird"Description:
Aderyn, like cousin Elowen, may have found her moment: Aderyn makes an original full name that gets you to the cute and trendy nickname Addie. Just remember to put the emphasis on the second syllable.
- Aleksa
Description:
Aleksa is a feminine name with Slavic origins, though it can occasionally be used for boys in some Eastern European countries. It's a variant of Aleksandra (the feminine form of Alexander), meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of humanity.' Popular throughout Serbia, Croatia, and other Balkan countries, Aleksa has a rich cultural heritage while offering a fresher alternative to the more common Alexandra in Western contexts. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and ending vowel sound. While still relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Aleksa has seen modest growth as parents seek out names with international flair. Its similarity to the popular Alexa has both helped and hindered its adoption, depending on parents' feelings about the association with Amazon's virtual assistant.
- Dehlia
Description:
Dehlia is a feminine name likely derived from the Greek word "delos" meaning "visible" or "clear." It may also be a variant spelling of Delia, which has classical origins and was used as an epithet for the Greek goddess Artemis, who was born on the island of Delos. Another possible source is the dahlia flower, named after Swedish botanist Anders Dahl. Dehlia offers a slightly unique spelling compared to the more common Delia, giving it a distinctive quality while maintaining familiar pronunciation. The name has never been extremely popular but has an elegant, somewhat exotic feel that appeals to parents seeking something both classic and uncommon for their daughters.
- Aart
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"eaglelike"Description:
That double a invests the old Arthur nickname with fresh life.
- Madelina
Origin:
Latinate form of MadelineDescription:
Madelina is the Madeline equivalent used in many European cultures. While it's a simple and melodic name, like its mother name it can lead to lots of spelling and pronunciation problems. The first syllable may be "may" or rhyme with dad; last two syllables pronounce lee-na, though of course some will inevitably say lye-na. Only a handful of girls received this name in the US last year, making it a distinctive and pretty classic, but don't choose it ignoring its very real down side.
- Sonne