Alternatives to Olivia

Liv combines the succinct charm of a nickname—people might assume it's short for Olivia—with the solidity of being a classic stand-alone Scandinavian name with a life-force meaning. It was brought into the public eye (in the English speaking world that is) due to the fame of actress and Aerosmith daughter Liv Tyler.

Though it sounds like a chopped-off variation of Olivia, which means olive, the distinctively attractive Livia has been an independent name since the days of the ancient Romans, when it belonged to Livia Drusilla—the powerful wife of the Emperor Augustus—and is still commonly heard in modern Italy.

Octavia began as the Latin, then Victorian name for an eighth child. While there aren't many eighth children anymore, this ancient Roman name has real possibilities as a substitute for the overused Olivia; recommended for its combination of classical and musical overtones. It was chosen for his daughter by Kevin Sorbo.

Pretty Hebrew name that would create a strong but feminine impression, as well as a variant of the Germanic name Odilia or Ottilie.

Odessia is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variation of Odessa, derived from the name of the Ukrainian port city on the Black Sea, which itself comes from the ancient Greek name Odysseus. Alternatively, it could be a feminized form of Odysseus, the legendary Greek hero. The addition of the 'i' gives the name a more flowing, feminine quality compared to Odessa. Odessia carries an exotic, almost mythical quality with its classical Greek connections while maintaining a distinctive modern sound. The name has remained rare throughout history, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical depth. Odessia suggests a sense of journey and adventure, evoking the epic travels of its namesake hero. Its melodic quality and unusual letter combination give it a memorable, elegant character.

Sounds a bit pharmaceutical.

Though greatly overshadowed by the trendy Olivia, Olive has a quiet, subtle appeal of its own -- and is now enjoying a remarkable comeback. Olive is one of only four girl names starting with O on the US Top 1000. Cool couple Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen chose it for their daughter, reviving the name to stylishness, and now Drew Barrymore has a little Olive too, as has country singer Jake Owen.

With its relation to Mount Olympus, home of the Greek gods, and to the Olympic games, this name has an athletic, goddess-like aura, making it the perfect Olivia substitute.

Floral, elegant, and bold, Ophelia re-entered the US Top 1000 in 2015 after more than 50 years off the charts. It has risen more than 700 spots since then and shows no signs of slowing down. Now in the US Top 300, could Ophelia one day become the next Olivia or Amelia?