Power Names/Fantasy
- Hallow
Origin:
word nameDescription:
Hallow is a word meaning sacred or holy. As the root word for Halloween (orginally All Hallows' Eve), this name might be an evocative choice for a baby born on or near October 31st. It could work well for either a boy or a girl and offers the nicknames Hal and Halley.
- Hecuba
Origin:
Greek literary nameDescription:
Queen Hecuba was the legendary queen of King Priam of Troy, mother of Hector, Paris, Cassandra and others. Euripedes' tragedy Hecuba depicts Hecuba's grief over the death of her daughter Polyxena, and the revenge she takes for the murder of her youngest son Polydorus.
- Hestia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"hearth, fireside"Description:
Hestia is the name of the Greek goddess of the hearth, home and chastity. Though Hestia has been long dormant as a name, it's a possibility for the parent in search of a classic name with deep roots that's also unusual. It's one of the Greek goddess namesthat's both familiar and distinctive.
- Hiroko
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"generous, fair"Description:
Commonly used in Japanese families.
- Horatia
Origin:
Latin feminine variation of HoratioDescription:
Has the fusty charm of recently excavated ancient Roman male names like Augustus and Magnus, which might just appeal to the fearless baby namer.
- Horatio
Origin:
English variation of Latin HoratiusMeaning:
"hour, time"Description:
Like Horace, Horatio is a variation on the Latin Horatius, but its Shakespearean and optimistic Horatio Alger pedigree makes it an attractive up-and-comer, especially with its cool final o. A modern reference is the charismatic TV character Horatio Caine played by David Caruso in CSI: Miami.
- Ibane
Description:
Ibane is a feminine name with Basque origins, where it's considered a variant of the name Ivana or Joan, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious.' In Basque culture, which has preserved one of Europe's oldest and most distinctive languages, Ibane represents a connection to this unique heritage. The name remains relatively uncommon outside the Basque regions of northern Spain and southwestern France, giving it an exotic and distinctive quality in most parts of the world. Ibane has a melodic, flowing sound with its soft consonants and open ending. For those with Basque ancestry or those simply drawn to its unusual yet accessible sound, Ibane offers a name that is both distinctive and culturally rich.
- Iben
Origin:
German, Frisian, and Scandinavian form of IvoMeaning:
"yew wood"Description:
This unusual (to the American ear) unisex name is used throughout Scandinavia and Germany. It can be a Frisian and German variation of Ivo, derived from the elementiwa element, meaning "yew". It is also related to the Danish word ibenholt which means "ebony".
- Idalyne
Description:
Idalyne is a feminine name with likely Germanic and Greek influences, possibly combining elements of 'ida' (industrious or prosperous) with the suffix 'lyne,' a variation of 'line' meaning 'lake' or possibly derived from 'Helena' meaning 'bright, shining light.' This elegant, uncommon name carries a vintage charm while remaining distinctive. Idalyne has a melodious quality that flows beautifully when spoken. While not among mainstream popular names, it appeals to parents seeking something unique yet accessible. The name offers versatile nickname options including Ida, Iddy, or Lynnie. Idalyne's rarity gives it a special quality, allowing a child to have a name that stands out while still having classical roots and a pleasing sound.
- Idonea
Description:
Idonea is a feminine name with medieval origins, derived from the Old English word 'idoneus' meaning 'suitable' or 'appropriate.' Used rarely in the Middle Ages, particularly in England, the name carries an elegant, antiquated charm. Idonea appears in historical records from the 12th to 14th centuries before falling into obscurity. The name has a rhythmic, melodic quality with its four syllables and flowing vowel sounds. While extremely rare in modern usage, Idonea appeals to those drawn to historical names with literary qualities. Its uniqueness ensures distinctiveness while its classical roots provide cultural depth. For contemporary parents, Idonea offers a rare combination of ancient heritage, linguistic beauty, and historical significance.
- Idris
Origin:
Welsh; ArabicMeaning:
"lord; studious"Description:
A name that crosses cultures, Idris was virtually unknown before the emergence of the charismatic Idris Elba, first on The Wire and then depicting Nelson Mandela in the acclaimed film.
- Ikaros
Description:
Ikaros is a masculine name derived from Greek mythology, an alternate spelling of Icarus, the figure who flew too close to the sun with wings made by his father Daedalus. This rare name carries profound mythological significance and symbolism related to ambition, freedom, and the consequences of hubris. Though uncommon in everyday usage, Ikaros appeals to parents with an appreciation for classical mythology and Greek heritage. The name has a dramatic, distinctive quality with its strong consonants and vowel sounds. While the tragic ending of the mythological Icarus might give some pause, others are drawn to the name's powerful evocation of flight, aspiration, and the human desire to transcend limitations.
- Ila
Origin:
Scottish, Hindi, Hungarian, FinnishMeaning:
"from the island; earth, sacred speech; shining light; joy"Description:
A simple name that's rising fast in the US, likely inspired by the popularity of Isla and Ayla. This streamlined form might appeal to those who like Ana, Ivy, and Ada, and it brings a multicultural element to the name.
- Ilanys
Description:
Ilanys is an uncommon feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a creative variation of Ilana (Hebrew for 'tree' or 'oak tree') or could be related to names like Ilan or Elaine. The distinctive spelling with the 'ys' ending gives it a somewhat mystical or fantasy-like quality. This rare name has a flowing, lyrical sound that carries an air of elegance and uniqueness. Ilanys might appeal to parents seeking a name that sounds familiar yet remains highly distinctive and unlikely to be shared with classmates. The possible connection to trees suggests qualities of strength, growth, and natural beauty, while its unusual letter combination creates visual interest and memorability.
- Ilithyia
Origin:
Greek from LatinMeaning:
"the readycomer"Description:
A name so old that it may predate the written word. Ilithyia is, immediately, the Latinized version of the name of the Greek goddess of childbirth and midwifery, but its roots stretch back to the Ancient Minoan civilization, and possibly beyond.
- Ilona
Origin:
Hungarian variation of Helen, FinnishMeaning:
"shining torch; light; joy"Description:
This variant of Helen is used across Europe, in France, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, and it's native Hungary. Reminiscent of Elena, Leona, Ilaria, Fiona and Lola, it nevertheless remains a rarity in the US.
- Iluka
Origin:
Australian AboriginalMeaning:
"by the sea"Description:
This Yaygir Aboriginal name is the name of two towns in Australia and is also occasionally spotted as a name. Meaning "by the sea" the name is perfect for beach-going families.
- Imala
Origin:
Native AmericanMeaning:
"strong-minded"Description:
Distinctive Native-American choice with forceful meaning.
- Iman
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"faith"Description:
One of the best-known African names in the Western World because of the Somali-born model and wife of the late David Bowie.
- Imara
Origin:
KiswahiliMeaning:
"firm"Description:
This could make a hauntingly evocative name for an American child, striking the perfect balance of the unusual and the familiar. Imara's meaning adds further appeal placing it among the special class of girl names that mean strong, brave, or powerful.