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-ian/-ien/-ion

  1. Xavian

    • Description:

      Xavian is a masculine name representing a modern variation of Xavier, which itself derives from the Basque place name Etxeberria, meaning 'new house.' The name gained prominence through St. Francis Xavier, a 16th-century Spanish missionary. Xavian combines the distinctive 'X' beginning of Xavier with the flowing ending of names like Adrian or Julian, creating a contemporary feel while maintaining historical connections. The initial 'X' gives the name an edge of uniqueness, while the overall sound remains approachable. Growing in popularity since the early 2000s, Xavian appeals to parents seeking modern-sounding names with subtle historical roots. The name projects qualities of strength and distinctiveness while offering the friendly nickname option 'Xavi.' Its relative rarity ensures individuality without being difficult to pronounce or understand.
  2. Vivien

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "life"

    • Description:

      Vivien (Scarlett O'Hara) Leigh was born Vivian. Some sources give Vivien as a relative of the Irish goddess name Bebinn and a literary name invented by Tennyson. Others say it's related to the Latin-based Viviana, meaning life. This spelling of the name is as legitimate as many others.
  3. Darien

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Darian

    • Meaning:

      "rich, kingly"

    • Description:

      The Darien spelling, which relates to the posh Connecticut town, peaked at Number 393 in 1994 but more recently has been just hanging on at the bottom of the Top 1000. Still, a name with an appealing sound and feel that may ascend again.
  4. Orion

    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name

    • Description:

      The Greek mythological hunter who was turned into a constellation is much more often used for boys.
  5. Carnelian

    • Origin:

      Gemstone name

    • Description:

      Carnelian is an ochre-colored semi-precious gemstone, named after a type of cherry.
  6. Rian

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "little king"

    • Description:

      More authentic and original form of Ryan, but far less common of the two spellings in the US. There were about 170 baby boys named Rian in the US last year, versus over 4000 named Ryan.
  7. Dorian

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "from Doris"

    • Description:

      A male name occasionally borrowed by the girls, as in Dorian Cramer, a long-running female character on the soap One Life to Live and famous midcentury model Dorian Leigh.
  8. Justinian

    • Description:

      Justinian is a masculine name of Latin origin, drawing its heritage from the illustrious Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, who ruled from 527 to 565 CE and was known for his significant legal reforms and architectural achievements like the Hagia Sophia. The name derives from the Latin 'iustus,' meaning 'just' or 'righteous,' with the suffix adding a sense of belonging or connection. Justinian conveys strength, wisdom, and moral integrity, making it an excellent choice for parents drawn to names with historical gravitas and positive character associations. While relatively uncommon, Justinian offers the familiar nicknames 'Justin' or 'Justo' for everyday use, combining accessibility with distinguished historical roots.

  9. Dalian

    • Description:

      Dalian is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Welsh elements 'dal' meaning 'to hold' and 'ian' meaning 'God is gracious,' suggesting 'God holds graciously.' Alternatively, it could relate to the Chinese city of Dalian, making it a place name turned personal name. Some consider it a variation of names like Dallen or Dylan. The name has a strong, melodic quality with its balanced syllables. Dalian remains quite rare in Western naming practices but may appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name with cross-cultural resonance. Its uncommon status gives it a fresh, contemporary feel despite potential ancient roots.
  10. Gian

    • Origin:

      Italian, diminutive of Giovanni

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      Gian sounds (almost) like John, so there's some potential for confusion, but the spelling makes it unmistakeably Italian. It could be a solution if longer names like Gianni and Gianluca aren't your style.
  11. Julienne

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "youthful or sky father"

    • Description:

      Fine in France, but here it means vegetables sliced into thin strips.
  12. Olivian

    • Origin:

      Romanian variation of Oliver

    • Description:

      As both Oliver and Olivia grow in popularity throughout the English-speaking world, parents may seek variations that are the same-but-different and Olivian is one such choice. Attractive and easy to understand, yet some confuse it with Olivia.
  13. Rion

    • Origin:

      from the Irish word for Queen

    • Description:

      A much prettier and feminine version of the boys name Ryan which is starting to be used for girls, while still retaining the Irish feel and the regal meaning.
  14. Darian

    • Origin:

      English variation of Darius, Latin from Greek and Persian, or Darren, English from Irish

    • Meaning:

      "possessing goodness; little great one"

    • Description:

      Unusual option, with a Waspy Connecticut air.
  15. Vermilion

    • Origin:

      Color name

    • Description:

      This vivid reddish orange color name is an undiscovered possibility -- kind of a female equivalent of Cerulean for boys.
  16. Fabien

    • Description:

      Fabien is a masculine name of French origin, serving as the French variant of the Latin name Fabianus, which derives from 'Fabius,' an ancient Roman family name. The name ultimately stems from 'faba,' meaning 'bean grower.' Fabien carries an air of sophistication and continental charm, popular throughout French-speaking regions and increasingly recognized internationally. In France, it saw significant popularity during the 1960s-1980s. The name suggests qualities of creativity, elegance, and intelligence. While less common in English-speaking countries, Fabien has gained some recognition through notable bearers, including French athletes and artists, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with European flair.

  17. Florian

    • Description:

      Florian is a feminine name derived from the Latin word "floris" meaning "flower." Despite its feminine usage, Florian is traditionally more common as a masculine name, particularly in German, Austrian, and Romanian cultures. The female version emerged as part of the trend of adopting masculine names for girls. It carries connotations of blossoming beauty and springtime vitality. As a feminine name, Florian remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Women named Florian often appreciate its unique blend of strength and natural beauty. The name's connection to flora also associates it with growth, renewal, and natural elegance.

  18. Veridian

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "green"

    • Description:

      Veridian is a variation on Viridiana or Viridis, meaning green. Veridian is also the name of an American aeronautical company, so we recommend you stick with the alternatives.
  19. Adriene

    • Description:

      Adriene is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of Adrienne, the French feminine form of Adrian. Originating from the Latin name Hadrianus, it refers to someone from Hadria (modern Adria), an ancient town in northern Italy. The spelling Adriene offers a slightly simplified version while maintaining the sophisticated sound of the traditional form. Though less common than Adrienne, this variant has maintained steady if modest usage. The name carries connotations of elegance and refinement with its French associations, while still feeling accessible. Notable bearers include various actresses and writers, though the spelling Adriene is less frequently seen in public figures than Adrienne. The name combines classical roots with a gentle, feminine sound.
  20. Maximillian

    • Origin:

      Variant of Maximilian, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "greatest"

    • Description:

      An alternative spelling to the sleeker Maximilian, briefly popular in the US in the 90s and early 2000s, and a well used spelling in England and Wales until recently. It ultimately comes from the Latin maximus meaning "greatest".

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