​
​
Advanced Search

Unusual Versions of Common Names

Lilyskeeter
By Lilyskeeter
Updated Sun May 14 2023
You've probably heard of the name Brianna, but have you heard of the name Bria? This list is for those people who want to give the traditional names a new meaning. These could be used as nicknames for the more traditional names, but work perfectly on their own.
  1. Alexandria

    • Origin:

      Variation of Alexandra, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "defending men"

    • Description:

      Alexandria turns classic Alexandra into a more distinctive place-name, in both Egypt and Virginia, while also giving it a touchy of frilliness. The name peaked in the 90s when it entered the US Top 100 for the first time, but has since been on decline.
  2. Anaise

    • Origin:

      Variation of Anais

    • Description:

      Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.
  3. Asa

    • Origin:

      Hebrew; Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "healer; born in the morning"

    • Description:

      A short but strong biblical name with multicultural appeal, Asa is enjoying new visibility thanks to hot young actor Asa Butterfield of Hugo fame.
  4. Beatrix

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "she who brings happiness; blessed"

    • Description:

      Beatrix has a solid history of its own apart from Beatrice, with that final x adding a playful, animated note to the name's imposing history and stately vibe.
  5. Brenna

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Brennan

    • Meaning:

      "descendant of the sad one"

    • Description:

      Brenna is a feminine form of the Irish surname Brennan, or perhaps a variation of Brenda or Brendan—all of which have different meanings. Whatever its derivation or authenticity, it's a modern sounding name which has steadily decreased in popularity since 1995 when it peaked at Number 235 in the United States.
  6. Bronte

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "thunder"

    • Description:

      This lovely surname of the three novel-writing sisters, now used as a baby name, makes a fitting tribute for lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. While the original name took an umlaut over the e, modern English speakers may find that more trouble than it's worth.
  7. Buffy

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Elizabeth

    • Description:

      Buffy was a one-time sorority girl with a roommate named Muffy, then a fearless vampire slayer, though still basically fluffy. You might think of Buffy as the feminine version of Chip or Bud -- an all-purpose nickname now buried in a mid-century time capsule.
  8. Coilin

    • Description:

      Coilin is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin. It is a diminutive form of 'Coil' or 'Coll,' meaning 'hazel tree,' which was significant in Celtic culture as a symbol of wisdom and inspiration. The suffix '-in' adds an endearing quality, suggesting 'little Coil.' While not widely used internationally, Coilin maintains popularity primarily within Ireland and among families with Irish heritage. The name carries a traditional Celtic charm while being distinctive and uncommon. Its pronunciation (KOY-leen or KOH-leen) sometimes causes it to be confused with the more common 'Colin,' though they have different etymological roots.
  9. Decla

    • Origin:

      Irish, feminine variation of Declan

    • Description:

      Has an incomplete feeling....
  10. Effy

    • Origin:

      Greek, diminutive of Euphemia

    • Meaning:

      "fair speech"

    • Description:

      This can be a short form of any Greek girls' name starting with 'Ef', such as Efstraria or Efrosini. It has also been suggested as a possible nickname for Elizabeth.
  11. Francis

    • Description:

      Francis as a feminine name has Latin origins, derived from the Latin 'Franciscus' meaning 'French' or 'free one.' While Francis is more commonly used for boys in English-speaking countries, it has a long tradition as a feminine name as well, especially in Catholic families. The feminine version is sometimes distinguished by pronunciation (FRAN-sis for females versus FRAN-sis or FRAN-siss for males). Many women named Francis opt to use nicknames like Fran, Frannie, or Francie. The name gained popularity for girls in the early 20th century but declined after the 1950s. With its classic religious associations, particularly to St. Francis of Assisi, the name carries connotations of humility, generosity, and connection to nature.

  12. Gab

    • Description:

      Gab is a short, punchy masculine name that typically serves as a diminutive of Gabriel, though it can stand independently. Derived from the Hebrew name Gabriel, meaning "God is my strength," Gab carries the essence of this powerful meaning in a more casual form. While not as commonly used as the full name Gabriel, Gab has gained some popularity as parents increasingly favor brief, uncomplicated names. The name has a modern, approachable quality that fits contemporary naming trends. In some cultures, particularly in informal settings or among friends, Gab might also be used as a nickname for someone named Gabriel without being their official given name.
  13. Guinivere

    • Description:

      Guinivere is a variant spelling of Guinevere, the name of King Arthur's queen in Arthurian legend. Derived from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, meaning 'white phantom' or 'fair one,' it combines 'gwen' (white, fair) and 'hwyfar' (smooth, soft). This romantic name evokes images of medieval chivalry and courtly love. Though never extremely common, Guinivere has maintained steady recognition due to its literary associations. The variant spelling with 'i' instead of 'e' gives the name a slightly unique twist while preserving its elegant sound. Parents choose this name for its feminine grace, historical depth, and the romantic imagery it conjures.
  14. Gwendolen

    • Origin:

      Welsh

    • Meaning:

      "white ring, circle"

    • Description:

      Gwendolen, an ancient Welsh favorite, retired decades ago in favor of the short form Gwen, but now, as in the case all across the naming board, the nickname has faded and the more distinguished original is up for reappraisal.
  15. Holland

    • Origin:

      Dutch place name

    • Meaning:

      "wooded land"

    • Description:

      Holland is one of the coolest geographical names, unadorned and elegant, evocative of fine Rembrandt portraits and fields of pink and yellow tulips. It first entered the US Top 1000 for girls in 2014, but fell out of the Top 1000 for boys a century earlier.
  16. Iona

    • Origin:

      Scottish place-name

    • Description:

      This name of a small island off the coast of Scotland is trending upwards along with other I names.
  17. Jolie

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "pretty"

    • Description:

      Jolie is as pretty as its literal meaning; nowadays it is also seen as a girls’ name, via Angelina for whom Jolie was originally her middle name.
  18. Jude

    • Origin:

      Latin diminutive of Judah, Hebrew, Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "praised; to be generous, to be good to others"

    • Description:

      Jude is a modern star, maintaining a steady level of popularity -- but not TOO much popularity, in the US at least. Thank Jude Law and the great Lennon-McCartney song "Hey Jude", double-handedly responsible for propelling Jude up the charts.
  19. Leia

    • Origin:

      Variation of Leah, Laya, or Leya, Portuguese, Spanish, English, Sanskrit

    • Meaning:

      "weary; the law; dissolution"

    • Description:

      Most familiar in the English speaking world as the Star Wars princess, Jedi, and leader, Leia can be considered a pop culture choice, created by George Lucas who in turn likely based it on the Biblical Leah. It has been in the US Top 1000 since the mid-2000s and is also a popular choice in the UK and Sweden.
  20. Lennon

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "lover"

    • Description:

      A growing number of high-profile (and other) parents are choosing to honor their musical idols, such as Hendrix, Presley, Jagger, and now Lennon.