Amazingly Horrible Names
- Ademir
Origin:
Portuguese, GermanMeaning:
"famous wealth"Description:
A handsome Portuguese name derived from the old Germanic saint's name Audamar or Otmar. Especially common in Brazil.
- Allegra
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"joyous"Description:
In music, the term allegro means "quickly, lively tempo," which makes this quintessential Bohemian ballet dancer's name all the more appealing. Allegra is one of the most distinctive yet accessible girl names starting with A.
- Anakin
Origin:
American invented nameDescription:
Anakin Skywalker, aka Darth Vader, is the antagonist in the original Star Wars trilogy. The name Anakin first entered the US Top 1000 in 2014. Its meaning is unknown but is thought to be an homage to a friend of George Lucas.
- Anis
Description:
Anis is a delicate feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic, it means "friendly" or "companion," while in Hebrew it can mean "gathering" or "harmony." The name also refers to the star anise plant, known for its distinctive flavor and fragrance, adding a nature-inspired element to its meaning. Anis has been used across various cultures including Arabic, Persian, French, and South Asian communities. Despite its multicultural presence, the name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Its brevity and gentle sound make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that's simple yet distinctive, with rich cultural connections and a subtle botanical reference.
- Aonghus
Description:
Aonghus is a masculine name of Scottish and Irish Gaelic origin, equivalent to the Anglicized form Angus. The name combines the Celtic elements 'oino' meaning 'one' or 'unique' and 'gusa' meaning 'choice' or 'strength.' In Irish mythology, Aonghus (or Aengus) was the god of love, youth, and poetic inspiration. The traditional Gaelic spelling gives this ancient name an authentic character while preserving its strong cultural heritage. While the spelling Aonghus might present pronunciation challenges in non-Gaelic speaking regions (it's roughly pronounced 'AY-nus' or 'OY-nus'), it remains popular among families with Scottish or Irish connections seeking to honor their Celtic roots.
- Arsen
Description:
Arsen is a strong masculine name with ancient roots, predominantly used in Armenian, Russian, and Eastern European cultures. Derived from the Greek name Arsenios, meaning 'virile' or 'strong,' it has connections to the Latin element 'arsenicum.' The name carries connotations of strength and masculinity across cultures. While never reaching mainstream popularity in Western countries, Arsen maintains consistent usage in Armenia, Russia, and parts of Eastern Europe. In some regions, it's associated with Saint Arsenius the Great, a respected Roman theological instructor. The name has a powerful, distinctive sound that combines traditional heritage with modern appeal.
- Aryan
Origin:
Indo-IranianMeaning:
"warrior, honorable"Description:
Aryan derives from the Sanskrit word ārya, meaning "honorable" or "high-born." As a term, Aryan was used to describe Indo-Europeans—particularly Iranians—who shared common religious, cultural, and linguistic history. It was later misapplied by the Nazis to refer solely to Germanic and Nordic Caucasians, ultimately corrupting the term.
- Asser
Description:
Asser is a masculine name with ancient roots. It originates from Hebrew, where it was spelled 'Asher' and meant 'happy' or 'blessed'. The name appears in the Bible as one of Jacob's sons and one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark, Asser has historical significance, being the name of several notable medieval figures including Asser Rig, a Danish nobleman, and Asser of Canterbury, an early medieval monk. The name has remained relatively uncommon in modern times, giving it a distinctive quality. Its biblical connections may appeal to those seeking a name with religious significance, while its strong consonant sounds give it a masculine character.
- Baldemar
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"bold and renowned"Description:
The name of a monk who is the patron saint of blacksmiths -- not a twentieth-century occupation or baby name.
- Balzac
Origin:
French surnameDescription:
Dashing middle name choice for admirers of the French author.
- Banana
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Banana is one fruity name we wouldn't recommend. Pick Plum instead. There is a Japanese novelist whose pen name is Banana Yoshimoto--birth name Mahoko.
- Banjo
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
When actress Rachel Griffiths chose this highly unusual name for her son, many assumed it was a bizarre invention. But a noted Australian poet (Griffiths is an Aussie) is known by this name.
- Banky
Description:
Banky is an uncommon masculine name that likely developed as a diminutive nickname before occasionally being used as a given name. It may derive from surnames like Banks or Bankhead, or possibly stem from bank-related occupational names. In some cultures, particularly West African, it may have independent origins or meanings. The name has a playful, friendly quality with its 'y' ending giving it a diminutive feel. Banky has never been widely used in mainstream Western naming records, remaining distinctly uncommon. The name's brevity and upbeat sound give it a contemporary, casual quality. Despite its rarity in official records, Banky has gained some recognition through notable bearers including musicians and entertainers.
- Bebop
Origin:
Word NameDescription:
Famously used as the middle name of the Red Hot Chili Pepper's Mike "Flea" Balzay's daughter Sunny in 2006.
- Beige
Origin:
Color nameDescription:
Bland, and better for a girl besides.
- Bekki
Description:
Bekki is a casual, friendly variant spelling of Rebecca, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'to bind' or 'to tie.' This diminutive form with its distinctive spelling emerged during the trend toward less formal name versions and creative spellings that gained popularity in the later 20th century. While the traditional Rebecca has biblical roots and centuries of use across many cultures, Bekki offers a more playful, approachable alternative. The double 'k' gives it a distinctive appearance compared to other variations like Becky or Becki. Though less common as a formal given name and more often used as a nickname, Bekki conveys warmth and informality while maintaining a connection to the respected traditional form.
- Belcher
Origin:
English from FrenchMeaning:
"pretty face"Description:
Try telling the kids it really means "pretty face" and not "burper".
- Bellow
Origin:
English occupational nameMeaning:
"bellows maker"Description:
Might be an honorific for novelist Saul Bellow, although bellowing is not the gentlest of sounds. Consider Saul instead.
- Bichette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"little doe"Description:
Charming Gallic possibility but with some obvious playground problems.
- Blanford
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"gray man's ford"Description:
Comes with a monocle.