Aristocratic Names

Alexandrina is the most elaborate and unusual of the Alex- girls's names.The real first name of Queen Victoria, who was given it in honor of her godfather, Alexander I of Russia (her childhood nickname was Drina), it would make a distinctive pick, even though some might find five syllables a bit much. It was particularly popular in Scotland in the 1930s.

Delicate and gentle old-fashioned name, the kind found in early English poetry. While Corinna and the original Green Korinna are technically diminutives of the ancient Kore, now the popular Cora, this name will often be mistaken for other similar-sounding though unrelated names, such as Karenna. But it's pretty and is backed by more tradition than you'd guess.

This name of famed philosopher, mathematician and Nobel laureate Bertrand Russell becomes slightly more plausible with the French pronunciation, bare-TRAHN. Another noted bearer is French director and screenwriter Bertrand Tavernier.

This pleasant single-syllable surname might be especially appealing to someone involved with the internet (and who isn't?)--even if some others might see it as a drawback.

While Dennis may be more familiar to English speakers, Denis, or sometimes Denys, were the original medieval French forms of the name. Ultimately derived from Dionysius, the Greek god of wine and debauchery, it is a saint's name, popular in France during the Middle Ages, and during the 60s.

This version of Tristan, known to English Lit students from the novel Tristram Shandy, is rarely used in this country, but, though its similarity to the popular Tristan could prove confusing, still makes an interesting literary choice.

This softer version of Adolf is sadly still off-limits due to the connotations with Hitler.

Albina is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'albus' meaning 'white' or 'bright.' The name suggests qualities of purity, clarity, and radiance. Historically popular across Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia, Poland, Slovenia, and Albania, Albina has been used since ancient Roman times. In Catholic tradition, Saint Albina was a 3rd-century martyr. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century in Slavic countries but became less common in recent decades. Albina offers a classical European sound with a delicate yet distinctive quality. In some cultures, it's associated with the dawn or morning light, symbolizing new beginnings and hope.

Ancient Irish saint's name that's unlikely, because of its similarity to "ninny," to join cousin Finian in popularity.

Like Verity and Amity, this inclusive virtue name used by the colorful British literary Mitford family is ready to join its more popular peers Hope, Faith, and Grace.

Rarely used un-Gaelic-sounding Scottish name with literary associations to Erskine Caldwell, author of Tobacco Road and God's Little Acre.

A perfectly fine Anglo surname, though we'd prefer Keaton. Oscar-winning writer-director George Seaton (Miracle on 34th Street, The Country Girl) was actually born George Stenius. 

Osbourne is a masculine name with Old English origins, derived from 'os' meaning 'god' and 'beorn' meaning 'warrior' or 'bear,' creating the powerful meaning 'divine warrior' or 'god-like strength.' Historically used as a surname throughout England, it later transitioned to a given name. The name gained modern recognition through association with rock musician Ozzy Osbourne and his family. Osbourne carries an aristocratic, distinguished quality that suggests strength and character. While not among the most common names, it maintains steady popularity among parents seeking a name with historical depth and strong phonetic presence. The spelling with a 'u' gives it a more traditional English appearance compared to variant forms like Osborn.

A Welsh saint’s name, possibly deriving from the Old Welsh word for "red".

Aldred is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from the Old English elements 'eald' meaning 'old' and 'ræd' meaning 'counsel' or 'wisdom.' Historically significant during the medieval period in England, Aldred was borne by several notable figures including bishops and nobles. The name fell from common usage after the Norman Conquest but has occasionally resurfaced as families rediscover traditional Germanic and Anglo-Saxon names. While never reaching mainstream popularity in modern times, Aldred appeals to parents drawn to vintage names with substantial historical weight. Its straightforward pronunciation and spelling, combined with the distinguished nickname Al, make it accessible despite its antiquity. Aldred conveys dignity and wisdom while maintaining a distinctive quality in today's naming landscape.

A beautiful rare choice, derived from Latin aurum "gold".

Sibell is a feminine name with medieval origins, likely a variant of Sibyl or Sybil, which comes from the Greek 'Sibylla,' referring to female prophets or oracles in ancient Greece and Rome. This connection gives the name an air of mystery and ancient wisdom. The spelling variation with double 'l' adds a distinctive touch to the traditional name. Sibell was occasionally used in medieval England and experienced limited usage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It carries an elegant, somewhat aristocratic quality reminiscent of the Edwardian era. While extremely rare today, Sibell might appeal to parents drawn to vintage names with historical depth. Its rarity offers uniqueness while still maintaining recognizable pronunciation and spelling patterns.