Fanciful Names for Girls

Adelais is a feminine name of Old German origin, representing a beautiful medieval variant of Adelaide. The name means 'noble kind' or 'of noble type,' combining 'adal' (noble) and 'heid' (kind, type). Popular among European nobility during the Middle Ages, Adelais carries an aristocratic, vintage charm. The name fell from common usage by the Renaissance but has seen occasional revivals among those appreciating historical names. Its pronunciation (AD-eh-lays) offers a pleasing rhythm, while its spelling evokes images of medieval courts and chivalry. Though rare today, Adelais provides a distinctive alternative to the more common Adelaide or Adeline, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and feminine elegance.

Agnessa is a feminine name with Slavic and Greek roots, serving as a variant of Agnes. The original name Agnes derives from the Greek word 'hagnos,' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Agnessa emerged as a more ornate form popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. The addition of the '-sa' suffix creates a softer, more melodious quality to the traditional Agnes. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name carries an elegant, vintage charm with connections to early Christian history. Saint Agnes, a martyr of the early 4th century, has helped maintain the name's legacy throughout the centuries, though Agnessa remains a distinctive choice that combines classical heritage with exotic appeal.

Aubrette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning primarily as a diminutive form of Aubrey or Aubree. The name carries the meaning "elf ruler" or "magical being" from its Germanic roots through the element "alb" meaning elf and "ric" meaning power or ruler. The feminine French suffix "-ette" adds a sense of daintiness and charm. Aubrette remains quite rare, even in French-speaking regions, giving it an air of distinction and uniqueness. The name has an elegant, vintage quality that appeals to parents seeking something sophisticated yet uncommon. Despite its rarity, Aubrette fits well with the trend toward classic names with a feminine flair and could be considered a more elaborate alternative to the increasingly popular Aubrey.

Brigitta is a feminine name with rich historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess.' It's the Central European form of Bridget, particularly popular in Hungarian, German, and Scandinavian cultures. The name is associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints known for her generosity and compassion. Brigitta gained international recognition through characters in literature and film, including Maria's friend in 'The Sound of Music.' While maintaining its classic origins, Brigitta offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Bridget or Brigitte, combining ancient Celtic heritage with continental European elegance.

Coralie is currently very popular in French-speaking Quebec, and there is a contemporary French singer named Coralie Clement.

Emeralda is a feminine name derived from the precious green gemstone emerald, with an elaborated romantic ending. It likely developed as a variation of Esmeralda, which comes from the Spanish word for emerald. The name evokes the beauty, rarity, and rich green color of the gemstone, often associated with spring, rebirth, and prosperity. While less common than Esmeralda, Emeralda has appeared occasionally in usage records throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name carries a lyrical, somewhat exotic quality that appeals to parents seeking names with natural associations and an elegant, distinctive sound. The emerald connection also ties it to May's birthstone.

Magdala is a feminine name with profound historical and biblical connections. It derives from the ancient town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee, most famously known as the home of Mary Magdalene, an important figure in Christianity. The place name Magdala has Aramaic origins meaning "tower" or "elevated place." This gives the name a sense of strength and prominence. While never among the most popular names, Magdala has been used sporadically throughout history, particularly in religious communities. It offers a less common alternative to the more familiar Magdalene or Madeline while maintaining the rich historical and spiritual heritage.

Morganna is a feminine name derived from the Welsh 'Morgan,' meaning 'sea-born' or 'sea-circle.' This elaborated form adds a romantic, medieval flair to the traditional Morgan. The name is strongly associated with Arthurian legend through Morgan le Fay, a powerful enchantress often portrayed as King Arthur's half-sister. This literary connection gives Morganna mystical and magical connotations. The doubled 'n' spelling variation creates a more ornate version of the more common Morgana. While never reaching widespread popularity, Morganna has attracted parents drawn to names with mythological significance and Celtic roots. The name evokes images of strength, mystery, and ancient magic, appealing to those seeking a name with dramatic presence and historical depth.

Oleana is a lyrical feminine name with possible Slavic or Greek origins. It may be a variant of Elena/Helena (meaning 'bright, shining light') or could relate to Oleander, a flowering plant name. In some Slavic languages, particularly Ukrainian, Oleana appears as a folk variant of Olena (Helena). The name gained some recognition through a Norwegian folk song about a utopian community called 'Oleana.' With its flowing vowels and soft sounds, Oleana has a romantic, almost ethereal quality. Though rare in most English-speaking countries, it carries a natural musicality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable. The name's international connections and gentle sound give it a sophisticated, worldly character while maintaining accessibility.

Tasmina is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. It may be derived from Persian origins, possibly related to words meaning "valuable" or "precious." The name has gained some recognition in South Asian communities, particularly in Pakistan and parts of India. Tasmina also bears phonetic similarity to Tasmania, the Australian island state, which might influence perceptions of the name in some Western contexts. The name has a melodious quality with its three syllables and flowing sound pattern. While not widely common in most Western countries, Tasmina has seen modest usage in British South Asian communities. The name projects an image of exotic elegance and distinctiveness. For parents seeking a name with international flair that remains relatively uncommon yet accessible in pronunciation, Tasmina offers an appealing option with its gentle sound and positive connotations.

Ulyana is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It derives from the Latin name Juliana, which comes from Julius, meaning 'youthful' or 'downy-bearded'. Ulyana represents the Eastern Slavic adaptation of this classical name. The name has a flowing, melodious quality with its balanced vowels and consonants. In Slavic countries, it has maintained steady popularity throughout history, associated with several saints and notable figures. While less common in Western countries, Ulyana has begun to gain recognition internationally. The name carries connotations of Slavic heritage and cultural richness while offering an exotic yet accessible option for parents seeking names with historical depth and a distinctive sound.

Ursulina is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Ursula, which derives from the Latin word "ursa" meaning "bear." This elaborated version adds a delicate, affectionate quality to the stronger root name. Ursulina has Latin origins and is found primarily in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian language communities. While Ursula gained recognition through Saint Ursula and the character in "The Little Mermaid," Ursulina remains considerably rarer. The name carries a traditional, somewhat old-world charm with its flowing syllables and romantic language roots. Despite its connection to the word for bear, Ursulina has a surprisingly gentle, feminine quality that contrasts with the strength implied by its etymological meaning.