Angelic Short and Sweet Names

The name of the Greek winged god of love (usually romantic and sexual love) may seem a lot to live up to, but like other deity names, it's on the rise. In a recent year, it was given to more than 130 boys in the US.

Feo is an unusual feminine name with multiple possible origins. In Spanish, 'feo' literally means 'ugly,' making it an unconventional choice, though it may function as a shortened form of names like Feodora or Feofan. In Greek contexts, it could derive from Theophania, meaning 'manifestation of God.' As a feminine name in its own right, Feo remains extremely rare across all regions and time periods. Its brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite potentially ancient roots. The name's simplicity and distinctive sound might attract parents seeking something truly uncommon yet straightforward in pronunciation, though its Spanish meaning might give some pause.

Celestial and space-age, Halo is a contemporary choice that first appeared in the US stats for boys in 2008. Currently more popular for girls, it is nevertheless on the rise across the board.

Liv combines the succinct charm of a nickname—people might assume it's short for Olivia—with the solidity of being a classic stand-alone Scandinavian name with a life-force meaning. It was brought into the public eye (in the English speaking world that is) due to the fame of actress and Aerosmith daughter Liv Tyler.

Neo, indeed--though it was a male character in "The Matrix."

Rio is one of Japan's most popular girls' names, constantly sitting in that country's Top 10. Of course, Rio may also stem from the Portuguese and Spanish word for river, and the Brazilian city Rio de Janeiro. A truly international name for a cosmopolitan baby!

Ro is a casual short form that doesn't usually appear on the birth certificate on its own. But it makes a friendly nickname for any girls' name starting with Ro-.