Old New England Names from Maine
- Adelbert
Description:
Adelbert is a masculine name of Germanic origin combining the elements 'adal' meaning noble or aristocratic and 'beraht' meaning bright or famous. This powerful combination creates a meaning along the lines of 'noble-bright' or 'illustriously famous.' Popular among medieval European nobility, Adelbert was carried by several saints and rulers throughout history. The name traveled across Europe with variations including Albert, Adalbert, and Ethelbert. While its usage declined in the 20th century, Adelbert maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents drawn to vintage names with strong historical roots. It offers distinctive formal options with friendly nicknames like Adel, Del, or Bert.
- Alba
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"white"Description:
Alba is quietly making a behind-the-scenes comeback, perhaps thanks to actress turned baby-product mogul Jessica Alba. Last on the Top 1000 a century ago, the name was given to nearly 200 baby girls in the US last year. Alba might be tomorrow's successor to Ava and Ella. In Spain, Alba ranks among the Top 20 girls' names. Alba is the name of a character in The Time Traveler's Wife.
- Alfreda
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"elf power,"Description:
With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.
- Aline
Origin:
Variation of Adeline or AileenDescription:
Aline may have originated as a short form of Adeline in the Middle Ages, but it may also be a variation of the Irish Aileen or Scottish Eileen. Aline dropped off the Top 1000 in the 1950s. Fewer than 40 baby girls were named Aline in the US last year.
- Alpheus
Origin:
Hebrew from GreekMeaning:
"changing"Description:
There is some disagreement whether there are one or two figures named Alpheus in the Bible. There's an Alpheus who's the father of James and an Alpheus who's the father of Levi, and if James and Levi are brothers, then that's the same Alpheus. Or not.
- Althea
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"with healing power"Description:
Althea is a poetic, almost ethereal name found in Greek myth and pastoral poetry, associated in modern times with the great tennis player Althea Gibson, the first African-American to win at Wimbledon.
- Alton
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"dweller at the old town"Description:
The sort of formal surname name more popular in another era; Dalton's a more modern relation.
- Alva
Origin:
English form of Irish Ailbhe, Swedish and Norwegian feminine form of AlfMeaning:
"white; elf"Description:
While the male Alva or Alvah relates directly to the minor Biblical character, the female version is more likely an Anglicized form of the Irish name Ailbhe, or a feminine form the name Alf (and Alf- beginning names), popular in its native Sweden and Norway. Best known as Thomas Edison's middle name, Alva has true unisex roots.
- Alvena
Origin:
Feminine form of Alvin, EnglishMeaning:
"noble friend, friend of the elves"Description:
Similar to Alma and Alba, Alina and Alexandra, Alvena is a clunky but interesting possibility. A notable bearer is Alvena Vajda Sečkar, an American painter, children's book author, and social activist.
- Alwilda
Description:
Alwilda is a rare feminine name with Norse and Germanic origins. In Norse mythology, Alwilda (also spelled Alfhild) was a legendary shield-maiden and pirate princess who disguised herself as a male warrior. The name combines elements meaning 'elf' or 'magical being' and 'battle,' suggesting a person who possesses both mystical qualities and strength. Throughout history, Alwilda has remained uncommon, giving it an exotic and distinctive appeal. The name carries an air of ancient nobility and independence, making it an intriguing choice for parents drawn to names with strong historical narratives and feminist undertones. Its melodic sound balances the strength of its meaning, creating a name that is both powerful and graceful.
- Amariah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"said of God"Description:
The name of nine minor male biblical characters, this could easily make a gender switch as a singular substitution for the popular Mariah. It has also spawned the popular gender-neutral name Amaris, used for 300 baby girls and 100 baby boys last year, along with spelling variation Amarys.
- Amasa
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"burden"Description:
Amasa is a rare Biblical name borne by two figures. One is the son of Abigail and nephew of King David, who named him commander of the rebels. This Amasa met a tragic end when he was murdered by Joab. The other Biblical Amasa was one of the Children of Ephraim.
- Ammon
Origin:
Variation of Amman, German occupational name, Greek, Ancient EgyptianMeaning:
"administrator; the hidden one"Description:
Ammon is connected to two religions in the US and is used exclusively between the two of them. Prior to the 1960s, Ammon was considered a solely Amish name. In the Amish community, Ammon is bestowed in honor of Jacob Amman, whom the Amish sect is named after.
- Angelita
Description:
Angelita is a feminine Spanish name that serves as a diminutive form of Angela, meaning 'little angel' or 'little messenger.' Its roots trace back to the Greek word 'angelos,' which means 'messenger.' This charming and delicate name carries an inherently sweet and affectionate quality through its diminutive suffix '-ita,' which adds warmth and tenderness to the original name. Angelita has been particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, though its usage has gradually declined from its peak in the mid-20th century. The name evokes images of innocence, gentleness, and celestial beauty, making it an endearing choice for parents seeking a name with both religious significance and feminine grace.
- Apphia
Origin:
Greek from HebrewDescription:
Biblical name from the New Testament.
- Arette
Description:
Arette is a feminine name with French origins, possibly derived from a picturesque village in southwestern France near the Pyrenees mountains. The name carries a delicate, artistic quality with its soft sounds and elegant structure. Though uncommon even in France, Arette possesses a distinctively French character while remaining accessible to speakers of other languages. It can be seen as a more unique alternative to similar-sounding names like Aria, Arlette, or Colette. The name evokes images of mountain landscapes and pastoral beauty through its geographical connections. Arette offers parents seeking a rare and refined name an option that balances uniqueness with a pleasant, melodic sound and subtle cultural heritage.
- Arvilla
Description:
Arvilla is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the elements 'avis' meaning 'bird' or possibly from 'arvum' meaning 'field.' Some sources suggest it may be a variant of Arvella or a feminine form of Arvil. The name has been present in American naming records since the 19th century, particularly during the Victorian era when elaborate feminine names were popular. While never enormously common, Arvilla saw modest usage through the early 20th century before declining in popularity. Today, it remains a rare vintage choice that carries a delicate, old-fashioned charm with its melodic sound and distinctive ending. Those named Arvilla might appreciate its uniqueness and connection to nature themes.
- Augusta
Origin:
Feminine variation of Augustus, LatinMeaning:
"great, magnificent"Description:
Augusta is a dignified name reminiscent of wealthy great-aunts, but with the fashion for both August and Gus for boys, Augusta could get some fresh energy.
- Aurilla
Description:
Aurilla is a feminine name with Latin roots, likely derived from 'aurum' meaning 'gold,' suggesting qualities of preciousness and radiance. It may also be considered a variation of Aurelia or an elaboration of Aura. This rare and melodic name was occasionally used in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, but remained uncommon even then. Aurilla has an antique, delicate quality that evokes the Victorian era. The name's golden associations give it a warm, luminous character. While never achieving widespread popularity, Aurilla represents the ornate naming traditions of earlier centuries and might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive vintage name with classical undertones.
- Adelmon