Anthropologie trendsetters #2

  1. Ronika
    • Description:

      Ronika is a contemporary feminine name that likely emerged as a variation of names like Veronica or Monica. It combines elements of familiarity with a modern twist. The name has South Slavic connections in some cases, though it's also used independently in various cultures. Ronika remains relatively uncommon in most Western countries, though it saw minor usage in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s. The name carries a strong, confident sound while maintaining feminine qualities. Parents who choose Ronika often appreciate its distinctive character while still being relatively easy to pronounce and spell.

  2. Sherley
    • Description:

      Sherley is a feminine name typically considered a variation of Shirley, which originated as an English surname derived from Old English elements meaning 'bright clearing' or 'bright meadow.' While Shirley gained immense popularity as a female given name in the 1930s following the success of child star Shirley Temple, the Sherley spelling variant has remained less common. The name peaked mid-20th century but declined in use after the 1960s. Sherley carries the same bright, cheerful connotations as Shirley but with a slightly different visual appeal. Today, it has a vintage charm that might appeal to parents seeking names with history that aren't currently trending.

  3. Grette
    • Description:

      Grette is a feminine name with Scandinavian origins, likely a variation of Greta or Margareta. These names ultimately derive from Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' In Norse contexts, Grette may also connect to the legendary figure Grettir from Icelandic sagas, though this association is more common with masculine variants. The name has a distinctively Nordic sound while remaining accessible to English speakers. Though uncommon internationally, Grette maintains some usage in Scandinavian countries and communities with Nordic heritage. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a crisp, clean quality that contrasts with more elaborate feminine names. Its uniqueness makes it appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with cultural roots, particularly those celebrating Scandinavian heritage or drawn to the straightforward elegance of Nordic naming traditions.
  4. Aloe
    • Origin:

      Plant name from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "resin, bitter, shiny"
    • Description:

      A rarely used nature name with a gentle sound, Aloe appears as a (masculine) name in Akwaeke Emezi's fantasy novel, Pet, and in its sequel Bitter. Reminiscent of Arlo and Milo, Aloe is associated with the soothing, healing qualities of Aloe Vera.
  5. Marybeth
    • Origin:

      English, combination of Mary and Beth
    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + oath"
    • Description:

      Marybeth, something written like this as one word and sometimes as Mary Beth, is one of those compound versions of Mary popular in the midcentury US. Parents were trying to move away from plain old Mary, long the #1 girls' name, but not too far away. Marybeth is one of the most classic combinations, pairing Mary with the also-long-popular Elizabeth. About 400 baby girls were named Marybeth every year at its peak in the mid-1960s; today, it's fewer than 20.
  6. Devi
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "divine"
    • Description:

      This Hindu goddess name has a powerful heritage plus lively sound with a devilish edge. If you're enchanted by goddess names but want to set your little girl apart from all the Lunas and Athenas in the playground, consider Devi.
  7. Jai
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "bluebird"
    • Description:

      Alternative spelling of Jay, which coincides with a masculine name popular in South Asia.
  8. Whitley
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "white meadow"
    • Description:

      Eighties spin on megapopular Whitney that currently ranks higher than the original. Whitley fell out of the Top 1000 for several decades but resurfaced in 2018.
  9. Greger
    • Description:

      Greger is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, functioning as the Swedish and Norwegian form of Gregory. Derived from the Greek 'gregorios' meaning 'watchful' or 'alert,' the name carries a sense of vigilance and attentiveness. Particularly common in Sweden, Norway, and other Nordic countries, Greger has a strong cultural connection to Scandinavia while maintaining its international recognition through its relationship to Gregory. The name has historical significance through various notable figures including saints, popes, and regional leaders bearing variations of the name. Greger combines traditional roots with a distinctive Nordic character, making it appealing for families with Scandinavian heritage or those seeking a strong yet uncommon masculine name with established historical significance.
  10. Savilla
    • Description:

      Savilla is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Savilla or Sabilla, which derive from the Latin 'Sabina,' referring to the Sabine people of ancient Italy. Alternatively, it could be connected to names like Savina or Sabine. In some communities, particularly among the Amish and certain Anabaptist groups, Savilla has been used for generations. The name carries a delicate, old-world charm with its soft sounds and rhythmic syllables. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Savilla maintains a consistent presence in certain religious communities and appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth that remains uncommon. Its vintage quality gives it a distinctive elegance in contemporary naming landscapes.
  11. Caron
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "loving, kindhearted, charitable,"
    • Description:

      Though it sounds like Karen, this spelling makes the name more distinctive.
  12. Audre
    • Description:

      Audre is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Audrey, derived from the Anglo-Saxon name Æðelþryð, meaning 'noble strength.' This unique spelling gained some recognition through the influential American writer Audre Lorde, who was a prominent feminist, civil rights activist, and poet during the 20th century. While less common than the traditional spelling, Audre offers a distinctive alternative that maintains the elegant sound of the original. The name carries connotations of independence, intellectual strength, and creative expression. Though relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Audre appeals to parents seeking a classic name with a contemporary twist and literary associations.

  13. Christianne
    • Description:

      Christianne is a feminine name with French and Latin origins, representing a feminine variation of Christian. Derived from the Latin 'Christianus' meaning 'follower of Christ,' it carries religious significance while offering a more elaborate feminine form than the common Christine or Christina. The name features an elegant, somewhat aristocratic quality with its extended spelling and pronunciation. Though never reaching widespread popularity, Christianne has maintained a consistent presence throughout the centuries, particularly in French-speaking regions and among families with European heritage. The name strikes a balance between traditional values and sophistication, appealing to parents seeking a name with religious significance but a distinctive, refined sound.
  14. Filipa
    • Origin:

      Portuguese
    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"
    • Description:

      Portuguese form of Philippa
  15. Teena
    • Description:

      Teena is a diminutive form of names ending in '-tina' such as Christina, Martina, or Ernestina. It can also be used as a nickname for teen-related names like Athena or Valentina. The name has a youthful, playful quality and was more commonly used in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Teena carries a vintage charm while maintaining a sweet, approachable quality. Though not currently among popular given names, it has cultural associations through figures like singer Teena Marie. The name has a simple, unpretentious appeal and offers an alternative to more formal 'teen'-containing names while maintaining a distinctly feminine quality.

  16. Amadi
    • Origin:

      African
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      Though this is traditionally a male name, it can work for a girl in our culture. Might also be considered a short form of the Italian Amadea.
  17. Izola
    • Description:

      Izola is a feminine given name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Italian city of Isola, meaning 'island' in Italian. Alternatively, it could be a variant of Isabel/Isabella (of Hebrew origin meaning 'pledged to God') or Isolde (a name from medieval Arthurian legend). The name appears in historical records in the United States dating back to the late 19th century, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. A notable bearer was Izola Curry, a historical figure from the Civil Rights era. The name saw modest usage through the early-to-mid 20th century but became increasingly rare after the 1950s. Izola has a melodic quality with its succession of open vowel sounds that gives it a distinctive lyrical quality.
  18. Ciera
    • Description:

      Ciera is a feminine name that emerged as a modern variation of Sierra, which comes from the Spanish word for 'mountain range.' This contemporary spelling became popular in the United States during the 1990s, offering a fresh twist on the nature-inspired original. Ciera has a light, flowing quality with its soft consonants and three-syllable rhythm. The name strikes a balance between familiarity and distinction, as its pronunciation is intuitive while its spelling sets it apart. Often associated with qualities like strength and natural beauty, Ciera appeals to parents seeking a name that sounds modern yet has subtle connections to nature. It shares sonic elements with popular names like Ciara and Kiera, placing it within a recognizable family of names while maintaining its own identity.
  19. Lysa
    • Description:

      Lysa is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may function as a diminutive of Elisabeth or Melissa, a variant spelling of Lisa, or derive from names in various European languages. In some Slavic contexts, it can relate to words meaning 'fox' or 'forest.' This short, crisp name has a light, modern feel despite having historical precedents. Lysa gained some limited use in the late 20th century but remains relatively uncommon. The distinctive 'y' spelling gives it a contemporary edge compared to the more traditional Lisa. The name has cross-cultural versatility, working well in many language contexts. Its brevity makes it practical while the less common spelling helps it stand out. Lysa offers a blend of familiarity and uniqueness that many parents seek.

  20. Florita
    • Description:

      Florita is a charming feminine name of Spanish origin, derived from 'flor' meaning 'flower.' It essentially translates to 'little flower' or 'flowering one,' with the diminutive suffix '-ita' adding a sense of endearment and delicacy. The name evokes images of blossoming beauty and natural grace. While popular in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in earlier generations, Florita remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic yet accessible quality. The name shares roots with the more familiar Flora and Florence, but offers a distinctive melodic quality with its rolling 'r' and musical three syllables. For parents seeking a name that combines feminine tradition with a touch of Latin flair, Florita presents a lovely option.