Byzantine Royalty names for girls
- Maria
Origin:
Hebrew or EgyptianMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
As a highly popular girls’ name in all Spanish-speaking countries, this saintly Latin variation of Mary retains a timeless beauty. Through the centuries, Maria remains one of the most widely-used girl names starting with M.
- Marina
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"from the sea"Description:
This pretty sea-born name was used to dramatic effect by Shakespeare in his play Pericles for the virtuous princess who says she is "Call'd Marina, for I was born at sea."
- Martha
Origin:
AramaicMeaning:
"lady"Description:
The name of our first First Lady still has something of a prim and proper image, academic and efficient. That quiet, traditional, and tasteful gestalt is exactly what makes Martha appealing to some parents today.
- Martina
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"warlike"Description:
A feminine form of Martin, this strong and zestful sounding name is popular in Argentina, Chile, Spain, and Italy, where it ranks in the Top 30. Also familiar in Czechia, the UK, Slovakia, and Switzerland, it has never made it big in the US, and fell out of the charts back in the 2000s.
Ultimately associated with Mars, the Roman god of war and with the 3rd century patron saint of Rome, it has also been borne by two notable tennis players, Martina Navratilova and Martina Hingis.
- Maxima
Origin:
Latin, feminine variation of MaximusDescription:
Max names were one of the hottest trends for boys in the mid-2010s, and are still very popular. The girl versions haven't seen so much love, unfortunately. (Or fortunately, if you love them and want them to stay rare!) Maxima got some attention in 2015 when Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan used it for their daughter, but few parents have copied them.
- Melania
Origin:
Spanish and Greek variation of MelanieMeaning:
"black"Description:
The current wife of Donald Trump, Slovenian model Melania Knauss, brought this pretty version to the fore. Saint Melania was an heiress who freed thousands of enslaved people.
- Magna
- Mathissa
- Phillipa
Description:
Phillipa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from Greek roots meaning "lover of horses." This elegant name has historical usage throughout Europe, with particular popularity in Britain and Commonwealth countries. While the more common spelling is typically "Philippa," the simplified "Phillipa" variant maintains the name's classic appeal while being somewhat more accessible. The name carries associations with nobility and education, as it has been borne by various notable women throughout history. Phillipa offers several appealing nickname options, including Pippa, Pip, and Lipa. Though never reaching top-tier popularity, the name has maintained consistent usage over centuries, giving it a timeless quality. Parents might choose Phillipa for its blend of traditional substance and refined femininity.
- Piroska
Description:
Piroska is a feminine Hungarian name with historical significance. It's the Hungarian form of Prisca, which comes from Latin meaning 'ancient' or 'venerable.' The name gained prominence in Hungary through Saint Piroska, a Hungarian princess who became the Byzantine Empress Irene after marrying John II Komnenos in the 12th century. She was known for her charitable works and religious devotion. While primarily used in Hungary, the name carries a distinctive cultural identity and connection to Hungarian heritage. The melodic quality of Piroska, with its soft consonants and balanced syllables, gives it a graceful sound despite being uncommon outside of Hungarian communities. For those with Hungarian ancestry, the name offers a meaningful link to cultural roots and historical traditions.
- Placidia
Origin:
Spanish variation of PlacidaMeaning:
"quiet, calm"Description:
Derived from an ancient Roman name, this is best known in its male form Placido, thanks to the tenor.
- Pankalo
- Phlorina
- Praejecta
- Prokopia
- Pulcheria
- Rusudan
- Simonia
Description:
Simonia is a feminine name with roots in Latin and Greek origins. It is a feminine form of Simon, which comes from the Hebrew name "Shimon" meaning "he has heard" or "listening". The name carries an elegant, classical quality while remaining relatively uncommon. Simonia has seen limited use throughout history, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with traditional roots but uncommon usage. While not popular in mainstream rankings, Simonia appeals to those drawn to melodic names with historical connections. The name has variants in several European languages, indicating its cross-cultural appeal despite its rarity. With its flowing syllables and meaningful etymology, Simonia offers a graceful alternative to more common feminine names.
- Sophia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
Sophia, which was the Number 1 girls' name in the US from 2011 to 2013, is among the top girl names in the Western World, with a sensuous sound and high-minded meaning. A real winner, Sophia reached the top of the charts without losing any—okay, much—of its sophisticated beauty.
- Severa