harry-potter-esque names

Claudios is a masculine name with ancient Roman origins, serving as a variation of the Latin name Claudius, which means 'lame' or 'limping.' This name carries significant historical weight, as it was borne by several Roman emperors and notable figures throughout antiquity. The Greek-influenced ending '-os' gives the name a distinctive Mediterranean character, setting it apart from the more common Claude or Claudio variations. While not widely used in contemporary Western societies, Claudios maintains popularity in some Greek communities and among families with classical naming preferences. The name projects an air of scholarly dignity and historical gravitas.

Cressida is a pretty mythological and Shakespearean heroine name much better known in Britain than it is here — an imbalance the adventurous baby namer might want to correct.

Mythological shepherd in love with Chloe, whose name, though the s is pronounced, is related to the feminine name Daphne - making it a lovely choice for honoring a relative of that name.

Although this month name was used only for girls in a recent year, there's no reason it can't work for both genders. For a holiday baby, more original than Noel and more universal than Christmas.

A rarely used name meaning from Delos, a sacred island to the ancient Greeks. A more interesting and musical choice might be Delius, after the British-born composer of lush rhapsodies.

In Greek mythology the mother of Aphrodite by Zeus, and also one of Saturn's moons; this is an astral name quite distinct from the better known Dionne.

Edenia is a feminine name with uncertain origins, possibly derived from Eden, the biblical paradise garden, combined with a feminine ending. It might also relate to the Latin 'edenia' referring to something edible or pleasurable. Some consider it a creative modern formation inspired by names like Edina or Edna. The name has an ethereal, dreamy quality with its flowing sounds and mythical resonance. Edenia remains quite rare, appealing to parents seeking something distinctive with pleasant phonetics and positive connotations. Its connection to Eden gives it subtle biblical undertones without being overtly religious. The name has occasionally appeared in fantasy literature and games, adding to its otherworldly associations.

Eliana is a lilting, rhythmic choice, which has caught on in the US and other English-speaking countries. Currently popular in the UK, The Netherlands, Canada, and Brazil, it also makes the US Top 50.

A pretty and melodic name of Hebrew origin that combines the elements el referring to God, li meaning "for me", and or meaning "light". The name entered the UK Top 1000 for the first time in 2023, and it's easy to understand why. With its rich vowel sounds and playful elegance, Eliora shares the sounds of other popular choices like Eleanor, Eliana, Aurora, and Elodie, which also remaining distinctive.

Elouera has potential for people looking for unusual versions of popular "Elle" names like Ellen, Eleanor and Ella. This Aboriginal Australian place name is filled with the mellifluous sounds that are in style at the moment

This highly unusual name has been kicked up a notch, thanks to cooking guru Emeril Lagasse.

The name of a mythically handsome youth – loved by Selene, the moon, who bore him fifty daughters.

Esther was derived from the Old Persian word stāra, meaning "star." In the Old Testament, Esther, originally named Hadassah, was the captured Jewish wife of the King of Persia who risked her life to save her exiled people from annihilation. This story is celebrated by Jews on the holiday of Purim, so that it has traditionally been given to girls around that time.

Despite (or because of) her tragic story in Greek myth--Eurydice was poisoned by a snake and condemned to the underworld, where her husband, musician Orpheus, tried and failed to bring her back--she has provided creative inspiration in the arts, namely as the subject of operas by Monteverdi, Haydn and Gluck, in an eponymous play by Jean Anouilh, and the myth was the inspiration for Tennessee William's drama Orpheus Descending. Paintings by Titian, Rubens and Poussin also focus on Eurydice.

Everhart is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning both as a surname and given name. Combining the elements 'ever' (meaning 'boar' or sometimes interpreted as 'strong') and 'hart' (meaning 'brave' or 'hardy'), the name essentially conveys strength and courage. As a first name, Everhart is quite rare, appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with historical roots and strong meanings. The name has a dignified, somewhat formal quality that suggests resilience and determination. Its connections to nature through the 'hart' element (which can also reference a male deer) give it additional depth, potentially appealing to those drawn to names with woodland or natural associations.

If January, April and August are useable and fashionable, why not February? February as a word derives from the Latin februa, which was the name of a purification feast coming at the end of winter, to prepare for the coming spring.

Feliciana is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'felix' meaning 'happy,' 'fortunate,' or 'lucky.' This elegant name represents the feminine form of Feliciano and is related to Felicity. With its melodic four syllables and romantic flair, Feliciana carries a sophisticated European sensibility, particularly popular in Spanish and Italian-speaking regions. The name has historical significance, appearing in place names like the Feliciana Parishes in Louisiana. Though not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady usage in Latin cultures. Feliciana offers the friendly nicknames Feli or Felici, adding versatility. Parents might choose this name for its positive meaning, cultural heritage, and distinguished sound that balances traditional roots with uncommon elegance.