The Fantastical List of Fantasy Names
- Elyse
Origin:
Variation of Elise or ElysiaMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Elyse hasn't been heard much since the 80s, but it's beginning to be reconsidered as a possibIlity again, now that it's not so much seen as a Mom name, as it was in the TV show "Family Ties." A spelling variation of Elise, it's another variation of Elizabeth. Many parents today would opt for Eliza.
- Elzada
Description:
Elzada is a feminine name of uncertain origin, though it may be a variant of Elsa or a unique elaboration of Elizabeth. This rare and distinctive name has an antique charm that evokes the Victorian era. Elzada reached its modest peak of popularity in the United States in the early 20th century but has since become exceedingly uncommon. The name carries a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and strong 'z' sound, giving it both softness and character. Elzada might appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive vintage name with a feminine feel that stands apart from more common revival names while still having historical precedent.
- Ember
Origin:
French variation of AmberDescription:
Unlike Amber, which is in decline, this name still has a bit of a glow left -- though confusions between the two will inevitably arise.
- Embeth
Origin:
Combination of Emma and BethDescription:
South African-raised actress Embeth Davidtz added this unique smooth name to the mix. Perfect if you can't decide between Emma and Elizabeth and more unusual than Annabeth.
- Emblyn
Origin:
CornishMeaning:
"work"Description:
The Cornish version of Emmeline holds many charms.
- Emerald
Origin:
Gem name; PersianMeaning:
"green"Description:
Emerald is the intriguing color and jewel name of the deep green stone treasured as far back as ancient Egypt — it's supposed to open one's heart to wisdom and to love and be good for strengthening relationships — which could make for an interesting, unusual name, particularly with the popularity of so many Em-starting names.
- Emeraude
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"Emerald"Description:
Gemstone names have a long history of use, from Ruby to Pearl. Emeraude is the French word for emerald. If the Spanish Esmeralda is stylish, why not Emeraude?
- Emilienne
Description:
Emilienne is an elegant feminine name with French origins. It serves as the feminine form of Emilien, which derives from the Roman family name Aemilius, meaning 'rival' or 'eager.' This sophisticated name carries a timeless quality with its classic French styling. While well-established in French-speaking regions, Emilienne remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce. The name possesses a graceful, refined sound with its flowing syllables and feminine ending. Emilienne offers parents a more elaborate alternative to the popular Emily or Emilia, while maintaining similar roots. Those seeking a name with French cultural connections and a touch of aristocratic charm might find Emilienne particularly appealing.
- Emrys
Origin:
Welsh, variation of AmbroseMeaning:
"immortal"Description:
If you're looking for a Welsh name less common than Dylan, Griffin, Evan, or Morgan, you might want to consider this offbeat epithet of the wise wizard Merlin. It's currently in the Welsh top 100 and in the England and Wales top 1000 over all and has been rising in recent years.
- Endellion
Origin:
Cornish place and saint's nameMeaning:
"fire soul"Description:
Endellion is the name of an early saint who was a daughter of King Brychan and goddaughter of King Arthur whose life is commemorated by the Cornish village of St. Endellion. This intriguing ancient name was brought into modern usage by British Prime Minister David Cameron, who used it as one of the middle names for his fourth child, a baby girl.
- Enid
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"life, spirit"Description:
This Celtic goddess and Arthurian name may sound terminally old-ladyish to many ears--but so did names like Ella and Etta not so long ago. So Enid is yet another forgotten four-letter E-possibility: she's has been M.I.A since 1954.
- Enya
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"fire"Description:
This phonetic Anglicization of the Irish name Eithne was made familiar by the single-named Irish singer and composer. St. Eithne was the daughter of a king and an early Irish convert to Christianity.
- Esmeralda
Origin:
Spanish and PortugueseMeaning:
"emerald"Description:
Esmeralda came into use as an applied use of the Spanish word for emerald, esmeralda. In the 1831 Victor Hugo novel Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, the heroine was born Agnes, but called La Esmeralda in reference to the jewel she wears around her neck. The name Esmeralda got increased visibility via the Disney version of the story.
- Estella
Origin:
Latinate form of EstelleMeaning:
"star"Description:
Estella is a pretty Latin name that's sounding more and more stylish, remembered as the ward of Miss Haversham in Dickens's Great Expectations. Though Estella ranked as high as Number 110 in the 1880s, it now sits near the bottom of the US Top 1000 along with near-twin Estelle. Either would be well worth considering as an alternative to the popular Stella.
- Etain
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"jealousy"Description:
The Etain (or more properly Étaín) of Irish mythology was a beautiful fairy turned into a fly (or in some versions, a butterfly), by a jealous queen. The insect Étaín fell into a glass of milk and was swallowed by yet another queen, then reborn as a beautiful maiden. Its pronunciation is similar to the number eighteen.
- Etana
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"strength of purpose"Description:
Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual.
- Etena
Description:
Etena is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from Greek roots related to 'ethos' suggesting 'character' or 'moral nature,' or could be a variation of Athena, the goddess of wisdom. In some Polynesian languages, particularly Samoan, similar names relate to concepts of strength and leadership. Etena has remained quite rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic and distinctive quality. The name has a melodious flow with its alternating consonants and vowels, creating a naturally rhythmic pronunciation. Those named Etena might appreciate its uniqueness and the way it combines a soft sound with potential meanings relating to inner strength and wisdom.
- Ethelinda
Origin:
German, Spanish compound name, Ethel + LindaMeaning:
"noble + pretty"Description:
Ethelinda is a feminine name that combines the elements "ethel" meaning "noble" or "of noble birth" and "linda" meaning "pretty." The name was used in medieval England but became less common after the Norman Conquest and is virtually extinct today, given to no baby girls in the US at the most recent count.
- Eudora
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"generous gift"Description:
Eudora is the name of five minor goddesses of Greek mythology and a major goddess (in the person of Pulitzer Prize-winning Eudora Welty) of modern American literature. Eudora is pleasant and euphoneous and a possibility for rejuvenation.
- Euphemia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"fair speech"Description:
Ancient martyr's name that, though not especially appealing, might still be mildly possible, especially for Anglophiles. It was widely used in early Scotland, but was overtaken by its nickname, Effie.