The Fantastical List of Fantasy Names
- Feather
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Feather, though it was used for a character in a Walter Mosley novel, seems too light and fluttery for a real-life girl.
- Margreth
Description:
Margreth is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing a variation of Margaret, which derives from the Greek word 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' This particular spelling is most common in Scandinavian and Germanic countries, especially Switzerland and parts of Germany. Margreth carries the same dignified, classic appeal as Margaret but with a distinctive European flair. Throughout history, the name has been associated with strength and virtue. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, where Margaret, Margret, or Margo might be more familiar, Margreth offers parents a way to honor European heritage while providing a slightly uncommon twist on a traditional name. Its classic nature ensures it remains timeless despite changing naming trends.
- Imperia
Origin:
Latin "imperial"Meaning:
"imperial"Description:
Rather imperious as a baby name, but has an interesting history. Imperia is the name of an obscure French saint, also known as Impère and Impérie, also borne by the famous Italian courtesan Imperia Cognati. Honoré de Balzac later used it in his short story La belle Impéria (1832), where it belongs to a fictional courtesan. A similar name, Bel-imperia, was used by Elizabethan dramatist Thomas Kyd for a character in his play The Spanish Tragedy.
- Honorine
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"honor"Description:
The pure, simple HONOR--as chosen by Jessica Alba, is perfect as it is. It does have some literary cred though--Henry James created a character called Honorine for his novel The Tragic Muse.
- Lilabet
Description:
Lilabet is a charming feminine name that originated as an affectionate Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth. The name gained wider recognition as it was the childhood nickname of Queen Elizabeth II, used by her close family members, particularly her father, King George VI. Lilabet combines the popular 'Lil' prefix seen in names like Lily and Lillian with a shortened version of Elizabeth, creating a name that feels both familiar and distinctive. Though uncommon as a formal given name, it offers a sweet alternative to the more common Elizabeth derivatives like Liz, Beth, or Eliza. The name carries a cozy, intimate quality while maintaining royal associations. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical connections yet an uncommon presence in modern naming trends.
- Zeline
Origin:
Hungarian form of Celeste; variation of ZelinaDescription:
Z names have been popular in recent years, and here's an obscure option for achieving the initial, though Zelina may be a little more successful in the US with its feminine -a ending.
- 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.
- Beryn
Description:
Beryn is a rare feminine name with possible Welsh or Old English origins. It may be related to the Welsh name Berwyn, meaning "fair" or "blessed hill," or could be a variant spelling of Berin or Berin, with roots meaning "strong bear." The name has an ancient, mystical quality that evokes medieval legends and Celtic traditions. Beryn has remained extremely uncommon throughout recorded naming history, making it a truly distinctive choice. Its short, crisp sound combines strength and elegance, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical resonance and a touch of mystery.
- Lucinde
Description:
Lucinde is a feminine name with French and Latin origins, derived from Lucinda or directly from Latin 'lux' meaning 'light.' This elegant variation carries a slightly more European flair than the more common Lucinda, with its softened ending. Historically, the name appeared in literary works, including Molière's plays, giving it cultural and artistic associations. While never achieving widespread popularity, Lucinde maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet classically grounded. The name suggests brilliance, clarity, and illumination through its connection to light. Its melodic three-syllable structure flows gracefully in pronunciation while offering a subtle uniqueness in spelling that distinguishes it from more familiar feminine names with similar sounds.
- 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.
- Alician
Origin:
Variation of AliceMeaning:
"noble"Description:
An intriguing and rare variant of Alice.
- Alexandrine
Origin:
Variation of Alexandra, GreekMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
Alexandra is a name with many international variations, elaborations and short forms, and Alexandrine is one of the more unusual, found mostly in France and Germany. Another, Alexandrina, was the first name of Queen Victoria.
- Blodwyn
Description:
Blodwyn is a feminine Welsh name derived from 'blodau' meaning 'flowers' and 'gwyn' meaning 'white' or 'blessed,' creating the meaning 'white flowers' or 'blessed flowers.' Traditionally used in Wales, this name evokes imagery of delicate white blossoms and carries the natural beauty associated with floral names. Blodwyn peaked in popularity in Wales during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has remained relatively rare outside Welsh communities. The name has a distinctive sound that reflects its Celtic origins, with the characteristic Welsh 'wy' vowel combination that may be challenging for non-Welsh speakers. Despite its rarity in global contexts, Blodwyn offers a connection to Welsh heritage and language while providing an unusual alternative to more common flower-inspired names.
- Guilla
Description:
Guilla is an uncommon feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Guillermina, the Spanish feminine form of William, meaning 'resolute protector' or 'determined guardian.' Alternatively, it could relate to the Italian name Guilia (Julia) or have connections to medieval European names. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive double 'l' sound. Guilla remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking uniqueness. The name carries an elegant, somewhat exotic flair while remaining relatively straightforward to pronounce. Its scarcity gives it a special quality, though this may occasionally lead to pronunciation or spelling clarifications.
- Bryssa
Description:
Bryssa is a modern feminine name with possible Greek origins, potentially derived from the word 'brysi' meaning 'spring' or 'fountain,' though it may also be a creative variation of names like Brisa (Spanish for 'breeze') or Bryony. This distinctive name emerged in the late 1990s to early 2000s during a period when parents began seeking unique names with melodic qualities. Bryssa has a contemporary feel while maintaining a classical structure, appealing to parents looking for something uncommon yet accessible. The name has remained relatively rare, giving it a special quality for those who bear it. Its gentle sound combined with strong consonants creates a balanced name that works well across different ages and settings.
- Gwyladyss
Origin:
Old Welsh variation of GladysDescription:
Gwyladyss is an Old Welsh variation of the New Welsh Gladys, pronounced like the more familiar form, but modern English speakers can be forgiven for not knowing that. Gladys would be a difficult enough name for a 21st century child; with this spelling, it would be impossible.
- Maridel
Description:
Maridel appears to be a compound name combining 'Mari' (from Maria, meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved' in Latin) with 'del' (possibly from Adele or Delilah). This melodic combination creates a distinctive yet accessible name with a romantic, somewhat Spanish or Italian flavor. Maridel gained modest popularity in the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. The name has a sweet, feminine quality with its soft consonants and flowing sound pattern. Maridel shares characteristics with other compound names that blend traditional elements into new forms, offering familiarity and uniqueness simultaneously. Its lyrical quality gives it an enduring charm despite its rarity.
- Ninnia
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