Feminisation Names - by ethelmary

Albertine and Alberta are old-fashioned feminizations ala Geraldine and Roberta. This is the kind of name that sounds very dowdy until a hip celebrity chooses it, at which point we don't know how we missed its coolness all this time.

Alexandria turns classic Alexandra into a more distinctive place-name, in both Egypt and Virginia, while also giving it a touchy of frilliness. The name peaked in the 90s when it entered the US Top 100 for the first time, but has since been on decline.

Alexandra is a name with many international variations, elaborations and short forms, and Alexandrine is one of the more unusual. Another, Alexandrina, was the first name of Queen Victoria.

This name of a third-century Christian martyr has an romantic, appealing feel in the modern world. It first came to American attention via Prince's love interest in the film Purple Rain. It could make an unexpected route to sweet nickname Polly — or perhaps to the quirky apple!

If you're looking for a girl's name that honors an ancestral Arthur, try Artis.

Although feminizations ending in "ette" are not particularly popular now, Bernadette is a pleasant, feminine, but strong name that doesn't feel prohibitively dated. And though strongly associated with the saint who saw visions of the Virgin Mary—Saint Bernadette of Lourdes—it is now no longer strictly inhabiting the Catholic diocese.

Cecilia is a lovely classic name deservedly enjoying a new turn in the sun. Always among the Top 500 girls' names in the US, Cecilia is now at its highest point ever.

Charlotte, the name of the young Princess of Cambridge, is the latest classic name to join Sophia, Emma, Olivia, and Isabella at the top of the popularity list. It is now among the most popular girl names in many English-speaking and European countries.

Clementine is a Nameberry favorite that broke back into the US Top 1000 in 2014 after more than half a century off the list.

Edwina may still be taking tea in the parlor, but we can see her joining friends like Matilda and Josephine for a comeback, especially if pronounced like Edwin rather than Edween.

One time joke name, à la Lily Tomlin's bossy telephone operator, Ernestine is ready for a possible reevaluation, like cousins Josephine and Clementine..

Eustacia, the ancestor of mid-century fave Stacy, is just the kind of fusty old relic that might be polished up for modern use. Eustacia Vye is the central character of Thomas Hardy's The Return of the Native.

Floriana is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'flor' meaning 'flower.' It's essentially an elaborated form of Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers and spring. The name has been particularly popular in Italy and other Mediterranean countries, conveying images of blossoming beauty and natural grace. Floriana carries a romantic, vintage quality while remaining timeless. In English-speaking countries, it's relatively uncommon, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce. The name suggests qualities of delicacy, beauty, and flourishing growth, making it an elegant choice that connects its bearer to classical traditions and natural imagery.

Francesca is a lighter and much more feminine choice than the classic Frances, and one that is increasingly popular with upscale parents.

Franziska is a feminine name of German origin, serving as the female form of Franz (Francis). The name ultimately derives from Latin "Franciscus," meaning "Frenchman" or "free one." Franziska has been consistently popular in German-speaking countries, particularly Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland, where it's appreciated for its classic elegance and cultural roots. The name gained recognition through figures like Franziska von Hohenheim, a German noblewoman of the 18th century. While less common in English-speaking countries, Franziska offers an international alternative to Frances or Francesca. The name carries a sophisticated European flair with its distinctive consonant blend and melodic three-syllable structure. It provides the charming nickname options Franzi or Ziska, adding versatility to this culturally rich name.

Frederica is an interesting possibility for the parent unintimidated by its old-fashioned formality, and who can appreciate the vintage charm and verve lurking beneath its stuffiness.

Friederike is a feminine German name derived from the Germanic elements "fridu" meaning "peace" and "ric" meaning "ruler" or "power." It's essentially the female form of Friedrich (Frederick in English). The name has deep historical roots in German-speaking countries, where it has been used since medieval times. Friederike Gossweiler, a Swiss mathematician, and Friederike Mayröcker, an Austrian poet, are notable bearers of the name. While common in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Friederike remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name carries an elegant, classical European quality with a strong cultural heritage, appealing to parents looking for a distinctive name with substantial historical significance.

Long a popular upper-crust form in England, where it's pronounced George-ee-AH-na, Georgiana has been been neglected here. But with Georgia growing more popular and the general fashion for elaborate feminine names, Georgiana might have room to grow.

Harriet has long been considered a stylish, upscale name in England, but it's still waiting to be revived in the US—though some parents seeking a solid, serious semi-classic are beginning to consider it.