Old-Fashioned, Vintage, Retro, Classic, Eclectic, Unusual and Uncommon Names for Girls
- Frederika
Origin:
Feminine variation of Frederick, GermanMeaning:
"peaceful ruler"Description:
Frederika is one of many feminine variations of the many variations of Frederick, which include Frederica, Friederike, and Frederieke. The name carries an air of nobility and elegance, having been used in royal families throughout European history.
- Domitille
Origin:
French feminine variation of Roman family name Domitius, LatinMeaning:
"tamed"Description:
Domitille is the French form of the ancient royal name Domitilla. Domitille is used today, and was in the French Top 500 during the 2000s. While English speakers might say it as dom-ih-till or dom-ih-teel, in French, it would be DAW-MEE-TEE. Either way, it could be an interesting way to nickname Dottie.
- Veronika
Origin:
Czech variation of VeronicaDescription:
This spelling adds a touch of the unusual to Veronica.
- Fredrika
Description:
Fredrika is a feminine name with Germanic and Scandinavian origins, the female counterpart to Frederick. It derives from the Old German elements 'frid' meaning 'peace' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power,' essentially translating to 'peaceful ruler.' Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, and other Nordic countries, Fredrika has historical significance and has been borne by notable women including Swedish writer Fredrika Bremer, an early feminist pioneer. The name offers several nickname possibilities, including Frida, Rika, or Freddie. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Fredrika provides a strong yet feminine option with international recognition and a rich historical background. It strikes a balance between uniqueness and traditional roots.
- Gertrud
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"strength of a spear"Description:
The form of Gertrude found in German and much of Scandinavia.
- Shirl
Description:
Shirl is a feminine name that emerged as a diminutive of Shirley, which originated as an English surname derived from Old English words meaning 'bright clearing' or 'bright meadow.' Reaching peak popularity in the 1930s when actress Shirley Temple was a child star, Shirl became used as a standalone name. It has a brief, no-nonsense quality characteristic of mid-20th century nickname-names. Though much less common today, Shirl evokes a vintage charm and simplicity. The name carries associations with bright, sunny dispositions and the straightforward practicality of the Greatest Generation. While considered somewhat dated in contemporary naming practices, it could see renewed interest as vintage names cycle back into fashion.
- Robertina
Description:
Robertina is a feminine name derived from the masculine name Robert, which has Germanic origins meaning 'bright fame' or 'shining with glory.' This elegant feminine adaptation adds the Latin feminine suffix '-ina' to create a more traditionally feminine form. Robertina has been used in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking countries, though it remains relatively uncommon even in these regions. The name carries a certain vintage charm and sophistication, reminiscent of the early 20th century when longer, elaborate feminine forms were more popular. Robertina offers the meaningful heritage of Robert while creating a distinctly feminine identity, with potential nicknames including Roberta, Tina, or Bettina.
- Mehitabel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God rejoices"Description:
Most famously, the name of a 1920s alley cat.
- Wilfreda
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"purposeful peace"Description:
Hopelessly nerdy.
- 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.
- Gaetana
Origin:
Italian place-nameDescription:
Gaeta is a southern Italian region; this makes a sunny first name.
- Sebastia
Origin:
Feminine form of Sebastian, Latin from GreekMeaning:
"person from the city of Sebastia"Description:
Some names rise in tandem in their male and female forms, but Sebastia is very rare while the male Sebastian is quite popular. But it certainly might be an attractive choice.
- Kathlyn
Origin:
Combination of Katherine and Lynn, or a variation of Kathleen, EnglishMeaning:
"pure + lake; pure + pretty"Description:
Not Katelyn, not Kathryn, not Kathleen, but a blend of the three, Kathlyn might be considered a compound name, mixing Lynn and Katherine, which gets you the appealing meanings "pure lake" or "pure and pretty". Alternatively, it is simply a spin on Kathleen, itself a form of Katherine. Actress Kathlyn William and civil rights activist and judge Kathlyn Gilliam have been notable bearers.
- Louvinia
Description:
Louvinia is an uncommon feminine name with possible roots in Latin 'lupa' meaning 'she-wolf' or as a variation of Lavinia, an ancient Roman name. This elaborated form adds distinctiveness to its potential root names. Louvinia saw limited usage in the southern United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but remains exceedingly rare. The name carries a vintage, melodious quality with its flowing syllables and Victorian sensibility. The 'Lou' beginning gives it a familiar, approachable sound, while the full name maintains an air of uniqueness and sophistication. Those named Louvinia might appreciate their name's uncommonness and historical connections, though they likely need to help others with spelling and pronunciation.
- Octaviana
Description:
Octaviana is a feminine name with Latin origins, the feminine form of Octavian, ultimately derived from the Roman name Octavius meaning 'eighth.' In Roman naming traditions, it would historically designate the eighth-born child. This elegant, melodious name carries classical dignity and aristocratic associations, connecting to Emperor Augustus, who was born Octavius. The name offers several appealing nickname options including Octavia, Tavi, Ana, or Viana. While relatively uncommon in modern usage, Octaviana appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and a sophisticated sound. Its flowing syllables and feminine ending create a name that sounds both timeless and distinctive. Octaviana projects strength and refinement with its classical roots and regal bearing.
- Suky
Description:
Suky is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Susan or Susannah, which derive from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning "lily" or "rose." This playful, affectionate nickname has occasionally been used as an independent given name, particularly in 18th and 19th century England. It has a quaint, vintage charm reminiscent of rural English countryside life. While uncommon in modern use, Suky appeals to those drawn to short, sweet names with historical roots. The name has a cheerful, friendly quality that conveys warmth and approachability. Despite its historical usage, Suky maintains a youthful sound that works well across all ages. Its rarity today gives it a distinctive quality for those seeking an uncommon name with traditional origins.
- Honorina
Description:
Honorina is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman name 'Honorius,' meaning 'honor' or 'dignity.' This elegant name carries connotations of respect, integrity, and distinction. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, Honorina enjoys some popularity in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian-speaking regions. The name conveys a sense of nobility and virtue, making it a dignified choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name for their daughter. Honorina may be used with nicknames like Nora, Rina, or Honor, offering versatility while maintaining its sophisticated essence.
- Horatia
Origin:
Latin feminine variation of HoratioDescription:
Has the fusty charm of recently excavated ancient Roman male names like Augustus and Magnus, which might just appeal to the fearless baby namer.
- Rosey
Description:
Rosey is a charming feminine name that functions both as a diminutive of Rose and as a variant spelling of Rosie. With its floral origins, it carries the symbolism of the rose flower—beauty, love, and passion. This spelling with an 'e' before the 'y' gives it a slightly distinctive quality compared to the more common 'Rosy' or 'Rosie' variants. Rosey feels warm and approachable with a touch of vintage appeal, reminiscent of the friendly, affectionate nicknames common in the early 20th century. While used less frequently than Rose or Rosie as a given name, Rosey maintains the beloved characteristics of its floral namesake while offering a sweet, informal quality.
- Margherita
Origin:
Italian form of Margaret, GreekMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
This elegant variation carries the same core meaning as Margaret while featuring the distinctive Italian pronunciation and spelling. The name has historical significance in Italy, where Saint Margherita of Cortona is a respected religious figure and Queen Margherita is the namesake of the Margherita pizza.
Introducing the Nameberry App
Find your perfect baby name together with our new mobile app.
- Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
- Names you match on are saved to your shared list
- Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
- Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
- Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.
Sign up to be notified when the app launches and to receive a discount on full access.