English and British Royal names from 1066

  1. Albertine
    • Origin:

      French feminine variation of Albert
    • Description:

      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.
  2. Philippe
    • Origin:

      French variation of Philip
    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"
    • Description:

      Philippe, pronounced fill-EEP, is Philip with Gallic flair.
  3. Gustavus
    • Description:

      Gustavus is the Latin form of Gustav, a masculine name of Swedish origin meaning 'staff of the Geats' or 'staff of the Goths,' referring to the ancient Germanic people. This stately name has been borne by several Swedish kings, most notably Gustavus Adolphus, who led Sweden to military prominence during the Thirty Years' War. The Latinized ending gives it a scholarly, classical flair compared to the more common Gustav. While never extremely common outside Sweden, Gustavus has maintained a presence in academic and aristocratic circles. The name conveys dignity, wisdom, and historical gravitas. In contemporary usage, it offers parents a distinguished alternative to more common classical names, with the friendly nickname options Gus or Gusty providing balance to its formal elegance.
  4. Viktoria
    • Description:

      Viktoria is the Eastern European and Germanic spelling of Victoria, a name derived from Latin meaning 'victory.' This variation maintains the powerful meaning while giving it a distinctive continental European flair. Particularly popular in countries like Russia, Germany, Hungary, and across Eastern Europe, Viktoria carries a sense of strength and triumph. The 'k' spelling gives the name a sharp, dynamic quality that differs slightly from the softer 'c' version. While less common in English-speaking countries, global connections have increased its usage worldwide. Viktoria combines classical heritage with cross-cultural appeal, making it both timeless and contemporary for parents seeking a name with established roots but a distinctive character.
  5. Adeliza
    • Origin:

      Medieval English and Old Swedish form of Adelaide
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"
    • Description:

      Adeliza is a unique member of the popular Adelaide-Adeline family. Different enough to distinguish it from all the others? Maybe, and it's definitely got an appealing sound that makes it sound a bit like a smoosh of Adele and Eliza.
  6. Leopoldine
    • Origin:

      French feminine version of Leopold
    • Meaning:

      "brave people"
    • Description:

      A sophisticated girls' name for those attracted to Leona, Leonie and Leonore.
  7. Friedrich
    • Origin:

      German variation of Frederick
    • Description:

      One of the most familiar German names, with an upright Prussian image. Friedrich might just have been out for long enough to start coming back in.
  8. Josepha
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Josepha is less heard in this country than in other parts of the world, seen as a slightly awkward feminization a la Ricarda and Benjamina. In the U.S., Josephine or Joanna is the more usual feminine form of Joseph, though you might consider Josepha if you want to break rank.
  9. Odo
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "wealthy"
    • Description:

      Odo is an ancient Germanic masculine name with rich historical connections. The more modern form is the new fashionable Otto.
  10. Harald
    • Description:

      Harald is a masculine name of Norse origin meaning 'army ruler' or 'leader of warriors,' composed of the elements 'har' (army) and 'vald' (rule). This ancient Germanic name has been borne by numerous Scandinavian kings and nobles throughout history, including Harald Bluetooth, who united Denmark in the 10th century. The name remains moderately popular in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Denmark, while being less common elsewhere. Harald projects strength, leadership, and Nordic heritage. In English-speaking countries, it's often seen as a distinguished, somewhat serious traditional name with clear historical roots. The alternate spelling Harold is more common in English contexts, though Harald maintains its authentic Norse character.
  11. Ernst
    • Origin:

      German variation of Ernest
    • Description:

      Concise and clipped European version of the earnest Ernest.
  12. Wilhelmine
    • Description:

      Wilhelmine is a feminine name of Germanic origin, serving as the female form of Wilhelm (William), which means 'resolute protector' or 'determined guardian.' Popular in Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian countries throughout history, Wilhelmine was particularly common among European royalty and nobility. The name combines strength and elegance with its regal heritage and melodic four syllables. While less common today, it offers several charming nickname options including Mina, Wilma, and Helmi. Wilhelmine carries an air of classic sophistication and old-world charm that appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth. Though traditional, its relative rarity in modern times makes it distinctive for contemporary girls.
  13. Alexandre
    • Origin:

      French variation of Alexander
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      What's the difference between Alexander, the usual English spelling of this deeply classical name, and Alexandre, the French version? English speakers might find the proper French pronunciation challenging: a-lehk-SAHN-dreh, but that last syllable is barely pronounced. Americans might an an a or an ee on the end of the name, or simply pronounce it as Alexander, for better or worse.
  14. Theobald
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "courageous people"
    • Description:

      This is one of the least known or used of the Theo names, quite possibly because of its last syllable. In Samuel Butler's 1903 novel The Way of All Flesh, there is a clergyman character named Theobald Pontifex.
  15. Albrecht
    • Origin:

      German variation of Albert
    • Meaning:

      "noble; bright"
    • Description:

      These days Albrecht is mostly seen as a surname, although it was historically a well-used first name in Germany. The surname was derived from the given name.
  16. Sancho
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Santos
    • Description:

      Name of nine provincial Spanish kings, but more likely to conjure up Sancho Panza, the hapless squire of Don Quixote.
  17. Melita
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "honey"
    • Description:

      A coffee filter.
  18. Waldemar
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "famous ruler"
    • Description:

      The American child given this name of four kings of Denmark, not to mention one so similar to that of the Harry Potter archvillain Lord Voldemort, might have to pay a large emotional import tax.
  19. Severino
    • Description:

      Severino is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman family name Severus, meaning 'stern,' 'serious,' or 'severe.' It functions as a diminutive or elaborated form of Severo. Particularly common in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking countries, Severino carries a dignified, classical quality while the -ino suffix adds a touch of warmth to its otherwise serious etymology. The name has maintained moderate popularity in Southern European and Latin American regions, though it has never been widely used in English-speaking countries. Severino offers cross-cultural appeal with its recognizable Latin roots and melodic three-syllable pattern. Its connection to ancient Roman heritage gives the name a timeless quality alongside its distinctive character.
  20. Henriette
    • Origin:

      French, feminine form of Henri
    • Description:

      Henriette is to Henri (or Henry) what Charlotte is to Charles. Yet this elegant French name is surprisingly rare in the States.