Dreamy Water Maiden

Popular name in Spain drawn from the Provencal Mireio, coined by the poet Frederic Mistral. Very pretty and, though difficult to spell and pronounce, simpler than the French version.

A pretty name that may pose pronunciation problems for non-French speakers or those who've never encountered it, but it is worth the effort. Pronounced meer-AY (or closer to MEE-RAY in French), it comes from the Occitan word mirar meaning "to admire".

Mirthe is a feminine name of Dutch origin that means 'mirth' or 'joy,' reflecting its connection to happiness and cheerfulness. Popular in the Netherlands and Flanders, the name embodies a sense of delight and lightheartedness. Mirthe (pronounced MEER-tuh in Dutch) has a soft, gentle sound that contributes to its appeal. While uncommon outside Dutch-speaking regions, it offers international parents a distinctive option with a positive meaning and relatively straightforward pronunciation. The name has connections to the myrtle plant as well, which symbolizes love and was sacred to the goddess Venus in ancient times. Mirthe combines simplicity with meaningful associations, creating a name that feels both modern and timeless in its celebration of happiness.

Mona had more than a moment in the sun, peaking in 1950 at Number 230 but falling off the Top 1000 completely in the late 1980s. Its similarity to the word "moaner" undercuts the appeal of its simplicity. In one recent year, fewer than 100 baby girls received the name, and we don't see it reviving any time soon.

A new favorite of the bohemian set, brought to light by actress Monet Mazur, daughter of the artist who designed the Rolling Stones' mouth logo.

Morgaine is a feminine name with mystical Celtic origins, being a variant of Morgan or Morgana. The name is steeped in Arthurian legend, where Morgaine (also known as Morgan le Fay) appears as a powerful enchantress and half-sister to King Arthur. Derived from Old Welsh elements meaning 'sea-born' or 'sea-circle,' Morgaine carries connotations of mystery, magic, and connection to natural elements. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, the name has maintained a steady presence among those drawn to names with mythological significance and Celtic heritage. The French-influenced spelling with the '-aine' ending gives it a slightly more ethereal quality than the more common Morgan. Morgaine appeals to parents seeking a name with depth, mystical associations, and feminine strength.

Morwenna is an ancient Cornish name now being revived in Wales, deriving from a Celtic word meaning "maiden", although the Mor- syllable means that it's often associated with the sea. It's been heard in the British series Doc Martin and Poldark. Morwenna Banks is a British actress.

Remember, the Muse is passive: someone else's inspiration.

This botanical name is one of the few Dutch names that could work outside the Netherlands, especially in Germany or Scandinavia.

Part of the vogue for French-sounding names in the 1920s and 30s, Nadine has been replaced by the Russian sound of Nadia and Natasha.

A multicultural option that's equally intriguing but more unusual than Maia. Connected to water and the ocean, it is a Top 100 choice in Spain and Puerto Rico and has been rising up the charts in France and the UK in recent years. Alternative (and equally multicultural) spelling alternative Nya has also proved popular.

Naomi was once a primarily Jewish name from the Old Testament that referenced the mother-in-law of Ruth. Because of this, it is a symbolic name given to girls on Shavuot when the story of Ruth is read in the synagogue.

An enchanting ancient Greek name belonging to the Greek goddess who was created from a cloud by Zeus and so became goddess of the clouds and mother of the centaurs. The name Nephele is not widely known but as among modern parents become used to Phoebe, Penelope, and Persephone, it may become one of the ancient Greek goddess names that's back in the mix.

This is one of the more unusual examples of a group of Greek names connected to the sea, which makes sense for a nation of coastline and islands. The Nereids or water nymphs were the daughters of sea god Nereus.

Nerina is a feminine name of Italian origin derived from Nereus, the ancient Greek sea god known as the "Old Man of the Sea." The name literally means "from the sea" or "sea nymph," evoking images of water, mystery, and natural beauty. In Italian poetry, particularly works by Jacopo Sannazaro, Nerina appeared as a poetic name for a shepherdess, adding literary and pastoral associations. The name has maintained steady popularity in Italy and has gained modest international recognition. Nerina features a melodious sound pattern typical of Italian names, with its flowing rhythm and soft ending. The aquatic meaning appeals to parents drawn to nature-themed names, while its Italian roots give it a touch of Mediterranean elegance and sophistication.

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