pretty names

  1. Pam
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Pamela, English
    • Meaning:

      "all honey"
    • Description:

      This mild-mannered short form was Queen of the Prom in the fifties and sixties, but today is mostly heard on TV's The Office (and of course as one of the founders of Nameberry).
  2. Sister
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "a female who has one or both parents in common with another"
    • Description:

      Sister is an old-timey nickname-name for girls, ranking in the Top 1000 as a proper name for girls until the beginning of the 20th century. But more often, Sister was used as a nickname in the truest sense of the word, not a short form ala Kathy but a nickname in the way that Chip and Bud are. Or maybe Junior is a more appropriate name analogy: Sister was sometimes the nickname given to the only girl in a family of boys, so literally a descriptive word name like Junior.
  3. Sindy
    • Description:

      Sindy is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Cindy, which itself is a diminutive of Cynthia. Originating from the Greek name Kynthia, it relates to Mount Kynthos on the island of Delos, birthplace of the goddess Artemis. The alternative spelling with an "S" gained notable recognition in the UK during the 1960s-1980s, partly due to the popular British fashion doll named Sindy (introduced as competition to Barbie). This spelling creates a more distinctive visual identity while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Sindy peaked in popularity during the late 20th century but has since declined in usage. The name carries a playful, youthful quality with a touch of retro charm, appealing to parents seeking a familiar-sounding name with a slightly unconventional spelling.

  4. Patsy
    • Origin:

      English and Irish, diminutive of Patrick
    • Meaning:

      "noble, patrician."
    • Description:

      Patsy has been rarely heard for half a century, for either gender, and we're not expecting that to change in the near future..
  5. Lacy
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "from Lassy"
    • Description:

      One of the most feminine of surname names, calling to mind dresses and doilies, though it was once used for boys too. The spelling Lacey is currently more popular, while Lacie has been a favorite in the UK.
  6. Porter
    • Origin:

      English from French occupational name
    • Meaning:

      "doorkeeper or carrier"
    • Description:

      Porter is one clubby surname or occupational that was given to around 80 baby girls in the US last year -- and nearly 600 baby boys.
  7. Sissy
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Cecilia; pet name for "sister"
    • Meaning:

      "sister"
    • Description:

      Old-fashioned nickname for a sister, almost never heard today.
  8. Cathryn
    • Description:

      Cathryn is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Catherine, which traces back to Greek origins, meaning 'pure.' This alternative spelling maintains the classic elegance of the traditional name while offering a slightly more distinctive appearance. Throughout history, the name has maintained steady popularity, though it peaked primarily in the mid-20th century. Cathryn offers the versatility of cute nicknames like Cat, Cathy, or Cate. While less common than Katherine or Catherine, Cathryn appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a unique twist, combining traditional values with individuality.
  9. Cissy
    • Description:

      Cissy is a feminine diminutive that traditionally serves as a nickname for names like Cecilia, Cecily, or Priscilla. Derived from the Latin 'caecus' meaning 'blind,' its root names were popularized by Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music. Cissy has a distinctly vintage quality, having peaked in usage during the mid-20th century. It conveys a sweet, playful charm with its soft sounds and friendly vibe. While some might consider it primarily a nickname, Cissy has occasionally been used as a given name in its own right. The name projects an image of approachability and warmth, though in contemporary usage, some might prefer it as a familiar form rather than an official name. Its musical associations give it an artistic connection that adds depth to its cheerful character.

  10. Cardigan
    • Peplum