Roman Catholic Inspired Names

Faith is one of the most straightforward of the virtue names popularized by the Puritans in the seventeenth century, many parents still choosing it as an indicator of their religious conviction. Faith peaked in 2002 at Number 48.

Fara is a feminine name with multiple potential origins, giving it a rich cross-cultural significance. In Arabic, Fara can mean "joy" or "happiness," while in Persian it may relate to "glory" or "splendor." Some sources also connect it to the Latin word for "traveler." The name appears in various cultures including Middle Eastern, North African, and European traditions, though with different etymological roots. Fara offers a simple yet melodious sound with its two open syllables and flowing vowels. While never extremely common in the United States, the name has seen intermittent usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Its brevity, pleasant sound, and positive meanings make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name with international appeal.

Captivating and gorgeous, powerful but with gentle sounds, Fatima is a popular name of Arabic origin. In the Quran, she is one of the Prophet Muhammad's daughters, and the wife of Ali, the forth ruler of the Muslim world. Fatima is regarded as the ideal example of a Muslim women, which makes it a favorite among Muslim parents.

Because the legendary Faust sold his soul to the devil, few parents would choose this for a child, although Fausto is commonly heard in Italy and Spain.

A name with several distinguished namesakes: the wife of ancient Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, a famous Italian opera singer, and two Catholic saints--making it both substantial and unusual.

Felicity is as accessible a virtue name as Hope and Faith, but much more feminine -- and dare we say, happier. The hit TV show did a lot to soften and modernize the once buttoned-up image of Felicity, and it got further notice as the red-haired Colonial doll, Felicity Merriman, in the American Girl series. A current bearer is actress Felicity Huffman.

Felix is one of those ancient but nontraditional names for boys that have come into favor over the past few decades, a favorite of parents who want a masculine name with history and heft that breaks ranks with the standard Franks and Freds. Felix is also an international darling, ranking in the Top 100 in several European and English-speaking countries.

A fen is an English marshland, and Fenn came into use as a habitational surname for a person who dwelt near one. Now, it's a rarely used first name too, a handsome alternative to Finn.

Usually pronounced without the W in English, this cool surname name derives from the English place name Fenwick, found in Northumberland, Strathclyde and Yorkshire. The place name in turn denotes a farm in fenland. Fenn could be a cool short form.

Ferrer is a masculine name of Catalan and Spanish origin, derived from the Latin word 'ferrarius' meaning 'blacksmith' or 'ironworker.' As a surname-turned-first-name, it reflects an occupational heritage and carries connotations of strength, craftsmanship, and industrial skill. The name has historical significance in Mediterranean regions, particularly in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. While not commonly used as a first name globally, Ferrer has an understated elegance and professional tone that appeals to parents seeking distinctive names with historical roots. Its pronunciation (feh-REHR) gives it a rhythmic quality that works well internationally.

French form of Fiachra

Fiametta is the pseudonym Italian Renaissance writer Bocaccio gave to his muse in his writing; her real name was most likely Maria d'Aquino. It was also the title of a ballet in the 19th century. This is one of the unusual but not inaccessible Italian names for girls; you can make it even more user-friendly with the cute nicknames Fia or Etta.

See PHILOMENA.

Fina is a feminine name with multiple origins, functioning both as a standalone name and as a diminutive form of names ending in '-fina' such as Serafina or Josefina. In Italian and Spanish contexts, it's often short for Josefina (Joseph's feminine form) or Serafina (meaning 'burning one'). In Catalan culture, it honors Santa Fina (Serafina), a 13th-century Italian saint. The name carries a delicate simplicity with its brief two-syllable structure while still connecting to deeper historical and cultural traditions. Its concise nature makes it appealing in modern naming trends that favor shorter names. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Fina has an international appeal with its easy pronunciation across languages and its sweet, feminine quality.

If you like the Finn names and love James Joyce, Finnegan is extremely winning. Will & Grace 's Eric McCormack chose the Finnigan spelling for his son. And of course Finnegan gains you access to the great short form Finn.