Roman Catholic Inspired Names

No-no appelation of a child saint and martyr whose name is a term for the nervous condition known as Saint Vitus' Dance. Its one recommending feature is that it's among the elite group Boy names that mean life.

Karoline is the form of the classic Caroline commonly used in Germany and throughout Scandinavia, where it is popular. It's an acceptable if not traditional spelling variation, given to nearly 100 baby girls in the US last year, versus almost 3000 named Caroline.

There's only one. Okay, two.

Noel, the French word for Christmas has been given to both boys and girls born on that holiday since the Middle Ages. For girls it's often spelled Noelle.

This topographical name, more suited to a girl than a boy--though it would inevitably be confused with SARAH--has some distinguished bearers: famous Spanish missionary to Mexico Father Junipero Serra, and sculptor Richard Serra, known for his challenging large-scale metal works.

Among the children named Heaven are the daughters of TV personality Brooke Burke and rap singer Lil' Mo, who also has a daughter named God'iss Love. Some parents have taken to using Nevaeh instead—Heaven spelled backwards.

Loman is one of those rare names that is at once simple and very unusual, with fewer than five baby boys given the name in the US in the most recent year.

Ninnian is a masculine name with Celtic and Scottish origins, derived from the historical Saint Ninian, a 4th-century missionary who introduced Christianity to Scotland. The name may have evolved from the Welsh 'Nynnyaw' or possibly relates to the Latin 'ninus' meaning 'child.' Ninnian carries rich historical significance in British Isles tradition while remaining quite rare in modern usage. Its connection to an important religious figure gives it gravitas and spiritual meaning. The name has a melodic, somewhat lyrical quality that distinguishes it from more common Celtic names. For parents interested in Scottish heritage or early Christian history, Ninnian offers an uncommon choice with authentic historical roots and cultural significance.

An ancient alternative to the modern Mac- names, this name was borne by two early saints.

The mother of all virtue names.

One for the truly adventurous baby namers, or perhaps an unexpected middle name to liven up a more traditional first. But on trend short form Bo does make it feel a little more accessible.

Pierra is a feminine name that appears to be a variation of Pierre, the French form of Peter, which means 'rock' or 'stone.' By adding the feminine '-a' ending to the traditionally masculine Pierre, the name creates a feminine equivalent while maintaining its French aesthetic. This pattern of feminizing male names has historical precedent across many European languages. Pierra has a sophisticated, continental European flair that suggests strength and elegance simultaneously. While relatively uncommon, it offers an interesting alternative to more popular names like Petra or Patricia that share similar etymological roots. The name's rarity gives it distinction, while its recognizable sounds make it accessible. Pierra might appeal to parents with French heritage or those seeking an uncommon name with romantic language influences.

Transferred use of the surname Vianney, in reference to French saint Jean-Marie Vianney. It is generally masculine in France, Belgium and French-speaking Africa, but in Latin America it is mainly feminine and sometimes spelt Vianey.

Though associated with a French saint noted for her holiness and strength of character, this name is somewhat dated and it might be better to look to one of the more modern names popular for little girls in France today: Oceane, Lea, Manon.

Brogan is a cheerful Irish surname that would fit right in with the Logans and Br-starting names now trendy for boys. It's been on the pop list for the past three years, though it's sliding again. Its history includes Saint Brogan (Broccan in Gaelic), who was Saint Patrick's nephew and scribe.

Sounds like a child in a Gothic novel.

A fast rising choice in the US, Belen is a name with two possible origins. On one hand, it could be a variation — or an anglicization — of Belén, the Spanish form of Bethlehem. This would make it a spiritual choice, connected to the birth place of Jesus.

Emmelia is a graceful feminine name with ancient Greek origins, derived from the elements 'em' meaning 'industrious' or 'striving' and 'melos' meaning 'melody' or 'song.' Historically, Saint Emmelia was the mother of Saint Basil the Great in the 4th century. The name offers a beautiful alternative to the more common Emily or Amelia, maintaining a classical elegance while feeling distinctive. Though relatively rare in contemporary usage, Emmelia has gained modest popularity in recent years among parents seeking names with historical depth and melodic quality. Its natural nickname options include Emma, Emme, Lia, or Melia, providing versatility while maintaining its sophisticated full form.

Earthier version of the name of England's first female professional writer, Aphra Behn.

Frilly but undeniably beautiful. The meaning of Mary is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).