Hobbit Names

Short for Brunhilda, the operatic Valkyrie of Teutonic legend, Hilda still has not quite shaken off that image that image. Though with the resurgence of Matilda, she might just have a bit of a comeback.

This lovely, quintessentially British appellation, also spelled Rosamond, is the name of a legendary twelfth-century beauty. Rare on these shores, it is more than worthy of importation.

Ferdinand, a traditional name in the royal families of Spain and a handsome young prince shipwrecked on Prosper's island in Shakespeare's The Tempest has, unfortunately, to the American ear a somewhat heavy and clumsy feel – most likely because of the bull connection. In the 1880's it was in the 200's on the US pop list, but has been off completely since 1986.

The classic strong-yet-friendly nickname name, much used for charming movie characters.

Sapphira is a lovely name which unfortunately has an unsavory Biblical history. The New Testament Sapphira was killed by God for lying about a tax payment.

Super-sweet name that was the title of a Broadway play -- but best known as a type of apple. The Dutch variation is Pepijn is finding some popularity in that country, where short nickname names are stylish.

Just like Sam and Ben, Tom could be revived as a simple, well liked name on its own. Tom, just Tom, is one of the Top 100 Boy Names in France

On one hand, Elanor is a spelling variation of the classic Eleanor with a slightly lighter, contemporary look about it. Usually said to derive from the Latin phrase, alia Aenor meaning "other Aenor", the exact origins and meaning of Eleanor are unknown.

The short-lived magazine edited by former Vogue chief Grace Mirabella put this beautiful name off-limits for a while, but now it's perfectly fit to join the fashionable Bella pantheon. More distinctive than Isabella.

This simplified version is not nearly as popular as the original (it also destroys a perfectly good palindrome), and has been on the decline in recent years.

Surely one of the most pleasant and evocative of the occupational options.

These days, it's more likely you'd call your daughter the popular Belle or Bella.

The rarer long form of Priscilla, which comes from the Roman name Priscus, meaning "ancient".

Peregrin is a distinguished masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'peregrinus' meaning 'traveler' or 'pilgrim.' The name gained literary recognition through J.R.R. Tolkien's works, where Peregrin 'Pippin' Took appears as a beloved character in 'The Lord of the Rings.' This association has given the name a whimsical, adventurous quality that appeals to literary-minded parents. Despite its rich history and meaningful etymology, Peregrin remains uncommon, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand. The name carries connotations of journey, exploration, and spiritual seeking, reflecting its pilgrim roots. For parents drawn to names with depth, historical significance, and a touch of literary magic, Peregrin offers a compelling choice.

This Tolkien name is a variation on Meriadeg, a Breton name derived from Conan Meriadeg who was the legendary founder of Brittany. In Tolkien's novel, Meriadoc (shortened to the charming "Merry") is one of the hobbits who accompanies Frodo on his quest.

Cheery word or nickname name which might appeal to lovers of The Lord of the Rings, thanks to the character of Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck.