Elvish names
- Adriel
- Eowyn
- Thranduil
- Aerin
Origin:
Tolkien Middle Earth invention, or variation of ErinDescription:
In Tolkien's world, the derivation of this airy name is Elvish. Regular folks might consider it an artsier form of Erin, borne by cosmetics heiress and socialite Aerin Lauder.
- Aila
Origin:
Finnish variation of Helga or Scottish GaelicMeaning:
"from the strong place"Description:
Now that Isla Fisher has pushed her once-obscure name into the Top 150, some parents are looking for similar-sounding Scottish names for girls that are further off the beaten path. This one is especially promising, with its cross-cultural appeal. Ayla, a common name in Turkey, is also worth considering.
- Albion
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"white, bright"Description:
Albion is an ancient, poetic, and literary name for Great Britain. As a name, Albion is a variation of Albus -- and Dumbledore fans might find it a congenial update. Attractive short forms include Al and Albie.
- Alf
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"elf counsel"Description:
Short form of Alfred that had fallen out of favor, but could come back alongside Alfie and other clunky old-style nicknames like Gus and Ike.
- Alma
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"nurturing, soul"Description:
Alma is a somewhat solemn, soulful name that had a burst of popularity a century ago, then faded into the flowered wallpaper, and is now finding its footing once more.
- Alvin
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"noble friend, friend of the elves"Description:
Alvin has a sturdy, no-frills sound that belies its somewhat whimsical meaning. Interesting potential namesakes include British rocker Alvin Stardust, and US footballer Alvin Williams, and African-American dance legend (and activist) Alvin Ailey.
- Alvyn
Description:
Alvyn is a masculine name that represents a modern spelling variant of Alvin. With Germanic origins, it derives from elements meaning 'noble friend' or 'elf friend.' The traditional Alvin gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the early 20th century, while this alternative spelling offers a distinctive touch. The name carries a sense of loyalty and wisdom, qualities valued across cultures. Alvyn maintains the friendly, approachable quality of the original name while standing out with its 'y' spelling. Though not as widely used as its traditional counterpart, Alvyn has appeal for parents seeking a slightly unconventional yet recognizable name with historical roots.
- Alya
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"heavens, highborn, exalted"Description:
Alya is most familiar in the US in its much-more-complicated form Aaliyah, the spelling used by the later singer. The traditional name of the star system Theta Serpentis, Alya is also an established Muslim first name and a Turkish place-name. It may also be a Russian short form for Alexandra or any other Al- name.
- Aman
Description:
Aman is a multicultural masculine name with origins spanning several traditions. In Sanskrit, it means 'peace' or 'tranquility,' while in Arabic it can mean 'security' or 'safety.' The name also appears in Punjabi, Persian, and other cultural traditions, each with similar positive connotations. This cross-cultural versatility has made Aman increasingly popular in diverse communities around the world. Its simple pronunciation, melodic sound, and universal meaning contribute to its appeal. The name carries a gentle strength and projects qualities of harmony and protection that transcend cultural boundaries. Aman's growing popularity reflects the modern trend toward names with positive meanings that work well in multicultural contexts.
- Apollo
Origin:
Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"destroyer; strength; father's light"Description:
With mythological names rising, the handsome son of Zeus and god of medicine, music, and poetry among many other things might offer an interesting, and melodic option. Similar in style to Atlas and Atticus and similar in sound to Arlo, Paolo, Paul, and Ollie, Apollo entered the US Top 1000 back in 2012, and was propelled upwards after it was chosen by Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale in 2014.
- Aragorn
Origin:
Literature, SindarinMeaning:
"noble, kingly"Description:
In JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Aragorn is the heir of the Dúnedain kings of the north.
- Arda
Origin:
Turkish, Hebrew, or EnglishMeaning:
"scepter, bronze, or forest"Description:
Arda is a simple gender-neutral name with several possible origins and meanings. As a Turkish name, it's usually used for males and means scepter. There is also a river in Turkey called the Arda. The Hebrew name Arda means bronze. And Arda may also be a variation of the English Arden, the name of a magical Shakespearean forest.
- Aria
Origin:
Italian and HebrewMeaning:
"air; song or melody; lion"Description:
Aria is a multi-cultural name with two extremely popular versions: this more word-like one along with Arya, the spelling used for the feisty young heroine of Game of Thrones. There were about 6400 baby girls named Aria in the US last year alog with 2400 named Arya, which counted together places the name in the Top 10.
- Ariel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"lion of God"Description:
Despite its distinguished pedigree and popularity in Israel, Disney's Little Mermaid cartoonized Ariel in the US, at least in some people's minds. But it was used for a male character in Shakespeare's The Tempest centuries ago.
- Arwen
Origin:
Literature, Sindarin, WelshMeaning:
"noble maiden; fair, blessed"Description:
Best known as the princess of the Elves in Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, Arwen is a fantasy-inspired choice that feels perfectly down to earth. In 2022, it entered the UK Top 400, making it one of the fastest rising names, more than doubling in use from the previous year.
- Ayla
Origin:
Hebrew, or TurkishMeaning:
"oak tree, or halo, moonlight"Description:
Bright, fresh, and sunny, Ayla is a fashionable and exciting international choice for girls. Reminiscent of other trending names such as Layla, Isla, and Ava, Ayla has recently found its place in the Top 100.
- Adanath