Elvish names

Used as both a diminutive for Ivana, and as a given name in Bulgaria, Vanya has a cool sharp sound that could work internationally. It has been used from a character in the TV show and comic book The Umbrella Academy and is borne by singer and writer Vanya Shtereva and poet Vanya Petkova.

Commonly heard in Israel, but here it could be an unusual way to honor Grandma Rose.

Vilda is a feminine name with Nordic and Slavic roots. In Swedish and other Scandinavian languages, it relates to the word for 'wild' or 'untamed,' suggesting a free-spirited, natural quality. The name also appears in Eastern European traditions, particularly in Latvia and neighboring regions. Vilda carries a distinctive vintage charm while feeling fresh to modern ears. Though rare in English-speaking countries, it has maintained modest usage in Northern and Eastern Europe throughout the centuries. The name's brevity and melodic quality give it an elegant simplicity, while its meaning connects to nature and independence. For parents seeking an uncommon name with international roots and an evocative meaning, Vilda offers uniqueness without complexity, combining old-world heritage with contemporary appeal.

Vilde is a feminine Norwegian name with Norse origins. It derives from the Old Norse word 'villr,' meaning 'wild' or 'untamed,' conveying a sense of freedom and natural spirit. The name gained significant popularity in Norway starting in the 1990s and has remained a favored choice for girls there. Vilde embodies Scandinavian cultural values of independence and connection to nature. Outside of Norway, the name remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality internationally. Its short, crisp sound and meaningful etymology appeal to parents seeking a name that suggests strength and individuality while maintaining feminine qualities.

Vinya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Sanskrit, it relates to 'wisdom' or 'knowledge,' while some interpret it as a derivative of the Latin 'vinea,' meaning 'vineyard.' The name has connections to nature and cultivation, symbolizing growth and abundance. In some Slavic contexts, it may be associated with meanings like 'guilty' or 'blame.' Vinya remains an uncommon choice in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its short, melodic structure with two syllables makes it both memorable and easy to pronounce across cultures. The name carries a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots, appealing to parents seeking something unique with cross-cultural resonance.

Yavanna is a feminine name with mythological origins, drawn from J.R.R. Tolkien's literary works where Yavanna appears as the goddess of fruits, growth, and harvest in Middle-earth's mythology. In Tolkien's constructed Quenya language, the name means 'Giver of Fruits' or 'Fruit-giver.' Outside of literary contexts, it's extremely rare as a given name. Yavanna carries strong nature associations and an ethereal, mystical quality appealing to parents with interests in fantasy literature or nature-themed names. The name's exotic sound pattern with alternating consonants and vowels creates a melodic flow. Though uncommon, Yavanna represents a growing trend of names inspired by fantasy literature, offering both unique character and meaningful literary connections for the bearer.

Ylva may look like it belongs with the Eva family of names, but it actually derives from Ulf, a name meaning "wolf." It's not a very intuitive name to English-speakers, and likely won't get picked up in the US anytime soon. At last count, it was only given to five American baby girls.