15th and 16th Century Italian Girl Names

Lauretta

Italian diminutive of Laura

"bay laurel"

The first syllable of Laura in Italian rhymes with now, so Lauretta does not really sound like the decidedly midcentury Loretta thought most English speakers will pronounce it that way. Still, this…

Euphemia

Greek

"fair speech"

Ancient martyr's name that, though not especially appealing, might still be mildly possible, especially for Anglophiles. It was widely used in early Scotland, but was overtaken by its nickname, Effie.

Apollonia

Feminine variation of Apollo, Greek mythology name

"destroyer, strength; father's light"

This name of a third-century Christian martyr has an romantic, appealing feel in the modern world. It first came to American attention via Prince's love interest in the film Purple Rain . It could…

Clemenza

Clemenza is a feminine Italian name derived from the Latin 'clementia,' meaning 'mercy,' 'compassion,' or 'gentleness.' It shares roots with the more familiar Clementine and Clement. Historically…

Elisabetta

Italian variation of Elizabeth

"pledged to God"

This version softens, feminizes, and glamorizes the long-time favorite. A fresh way to honor Grandma Betty. Elizabetta is a variation.

Fina

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,…

Isabetta

Short form of Elisabetta, Italian variation of Elizabeth

"pledged to God"

Isabetta is a charming spin on both the Elizabeth and Isabella families and a new way to go if you love the originals but want something more, well, original. Isabetta Rose is the name chosen by…

Ursa

Short form of Ursula, Latin

"little female bear"

Ursa might be a good choice if you're looking for a bear name for your daughter but want to avoid the She Witch curse placed on Ursula by Disney's The Little Mermaid . Too bad, because Ursula is a…

Damiana

Greek

"tame, domesticated"

This feminine form of Damian projects a positive and lilting image, a distinct contrast to its male counterpart.

Teodora

Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Bulgarian, Macedonian, Slovene and Serbian form of Theodora

"gift of God"

Teodora is an extremely attractive and international choice, with several equally attractive, user-friendly nicknames. Appealing short forms might include Tea, Dora, or Dory for English speakers,…