forest-related names for nemophilists
- Cedar
Origin:
English from Latin tree nameMeaning:
"cedar tree"Description:
A fresh and fragrant nature name, Cedar is one of the new tree/wood names that parents are starting to consider. While it is currently more popular for boys, it sounds similar enough to Selah, Celia, Freda, Sailor, and Ida, it doesn't feel out of place for any gender.
- Linwood
Description:
Linwood is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a surname and place name meaning 'lake forest' or 'pool in the woods,' combining Old English elements 'lin' (pool, lake) and 'wudu' (wood, forest). The name evokes peaceful natural imagery of woodland landscapes with water features. Linwood gained modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, particularly in the 1910s-1930s, though it never became extremely common. It has the distinguished, somewhat formal quality characteristic of surname-derived first names. While less frequently used today, Linwood maintains appeal for parents seeking a name with natural associations and a traditional, dignified sound. Notable bearers include American musician Linwood 'Little Milton' Campbell.
- Sil
Description:
Sil is a concise masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Dutch contexts, it can be a diminutive of Silvester or Silas. In Italian, it may be short for Silvio, meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' The name also exists in Indian culture with different meanings. As a standalone name, Sil has a minimalist, modern appeal with its crisp single syllable. The brevity of Sil gives it versatility across languages and cultures. While uncommon as a full given name in most Western countries, its shortness makes it practical and memorable. The name carries subtle connections to nature through its potential derivation from Latin 'silva' (forest), giving it an earthy, organic quality despite its contemporary feel.
- Calhoun
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"from the narrow forest"Description:
A beaming, friendly Irish last-name-first-name waiting to be discovered, though anyone into American history might associate it with John C. Calhoun, a 19th century statesman who defended slavery. There are however plenty of places called Calhoun which might lessen that association.
- Sylvanus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"wood; forest"Description:
Sylvanus or Silvanus was the Roman god of the forest whose name is much more often found today in such variations as Sylvia, Sylvie and even Silas than in its original form. But if you're looking for a genuine mythological or Ancient Roman name with a nature connection, this might be the perfect choice.
- Elswyth
Origin:
Anglo-SaxonMeaning:
"strong temple"Description:
An Anglo-Saxon name borne by the queen of Alfred the Great. American novelist Helen Ricker wrote under the pen-name Elswyth Thane. Variants include Elswith, Ealswith and Ealhswith.
- Oihan
Origin:
BasqueMeaning:
"forest"Description:
An unusual-sounding name used in Basque-speaking parts of France and Spain.
- Firth
Origin:
Scottish nature nameMeaning:
"estuary or arm of the sea"Description:
Highly unusual water name -- and actor Colin surname -- with a Scottish burr. Firth derives from the Old Norse word fjord.
- Atwood
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"from the place by the wood"Description:
Family surname or feminist statement name? Either way, this literary surname has a cool, current sound.
- Sylvana
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"from the forest"Description:
Sleek, woodsy European choice.
- Sylvaine
Description:
Sylvaine is a feminine French name derived from Latin "silva" meaning "forest" or "woodland." This elegant name carries connotations of natural beauty and has historical usage primarily in France and French-speaking regions. Related to the masculine Sylvain, Sylvaine represents a classic French feminine form that has never been extremely common but has maintained a steady presence. The name evokes images of wooded landscapes and carries a sophisticated, slightly ethereal quality. Sylvaine appeals to parents seeking a name with French cultural connections and nature associations. With its melodic sound and refined ending, Sylvaine offers a distinctive alternative to more common nature-inspired names while maintaining a timeless, elegant character.
- Dera
Description:
Dera is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Irish traditions, it may be related to the name Deirdre, meaning "sorrowful" or "broken-hearted" in Gaelic mythology. In African contexts, particularly Nigerian, Dera can mean "peace" or "goodness" in Igbo. The name also appears in Eastern European cultures as a diminutive form of names like Theodora. This cross-cultural presence gives Dera versatility and global appeal. The name is characterized by its brevity and gentle sound, making it both distinctive and accessible. While never achieving widespread popularity in Western countries, Dera maintains consistent usage across various communities, appealing to parents seeking a simple yet uncommon name with cultural significance.
- Sylva
Origin:
Czech form of SilviaMeaning:
"from the woods"Description:
Sleek and sharp Sylva is the Czech variation of Silvia. It could equally double up as a word-adjacent name in English, thanks to its similarity to the metal Silver.
- Yardley
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"wood clearing"Description:
Yardley is an English surname with a distinguished vibe, a la Chauncey and Clancy. Extremely rare for either sex, it would make a stand-out choice that still fits in with current trends.
- Aranya
Origin:
SanskritDescription:
This pretty name is most commonly used in Southeast Asia, although Westerners might recognize it as the middle name of Owen Wilson's daughter Lyla.
- Busby
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"shrub farm"Description:
A busby is the English name for the fur military headdress originally worn by the Hungarian hussars. As a first name, Busby is also the unique name of iconic movie choreographer Busby Berkeley.
- Upwood
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"upper forest"Description:
Even more uppity than Upton.
- Ardian
- Arwood
- Berewold
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