Peculiar Italian Names (Girls)

While we still can't see Hilda coming back any time soon, it's conceivable that this Italian version could ride the coattails of Ella, Elena and Ellery to broader popularity.

Bertilla is a feminine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous' and possibly 'hild' meaning 'battle.' The name has historical significance through Saint Bertilla, an abbess who lived in the 7th century France. This traditional name carries an old-world charm that feels both dignified and gentle. While never widely common in modern times, Bertilla has maintained a consistent if minimal presence in European countries, particularly Italy. The name offers a distinctive alternative to more popular names like Bertha or Bella, appealing to parents interested in historical names with strong feminine roots and religious connections.

A fresher, feistier Italian variant of Marcia.

Pola is an international name that still bears the femme fatalish air of Polish-born silent screen vamp Pola Negri, whole birth name was Apolonia. Rarely used, she could join sisters Lola and Nola.

A variant spelling of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Vloggers The Bucket List Family have a son named Manilla.

Authentic, melodic place-name for the adventurous, chosen by rapper LL Cool J for his daughter and given to nearly 80 baby girls in the US last year. Italia of course is what the Italians call Italy.

Variant of Erinna

Edi is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Albanian, it's a short form of names containing the element 'ed' meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' In Hebrew contexts, it may be a diminutive of Edith, meaning 'blessed warfare' or 'rich gift.' As a Finnish name, it can be a variation of Edith or a standalone name. Edi has a modern, minimalist appeal that works well internationally due to its brevity and easy pronunciation across languages. The name carries a bright, friendly character with its short, open-vowel ending. While not widely popular in English-speaking countries, Edi enjoys some usage in Eastern European countries and among families seeking concise, gender-neutral leaning names with cross-cultural accessibility.

South America provides a continent of interesting, undiscovered names -- Bolivia, Peru, Brazil, and the tango-rhythmed Argentina.

This elaboration is sometimes used in Italy.

Fedora is occasionally heard among the British Mayfair and Belgravia set, but we're afraid that in this country there would be too strong an association with the man's felt hat.

Annita is a feminine name with multiple origins. It can be viewed as a diminutive of Anna, which comes from the Hebrew Hannah meaning "grace," or as a variant of Anita, which developed as a Spanish pet form of Ana. The double 'n' spelling gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining its melodic quality. Annita has been used across various Mediterranean cultures, including Greek, Italian, and Spanish communities. While not among the most popular names, Annita offers a slightly more elaborate alternative to Anna or Anita while retaining their classic appeal and warmth. The name has a gentle, feminine sound with a timeless quality.

Oliva is a feminine name with Latin roots, serving as a variation of Olive or Olivia. Derived from the Latin word for the olive tree, 'oliva,' it symbolizes peace, fertility, and victory in classical traditions. While less common than Olivia, which has enjoyed significant popularity in English-speaking countries, Oliva is more frequently found in Spanish, Italian, and Scandinavian regions. The name carries the same gentle, natural elegance as its variations but with a slightly more distinctive edge. Its connection to the olive branch as a symbol of peace gives it a meaningful depth beyond its pleasing sound. The name offers the cute nickname option of Liv or Livvy.

Olivia is one of the most popular girls' names in the western world, and Olivetta might be thought of as a diminutive or an elaboration. Fewer than five baby girls received this name in the US last year, though it's a pretty and easily-understood choice.

Ede is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hungarian tradition, it's a feminine form of Eduard, meaning 'wealthy guardian.' In West African cultures, particularly among the Yoruba people of Nigeria, Ede can refer to a place name or have various contextual meanings. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite its historical roots. Ede is characterized by its simplicity and easy pronunciation across different languages, making it internationally accessible. Though uncommon in most Western countries, its shortness aligns with contemporary naming trends favoring brief, distinctive names. The name carries a subtle strength and efficiency in its compact form, appealing to parents seeking something uncommon yet straightforward with cross-cultural possibilities.

Pietra is a feminine name of Italian origin, meaning "rock" or "stone." It's the female form of Pietro (the Italian version of Peter), which ultimately derives from the Greek "petros" meaning "stone." In Portuguese-speaking countries, the name is also used with the same stone-related meaning. Pietra combines strength and elegance with its flowing two-syllable structure and graceful ending. The name has gained moderate popularity in Italy and Brazil, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Pietra appeals to parents drawn to Italian names with clear meanings and cultural connections, offering a sophisticated European alternative to more common names like Petra or Piper.