Medieval Monikers
- Mafalda
Origin:
Italian and Portuguese variation of MatildaDescription:
Mafalda is nearly unknown in the English-speaking world, despite an appearance in Harry Potter. Indeed, it does have a witchy feel. Matilda itself is preferable, or her French form Mathilde, Spanish Matilde, or abbreviation Maud.
- Geoffrey
Origin:
Anglo-Saxon from FrenchMeaning:
"pledge of peace"Description:
In the US, this spelling is less common than mid-century favorite Jeffrey, and it has faded from popularity faster. This more British spelling is the usual form for historical figures like Geoffrey Chaucer and the Welsh historian Geoffrey of Monmouth, and as such it may feel more rooted and enduring.
- Clovis
Origin:
Teutonic, French, early form of Ludwig or LouisDescription:
An aromatic, unconventional name.
- Morgana
Origin:
Female version of Morgan, WelshMeaning:
"sea-circle"Description:
Since Morgan is used as--or more--frequently for girls as for boys, this feminization has fallen by the wayside. It drew some brief attention via the pop singer Morgana King.The similar Morgiana appears in Tales from the Thousand and One Nights.
- Richarda
Origin:
Feminine variation of RichardDescription:
Marginally better than Richardette or Richardina.
- Richilde
Description:
Richilde is a feminine Germanic name combining the elements 'ric' meaning 'power' or 'ruler' and 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'warfare,' thus signifying 'powerful battle maiden' or 'strong female warrior.' The name has medieval roots and was borne by several noblewomen in European history, including Richilde of Provence, a 9th-century Queen of Western Francia. Despite its historical usage among aristocracy, Richilde has remained exceedingly rare in modern times. It carries a strong, regal quality with echoes of medieval chivalry and Germanic folklore. For contemporary parents, Richilde might appeal for its unique sound, historical depth, and powerful meaning, offering distinctive nickname options like Ricki or Hilde.
- Corin
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"spear"Description:
Corin was used by Shakespeare in As You Like It, an unusual name that could make a more distinctive alternative to Corey or Colin. It is a name used in the illustrious Redgrave family of actors.
- Yvaine
Origin:
Female variation of Yvain or ScottishMeaning:
"evening star"Description:
A mix of Yvonne and Elaine, Yvaine was first noticed in the Neil Gaiman fantasy novel and then movie Stardust, in which Claire Danes played the 'fallen star' Yvaine. This In all its forms, one of the most classic Scottish names for girls is now attracting namer attention--just as that other Gaiman-inspired name, Coraline, did. Yvaine has a definite romantic, medieval charm. A small segment of namers are definitely taking notice.
- Anaelle
Origin:
Breton form of AnnaMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Also spelled Anael, this offers a new spin on an old standard. Or even a couple of old standards, if you count Annabelle.
- Isolde
Origin:
Welsh, GermanMeaning:
"ice ruler"Description:
Sleek, sharp, and soulful, Isolde is the German form of Iseult, the fabled lover of Tristan in the Arthurian romances. First appearing in the 12th-century, the name was fairly popular in the form of Iseult, Yseut, Yseult, and Ysolt, however, it wasn't until the 19th-century that this form began to catch on, after the composer Richard Wagner used it for his 1865 opera (and for his own daughter!)
- Loire
Origin:
French river and region nameDescription:
The lovely sound and image of the French river and lush valley would make this a most distinctive and captivating choice. Pronunciation: low-ahr.
- Rosamund
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"horse protection"Description:
This lovely, quintessentially British appellation, also spelled Rosamond, is the name of a legendary twelfth-century beauty. Rare on these shores, it is more than worthy of importation.
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