German, Scandinavian and Polish spelling of Konrad, borne by several German and Polish rulers throughout history, as well as the German chancellor Konrad Adenauer.

Susanne is a feminine name representing a French and German variation of Susan, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' With its elegant double 'n' and silent 'e' ending, Susanne offers a sophisticated European flair compared to the more straightforward Susan or Suzanne. The name enjoyed modest popularity throughout the mid-20th century, particularly in Germanic and Scandinavian countries. Susanne carries the same gentle, timeless quality as other forms of the name while providing a distinctive spelling. The name has musical associations through Leonard Cohen's famous song 'Suzanne,' which has sometimes been rendered as 'Susanne' in translations. With its balanced two-syllable structure and soft consonants, Susanne presents an option that feels both classic and refined, appealing to parents seeking a name with cross-cultural appeal and enduring elegance.

Katharina is an attractive form of Katherine and a great way to update a classic. Popular in Austria and a classic in Germany, it is typically pronounced as ka-ta-REE-na, though kath-uh-REE-nuh or ka-THREE-nuh are sometimes heard among English speakers. Worn by royalty and saints, it makes a strong and elegant choice.

Margarethe is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant of Margaret that's particularly common in German-speaking regions. Derived from the Greek word "margarites" meaning "pearl," the name carries connotations of preciousness and beauty. Throughout European history, Margarethe has maintained popularity due to various notable royal and saintly bearers, including Saint Margaret of Antioch. The name offers several familiar nicknames including Greta, Gretel, and Margot. While less common in English-speaking countries, Margarethe maintains steady usage in Germany, Austria, and parts of Scandinavia. The name's enduring appeal lies in its classic elegance, rich historical connections, and dignified sound.

This shortened variation of Aaron—it was Elvis's middle name—is now a widely used choice.

As Theo and Thea get more popular, so do Teo and Tea, short forms of the Latinate variations of Theodore and Matthew -- which include Dorotea and Mattea. But like Theo and Thea, Tea can stand perfectly well on its own and blends seamlessly into any Anglophone or European culture, if that is your aim. Some may argue that the Tea version is the prettiest and it's certainly the sleekest.

A Scandinavian short form of Johanna, properly pronounced with a Y sound at the start, but would likely be read as the more prosaic "John-a" in an English-speaking context.

Kris was once the ultimate cool cheerleader name, but now she's more likely to be a matriarch ala Kris Jenner.

Edvard is a masculine name of Scandinavian and Eastern European origin, representing a variant of Edward. The name combines the Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune' and 'weard' meaning 'guardian,' thus translating to 'wealthy guardian' or 'prosperous protector.' Notable bearers include the Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and the expressionist painter Edvard Munch, creator of 'The Scream.' While Edward remains more common in English-speaking countries, Edvard is particularly popular in Norway, Sweden, and parts of Eastern Europe. The name carries an air of sophistication and cultural depth, with its continental European spelling offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Edward while maintaining the same classic heritage and meaning.

Rebekka is a more creative spelling -- at least in some people's opinion -- of the biblical favorite Rebecca. Rebekka is also the usual German version. The Rebekkah spelling was commonly used in Early America.

Jasper and its many international variations, from Kasper to Casper to Gaspard, is finding new popularity.

Ulrike and its Anglicized form Ulrica were given to exactly zero baby girls in the US last year, while their masculine form Ulrich was used for a dozen baby boys. U is the least common first initial for baby names in the US, making Ulrike extra unique. Ulrich and variations is German and means "rich and noble heritage".

Joakim is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, representing a Scandinavian and Eastern European form of Joachim. Derived from the Hebrew name Yehoyakim, meaning 'established by God' or 'God will raise,' Joakim carries strong religious and historical significance. Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and parts of Eastern Europe, the name has maintained steady usage throughout centuries. Joakim became internationally recognized partly through notable bearers including basketball player Joakim Noah and various European athletes and artists. The name blends biblical heritage with a contemporary Scandinavian feel, offering a distinctive yet accessible choice. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Joakim provides an international alternative with both cultural depth and modern appeal.

Peder? You mean Peter? You'll have to do a lot of spelling and explaining of this one.

It may surprise Americans to hear that Ulrik is a fashionable choice elsewhere in the world, as U is the least-used letter for given names in the US. In recent years, Ulrik has been one of the fastest-rising names in Norway.

Lisbet is a feminine name of Scandinavian and Germanic origin, representing a shortened form of Elisabeth. This charming variation has been particularly common in Nordic countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. The name combines the dignified heritage of its biblical root (Elisabeth comes from the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath') with a concise, accessible quality. Lisbet carries a classic feel while being less common than Elisabeth or its other derivatives like Liz or Beth. The name has a pleasant rhythm and conveys a sense of timelessness and understated elegance. Though not frequently used in English-speaking countries, its international recognition and straightforward pronunciation make it an accessible choice for parents seeking a name with European charm.

Brisk but rather brittle. Britt Eklund was a Bond Girl in the 1974 The Man with the Golden Gun. Britt is a contracted form of Birgit, but be aware that it does come with the strong possibility of being confused with Bret/Brett—or as a shortening of Brittany.

Cathrine is a variation of Catherine, one of the most enduring feminine names throughout Western history. Derived from the Greek name 'Aikaterine,' its meaning remains debated, with possible origins relating to the Greek word 'katharos' meaning 'pure.' This particular spelling, without the 'e' between 'th' and 'r,' gives the classic name a slightly distinctive appearance while maintaining its traditional pronunciation. While less common than Catherine or Katherine, Cathrine appears regularly in Scandinavian countries. The name carries the same regal associations as its variants, connected to numerous queens, saints, and notable historical figures. Cathrine conveys elegance, timelessness, and strength, appealing to those who appreciate traditional names with a subtle twist.