Oscar Winning Names

  1. Jodie
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Jody
    • Description:

      The Jodie spelling might be even more obscure, at this point, than the fading original, except actresses Jodie Foster and Jodie Sweetin have kept it in the public eye.
  2. Katharine
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Katherine, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      This is the spelling that old-time film star Katharine Hepburn used, and it's still favored by fans wanting to reference her classic strength and beauty. But in general, it's losing ground to Katherine and even Ms. Hepburn's own favorite short form, Kate.
  3. Sissy
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Cecilia; pet name for "sister"
    • Meaning:

      "sister"
    • Description:

      Old-fashioned nickname for a sister, almost never heard today.
  4. Sidney
    • Origin:

      English from French
    • Meaning:

      "Saint Denis"
    • Description:

      While Sidney in this spelling has a long history as a girls' name, it fell off the Top 1000 from the early 50s until 1990. Then it reemerged as one of the newly chic androgynous names for girls, rising into the Top 300 before falling off the Top 1000 list again in 2016. Sydney is now the more fashionable form.
  5. Holliday
    • Description:

      Holliday is a feminine given name derived from the English surname meaning 'one who dwells near a holy day.' Originally a surname used to identify someone who was born during a religious festival or holiday, it has transitioned into occasional use as a first name. The spelling with two 'l's adds a distinctive touch compared to the standard 'Holiday' form. This name carries a naturally festive, joyful association and conveys a sense of celebration. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it gained some recognition through connections to the historical figure Doc Holliday. It appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with positive, uplifting connotations.
  6. Marlee
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "pleasant seaside meadow"
    • Description:

      The combined inspiration of reggae master Bob and the dog-loving romp "Marley and Me" catapulted this name up the chart in recent years. But what goes up....
  7. Geena
    • Origin:

      Variation of Gina
    • Description:

      Actress Geena Davis (born Virginia) put her own distinctive stamp on this spelling of Gina.
  8. Neal
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "champion or cloud"
    • Description:

      Always the less common spelling of Irish classic Neil, Neal has been on a fifty-year slide, and now doesn't even make the Top 1000. It has a streamlined, surnamey appeal in this spelling.
  9. Tandy
    • Origin:

      Native American
    • Meaning:

      "flower"
    • Description:

      Fresher sounding than Mandy or Brandy, but Thandie might be a more original way to go.
  10. Katina
    • Description:

      Katina is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from Katerina or Katharina, ultimately meaning "pure." In Greek culture, it's often used as a diminutive of Katerina. The name carries a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and gentle ending. Katina experienced modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s but has since become less common, giving it a distinctive quality today. The name projects sophistication while maintaining warmth and accessibility. Its international appeal crosses cultural boundaries, recognizable in both Greek communities and beyond. Katina often evokes images of Mediterranean charm and classic beauty. For parents seeking a name with authentic Greek heritage that remains relatively uncommon, Katina offers both cultural depth and phonetic appeal.

  11. Gwenn
    • Description:

      Gwenn is a feminine name with Welsh and Breton origins, representing a variation of Gwen, which means 'white,' 'fair,' or 'blessed.' In Welsh tradition, the name is associated with purity and holiness. The double 'n' spelling gives this short name a distinctive touch while maintaining its Celtic roots. Gwenn appears in Breton folklore and literature, adding cultural depth to its appeal. Though not among the most popular names in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady usage among families with Welsh or Breton heritage. The name offers a simple yet uncommon choice that balances traditional roots with contemporary style, appealing to parents seeking a name that is both meaningful and concise.

  12. Fredric
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "peaceful ruler"
    • Description:

      Fredric is a streamlined spelling variant of the traditional Frederick. Frederick has been borne by numerous European rulers, giving the name royal associations.
  13. Anjelica
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "angelic"
    • Description:

      This spelling variation of Angelica was popularized by actress Anjelica Huston.
  14. Astor