Fantastique's list "Some Fantastique Favorites" of 20 great name ideas: Amabel - Carden!

Some Fantastique Favorites

Amabel is an older name than Annabel and a lot more distinctive. Amabel was a very common name in the twelfth and thirteen centuries, then was revived during the nineteenth century British fad for medieval names.
 In a short story by H.H. Munro, about Amabel, the vicar's daughter, it is said "Her name was the vicar's one extravagance."
 Amabel's shortened form Mabel overtook the mama name early on.

Amabel

The name of a star in the constellation of Leo, Zosma is an intriguing, celestial choice that could make an unexpected middle name option, especially for babies born under the lion sign. Meaning "belt" or "girdle" in Greek, Zosma (the star) is located at the hip of the of the constellation.
 
If you like Zosma, but aren't so keen on the meaning, you could try Zosime and Zosima, meaning "viable, likely to survive."

Zosma

Rarely heard outside of Wales, Arianwen combines the pretty Welsh element gwen with the silvery arian, giving it a metallic and shining meaning. The name is sometimes listed as one of the daughters of the legendary fifth-century king and saint, Brychan Brycheiniog. 
 
Given to 13 girls in England and Wales in a recent year, it is notably borne by actress Arianwen Parkes-Lockwood. In Welsh, it is typically pronounced a-ri-YAN-wehn, though in English, a-ree-AN-wehn may be heard.

Arianwen

This is an energetic dance of an Irish surname, great for both genders. Could also be spelled Delancy.

Delancey

One of several similar names with a pleasant, intriguing sound. 

Radeyah

The unusual (to English speakers) name Cendrillon is French for Cinderella, though most Americans wouldn't recognize it as such. This might make an excellent middle name for those who are looking for something rare, whimsical, fantastical, and literary. But you must insist on the lovely French pronunciation — if you're choosing a name this uncommon, why not go all the way.

Cendrillon

Mosley, former best known as the surname of author Walter, has been put in play as a first <a href="https://nameberry.com/girls-names">name for girls</a> by football great Peyton Manning, who used the name for his twin daughter, sister of Marshall. Alternate spellings are Moseley and Mosely and the first syllable rhymes with Rose.

Mosley

This old-time fairy tale name is rarely heard in the modern English-speaking world, but it's so, well, mellifluous, that it would make a lovely choice for a twenty-first century girl--a romanticized tribute to an Aunt Melissa or Melanie. 
 
Pelleas and Melisande is a play by Maeterlinck, the inspiration for the Debussy opera of the same name. In modern times, Melisande became a princess via the Rankin and Bass film The Flight of Dragons. And Broadway buffs might remember Melisande as the name the main character Ella Peterson takes in the musical Bells are Ringing. The name of the beautiful red-haired character on Game of Thrones is spelled Melisandre.

Melisande

Somehow a "y" got stuck in a glass of apple juice.

Cyder

Dieter is a classic German name that got lots of satiric exposure via Mike Myers on "Saturday Night Live" a few years back. If mispronounced, it could conceivably be read as someone on a diet. 

Dieter

Theoni is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'theos' meaning 'god' or 'divine.' It's the feminine form of Theon, and both forms have ancient roots in Greek history and mythology. The name suggests divine connection or godliness and has been used in Greece for centuries. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Theoni maintains popularity in modern Greece and among Greek diaspora communities. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its soft 'th' sound and melodic ending. Theoni offers a distinctively Greek alternative to more common classical names, connecting its bearer to Hellenic heritage while providing a name that sounds both elegant and unique in Western contexts.

Theoni

Penrose – an ancient place-name and surname derived from several villages in Cornwall, Wales, and the Welsh border country of England – would make for an even more unexpected alternative to quirky nature name Primrose. Intuitive nicknames Penny or Rosie make it feel more wearable.

Penrose

This is an attractive Celtic mythological name, popular in Wales and a cousin of the better known Bronwyn. In Welsh mythology, Branwen was turned into a bird.

Branwen

This rare sixth-century saint's name has a modern, merry feel. 

Mabyn

A little like Elliot (or Elliette), Electra, and Etta, Ellette is a zippy but rarely used compound name. 

Ellette

A pretty, rarely used Greek name, Thalassa is the ancient personification of the sea, particularly the Mediterranean, who is sometimes considered the mother of Aphrodite.
In 1991, a newly discovered moon of Neptune was dubbed Thalassa.
 This name would make a highly original, yet accessible and delicate choice.

Thalassa

Rich purplish red color choice that may gain favor along with Claire, though the wine connection can't be ignored. 

Claret

This musical name would have to be spoken with a French accent--otherwise it would sound like a trendy boy's name, a la BRANSON.

Chanson

Pretty French sound, but there might be a lot of "umbrella" cracks. 

Umbrielle

Unusual, serious, no-nonsense occupational surname that could be borrowed from the boys. 