ORIGINAL Baby Names

Despite appearances, Rosemary is not a "smoosh" name, not even a traditional one. The name derives from two Latin terms "Ros" meaning ‘dew’ and "Marinus" "meaning "of the sea". The plant was termed ‘dew of the sea’ due to its salty texture and its ability to thrive in coastal climes. Only after the Middle Ages did the English names of Rose and Mary become interchanged with the name Rosmarinus and give us the modern name we use today.

A fabled storybook name via the heroine of Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe (1819), which featured a heroine called Rowena of Hargottstanstede, and also a Harry Potter name, as Rowena Ravenclaw, founder of one of the Hogwarts houses..

Sapphira is a lovely name which unfortunately has an unsavory Biblical history. The New Testament Sapphira was killed by God for lying about a tax payment.

From the first time we saw the name Saskia attached to a portrait of Rembrandt's wife (her full name was Saakje van Uylenburgh, but she was always called Saskia), we have found it utterly charming and wondered why it hasn't attracted more fans In this country--she's appreciated by the Brits, who have moved her to Number 392. Saskia is one of those names that's been used in Europe since the Middle Ages, but has never crossed the ocean.

Sóley is the Icelandic word for the buttercup flower, derived from the words meaning "sun" and "island." It is also used on the Faroe Islands as a short form of Sólja.

A fragrant herbal and color name that could make a sensitive, distinctive choice.

Spence as a feminine name represents an uncommon gender crossover from what is traditionally a masculine name. Originally a surname derived from Middle English 'spens,' meaning 'pantry' or 'larder,' Spence emerged as a short form of Spencer. While primarily used for boys, its adoption for girls reflects the modern trend toward surname-inspired unisex names. The name carries associations of strength and refinement, perhaps influenced by the aristocratic Spencer family of England. As a feminine choice, Spence remains quite rare, appealing to parents seeking distinctive, gender-neutral options with a sophisticated sound. Its brevity and strong consonant ending give it a contemporary feel despite its historical origins.

Theona is a feminine name with Greek origins, generally considered a feminine variation of Theon, which means 'godly' or 'divine.' The name carries elegant ancient connections while maintaining a modern, melodic quality. Historically less common than similar Greek-derived names like Theodora or Theodosia, Theona has experienced modest increases in usage in recent decades among parents seeking names with classical roots but distinctive sounds. The name's connection to divinity gives it an ethereal, spiritual quality. With its flowing sound and relatively uncommon status, Theona offers a balance between uniqueness and accessibility. The name works well across multiple cultures and has particular appeal for those drawn to names with meaningful Greek etymology and a gentle, feminine sound.

This lovely orange-scented Spanish place-name would make an inventive namesake for an Aunt Valerie.

This name of a showy, lemony plant makes an unusual entry into the name garden.

Rarely heard, and when it is, usually attached to a witch. Historically, though, Wanda was a legendary eighth century queen of Poland, and in literature it is the central character of Ouida's eponymous novel Wanda. A musical namesake is the great Polish harpsichordist Wanda Landowska.