Wondrous W's
- Wade
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"at the river crossing"Description:
Wade has never been outside the US Top 1000 for boys - there's a reason for that. It has a clean spelling, fresh sound and is neither too trendy (unlike Kade or Cade) or too old-school (like Richard or Albert). We think Wade is a winning name.
- Waide
Description:
Waide is an uncommon masculine name with potential roots as a variant spelling of Wade. The traditional name Wade derives from the Old English 'wadan,' meaning 'to go' or 'to proceed,' originally referring to someone who lived near a ford or river crossing. This variation with the added 'i' gives the classic name a modern, distinctive flair while maintaining its strong, concise sound. Waide has never been particularly common in mainstream usage, giving it a unique quality appealing to parents seeking something familiar yet distinctive. The name conveys a sense of movement, progress, and determination, with its water-related etymology suggesting adaptability and persistence.
- Walder
Description:
Walder is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from elements meaning 'rule' and 'army' or 'power.' It shares roots with names like Walter and Waldemar, but remains far less common. Historically, variations of this name were used throughout medieval Europe, particularly in Germanic regions. In contemporary times, the name gained some recognition through George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series and its television adaptation 'Game of Thrones,' where it appeared as a character name. Despite this cultural reference, Walder remains rare, appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with historical depth. The name carries connotations of authority and strength through its etymology, while its unusual status gives it a distinctive character that stands out in modern naming landscapes.
- Warrick
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"strong leader who defends."Description:
Warrick has recently come into the spotlight as the character Warrick Brown on the TV show CSI. The more conventional spelling is Warwick, a medieval English noble name.
- Waverli
Description:
Waverli is a contemporary feminine name that appears to be a creative spelling variation of Waverly. The name Waverly originated as an English surname and place name, derived from 'waver' (referring to an aspen tree) and 'lea' (a meadow). It gained recognition as a given name in the United States following the publication of Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Waverley' in 1814. The modern spelling Waverli adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's melodic quality. This uncommon variation appeals to parents seeking a name with subtle nature connections and literary undertones. With its gentle sound and distinctive spelling, Waverli offers a unique yet accessible option in the tradition of surname-inspired given names.
- Wera
Description:
Wera is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic languages, particularly Polish, it's a variant of Vera, meaning 'faith.' The name also appears in Germanic contexts as a variation of Vera or potentially related to names containing the element 'wer' meaning 'true' or 'faithful.' In some Baltic cultures, Wera has independent usage as well. Throughout the 20th century, Wera remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but had more presence in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and Germany. The name carries a strong, concise quality with just two syllables, making it cross cultural boundaries easily. Today, Wera remains an understated choice that offers simplicity and a subtle international flair while maintaining its connection to the virtue of faith.
- Wesley
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"western meadow"Description:
Reminiscent of the Old West, with rugged charm and a gentle, easy-going feel, Wesley has long been a staple on the US charts.
- Wess
Description:
Wess is a masculine name that typically functions as a shortened form of Wesley or Weston. The name Wesley originated as an English surname meaning "western meadow," while Weston literally means "western town." As a standalone name, Wess maintains the friendly, approachable quality of these longer forms while offering a more concise option. The name has a strong, straightforward sound with its single syllable ending in a distinctive double-s. While uncommon as a formal given name, Wess carries a certain casual charm that appeals to parents seeking short, unfussy masculine names. It connects to traditional naming patterns while feeling slightly more modern and streamlined. The name's brevity makes it practical and memorable, fitting well with contemporary preferences for shorter boys' names.
- Wiera
Description:
Wiera is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly found in Polish and Eastern European naming traditions. It likely derives from the Slavic word "vera" or "wiera" meaning "faith" or "belief." In Russian, the similar name Vera has the same meaning and enjoys more widespread recognition. Wiera maintains the original Slavic spelling pattern. Throughout Eastern Europe, this name has historical significance, often connected to religious devotion and spiritual strength. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, Wiera remains a traditional choice in Poland and neighboring regions. The name has a classic, elegant quality with its two distinct syllables and flowing sound.
- Wirt
Description:
Wirt is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from ancient words meaning "worthy" or "deserving." It may also have roots as an occupational surname for an innkeeper or host (from Middle High German "wirt"). The name is quite uncommon in modern usage, giving it a distinctive and vintage quality. Wirt gained some recognition through the character Wirt from the animated miniseries "Over the Garden Wall," which introduced it to a new generation. Its short, strong sound and traditional Germanic heritage make it an understated choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth but minimal contemporary usage.
- Wistaria
Description:
Wistaria is a feminine name derived from wisteria, the climbing flowering plant known for its cascading purple blossoms. The name variant with 'a' rather than 'e' reflects an older spelling of the plant name. This nature-inspired name carries associations with beauty, grace, and the delicate strength of the climbing vine. Wistaria emerged during the Victorian era when floral names gained popularity but remains quite rare today. The name evokes romantic imagery of English gardens and springtime blooms. While uncommon, it appeals to parents seeking distinctive botanical names with vintage charm and feminine elegance. The wisteria plant symbolizes poetic romance and endurance in various cultural traditions.
- Wisteria
Origin:
Flower name, from English surnameMeaning:
"Wister's flower"Description:
A frilly southern-accented flower name yet to be planted on many birth certificates. In the language of flowers, the wisteria is a symbol of devotion. It is named for American horticulturalist John Caspar Wister.
- Wren
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"small bird"Description:
Wren, a lilting songbird name, could be the next Robin. Wren entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2012 and is among the new wave of popular English names for girls.