Vanderbilt Family Names

Ivor, a favorite choice for upscale characters in Brit Lit novels by authors like P.G. Wodehouse and Evelyn Waugh, is an interesting and unusual name just waiting to be discovered by parents in this country.

Though the plays by Sophocles and Eugene O'Neill and via the "Electra Complex" proposed by psychoanalyst Carl Jung, this name has, unfortunately, become associated with incest and murder.

Ethelinda is a feminine name that combines the elements "ethel" meaning "noble" or "of noble birth" and "linda" meaning "pretty." The name was used in medieval England but became less common after the Norman Conquest and is virtually extinct today, given to no baby girls in the US at the most recent count.

What with the resurgence of W names like Weston and Walter, the prominence of high profile actress Emma and golfer Bubba, and even the attention paid to Watson, the IBM computer on "Jeopardy" (named for IBM's founder, Thomas Watson) this name could be in line for a revival of its own.

The K may be trendy, but this spelling variation is much less popular than Marcus.

Candice is the spelling of this ancient name used by actress Candice Bergen. Candice is a form of Candace, an ancient title of a dynasty of Ethiopian queens mentioned in the New Testament.

Nikolas is a sleek and international spelling of this longtime favorite, chosen by parents who might like the Nik or Niko short form.

Almira is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, possibly derived from Arabic "al-amirah" meaning "princess" or "commander," or from Germanic elements meaning "noble" and "famous." The name also has connections to Latin "mirus" meaning "wonderful." Almira has historical usage across several cultures, including Hispanic, Turkish, Arabic, and Eastern European communities. It enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the late 19th century. The name appears in literary works, including as a character in Handel's opera "Rinaldo." With its melodious sound and multicultural heritage, Almira offers a distinctive yet accessible option with elegant overtones. Its relative rarity in contemporary Western naming makes it stand out while its traditional roots give it substance and history.

Though often Anglicized as Phoebe, Phebe has separate roots. It originated as a variation of Afua, an Akan day name, and commonly used among enslaved people in America.

Joshia appears to be a variant spelling of Josiah, a biblical name of Hebrew origin meaning 'God supports' or 'God heals.' This alternative spelling maintains the original name's spiritual significance while offering a slightly different visual presentation. Joshia combines elements familiar from both Joshua and Josiah, creating a bridge between these two popular biblical names. While much less common than its standard counterpart, Joshia appeals to parents who appreciate the meaning and tradition of Josiah but desire a subtle variation. The name carries the gravitas of its biblical heritage—Josiah was a righteous king of Judah in the Old Testament—while its simplified spelling creates a more streamlined appearance.

Betina is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections, primarily functioning as a variant of Bettina, which itself developed as a diminutive of Elizabeth. The name has gained particular popularity in Croatia, Brazil, and other Latin American countries. Derived ultimately from Hebrew, the name carries the meaning "pledged to God" through its connection to Elizabeth. Betina offers a softer, more flowing alternative to Bettina, with the single 't' giving it a distinct character. The name blends a classic heritage with a modern, international feel. While never reaching top-tier popularity in English-speaking countries, Betina has maintained steady usage in South America and parts of Europe, appealing to parents seeking a name that works well across different languages and cultural contexts.

Brandyn is a modern spelling variant of Brandon, a masculine name with English origins meaning 'beacon hill' or 'broom hill.' This alternative spelling gained popularity in the late 20th century as parents sought more distinctive versions of traditional names. The 'y' substitution gives the name a contemporary edge while maintaining the familiar sound of the original. Brandon itself derives from an Old English surname that became popular as a first name in the 1950s-1970s. The Brandyn spelling peaked in usage during the 1990s but remains in use today. This variation appeals to parents who appreciate the strong, classic nature of Brandon but desire a more unique spelling to help their child stand out.