Vowel-Double Consonant-Vowel Names
- Sybilla
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"seer, oracle"Description:
Sybilla and its near-identical twin Sibylla are dainty and demure names with a powerful namesake that also happen to be extremely rare -- no baby girls were given either name in the US last year.
- Cotton
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
A name heard in Puritan times -- Cotton Mather was a minister involved in the Salem witchcraft trials -- which really deserves modern consideration as it blends nature and softness into a really trendy and wearable masculine name.
- Gretta
Description:
Gretta is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Greta, which itself originated as a short form of Margaret or Margareta. With Germanic and Greek roots, the name ultimately derives from 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' Gretta has a classic, slightly vintage feel with its double consonants giving it a more substantial presence than Greta. While never reaching tremendous popularity, the name enjoyed modest usage throughout the 20th century. It carries associations with iconic figures like Greta Garbo, lending it a touch of timeless glamour. Gretta balances familiarity with distinctiveness, offering a recognizable yet not overly common option that works well across various ages.
- Olivette
Origin:
Feminine form of Oliver, French, LatinMeaning:
"olive tree"Description:
A feminine form of Oliver and a diminutive of Olive, Olivette could make an interesting choice for those who love Colette and Violette, but also Olivia. It was used in the 19th century French opera Les noces d'Olivette and ranked in the Top 500 in France in the early half of the 20th century.
- Mackenna
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"son of the handsome one"Description:
Although the Mc or Mac prefix always means "son of", the first names McKenna and MacKenna are used in the US exclusively for girls, with the McKenna spelling outpacing this one 14 to 1. There are no boys recorded with either spelling of the name.
- Hillary
Description:
Hillary as a masculine name has ancient Roman origins, derived from the Latin 'Hilarius' meaning 'cheerful' or 'merry.' Long before it gained popularity as a feminine name, Hillary was traditionally used for boys, particularly in English-speaking countries. Notable male bearers include Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to climb Mount Everest, and various historical figures across British history. The name experienced a gender shift in the late 20th century, becoming more commonly associated with girls, particularly in the United States. Despite this change, Hillary maintains its distinguished history as a male name in many parts of the world. For parents interested in names with classical roots and historical significance, masculine Hillary offers a distinguished choice with positive connotations of joy and achievement.
- Isannah
Origin:
Origin and meaning unknownDescription:
A name that seems to be a combination of Isabel and Susannah, used in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries, most notably for a daughter of Paul Revere. Isannah was also a character in the 1943 Revolutionary War novel Johnny Tremain. An unusual old choice with modern possibilities.
- Wallis
Description:
Wallis is a masculine name of Germanic origin functioning as both a given name and surname. Derived from the Old Germanic elements 'wald' meaning 'rule' or 'power' and possibly connected to Wales or 'foreigner' in Old English, it carries connotations of leadership. The name gained notable recognition through Wallis Simpson, the American divorcée for whom King Edward VIII abdicated the British throne. As a first name, Wallis has remained uncommon but distinctive, appealing to parents seeking a sophisticated name with historical resonance. The name projects a refined, somewhat aristocratic quality while maintaining a strong masculine image. Its rarity makes it an individual choice that avoids trendiness while still being recognizable.
- Nicoletta
Origin:
Italian and Spanish, diminutive of Nicole, feminine variation of Nicholas, GreekMeaning:
"people of victory"Description:
If you loved Nicole growing up but now are looking for a new spin, Nicoletta may interest you. The slightly sleeker French version is Nicolette. A shorter form is Coletta, or you could shorten it even further to Nico or Etta.
- Odella
Origin:
Variation of Odele or Odelia, English, Hebrew "song; I will praise the Lord"Meaning:
"song; I will praise the Lord"Description:
Names with the del element, such as Adeline, Adelaide, Adele, and Della, are currently en vogue, but old-fashioned Odella didn't get the memo.
- Allis
Description:
Allis is a feminine name with multiple origins, primarily functioning as a variant of Alice or Alicia. These names derive from the Germanic name Adalheidis, meaning 'noble type' or 'of noble kind.' This uncommon spelling variation provides a distinctive touch while maintaining the classic essence of its more familiar forms. Historically present in medieval records, Allis has largely remained in the shadow of its more popular variants. The name carries a simple, sweet quality with its soft sounds and classic heritage. In modern usage, Allis offers parents an opportunity to honor traditional naming patterns while providing their daughter with a slightly unusual spelling that stands out subtly. Its brevity and easy pronunciation add to its understated charm.
- Coletta
Origin:
Italian and Spanish variation of Colette or short form of NicolettaDescription:
Coletta is a Latin relative of the better-known French Colette, which is derived from Nicole and is ultimately a feminization of Nicholas. Only a handful of baby girls are named Coletta or Nicoletta in the US each year, making this one of the rarest of the many forms of the name.
- Edelle
Description:
Edelle is a feminine name with likely origins as a variant of Edel, which derives from Germanic roots meaning "noble" or "precious." This uncommon name carries an elegant, somewhat vintage quality. It may also be considered a feminine form of Edward or Edwin, or possibly a combination of the popular "Ed-" prefix with a feminine "-elle" ending. Edelle remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something familiar in structure yet uncommon in usage. The name has a delicate, refined sound that balances traditional elements with uniqueness. Despite its rarity, Edelle fits well with trends favoring both vintage names and those featuring the popular "-elle" ending.
- Hariette
Description:
Hariette is a feminine variant of Harry, which ultimately derives from the Germanic name Heinrich, meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household.' This spelling variation adds a distinctly feminine touch to the traditionally masculine name. While less common than Harriet, Hariette maintains the same classic, vintage appeal with its slightly more elaborate spelling. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but has since become quite rare, giving it a unique quality in modern times. Those named Hariette might appreciate its connection to notable namesakes like Harriet Tubman and Harriet Beecher Stowe, while enjoying their distinctive spelling variation.
- Beppe
Description:
Beppe is a masculine Italian name that functions as a familiar diminutive of Giuseppe, the Italian form of Joseph. This affectionate nickname originated in Italy, particularly common in northern regions. The name Joseph derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Beppe maintains a warm, approachable quality while honoring Italian heritage and tradition. Outside of Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, though Italian diaspora communities may use it. In modern Italy, Beppe continues to be used as both a nickname and occasionally as a given name in its own right. The name carries cultural significance, with notable bearers including Italian writers, politicians, and athletes. Its short, distinctive sound makes it memorable across cultural boundaries.
- Agnella
Description:
Agnella is a delicate feminine name with Latin roots, functioning as a diminutive form of Agnes. The name Agnes itself derives from the Greek word 'hagnos' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Agnella essentially translates to 'little lamb' or 'little pure one,' carrying connotations of innocence and gentleness. Popular during medieval times in European countries, particularly Italy, Agnella later fell into obscurity. While uncommon in modern English-speaking countries, it retains usage in parts of Europe and among families honoring traditional naming patterns. The name offers a rare vintage option with religious undertones and a soft, melodic sound. For parents seeking names with historical depth but minimal contemporary usage, Agnella provides an elegant alternative to more common Agnes variations.
- Onni
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"happiness, luck"Description:
Onni is the Number 1 boy's name in Finland yet largely unknown in the English-speaking world. Its uplifting meaning makes it a plausible possibility if you want to honor your Nordic heritage.
- Odelle
Description:
Odelle is a feminine name of French origin, derived from "Odile" or possibly as a feminine form of "Odo," meaning "wealthy" or "prosperous." This elegant, vintage-sounding name carries a delicate sophistication while remaining uncommon. Odelle peaked in popularity in the early 20th century but has largely remained under the radar, giving it a distinctive quality for modern bearers. The name has musical qualities with its soft sounds and flowing syllables. Some may associate it with model Odelle Yiddish or variations like Odele or Odella. For parents seeking a name with vintage charm that isn't overused, Odelle offers French elegance, a positive meaning, and a distinctive sound that's both familiar and unique.
- Ursella
Description:
Ursella is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'ursa' meaning 'bear.' It's a variant of Ursula, which gained recognition through Saint Ursula, a legendary British princess. Ursella carries connotations of strength and fortitude, qualities associated with bears in various cultures. While less common than Ursula, Ursella offers a slightly more distinctive spelling with the same powerful heritage. The name saw modest usage in medieval Europe but remains relatively uncommon in modern times, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth and natural symbolism while maintaining uniqueness.
