Exotic -elle's

Sometimes, a new name is created by lopping off the first letter or letters. Such is the case with Abrielle, which feels like Gabrielle without its shirt.

This version of the name with only one n does not have nearly the popularity of its sister. Unless you have a particular aversion to the fourteenth letter of the alphabet, it may be best to stick with Annabelle.

Angelle is a feminine name with French origins, essentially serving as the feminine form of 'angel.' Derived from the Greek 'angelos' meaning 'messenger,' the name carries beautiful spiritual connotations of divine protection and purity. Popular primarily in French-speaking regions and communities with French cultural influences, Angelle combines elegance with spiritual significance. The name has a delicate, feminine quality with its soft ending while maintaining a clear pronunciation. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Angelle has maintained steady if modest usage, particularly in families with French heritage or those seeking a name with subtle religious significance. Its gentle sound and meaningful background make it a timeless choice that avoids feeling trendy.

This is a charming name that rose steeply along with other-belle names, such as Isabelle, until the horror film Annabelle and its sequels knocked it out of favor. Made famous by the Edgar Allen Poe poem Annabel Lee. Annabelle is saucy and stylish, a tad upscale, has a sense of humor, is melodious and lively, but is unfortunately off its peak.

This more succinct form of the elegant Arabella might appeal to those who are looking for a less popular spin on Annabel or those who like the sounds of Arabella but want something with fewer frills. Given to 120 girls in 2023, it is around ten times less popular than its longer counterpart.

While not as popular as the Ariel spelling of Little Mermaid fame, this rendition has achieved popularity in its own right.

Aristelle is a refined feminine name that appears to blend Greek elements with a French-inspired ending. Likely derived from 'aristos' meaning 'best' or 'excellent' in Greek, the same root found in 'aristocrat,' it carries connotations of nobility and distinction. The elegant '-elle' suffix adds a feminine, romantic quality. This rare name has minimal historical usage but fits with contemporary interest in unique names with classical roots. Aristelle's melodious sound and sophisticated air make it suitable for parents seeking an uncommon name with an aristocratic feel. Despite its rarity, it follows familiar naming patterns, making it accessible while remaining distinctive.

Putting the emphasis on the "elle" softens a name that seems at once futuristic and medieval.

Belle has nothing but positive associations, from "belle of the ball" to "Southern belle" to the heroine of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. As if this weren't enough good things, Belle is also one of the most familiar and usable names that mean beautiful. Though it has been overshadowed by the Twilight-influenced Bella and longer forms like Isabella and Annabella, Belle has its own Southern charm and would make a pretty choice as a first or middle name.

Though it sounds modern, Brielle is, among other things, a traditional Cajun contraction of Gabrielle, and the name of a historic seaport in the Western Netherlands, also known as Brill. Today, it is used more widely as a nickname for Gabrielle and as a stand-alone name that fits in easily with Isabelle, Briana, and Brinley. In a recent year, it appeared in the US Top 200, ranking above the longer form and used nearly four times as often.

Chanelle is a feminine name that emerged in the 1970s, likely as a variation of Chanel, inspired by the famous French fashion house founded by Coco Chanel. The name blends French sophistication with contemporary styling through its double 'l' spelling. Chanelle peaked in popularity during the 1990s in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, appealing to parents drawn to its fashionable associations and melodic sound. The name carries connotations of elegance, style, and modern femininity. While less commonly given today, Chanelle maintains a recognizable quality without being overused. The name's French-inspired character and fashion connection give it a sense of cosmopolitan flair that continues to attract parents seeking something stylish yet established.

A combination name that might be dismissed as a clown and cow name. The sounds are nevertheless pretty and the meaning is good - though spellings Claribel or Clarabel might help distance it from the cow association.