Names by Nickname
- Nelma
Origin:
Finnish and Swedish diminutive of names ending in -nelmaDescription:
Nelma originated as a Nordic nickname for names such as Anelma and Sanelma.
- Hob
Origin:
English, diminutive of RobertMeaning:
"bright fame"Description:
A Robert nickname out of use for hundreds of years, but now sounds cooler than Bob or Rob for a modern boy.
- Lassie
Description:
The name Lassie originates from Scottish culture, where it was traditionally used as a term for a young girl or maiden. However, its widespread recognition comes primarily from the fictional female collie dog character created by Eric Knight in his 1940 novel 'Lassie Come-Home,' which spawned multiple films and a popular television series. As a human name, Lassie is quite rare, maintaining an affectionate, loyal quality associated with the beloved canine character. The name carries connotations of faithfulness, heroism, and protective instincts. While uncommon as a given name for girls, it may occasionally be used as a nickname for names like Lassarina or simply to evoke the wholesome, classic Americana feel associated with the character.
- Berg
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"mountain, hill"Description:
Earthbound surname that few would make as first choice.
- Teza
Description:
Teza is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots. In Ethiopian culture, particularly in Amharic, Teza relates to 'dew' or 'morning freshness,' symbolizing purity and new beginnings. The name may also have Slavic origins in some contexts, possibly as a diminutive of Teresa. In other cultures, it might be connected to the Greek 'theseus' meaning 'to set' or 'to place.' Teza has a distinctively international feel with its simple two-syllable structure and strong 'z' sound. Though uncommon in Western countries, its brevity and exotic quality appeal to parents seeking a cross-cultural name that's both distinctive and easy to pronounce. The name carries a bright, fresh energy with its open vowel sounds.
- Betsan
Origin:
Welsh pet form of ElizabethDescription:
Betsan is little-known outside of the U.K. but it could provide an intriguing alternative to Liz, Beth, Betsy, Betty, and Libby.
- Pomme
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"apple"Description:
Une amie for Gwyneth's little girl.
- Aed
Description:
Aed is an ancient Irish masculine name pronounced roughly like 'aid' or 'ayd.' It derives from the Old Irish word meaning 'fire' and was borne by numerous kings and figures in Irish mythology. Most notably, Aed was the name of the god of the underworld in Celtic mythology, associated with fire and the sun. Throughout Irish history, several High Kings and regional rulers bore this name. While historically significant, Aed remains quite rare in modern usage, even in Ireland where shortened versions like Aodh have been more common. The name's brevity gives it a strong, distinctive quality while its mythological associations lend it depth and cultural significance for those with Irish heritage or interest in Celtic traditions.
- Daw
Description:
Daw is a masculine name with varied origins across multiple cultures. In English contexts, it likely originated as a nickname referring to the bird (a type of crow), possibly denoting someone with dark features or clever characteristics. In Myanmar (Burma), Daw is actually an honorific title for respected women, similar to 'Madam.' The name also appears in Welsh and Cornish traditions. As a given name, Daw is extremely rare, making it an uncommon choice with ancient roots. Its brevity gives it a stark, strong quality—simple yet distinctive. The name's short, clear sound works well internationally, being easy to pronounce across languages. For parents seeking an ultra-minimalist name with natural connections and cross-cultural presence, Daw offers a rare option.
- Rick
Origin:
Diminutive of Richard, FrederickDescription:
Last cool when Bogie roamed Casablanca.
- Lige
Origin:
Diminutive of Elijah, HebrewMeaning:
"Yahweh is God"Description:
If default nickname Eli is too common for your tastes, you may consider resuscitating the antique nickname Lige for your little Elijah.
- Tassia
Origin:
Diminutive of Anastasia, GreekMeaning:
"resurrection"Description:
Tassia is an obscure short form used mostly in Russia and Eastern Europe, where the name Anastasia as in the executed Russian princess is common. Rarely found in the English-speaking world, Tassia could make a distinctive and attractive nickname for this elegant royal name and can easily stand on its own.
- Hilma
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"protective helmet"Description:
Hilma is heard in Germany and the Scandinavian countries, and sometimes used as a shortening of Wilhelmina--though there are more appealing German names for girls. to be found. Hilma Wolitzer is an American novelist and the mother of author Meg Wolitzer.
- Tola
Description:
Tola is a feminine name with diverse cultural origins. In Polish, it serves as a diminutive for names like Antonina or Victoria. The name also appears in Hebrew (meaning 'worm,' though contextually representing humility), African cultures (with various meanings including 'wealth' in Yoruba), and can be found in Indian naming traditions as well. This multicultural presence gives Tola versatility and cross-cultural appeal. The name's brevity and simple pronunciation make it easily accessible across language barriers. Though uncommon in most Western countries, Tola enjoys recognition in its cultures of origin. The name's compact form and open vowel sounds create a gentle yet distinctive impression, offering simplicity while maintaining uniqueness.
- Sully
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark eyed"Description:
A jaunty offshoot of Sullivan, Sully will be associated by kids with the beloved character in the Pixar animated film Monsters, Inc. Rare for a girl, but with a cool surnamey style and echoes of midcentury favorite Sally.
- Hitch
Origin:
Diminutive of HitchcockDescription:
The charming Hitch played by Will Smith in the eponymous movie put this into the lexicon. Also known as the nickname of director Alfred Hitchcock and writer Christopher Hitchens, who titled his autobiography "Hitch."
- Hedy
Origin:
Diminutive of HedwigDescription:
Linked to one of the great screen beauties, but has never appealed much to Americans.
- Champ
Origin:
English word nameMeaning:
"champion"Description:
Though it sounds like a modern invention, Champ actually has a long history as a first name. It hit the Top 1000 several times just before and after the turn of the 20th Century.
- Sten
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"a stone"Description:
Once a short form of names containing this syllable, it is now used on its own, though we'd prefer Sven.
- Docia
Description:
Docia is a vintage feminine name with Greek origins, functioning as a diminutive of Eudocia, meaning 'good teaching' or 'good doctrine.' The name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Docia has a sweet, nostalgic quality that aligns with the revival of other vintage names, though it remains distinctively uncommon. In some Southern American communities, it persisted as a traditional family name passed through generations. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds give it a gentle, approachable quality. With its classical roots and antique charm, Docia offers an option for parents seeking something with historical depth yet seldom encountered in contemporary use.
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