vintageluvs's list "Names by Nickname" of 20 great name ideas: Ferdy - Gussie!

Names by Nickname

Like a nickname, hate the conventional name? Or love the name, hate the convential nickname? Here's a list of alternatives organized by nickname. For some people, the nickname is just as important as the name itself, so it can be hard to chose between two "okay" options. This list will hopefully help. This is suppose to be an exhaustive list. If it's a nickname, it is on this list! If you want to search the other way, by names, hit "command f" and type in the name you wish to nickname.

Ferdy

Ferry

Flaxie

Fodd

Fonsi

Fred

Fruska

Ganya

Commonly used in Japan, and so much more distinguished than Jen. 

Gerda is one of two things: a modern, Latinized form of the Old Norse name Gerd or a feminine form of the masculine German name, also Gerd. Not currently in style, it has a strong, ancient sounding feeling.
 
From its Scandinavian and Norse roots, Gerda, meaning "fenced in, enclosure", is associated with the mythological Gerðr, the wife of the god Freyr, and sometimes considered a fertility and earth goddess herself. In this context, the name would be pronounced YA-da, YER-da or GEH-da, depending on location. 
 
From its German and Dutch roots, Gerda is derived from the short form of Gerhard, a variation of the name Gerard, meaning "brave, hardy spear". In this instance, it would be pronounced GEHR-da, which is how English speakers are likely to read it too. 
 
The name has not appeared in the US stats since the 1970s, having peaked back in 1915 when nearly 50 girls were given the name.

Gerda

Gertie has a certain homespun charm, summoning to mind butter-yellow braids and denim overalls, summoning mind the adorable character played by little Drew Barrymore in E.T.  Is the world ready for the return of Gertie and Gertrude? Maybe?

Gertie

Gibby is a playful diminutive that typically derives from Gilbert or Gibson. The name Gilbert comes from Germanic origins meaning 'bright pledge' or 'shining hostage,' while Gibson was originally a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Gilbert.' Gibby emerged as an affectionate nickname before occasionally being used as an independent given name. It has a friendly, approachable quality with a distinctly casual feel. The name carries associations with youthful energy and cheerfulness. While never achieving mainstream popularity as a formal name, Gibby has maintained steady usage in English-speaking countries, particularly among families seeking a name with an upbeat, informal character. Notable cultural references include characters in television shows that have helped maintain its recognition.

Gibby

Giff is a masculine name that typically functions as a diminutive of Geoffrey or Gifford. Geoffrey derives from Germanic elements meaning 'peace' and 'traveler' or 'pledge,' while Gifford means 'gift peace.' This short form has occasionally been used as an independent given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. With its single syllable and straightforward spelling, Giff has a punchy, direct quality that fits modern preferences for brief names. Though never widely popular as a standalone name, it carries a friendly, approachable vibe while maintaining masculine strength. The name's vintage feel also connects with the trend of reviving older nickname forms as formal names, appealing to parents seeking something simultaneously traditional and uncommon.

Giff

In addition to being the term for a job performing music, Gig has been used as a name, as in onetime actor Gig Young--who was born Byron but took his stage name from a character he played.

Gill is a masculine name with multiple origins, functioning both as a standalone name and a diminutive of Gilbert or Gillian. Derived from the Old Norse 'gísl' meaning "hostage" or "pledge," it also has Middle English connections to Saint Giles. In some regions, particularly Scotland, Gill relates to the Gaelic word for "servant." As a surname-turned-first-name, it carries an understated strength and simplicity. Gill has maintained modest popularity throughout the decades, appreciated for its brevity and unpretentious style. The name suggests someone practical, reliable, and straightforward. Its single-syllable simplicity gives it a modern feel despite its ancient origins, making it a timelessly appealing choice.

Gill

Gizi is a feminine Hungarian name, commonly used as a familiar form of Gizella (the Hungarian version of Giselle). The name derives from Germanic origins meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage,' though this etymology is rarely considered in its modern usage. Gizi gained popularity in Hungary during the early 20th century and remained a familiar name throughout Hungarian communities. Outside of Hungary, the name is quite uncommon but carries a distinctive charm with its playful sound and approachable brevity. Gizi has a warm, affectionate quality typical of Hungarian diminutives. While not widely used internationally, it represents Hungarian naming traditions that value familiar, endearing forms for everyday use.

Gizi

Glad is an uncommon feminine name derived from the English word meaning 'happy' or 'joyful.' As a name, it emerged primarily as a shortened form of Gladys, which has Welsh origins meaning 'princess' or 'kingdom.' Glad represents a rare category of word-names that directly express a positive emotion or state of being. Though exceedingly uncommon as a standalone first name, it might appeal to parents drawn to minimalist, meaningful names with an optimistic quality. The name's brevity and clear meaning give it a distinctive character despite its simplicity. Historically, it may have been used more frequently as a nickname than as a formal given name.

Glad

As an English word name, Gruff is rough round the outside with playful air, similar to Rowdy or Wilder, while as a Welsh nickname, it comes from the more stately Gruffudd meaning "strong lord". It would be said to rhyme with rough or bluff in the first instance and as GRIF in Welsh. 

Gruff

It's tempting to think of Gui as the Spanish form of Guy, but it's short for Guillermo.

Gussie fits the growing trend of boyish nicknames for girls - alongside Charlie and Frankie. But Gussie is a bit fussy — try Gus.