Hippie Names in Disguise

By vintageluvs

Updated Thu May 25 2023

Soleil
- Origin:
  French
- Meaning:
  "sun"
- Description:
  An attractive French word name known here via former child TV star Soleil Moon Frye, aka Punky Brewster. It started to be lightly used in the U.S. in the 1920s and is now attracting some attention as both a sunny nature and an international word name. It's currently in the Nameberry Top 500.
Reverie
- Origin:
  Word name
- Description:
  Reverie is a strong-sounding word for an ethereal, dreamlike state -- a perfect contrast and meaning for a word that intends to become a first name. Popular mommy blogger Rebecca Woolf of Girls Gone Child named one of her twin daughters Reverie, setting off a groundswell of interest.

Pierre
- Origin:
  French variation of Peter
- Meaning:
  "rock, stone"
- Description:
  One of the most familiar — if not stereotypical — Gallic names. Pierre was a Top 5 name in France from the 19th century through 1940 and is now on a steady decline in its native land. In the US, Pierre was most common in the 1980s but it has never cracked the Top 300.
Ciel
- Origin:
  French
- Meaning:
  "sky"
- Description:
  This simple yet evocative French word name was chosen for her daughter by model Niki Taylor. While Ciel may be pronounced in French with two syllables, many will pronounce it as "seal" and there may be confusion with Celia and sister Ceil.
Lune
- Description:
  Lune is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'moon.' With Latin origins in 'luna,' this name carries celestial associations and evokes images of moonlight and nighttime serenity. Though rare in English-speaking countries, Lune has occasional usage in France and among parents drawn to French-inspired names. The name's single-syllable simplicity belies its rich poetic qualities and mythological connections—the moon being associated with feminine energy in many cultures. Lune offers a subtle alternative to the more common Luna while maintaining the same ethereal qualities. Its brevity, elegant sound, and meaningful connection to the night sky make it appealing for parents seeking something both simple and evocative.

Bijou
- Origin:
  French
- Meaning:
  "jewel"
- Description:
  Bijou is a name that lives up to its definition -- a real jewel. Warning: not unheard of on poodles' dog collars. Actress Bijou Phillips is its best known bearer. It can also be spelled Bijoux.
Lilas
- Description:
  Lilas is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'lilac,' the fragrant purple flowering shrub. This nature-inspired name carries the gentle, sweet associations of the lilac flower, which symbolizes spring, renewal, and first love in many cultures. While not extremely common internationally, Lilas has maintained steady usage in France and Lebanon, and among Arabic speakers (where it's pronounced LEE-las). The name has a soft, melodic quality with its repeated 'l' sounds and final 's' that is pronounced in French. Lilas offers a subtle alternative to more common floral names like Lily or Rose, while still evoking natural beauty and feminine grace.
Juillet
- Origin:
  French
- Meaning:
  "July"

Étoile
- Origin:
  French
- Meaning:
  "star"
- Description:
  Novel French twist on Starr or Stella.
Colline
- Description:
  Colline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'colline' meaning 'hill' or 'small mountain.' This elegant name carries a natural, geographical significance while maintaining a delicate, feminine sound. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Colline has a certain poetic quality that appeals to parents seeking a unique yet melodious name for their daughters. The name evokes images of rolling landscapes and serene elevations, suggesting strength combined with natural beauty. While not frequently found in popularity charts, Colline offers a distinctive alternative to more common nature-inspired names.
Papillon
- Description:
  Papillon, meaning 'butterfly' in French, is a delicate and distinctive feminine name. Though primarily recognized as a dog breed (the French Papillon spaniel with butterfly-like ears), it has occasionally been adopted as a human name. The butterfly symbolism gives this name associations with transformation, beauty, and freedom. As a human name, Papillon remains extremely rare, appealing to parents drawn to unique French-derived names with clear natural imagery. The name's pronunciation (pap-ee-YON) adds to its exotic feel. While uncommon in mainstream usage, it shares qualities with other nature-inspired names like Mariposa or feminine French names.