​
​
Advanced Search

Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

  1. Aislinn

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "dream"

    • Description:

      Old Irish name that's taken off in its Anglicized forms, mainly Ashlyn or Ashlynn. Nonetheless, this more traditional version debuted in the US Top 1000 in 2015.
  2. Phyllida

    • Origin:

      Greek variation of Phyllis

    • Meaning:

      "green bough"

    • Description:

      Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.
  3. Lucina

    • Origin:

      Roman

    • Meaning:

      "grove or light"

    • Description:

      Lucina, deriving from Latin lucus "grove" and also associated with lux "light", is an epithet given in Roman mythology to the goddess Juno (and sometimes also Diana) in her role as goddess of childbirth. A stately and unusual route to Lucy, more delicate than Lucinda.
  4. Hercules

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "glory of Hera"

    • Description:

      Any boy with this name, a synonym for power via the Greek mythology figure, better be strong of body, and of psyche.
  5. Georgette

    • Origin:

      French, feminine variation of George

    • Description:

      Has a musty 1940s feel. Try Georgia -- or Georgiana.
  6. Ethne

    • Origin:

      Variation of Eithne, Irish

    • Meaning:

      "kernel"

    • Description:

      Ethne is one of the many Irish Gaelic names whose spelling and pronunciation -- it's en-ya -- will prove endlessly confusing to English speakers.
  7. Isolda

    • Description:

      Isolda is a feminine name with Celtic and Germanic origins, best known from the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde (also spelled Iseult or Isolde). The name may derive from elements meaning 'ice' and 'ruler' or 'battle,' though its exact etymology remains debated among scholars. Isolda carries an air of romance, tragedy, and medieval nobility due to its legendary associations. While never extremely common, it has maintained a presence throughout European history, experiencing occasional revivals when medieval themes become popular in culture. The name offers a dramatic, romantic option with rich literary connections. Isolda appeals to parents seeking names with historical depth and a touch of mystical, legendary quality.

  8. Grizel

    • Description:

      Grizel is a feminine name with Scottish origins, derived from the medieval name Griselda, which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'gray' and 'battle.' It gained prominence in Scottish literature and history as a name associated with patience and endurance. Grizel was moderately popular in Scotland between the 16th and 18th centuries but remains rare today. The name has a distinctive sound that combines antiquity with a certain strength and resilience. Its Scottish heritage gives it cultural depth, while its unusual nature makes it stand out among more common names. Grizel offers a connection to Celtic traditions with a memorable and unique quality.
  9. Narelle

    • Origin:

      Australian Aboriginal

    • Meaning:

      "little river"

    • Description:

      The Narellan is the name of a river in New South Wales. From this name comes this quasi-French girls' name, which is quite common in Australia.
  10. Hilaria

    • Origin:

      Latin, Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "cheerful"

    • Description:

      Hilaria, the ancient Roman form of Hilary also given to joyous festivals, is still used in Spain and Poland, while the intriguing Italian version is Ilaria. A notable current bearer is fitness expert and wife of Alec, Hilaria Baldwin, who was born Hillary.
  11. Fortune

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "luck, fate, wealth"

    • Description:

      A contemporary sounding word name with an ancient history, widely used in the Roman Empire, and based on the mythic goddess of good luck and fertility.
  12. Melita

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "honey"

    • Description:

      A coffee filter.
  13. Auriol

    • Origin:

      Latin, Basque

    • Meaning:

      "golden"

    • Description:

      A beautiful rare choice, derived from Latin aurum "gold".
  14. Jermyn

    • Description:

      Jermyn is a masculine name with English origins, evolved from the Germanic name Germain, meaning 'brother' or relating to Germania (Germany). It first appeared as a surname, often associated with Jermyn Street in London's fashionable district. As a given name, it carries an aristocratic, sophisticated air with connections to British heritage. Sometimes confused with Jeremy or Jermaine, Jermyn stands apart with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation. Very rare in contemporary use, it appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical depth and refined character. The name maintains connections to both Germanic and Anglo-Saxon linguistic traditions while offering a unique alternative to more common J-names.
  15. Charmian

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "joy"

    • Description:

      This name was used by Shakespeare (who got it from Plutarch) in Antony and Cleopatra for one of the attendants of the Egyptian queen. An interesting possibility, it is heard occasionally in the UK, even less frequently in the US.
  16. Ngaire

    • Origin:

      Maori

    • Meaning:

      "flax flower"

    • Description:

      This name is common in New Zealand and Australia, with famous bearers including TV producer Ngaire Fuata and academic and author Ngaire Woods. It is pronounced ng (like the end of sing) -EYE-ree.
  17. Francina

    • Description:

      Francina is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the masculine name Francis, which means 'Frenchman' or 'free one.' This elegant variation appears in multiple European languages, including Dutch, Catalan, and various Scandinavian languages. The name carries a sophisticated yet approachable quality, with the familiar 'Fran' sound leading to a more distinctive ending. While less common than Frances or Francesca, Francina has maintained a steady presence throughout history. In some countries, it's pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable (fran-SEE-na), while others stress the first syllable. Potential nicknames include Fran, Franci, or Nina, offering versatility for the bearer as she grows.
  18. Fausta

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "fortunate"

    • Description:

      Though often heard in the Hispanic and Italian communities, it hasn't made an impact here, perhaps because of the connection to the character of Faust and his pact with the devil. Variations: FAUSTINA, FAUSTIA, FAUSTIANA
  19. Candida

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "white"

    • Description:

      Attractive ancient name borne by several saints but sullied by association with yeast infection.
  20. Meshach

    • Origin:

      Akkadian

    • Meaning:

      "who is what Aku is?"

    • Description:

      Derived from Aku, the name of the Babylonian god of the moon. In the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament this is the Babylonian name of Mishael, one of the three men cast into a furnace but saved by God. Meshach Taylor is an actor who has been featured on several sitcoms.