Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

Dulcie

Latin, diminutive of Dulcibella

"sweet"

A sweet-meaning and sounding name dating back to the Roman Empire, and later found in the antebellum South, Dulcie has in the modern era been heard most often in Australia. In Agatha Christie's…

Lawrence

Latin

"from Laurentium or bay laurel"

We approve of this name for a girl, but prefer the au, Laura-Laurenish, spelling.

Bryony

Greek

"to sprout, to swell"

Bryony is an unusually strong plant name --the bryony is a wild climbing vine with green flowers --that caught on in the U.K. before sprouting here. The name of the young character in the Ian McEwan…

Hilaria

Latin, Spanish

"cheerful"

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…

Appolonia

Appolonia is a feminine name representing a variation of Apollonia, derived from Apollo, the Greek god of light, music and healing. This elegant name carries classical gravitas and historical…

Arethusa

Greek

"quick water"

In Greek mythology, Arethusa is a nymph who is transformed into a fresh water fountain. The name is also used for a type of orchid and featured in Bleak House by Charles Dickens.

Auriol

Latin, Basque

"golden"

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