Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

  1. Islay
    • Origin:

      Scottish place-name
    • Description:

      Islay is the name of a Hebridian island famous for its whisky. Don't be fooled by the "y" at the end - this name is pronounced exactly like the more well-known Isla.
  2. Oonagh
    • Origin:

      Variation of Una, Irish
    • Meaning:

      "lamb"
    • Description:

      This ultra-rare spelling of Oona was chosen by actress Amber Heard for her daughter, born in 2021.
  3. 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.
  4. Myfanwy
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "my fine one, my woman"
    • Description:

      Intriguing Old Welsh name being revived there, but would have major pronunciation problems here.
  5. Inga
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "guarded by Ing"
    • Description:

      Ing was a powerful Norse god whose name inspired several modern variations -- though Inga has become a caricatured Scandinavian choice.
  6. Kenya
    • Origin:

      Place name, Kikuyu
    • Meaning:

      "mountain of white"
    • Description:

      Kenya, a name borrowed from the East African nation and theoretically unisex, is now used mostly for girls. While it's had its ups and downs since entering the US Top 1000 in 1968, it currently ranks lower than spelling variant Kenia.
  7. Lurline
    • Origin:

      Variation of Lorelei, German
    • Meaning:

      "alluring temptress"
    • Description:

      The lilting Lorelei has given birth to many variations, including this one, now extinct.
  8. Melita
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "honey"
    • Description:

      A coffee filter.
  9. Alva
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "his highness"
    • Description:

      Edison's middle name is a fabulous option for parents looking for something with history and a soft sound. This could be the name you're looking for if you like Tesla's scientific pedigree but think that it has become too corporate with the advent of Elon Musk's company.
  10. Courtenay
    • Description:

      Courtenay is a masculine name of French origin, derived from a place name meaning 'domain of Curtenus' or 'short settlement.' With aristocratic associations, it was originally a surname for someone from various places called Courtenay in France. The name carries a sophisticated, refined quality that reflects its noble heritage in both French and English aristocracy. While traditionally used for boys, Courtenay has occasionally been used for girls as well, particularly in its variant spelling 'Courtney.' The masculine version remains relatively uncommon, giving it distinction and uniqueness. With its soft sounds and elegant French background, Courtenay projects an image of cultivation and gentility while avoiding pretentiousness. The name offers the friendly nicknames Court or Cort for everyday use.
  11. Iain
    • Origin:

      Gaelic variation of John
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      Iain, this authentic Gaelic form of John, has been well used in Scotland since the early twentieth century, used concurrently with the shortened Ian spelling, but is rarely seen in the US.
  12. Owain
    • Origin:

      Welsh variation of Eugene or Celtic "well-born; born of sheep"
    • Meaning:

      "well-born; born of sheep"
    • Description:

      Owain is much more unusual than its brother name Owen, and feels a little more rugged, a little more adventurous and ancient.
  13. 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.
  14. Lalage
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "to chatter"
    • Description:

      An interesting name despite the pronunciation challenge. It has literary roots, both in the classical poetry of Horace, and as a character in John Fowles' The French Lieutenant's Woman. Appealing nicknames are Lalla and Lally.
  15. Petrina
    • Description:

      Petrina is a feminine name with classical roots, derived from the Latin name Petrus, meaning "rock" or "stone." It's essentially the feminine form of Peter, carrying connotations of strength and steadfastness. The name appears across several European cultures, including Italian, Croatian, and Greek traditions, with slight pronunciation variations. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Petrina has maintained steady usage, particularly in Southern and Eastern European communities. The name has an elegant, somewhat Old World charm with its melodic three syllables and classical origins. Petrina offers parents a distinctive choice that still feels accessible and pronounceable. It provides a more uncommon alternative to the popular Patricia while sharing similar classical roots and a sophisticated sound that works well across different ages.

  16. Amyas
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "loved; friend"
    • Description:

      Distinctive and contemporary in appearance, Amyas has in fact been used since Renaissance period. More popularly spelled as Amias today, the name likely derives from the Medieval names, Amis and Amice, meaning "friend".
  17. Meribah
    • Origin:

      Biblical place name, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "quarreling"
    • Description:

      Though this Biblical place name is found among early American settlers, usually as a male name, today it sounds completely feminine. As a place name, its gender is mutable in any case. An unusual and intriguing Biblical option, albeit one with an unhappy meaning.
  18. 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.
  19. 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.
  20. 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

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