Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

This ultra-rare spelling of Oona was chosen by actress Amber Heard for her daughter, born in 2021.

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

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.

This frilly Victorian name is a variant of Cecilia and Cecily, with which it might well be confused. Cicely was a surprise choice for comedienne Sandra Bernhard.

Alternate spelling Amias is one of the biggest hit names of the past ten years, going from very uncommon -- it had never been in the Top 1000 -- to a firm spot in the Top 1000. The Amyas version is much rarer, used for only five baby boys last year. Down side: The spelling of the name starting with the familiar Amy might make some pronounce is Amy-us, but it's more correctly ah-MYE-as.

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.

Gaynor is an early androgynous name with a positive association, related to the Cornish megahit name Jennifer.

An invention of the eighteenth-century romantic poet James Macpherson, in his epic cycle about Ossian, a legendary Celtic hero. In Poland, where it was popular at the start of the 20th century, the spelling is Malwina, and it's also had some use in other Eastern European countries.

Isolt is a feminine name with Celtic and Arthurian origins, representing a variant spelling of Isolde (also written as Iseult). The name derives from ancient Celtic roots, though its precise etymology remains disputed among scholars. Isolt achieved eternal fame through the tragic medieval romance of Tristan and Isolde, one of the most influential love stories in Western literature. The tale portrays Isolt as an Irish princess caught in a fateful love triangle. This name carries profound literary and artistic significance, having inspired countless works across centuries, from Wagner's opera to modern retellings. Despite its rich heritage, Isolt remains quite rare as a given name, perhaps due to its association with tragic romance. The name evokes qualities of passion, beauty, and emotional depth, appealing to parents drawn to names with substantial cultural resonance and mythic qualities.

Both Karissa and Carissa are trending downward, along with the other issa names that first rose to popularity in the 1970s. Karissa fell out of the Top 1000 in 2014, two years after Carissa.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A coffee filter.

Pascale is a masculine name of French origin, though it can also be used as a feminine name in some cultures. It derives from the Latin 'Paschalis,' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover time.' Pascale is the French variant of Pascal, which itself comes from the Hebrew word for Passover (Pesach). The name carries spiritual significance through its connection to these important religious observances. In France, it's pronounced 'pas-KAL,' with a subtle emphasis on the second syllable. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Pascale maintains modest popularity in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions, appreciated for its elegant sound and meaningful religious heritage.