Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Lawrence
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from Laurentium or bay laurel"
    • Description:

      We approve of this name for a girl, but prefer the au, Laura-Laurenish, spelling.
  6. 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.
  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. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Karissa
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Carissa
    • Description:

      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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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
  16. Arethusa
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "quick water"
    • Description:

      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.
  17. 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.
  18. 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.
  19. 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.
  20. 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.

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