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Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Malvina

    • Origin:

      Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "smooth-browed one"

    • Description:

      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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. Melita

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "honey"

    • Description:

      A coffee filter.
  10. Owain

    • Origin:

      Welsh variation of Eugene

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  11. 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.
  12. Auriol

    • Origin:

      Latin, Basque

    • Meaning:

      "golden"

    • Description:

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

    • Description:

      Marinda is a melodious feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Miranda (meaning "worthy of admiration" in Latin), a combination of Maria and Linda, or derived from the Afrikaans name Marinda found particularly in South Africa. The name has a romantic, flowing quality enhanced by its gentle rhythm and soft consonants. While never reaching high popularity rankings in the United States, Marinda has maintained consistent if limited usage, appealing to parents seeking something recognizable yet uncommon. Its international character makes it versatile across cultures, while its similarity to familiar names ensures it won't seem too foreign. The name carries an inherent femininity and grace.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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.

  18. 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.
  19. Lodge

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "shelter"

    • Description:

      This English surname offers an interesting mix of images: it sounds upper-crusty yet macho, and also conjures up the coziness of a wintery ski lodge. As a surname it is associated with the Massachusetts Republican Senate Minority Leader in the Woodrow Wilson era, Henry Cabot Lodge, who was the father of poet George Cabot Lodge and grandfather of Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr., who was ambassador to the UN and Richard Nixon's 1960 presidential running mate.
  20. Glenis

    • Description:

      Glenis is a feminine name of Welsh origin, believed to be a variant of the name Glenn, meaning "valley" or "glen." The name gained modest popularity in the United Kingdom during the mid-20th century but has remained relatively uncommon worldwide. Glenis has a lilting, graceful sound that combines strength and femininity, making it appealing to parents looking for something traditional yet distinctive. The name reached its peak usage in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly in Wales and England. Today, Glenis maintains an air of vintage charm and Celtic heritage, though it's rarely found among newborns, giving it a somewhat nostalgic quality for contemporary bearers.