​
​
Advanced Search

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. 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".
  3. 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
  4. 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.
  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. 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.

  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.

  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. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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.
  18. Melita

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "honey"

    • Description:

      A coffee filter.
  19. Noelene

    • Description:

      Noelene is a feminine name derived from Noel, which comes from the French 'noël' meaning 'Christmas.' The suffix '-ene' adds a gentle, feminine quality to the base name. Popular primarily in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, Noelene peaked in usage during the mid-20th century. The name carries festive associations for girls born during the Christmas season, though it's used year-round. Noelene offers a slightly more elaborate alternative to the simpler Noelle or Noella, while maintaining the same joyful, celebratory essence. Though less common today than in previous generations, it maintains a sweet, vintage charm that occasionally attracts parents seeking names with clear meanings and gentle sounds. Common nicknames include Noe or Lene.
  20. 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.