Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

Gaynor

Welsh

"white and smooth, soft"

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

Georgette

French, feminine variation of George

Has a musty 1940s feel. Try Georgia -- or Georgiana.

Gianetta

Gianetta is a feminine name of Italian origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Gianna, which itself derives from the Italian version of Jane or Joan (ultimately from Hebrew, meaning 'God is…

Glenis

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…

Grizel

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…

Hermione

Feminine version of Hermes, Greek

"messenger, earthly"

Hermione's costarring role in Harry Potter has made this previously ignored, once stodgy name suddenly viable. Hermione could really take off once today's children start having kids of their own. In…

Hilaria

Latin, Spanish

"cheerful"

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…

Helenora

Helenora is an elegant feminine name with classical roots, representing an elaborate variation of Helen. Derived from Greek origins where Helen means 'bright, shining one' or 'torch,' Helenora adds…