Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats

This form of Agnes, Ines has always been popular since the true story of the thwarted lovers Queen Ines of Castro and King Peter of Portugal. This has to be one of the most heartbreaking and bloody true romances in history!

Ing was a powerful Norse god whose name inspired several modern variations -- though Inga has become a caricatured Scandinavian choice.

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.

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.

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.

Immortal through its association with the ancient Caesar (it was his clan name), Julius may still lag behind Julian, but is definitely starting to make a comeback, and in fact feels more cutting edge, in line with the current trend for Latin -us endings.

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.

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.