Unusual Names Used by European Aristocrats
- Melllita
- Mhyre
- Milborough
- Morfydd
- Mountifort
- Murdo
- Narelle
Origin:
Australian AboriginalMeaning:
"little river"Description:
The Narellan is the name of a river in New South Wales. From this name comes this quasi-French girls' name, which is quite common in Australia.
- Ngaire
Origin:
MaoriMeaning:
"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.
- 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.
- Navarino
- Nepia
- Olympia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"from Mount Olympus"Description:
With its relation to Mount Olympus, home of the Greek gods, and to the Olympic games, this name has an athletic, goddess-like aura, making it the perfect Olivia substitute.
- Oonagh
Origin:
Variation of Una, IrishMeaning:
"lamb"Description:
This ultra-rare spelling of Oona was chosen by actress Amber Heard for her daughter, born in 2021.
- Owain
Origin:
Welsh variation of EugeneMeaning:
"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.
- Olice
- Ossie
- Pandora
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"all gifted"Description:
Pandora has occasionally been used by the British gentry (for girls with brothers who might be called Peregrine) and is now starting to be heard in the US too: It was given to 34 baby girls last year.
- Pascale
Description:
Pascale is a masculine name of French origin, though it can also be used as a feminine name in some cultures. It derives from the Latin 'Paschalis,' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover time.' Pascale is the French variant of Pascal, which itself comes from the Hebrew word for Passover (Pesach). The name carries spiritual significance through its connection to these important religious observances. In France, it's pronounced 'pas-KAL,' with a subtle emphasis on the second syllable. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Pascale maintains modest popularity in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions, appreciated for its elegant sound and meaningful religious heritage.
- 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.
- Petronela
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
Petronela, along with Petronella and Petronelle, are relatives of Petra, sister of Peter. Old names, they are exceedingly rare. But they could be an original route to the cute nicknames Nell and Nellie.