Extravagant names.......

Nickname name from the era of Father Knows Best, though we can see it making something of a comeback, a la Clover and Pippa. Cricket has new potential especially since it has recently been chosen by Busy Philipps. Still, it's one of the quirkier girl names starting with C.

Demeteria is a feminine name derived from the Greek name Demetrios, which honors Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest. This elaborate feminine form carries associations with fertility, abundance, and nurturing qualities. Demeteria is relatively uncommon, offering a more distinctive alternative to the more popular Demetria. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its multiple syllables and classical Greek heritage. While never achieving mainstream popularity, it appears occasionally throughout the Western world, particularly in Greek communities and among those appreciating mythological names. Demeteria projects sophistication and classical elegance while maintaining connection to ancient traditions and symbolism.

Much fresher and more energetic than Dominique.

Eudora is the name of five minor goddesses of Greek mythology and a major goddess (in the person of Pulitzer Prize-winning Eudora Welty) of modern American literature. Eudora is pleasant and euphoneous and a possibility for rejuvenation.

Eulalia is a melodious name with a southern drawl, thanks to those lilting double Ls.

Fiorentina is a feminine Italian name meaning 'from Florence' or 'flowering.' Derived from the Latin 'florens' meaning 'flourishing,' it represents someone from the beautiful Italian city of Florence (Firenze). The name carries artistic and cultural connotations due to Florence's rich Renaissance heritage. While more common in Italy than elsewhere, Fiorentina presents an elegant option for parents seeking a name with clear Mediterranean roots and sophisticated sound. The name may also appeal to those with connections to the city or Italian heritage. It offers several nickname possibilities, including Fiora, Fiona, or Tina. Soccer fans might recognize Fiorentina as a famous Italian football club, adding a sporty association to this otherwise classically feminine name.

The Latin names for girls Florentina may be the most feminissima and flowery of the 'Flor" names. Another option would be Fiorentina, though you can also downshift to Flora or Florence.

Long a popular upper-crust form in England, where it's pronounced George-ee-AH-na, Georgiana has been been neglected here. But with Georgia growing more popular and the general fashion for elaborate feminine names, Georgiana might have room to grow.

Hesperia is the name of one of the Hesperides, known as the daughters of Hesperus or evening. Hesperus is the personification of the evening star in Greek mythology, better known as Venus in Roman mythology. Variations include Hesper and Hespera.

French form of Hildegard

This is an eighteenth century elaboration of Honor found in Charles Dickens (Bleak House) but rarely heard here and now.

Laurentina is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from Laurentius (Lawrence), which means 'from Laurentum' or 'crowned with laurel.' The laurel wreath was a symbol of victory and honor in ancient Rome, giving the name noble associations. Laurentina represents the feminine diminutive form, creating an elegant, romantic-sounding name with classical roots. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, variants of the name enjoy more popularity in Romance language regions, particularly in Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its five syllables, offering nickname possibilities like Laura, Tina, or Rina. Laurentina appeals to parents drawn to elaborate classical names with historical significance and a touch of Mediterranean charm.

Louisiana is a geographic spin on the Louise theme. Pretty, if a bit of a syllable overload. Short form Lou or Lulu lightens it.

Maccaria is a rare feminine name with roots in the ancient Mediterranean world. It appears to be a feminine form of Maccarius or Macarius, which derives from the Greek word 'makarios' meaning 'blessed' or 'happy.' This connection gives the name a deeply positive connotation associated with joy and divine favor. Maccaria may also have links to the historical Maccabees, a Jewish family who led a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire. The name has an exotic, flowing quality with its four syllables and Italian-sounding cadence. Despite its beautiful meaning and melodious sound, Maccaria remains extremely uncommon in modern usage. Its rarity makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth, religious undertones, and distinctive character that's unlikely to be shared with classmates.

Magnolia, a sweet-smelling Southern belle of a name made famous via the iconic Edna Ferber novel and musical Showboat, is one of the latest wave of botanical names, along with unexpected blossoms Azalea and Zinnia. It is named for French botanist Pierre Magnol.

Unusual and lush Roman name adopted, improbably, by the Puritans.

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.

The name of one of the 35 tribes of ancient Rome, virtually unknown in the modern world

Paloma is vibrant and ruby-lipped a la jewelry designer Paloma Picasso, but it also suggests peace, as symbolized by the dove. Paloma is a highly recommended striking but soft name, one of the best of the names that mean peace and girls' names starting with P.

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.