The Brilliant Book of Baby Names: What’s best, what’s hot and what’s not

The Brilliant Book of Baby Names: What’s best, what’s hot and what’s not Linda Rosenkrantz Pamela Redmond Satran By the authors of Cool Names for Babies, and with over 50,000 hugely imaginative entries from around the world, this is the ultimate book of baby names.Way more than just a standard list of names and their meanings, Baby Names offers witty and insightful opinions. Here are unisex names, names that are good for middle names (but not first names), names that should be avoided at all costs, celebrity baby names, names that are trendier than you’d think and much more.With creatively-titled lists such as Music Names, Names for Blond Babies, and Names That Are Classic But Not Boring, parents will have plenty of fun as they make the choice of what name is right for their baby. The Brilliant Book of Baby Names What’s Best, What’s Hot & What’s Not Pamela Redmond Satran & Linda Rosenkrantz For our wonderful husbands: Dick Satran, my partner in real-life baby naming, and Christopher Finch, who, as always, helped with everything Table of Contents Cover Page (#uad8a5f14-651b-5f91-8b16-4af214f9aed5) Title Page (#uc295fb8b-ef7e-53f0-b056-d7e2b1ec157f) Dedication (#u241e0bd4-e859-5e21-8115-55a44a6bd0a8) Introduction (#u6083087f-c249-5b38-a2f3-447a0cf9697a) How to Use This Book (#u87f1c5ad-602a-5627-915d-d1bb9877fda4) A girls (#ufdde9ecb-851e-579b-a169-3d4c56671ee5) B girls (#u86a2ed14-4bb7-55f3-8904-a27e2fc2a936) C girls (#u097c47b8-c2ed-5cf1-8c3b-d249a668c392) D girls (#ucd736002-9158-5e9e-833f-44c920020528) E girls (#u93a6381c-d32b-54e8-b6df-ce772f1bc6f7) F girls (#uafccf643-c2b2-57e5-93ff-a93e3c9e361e) G girls (#u57a14fab-70d7-5d95-89a7-add6bc676e7a) H girls (#litres_trial_promo) I girls (#litres_trial_promo) J girls (#litres_trial_promo) K girls (#litres_trial_promo) L girls (#litres_trial_promo) M girls (#litres_trial_promo) N girls (#litres_trial_promo) O girls (#litres_trial_promo) P girls (#litres_trial_promo) Q girls (#litres_trial_promo) R girls (#litres_trial_promo) S girls (#litres_trial_promo) T girls (#litres_trial_promo) U girls (#litres_trial_promo) V girls (#litres_trial_promo) W girls (#litres_trial_promo) X girls (#litres_trial_promo) Y girls (#litres_trial_promo) Z girls (#litres_trial_promo) A boys (#litres_trial_promo) B boys (#litres_trial_promo) C boys (#litres_trial_promo) D boys (#litres_trial_promo) E boys (#litres_trial_promo) F boys (#litres_trial_promo) G boys (#litres_trial_promo) H boys (#litres_trial_promo) I boys (#litres_trial_promo) J boys (#litres_trial_promo) K boys (#litres_trial_promo) L boys (#litres_trial_promo) M boys (#litres_trial_promo) N boys (#litres_trial_promo) O boys (#litres_trial_promo) P boys (#litres_trial_promo) Q boys (#litres_trial_promo) R boys (#litres_trial_promo) S boys (#litres_trial_promo) T boys (#litres_trial_promo) U boys (#litres_trial_promo) V boys (#litres_trial_promo) W boys (#litres_trial_promo) X boys (#litres_trial_promo) Y boys (#litres_trial_promo) Z boys (#litres_trial_promo) Acknowledgments (#litres_trial_promo) About the Authors (#litres_trial_promo) Also by Pamela Redmond Satran & Linda Rosenkrantz (#litres_trial_promo) Copyright (#litres_trial_promo) About the Publisher (#litres_trial_promo) Introduction (#ulink_8f519c35-5775-529a-a27e-c7c9aed75c62) Choosing the right name can seem daunting these days, with so many choices to sift through, so much new information about the importance of names, such creative baby naming in Hollywood and on the Web. How can you tell if a name is too popular or not mainstream enough, wonderfully creative or just plain weird? How can you find the name that is perfect for you and your baby? We can help. In fact, we’ve been helping parents find the perfect name for their babies for two decades. We helped launch this wide – and wild – new world of names with our book Beyond Jennifer & Jason, first published in the pre–Baby Gap, pre-starbaby 1980s, back when everybody just named their babies after themselves or picked one of the trendy names of the day. Please, we urged parents: Look beyond the obvious choices. Consider using your mother’s maiden name as your daughter’s first, or dust off Grandpa’s name for your son. Look to your cultural heritage for a name or pluck one from a map. Now that Jennifer and Jason are all grown up and naming babies of their own, it’s time for a new kind of book. The baby-naming shelves have become engorged with dozens of name dictionaries on steroids, most of them stuffed with ridiculous names and misleading, often made-up definitions and copycat lists. One, for example, lists Seth under ‘Names Teachers Can’t Pronounce,’ while another informs us that the definition of Goddess is ‘gorgeous’. You and your baby deserve a lot better than that. And that’s why we wrote The Brilliant Book of Baby Names. As the United States’ foremost experts on style and names – we also wrote the bestselling Cool Names for Babies and have been interviewed about baby naming by everyone from The New York Times to Us Weekly to The Today Show and Oprah – we found ourselves in a position to create a unique baby-naming resource as authoritative, stylish and original as our other books, to provide the name information needed to make the all-important choice both you and your child will be happy with forever. The crowning achievement of our twenty years’ experience researching and writing about names in eight other books that have sold millions of copies, The Brilliant Book of Baby Names: Offers more than 50,000 terrific names from around the world, including a multitude of creative choices found nowhere else. References to the Top 100 names are UK government statistics for England and Wales. Includes real and accurate information on where the names come from and what they mean in their original language, as well as how they’re perceived in the modern world. Guides you through the maze of style and image considerations by giving you expert enlightened and enlightening commentary on every name in the book. Helps you make the perfect name decision via the kind of specialised lists that we invented and still do best. Here are more than two hundred lists of beautiful names and strong names, names stars are giving their kids and names that would shock your grandma, lists of French names and African names and names you should consider if you like Emily but want to move beyond it. Keeps you entertained while you’re making your momentous choice, with writing that’s as sharp as it is illuminating. Traditionally, name books start with tips for parents on choosing a name – make sure the first name goes with your last and that you don’t give your kid the initials P.I.G. – things you wouldn’t have much trouble figuring out for yourself. Instead, as you embark on the great baby-naming adventure in this enlightened age, we offer a new level of advice on choosing a name: TODAY’S ESSENTIAL TOP-10 OF BABY NAMING 1. Aim to fall in love with a name. Remember falling in love with your partner? Swooning the first time you heard your baby’s heartbeat? That’s the kind of emotional reaction you should go for with a name, too. Look for one that you love so much it makes your heart pound, that you can’t stop thinking about, that you keep loving no matter what anybody says. 2. Don’t pay too much attention to what other people think. It’s lots of fun talking about names with your spouse, your friends, your family. Everyone will ask which names you’re considering – and then they’ll do their best to convince you that those names are stupid, ugly, ridiculous choices, and that you should pick the names they like instead. The problem is, these people are only giving their subjective opinions. Your parents’ ideas are several decades out of style, your childless friends are clueless and the grocer and the postman – yes, everyone wants to get into the act – know even less. Talk about it if you like. Then tune out all those other opinions and make the big decision yourself – along with your partner. 3. Remember, it’s more about your child than about you. Love aside, it’s important to keep in mind that your child is the one who’s going to live with your name choice – not just when he’s a baby, oblivious in your arms, but in the playground and in the school canteen and on job interviews and at his fortieth birthday party and as an old man. The point is, it doesn’t matter whether your friends think a name is cool or what kind of attention you get on your favourite baby-naming notice board for your ideas. Your child will be the one perspiring in his interview suit or hobbling around the nursing home, thinking, ‘Crikey! Why did they have to name me Harley?’ 4. But know that Harley isn’t the same name it was when you were a child. Names have changed in a big way, so that the names that would have been considered strange or that would have gotten you teased in the playground when you were in school are now accepted as completely normal. Interchangeable names for boys and girls? Totally standard – though you still don’t want to name your son Sue. (You probably don’t want to name your daughter Sue either, but for different reasons.) Ethnic names? Found in many cities throughout the country. Unconventional spellings and invented names? Often, the traditional spelling is now the exception, and the girl down the road is more likely to be named Nevaeh than Nancy. It’s a whole new baby-naming world out there. 5. Expand your view of creativity. Consistent with this new world of baby naming is the pressure lots of parents feel to be creative in their choices. Inventing a name or varying a spelling is great if that’s your style, but there are lots of other ways to be creative, and this book can help you explore them. Try a fresh international twist on a familiar name. Consider names you never even knew existed; you’ll find a wide menu of choices here that have never appeared in any name book before. 6. Look for a name with meaning. A name’s meaning these days extends far beyond the original ‘spear carrier’ or ‘God is gracious’. You’ll want to consider what a name means in terms of your family history, your individual experience, your personal style. Can you find a name that relates to your family tree? Your cultural background? How about a place name or a word name or an occupational name that signals something with personal significance to you? Explore what different names mean in relation to your sense of style, of history, of yourself and your partner. A name that connects deeply on several levels will resonate into the future for both you and your child. 7. Do your own research. Everything you need from a book may be here, but you might also want to gather your own intelligence. Visit your local playground or read the birth announcements to familiarise yourself with the naming trends in your neighbourhood. Find the most current popularity lists of baby names for both girls and boys at the British government’s website www.statistics.gov.uk. Depending on your needs and tastes, you might also want to look at our style-oriented books, Beyond Jennifer & Jason, Madison and Montana, and Cool Names for Babies and our ethnic baby-naming guides, Beyond Shannon & Sean or Beyond Sarah & Sam. 8.Put baby naming in perspective. Of course, we believe names are important. They telegraph messages about a person’s class, family, ethnicity, gender, creativity, intelligence – messages that you, as a conscientious parent, want to control. You want to do everything you can to choose the best possible name. And yet, let’s not get carried away. Books that tell you that a name controls your child’s destiny or holds the key to success are just trying to persuade you to buy something with little validity. 9. Have fun. Yes, choosing a name is a serious, long-term decision, but it can and should be fun and exciting. We want this to be the book you stay up late into the night reading. The subject of laugh-filled dinners and under-the-covers heart-to-hearts. There’s so much that’s frightening and out of your control about becoming a parent, you should enjoy this one aspect that has so much potential for pleasure. 10. Let us be your guides. Parents often ask us, ‘How do I know whether a name I like is going to get too popular? How can I find a name that’s distinctive without being too strange?’ Such difficult questions are at the heart of most parents’ search for the perfect name, and that’s exactly where we come in. You don’t have to somehow figure out or guess these things for yourself: Through our decades of research and experience, we know which names are coming into style and which are heading out, which old favourites are worth dusting off and which should stay in mothballs, what’s cool and what’s just freaky. That’s exactly the kind of information you’ll find throughout this book, leading you to a name you’ll love even more through the years than you do today, the name your wonderful child deserves. How to Use This Book (#ulink_9b330281-0096-5381-864b-31c2e9aa2974) Symbols The symbols in the book are designed to make it easy and quick for you to identify certain names. The stars identify the names that are our recommended Best Bets – names we find to be particularly appealing in a wide range of styles. A unisex symbol means the name can be used for both boys and girls, so that you may find a choice in the boys’ section that works for a daughter or vice versa. Derivations and Meanings There is much conflict and misinformation over the background and meaning of names, but what you’ll find here is the most authoritative material available. We simplified derivations, saying Scottish and English and French, for instance, rather than getting into such fine points as Middle English and Old French. We do identify African and Native American tribal derivations, when accessible. For consistency, names that are related to other names are all called ‘variations’, while shortened forms are labelled ‘diminutives’. Spellings The main entry is usually the classic spelling of the name, with variations, short forms and international versions listed beneath. When there is a spelling variation that is commonly found – for example, the popular KAITLYN for the original CAITLIN – that has an individual entry as well. Lists Rather than segregating our lists, we’ve woven them throughout the book. If you’re looking for a name that sounds creative or one that means ‘strong’, if you want an inventive nickname for Elizabeth or a substitute for Dylan, you’ll find them all in one place. A guide to the lists is in the Contents. Within each letter, there is a selective listing of recent choices of celebrity parents under the heading Stellar Starbabies. Armed with all this information and advice, we’re sure you will arrive at the best possible baby-naming decision for your baby, finding the one perfect name that you and your child will love forever. A girls (#ulink_b22c097f-e877-5446-9dd2-05aa41eb3167) AALIYAH.Variation ofALIYA,Arabic, ‘highborn’. The most complicated and popular spelling of this once-obscure name. Aahliyah, Aailiyah, Aailyah, Aalaiya, Aaleah, Aalia, Aalieyha, Aaliya, Aaliyaha, Aaliyha, Aalliah, Aalyah, Aalyiah, Alia, Aliah, Alliyah. ABBIE, ABBY.Diminutive ofABIGAIL. Gently old-fashioned nickname name that owes its popularity to Abigail, but it has been slipping down the Top 100 in recent years. Aabbee, Abbe, Abbea, Abbee, Abbeigh, Abbey, Abbi, Abbye, Abee, Abeey, Abey, Abi, Abia, Abie, Aby. ABBOTT.Aramaic, Hebrew, ‘father’. Traditionally male surname that may find new life for girls thanks to its similarity to the popular Abby and Abigail. Abbot. International: Abboid(Gaelic),Abad(Spanish), Abt(German). ABELIA. Hebrew, ‘sigh, breath’. This feminine form of Abel makes a distinctive alternative to the widely used Abigail. International: Ab?lia, Abelle, Abella(French). ABERDEEN.Scottish place name. A much more modern choice than unfashionable Irish een-ending names like Noreen and Doreen. ABIA.Arabic, ‘great’. Simple plus unusual is a winning combination. Abbia, Abbiah, Abiah, Abya, Abyah. ABIELA.Hebrew, ‘God is my father’. More than the sum of Abby and Ella. Abielah, Aviela. ABIGAIL.Hebrew, ‘my father is joyful’. Old Testament name – Abigail was the wife of David – that became a term for a maid in the early nineteenth century and subsequently fell from favour. Now, it’s back in a big way, liked for its proper vintage charm. Abagael, Abagail, Abagale, Abagil, Abaigeal, Abbagail, Abbe, Abbey, Abbi, Abbie, Abbiegail, Abbiegayle, Abbigael, Abbigail, Abbigal, Abbigale, Abbigayl, Abbigayle, Abby, Abbye, Abbygael, Abbygail, Abbygale, Abegail, Abegale, Abgail, Abgale, Abgayle, Abichayil, Abihail, Abigael, Abigal, Abigaile, Abigaill, Abigal, Abigale, Abigayil, Abigayl, Abigayle, Abigel, Abigial, Abigil, Abigayle, Abugail, Abygail, Avichayil, Avigail, Avihail, Gael, Gail, Gaila, Gal, Gale, Gayel, Gayle. ABIJAH.Hebrew, ‘God is my father’. Abigail with rhythm. Abeedja, Abeeja, Abeesha, Abija, Abisha, Abishah. ABILENE.English from Hebrew, ‘grass’; also American place name. Here is a spiced-up spunky version of the popular Abbie nickname. Abalene, Abalina, Abilena, Abiline. ABITAL.Hebrew, ‘my father is dew’. Although it’s popular for boys as well as girls in Israel, we don’t see it happening here. Abeetal, Avital. ABRA.Feminine variation ofABRAHAM. Soft, sensitive feminine form of Abraham – but there is the risk that it could too often be followed by ‘cadabra’. Abame, Abarrane, Abbrienna, Abbryana, Abrahana, Abr?a, Abrea, Abreana, Abreanna, Abreanne, Abree, Abreeana, Abreia, Abreona, Abreonia, Abri, Abria, Abriah, Abriann, Abrianna, Abriannah, Abrianne, Abri?a, Abrieana, Abrielle, Abrien, Abrienna, Abrienne, Abrietta, Abrion, Abrion?e, Abrionne, Abriunna, Abryann, Abryanna, Abryona, Abrya. International: Abriana(Italian). ABRIAL.French, ‘open, secure, protected’. Stronger, more distinctive than April or Avril. Aabriella, Abrail, Abreal, Abreale, Abriale, Abriel, Abriell, Abrielle, Abrilla, Abrille, Abryell. ACACIA.Greek nature name. Attractive, rarely-used Greek nature name of a flowering shrub that symbolises resurrection and immortality, especially good for an Easter baby. Acasha, Acasia, Acasiya, Acasya, Acatia, Acaysha, Accacia, Accasie, Accassia, Acey, Acie, Akacia, Akakia, Akaysha, Caci, Cacia, Cacie, Casey, Casha, Casi, Casia, Casie, Cassie, Cassy, Caysha, Kacey, Kaci, Kacia, Kakia, Kakie, Kasi, Kasie, Kasia, Kassja, Kassi, Kassie, Kassya, Kassy. ACADIA.Place name. The French name for Nova Scotia – and the name of a gorgeous American national park in Maine – makes a fresh, rhythmic choice for your little girl. Acadiah, Acadya, Acadyah, Cadi, Cadia, Cadie, Cady. ADA.German, ‘noble, nobility’. A favourite at the end of the nineteenth century that hasn’t come back…yet. But with the new trend towards simple, old-fashioned names beginning with a vowel – Ava, Ella – you may consider being one of the first to revive it. Adabella, Adabelle, Adah, Adalee, Adan, Adaya, Adda, Adette, Addi, Addie, Addiah, Addy, Adey, Adi, Adia, Adiah, Adie, Aida, Aidah, Auda. ADAH.Hebrew, ‘beautiful, adorned’. Pronounced AH-dah, this unusual biblical name – the first female name in Genesis after Eve – is a softer Ada equivalent. Ada, Addah. ADAIR.Scottish and Irish, ‘oak tree ford’. Has lots of flair; consider it in place of the overused Aidan. Adaire, Adare, Adayre. ADALIA.Hebrew, ‘God is my refuge’; German, ‘noble one’. Luxurious and distinctive. Adal, Adala, Adalane, Adalea, Adaleah, Adalee, Adalene, Adali, Adalie, Adaliah, Adalin, Adalina, Adaline, Adalinn, Adalley, Adaly, Adalya, Adalyah, Adalyn, Adalynn, Adalynne, Addal, Addala, Addaly, Addalyn, Addalynn. ADAMINA.Hebrew, ‘child of the red earth’. This feminine form of Adam (Adama is another one) has none of the simple elegance of the original. Try Eve. Ada, Adama, Adamah, Adameena, Adamine, Adaminna, Addie, Ademina, Ademeena, Mina, Minna. ADARA.Arabic, ‘virgin’; Hebrew, ‘noble, exalted’. Perfect name for a Virgo baby. Adair, Adaira, Adaora, Adar, Adarah, Adare, Adaria, Adarra, Adasha, Adaur?, Adra. ADDIE.Diminutive ofADELAIDEorADELINE. Old-fashioned nickname with sweet turn-of-the-last-century charm that could work today. Aday, Adde, Addee, Addey, Addi, Addia, Addy, Ade, Adee, Adei, Adey, Adeye, Adi, Adie, Ady, Atti, Attie, Atty. ADDISON.English, ‘son of Adam’. Rapidly moving in on Madison. Addis, Addisen, Addisson, Addyson, Adis, Adisa, Adisen, Adison, Adisynne, Adysen. ADELAIDE.German, ‘noble, nobility’. Best known as the German princess who married the British King William in the 1830s, inspiring the name of the Australian city and a craze for her name. Recently chosen by Aussie actress Rachel Griffiths. Ada, Adalaide, Adalayde, Addala, Addalla, Addey, Addi, Addie, Addy, Adel, Adela, Adelade, Adelaid, Adelaida, Adelais, Adele, Adelei, Adelheid, Adeliade, Adelina, Adeline, Adelice, Adelicia, Adelis, Adelita, Adeliza, Adelka, Adelle, Adelvice, Adelvicia, Adey, Adi, Adlin, Adline, Ado, Ady, Aley, Aline, Aliosha, Alline, Alyosha, Del, Delia, Delle, Delli, Delly, Edeline, Eline, Heidi, Lady, Laidey, Laidy. International: Ailis(Irish), Ad?la?de (a-day-la-EED)(French), Alida(Hungarian). ADELE.German, ‘noble, nobility’. In fashion-limbo. Adel, Adela, Adelia, Adelie, Adell, Adella, Adellah, Adelle, Adile, Edelle. ADELIA.Variation ofADELAIDE. Much more accessible and rarely-used form, worth consideration. Adeliah, Adelya, Adelya. ADELINE.French, diminutive ofADELE. Many contemporary parents like this name’s old-fashioned ‘Sweet Adeline’ charm, perhaps seeing it as a less-used cousin of the ultratrendy Madeline. Adalina, Adaline, Adallina, Adelaine, Adelin, Adelind, Adelita, Adeliya, Adella, Adellah, Adelle, Adelyn, Adelynn, Adelynne, Adilene, Adlin, Adlina, Adline, Adlyn, Adlynn, Ahdella, Aline, Dahlina, Dalina, Daline, Dallina, Delina, Deline, Dellina, Delly, Delyne, Edelie, Lina. International: Adelina, Adette(French), Adelina(Slavic). ADELPHA.Greek, ‘beloved sister’. Seriously classic name with lovely meaning. Adelfa, Adelfia, Adelphia, Delpha. Hot Starbaby Names Adelaide Ava Bella Charlotte Ella Esm? Georgia Grace Isabella Lola Matilda Olivia Piper Romy Sofia/Sophia Stella ADINA.Hebrew, ‘slender, delicate’. Name of an Old Testament soldier that can theoretically be used for either sex – but sounds overwhelmingly feminine. Adena, Adinah, Adine, Aideen, Aidena, Aidina, Aidine, Aydeen, Aydeena, Aydina. ADOLPHA.German, ‘noble wolf’. Nein. Adolfa, Adollfa. ADORA.Latin, ‘adored’. Better to lavish your child with adoration than give her this spoiled-girl name. Adorabelle, Adorae, Adoray, Adore, Adoree, Adoria, Adorlee, Dora, Dorae, Dori, Dorie, Dorri, Dome, Dorry, Dory. ADRIANA.Latin, feminine variation ofADRIAN. This a-ending feminine form of Adrian, from the northern Italian city of Adria, is a soft and lovely Italian choice. Addie, Adrea, Adreana, Adreanna, Adreea, Adria, Adriah, Adrian, Adrianah, Adriane, Adrianna, Adriannah, Adrianne, Adrie, Adrieanne, Adrien, Adriena, Adrienah, Adriene, Adrienna, Adrina, Adriyanna, Aydrian, Aydrienne, Hadria, Hadrienne. ADRIENNE.Latin, feminine variation ofADRIAN. Earlier feminine form of Adrian, now knocked aside by the versions ending in a. AERIN.Tolkien Middle Earth invention, or variation ofERIN. In Tolkien’s world, the derivation of this airy name is Elvish. Regular folks might consider it an artsier form of Erin, borne by cosmetics heiress and socialite Aerin Lauder. AERON.Welsh mythology name. Tolkien may have been inspired by this name of a Celtic goddess of war. Aeronwen, Aeronwy. AFFINITY.Word name. Sympathetic new twist on a Puritan virtue name. AFRA.Arabic, ‘colour of earth’; Hebrew, ‘dust’. Earthier version of the name of England’s first female professional writer, Aphra Behn. Affera, Affery, Affra, Affrey, Affrie, Afraa, Aphra. AFRICA.Place name. Most Africas today would be named for the continent, but the name actually existed in Scotland in medieval times, where there was a Celtic queen named Affrica. Affrica, Affricah, Affrika, Affrikah, Afric, Africah, African, Africaya, Africia, Africiana, Afrika, Afrikah, Aifric, Aifrica, Aphria, Aphfrica, Apirka, Apirkah. International: Aifric(Scottish). AFTERNOON.Word name. An early day name, found on slave rolls, and worthy of consideration today for someone seeking a truly unusual name. AFTON.Place name. Name of a town in Scotland that has a feminine strength. Affton, Aftan, Aften, Aftin, Aftine, Aftinn, Aftonn, Aftonne, Aftyn, Aftynn. AGAPI.Greek, ‘love, affection’. Sweet meaning, but clunky name. AGATE.French, a semiprecious stone, or variation ofAGATHA. The Ag- sound grates on the modern ear. Aggie. AGATHA.Greek, ‘good’. Agatha still summons up visions of martyred saints, mauve silk dresses and high lace collars, but some dauntless excavators have begun to resurrect it. Ag, Agace, Agacia, Agata, Agatah, Agathe, Agathi, Agatta, Agetha, Aggi, Aggie, Aggy, Aggye, Agi, Agie, Agueda, Agy, Agye, Atka. International: Agathe(French, German), Agueda (Portuguese), Agata(Scandinavian), Agat?(Slavic), Atka(Polish), Agi, Agota, Agotha(Hungarian), Agafia, Agasha, Ganya, Gasha, Gashka(Russian)Agathe(Greek). AGNES.Greek, ‘pure, virginal’. Though it was the third most common English girls’ name for four hundred years, Agnes has long been stuck in the attic. But maybe it’s so far out it’s almost ready to come back in. French pronounciation – ahn-YEZ – helps, and Thom Yorke of Radiohead chose it for his daughter. Ag, Aggi, Aggie, Aggye, Agi, Agie, Agna, Agnesse, Agnessina, Agnis, Agnus, Agy, Agye, Anais, Anees, Aneesha, Aneska, Anessa, Anesse, Anice, Anissa, Anisha, Annais, Anneyce, Annice, Annis, Annisah, Annise, Annisha, Anson, Ina, Inah, Nevsa, Nevesah, Nesa, Nesi, Nessa, Nessi, Nessie, Nessy, Nesta, Neysa, Oona, Oonagh, Oonah, Senga. International: Aign?is(Irish Gaelic), Nesta(Welsh), Ynes, Ynez(French, Spanish), Oanez(Breton), Agne, Agnella, Agnesca, Agnese, Agnesina, Agnola, Anete, Hagne(Italian), Agnese, Inesa(Spanish), Ines, Inez(Spanish, Portuguese), Anneke(Dutch),Agna, Agnethe, Anke, Antje(German), Agnethe, Agne, Agnek, Agneta(Scandinavian), Agnesa, Agneska, Anezka, Anka(Czech), Agnessa, Agnia, Inessa, Nessa(Russian)Neza(Slavic). AGRIPPINA.Latin, ‘born feetfirst’. Sister of Caligula and mother of Nero, who had her murdered. The original male version, Agrippa, can also used for girls – but who would want to? Agrafina, Agrippa, Agrippine. AIBHILIN.(ev-lin) Irish variation ofEVELYN. Makes Evelyn more exotic, but ultimately too difficult. AIDA.(eye-EE-da) Arabic, ‘reward, present’.Operatic. Aeeda, Aidah, Aidan, Aide, Aidee, Aiden, Ayeeda, Ieeda, Iyeeda. AIDAN.Irish, ‘little and fiery’. Ancient Irish saint’s name that’s popular for boys and is taking off with girls as well. Adan, Adann, Adanne, Aden, Adin, Adon, Adyn, Adynn, Adynne, Aidana, Aidann, Aidanna, Aidanne, Aiden, Aidin, Aidon, Aidyn, Aidynn, Aidynne, Aydan, Ayden, Aydenn, Aydin, Aydon, Aydyn, Aydynn, Aydynne, Edan. AIKO.(ah-ee-ko) Japanese, ‘love child’. Very common Japanese name that is rarely heard outside the Asian community. AILANI.Hawaiian, ‘chief’. Lilting and lovely. Aelani, Ailana. AILBHE.(al-va) Irish, ‘noble, bright’. While Irish Gaelic spellings add intrigue to a name, they’ll prove endlessly confusing. Alva, Alvy, Elvy. AILEEN.Irish variation ofHELEN. Never as popular as Eileen, and now both are out. Aila, Ailean, Ailec, Aileena, Ailen, Ailene, Alley, Ailli, Aili, Ailie, Ailina, Ailine, Ailinn, Aillen, Aleen, Alene, Aline, Alline, Eileen, Eleen, Ellene, Ileana, Ileane, Ileanna, Ileen, Ilene, Iliana, Iliane, Ilianna, Illeanne, Illene, Leana, Leanah, Leanna, Leannah, Lena, Lenah, Liana, Lianna, Liannah, Lina, Linah. International: Ailinn(Portuguese),Aili(Finnish). AILSA.(AYL-suh) Scottish place name. Traditionally Scottish name – after the island called Ailsa Craig – that might make a good alternative to the overused Ashley or Ella. Ailis, Ailse, Ailsha, Allasa Elsa, Elsha, Elshe. Irish Names That Aren’t Overused ?ine Aislinn Aoife Bidelia Caoimhe Ciara Clodagh Eimear Fionnuala Grainne Juno Maeve Niamh Orla Roisin Saoirse Sinead Sorcha AIM?E.French, ‘beloved’. Whether you pronounce it like the original Amy or the Frenchified Ay-may, this form adds considerable ?lan to an old favourite. Aime, Aimey, Aimi, Aimia, Aimie, Aimy, Amey, Amie. ?INE.(an-ya) Irish, ‘brilliance, wit’. Name of a fertility goddess said to confer luck on its bearer, though to avoid confusion you may want to use the phonetic spelling Anya or Enya. Anne, Anya, Enya. AINSLEY.Scottish, ‘one’s own meadow’. While theoretically unisex, this surname name has been edging up the girls’ list, perhaps as an Ashley substitute. Ainslea, Ainslee, Ainsleigh, Ainslie, Ainsly, Ansley, Aynslee, Aynsley, Aynslie. AIR.Word name. Airy hippy dippy nature name, ? la River or Sky. Aer. AISHA.(eye-EE-sha) Arabic, ‘woman’; Swahili, ‘life’. Aisha was Muhammad’s favourite wife, making this lovely name and its myriad variations increasingly popular. Aaisha, Aaishah, Aeesha, Aeeshah, Aesha, Aeshah, Aheesha, Aiasha, Aiesha, Aieshah, Aisa, Aischa, Aish, Aishah, Aisheh, Aishia, Aishiah, Aisia, Aisiah, Aixa, Aiyesha, Aiysha, Asha, Ashah, Ashia, Ashiah, Asia, Asiah, Ayeesa, Ayeesah, Ayeesha, Ayeeshah, Ayeisa, Ayeisah, Ayeisha, Ayeishah, Ayesha, Ayisa, Ayisah, Ayisha, Ayishah, Aysa, Ayse, Aytza, Ieasha, Ieashah, Ieashia, Ieashiah, Iesha, Ieshah, Ieesha, Ieeshah, Ieeshia, Ieeshiah, Yiesha, Yieshah. AISLINN.(ash-lin) Irish, ‘dream’. Old Irish name that’s taken off in its phonetic forms, mainly Ashlyn or Ashlynn. Aishellyn, Aishlinn, Aislee, Aisley, Aislin, Aisling, Aislyn, Aislynne, Ashling, Ashlyn, Ashlynn, Isleen. AITHNE.(et-na) Irish, ‘fire’. This soundalike for the famous volcano, Mount Etna, is far more unusual and less attractive than its male equivalent, Aidan. Aine, Aithnea, Eithne, Ena, Ethnah, Ethnea, Ethnee. AJA.Hindi, ‘goat’. Sounds like and is often confused with Asia, though it has an air of retro cool via the seminal Steely Dan album. Ahjah, Aija, Aijah, Aijiah, Aj?, Ajada, Ajah, Ajara, Ajaran, Ajare, Ajaree, Ajhia, Aji, Ajia, Ajjia, Azha. AKILAH.Arabic, ‘intelligent, logical’. Rhythmic and exotic. Aikiela, Aikilah, Akeela, Akeelah, Akeila, Akeilah, Akeiyla, Akiela, Akielah, Akila, Akilaih, Akili, Akilia, Akilla, Akillah, Akkila, Akyla, Akylah. AKIVA.Hebrew, ‘to protect, shelter’. Strong name used in Israel. Akeeva, Akiba, Keeva, Keevah, Kiba, Kibah, Kiva, Kivah, Kivi. ALABAMA.Place name. In the US, hot new southern place name, picking up from Georgia and Savannah. ALAIA.(al-EYE-a) Arabic, ‘sublime’. Fashion designer surname could make exotic first. ALAIR.Variation ofHILARY. Firmer form of Hilary. Alaira, Ali, Allaire. ALALA.Greek mythology. Rhythmic ancient name belonging to the mythological sister of Ares. ALANA.Irish, feminine variation ofALAN. Not a bad way to honour Grandpa Alan…or Grandma Helen or Elaine. Alaana, Alaina, Alaine, Alanaa, Alanae, Alanah, Alane, Alanea, Alani, Alania, Alanis, Alanna, Alannah, Alawna, Alayna, Alayne, Alene, Aleyna, Aleynah, Aleyne, Aileen, Allana, Allanah, Allena, Ailene, Alleynah, Alleyne, Allina, Allinah, Allyn, Allyna, Alonna, Lana, Lanah, Lanna, Lannah. ALANI.Hawaiian, ‘orange tree’. More appealing than most other Alan equivalents. Alaini, Alainie, Alania, Alanie, Alaney, Alannie. ALANIS.Variation ofALANA. Singer Alanis Morissette made this twist famous. ALBA.Latin, ‘white’. Many two-syllable names that start and end in vowels are coming back…but not Alba. Albana, Albane, Albani, Albanie, Albany, Albeni, Albina, Albine, Albinia, Albinka, Alva, Elba. International: Albane(French). ALBANY.Place name. The Beckhams have put Brooklyn on the map. Albany – also in New York State – not yet. ALBERTA.English, feminine variation ofALBERT. Jazzy old name that could make a comeback, the way Josephine and Ella have. Alberthine, Albertina, Albertine, Albertyna, Albertyne, Auberta, Aubertha, Auberthe, Aubine, Alverta, Berry, Bert, Berta, Berte, Berti, Bertie, Berty, Elberta, Elbertha, Elberthina, Elberthine, Elbertina, Elbertine. International: Albertine, Auberte(French). ALBINIA.Latin, ‘white, fair’. The original male name Alban is a lot sleeker and more usable. Alba, Albina, Alva, Alvina, Aubine. ALCHEMY.Latin word name. One of the most extreme of the new word names, recommended only to the most mystical-minded parents. Metallica hard-rocker Lars Hendrickson spelled his daughter’s name Alchamy. ALCOTT.English, ‘dweller at the old cottage’. Intriguing alternative that goes beyond Louisa and May, for Little Women fans. ALDA.German, ‘old, prosperous’. Old, indeed. Aldabella, Aldea, Aldina, Aldine, Aleda, Alida. ALDEN.English, ‘old, wise friend’. Tired male surname name that sounds fresh and modern for a girl. Aldan, Aldon, Aldyn, Alten, Alton. ALEAH.Arabic, ‘high, exalted’; Persian, ‘God’s being’. Simple and melodic. Aileah, Ala, Alah, Alea, Aleea, Aleeah, Aleia, Aleiah, Alia, Allea, Alleah, Alleea, Alleeah. ALEELA.Swahili, ‘she cries’. Lilting African name that translates perfectly into other cultures. Aleelah, Alila, Alile. ALEESHA.Variation ofALICIA. Beginning to be heard more frequently since the birth of the Eastenders baby. ALEEZA.Hebrew, ‘joy’. One of the most energetic and exotic of the legion of Alyssa/Alicia/ Eliza names. Aleezah, Aleiza, Alieza, Aliezah, Aliza, Alizah, Alitza, Leeza. ALEJANDRA.(al-eh-HAHN-dra) Spanish, feminine variation ofALEJANDRO. The Spanish form of this popular and multivaried name is attracting good reviews outside the Latino community. Alandra, Alejandrina, Alexandra. ALETHEA.Greek, ‘truth’. Alicia, with a lisp. Alathea, Alathia, Aleethia, Aleta, Aletea, Aletha, Aletheia, Alethia, Aletia, Aletta, Alette, Alithea, Alithia, Elethea, Elethia. ALEX.Diminutive ofALEXANDER, ALEXIS. One of the most evenly divided unisex names these days; strong and energetic, if overused, for both genders. Aleix, Aleks, Alexe, Alexx, Alix, Allex, Allexx, Alyx. ALEXA.Diminutive ofALEXANDRA. This simple and most feminine form of the Alexi group retains the greatest freshness, although it’s already in with the-in crowd. Aleixa, Alekia, Aleksa, Aleksha, Aleksi, Alexha, Alexsa, Alexssa, Alexxa, Allexa, Alyxa. ALEXANDRA.Greek, ‘man’s defender’. The feminine form of Alexander has been consistent in the bottom half of the Top 100. Why? It’s strong, tasteful, and elegant, maintaining a chic aura despite its popularity, has a solid historic pedigree and offers an array of softer nicknames. Alaxandra, Alecsandra, Aleczandra, Aleksandra, Alesandra, Alessandra, Alex, Alexanda, Alexande, Alexandera, Alexandere, Alexandrea, Alexandreana, Alexandretta, Alexandria, Alexane, Alexea, Alexene, Alexes, Alexi, Alexus, Alexxandra, Alexys, Alexzandra, Alissandre, Alissandrine, Alix, Alixandra, Allessa, Allessandra, Allex, Allexa, Allexandra, Allexandrina, Allexina, Allexine, Alissandre, Alissandrine, Allix, Ally, Alyx, Alyxandra, Cesya, Etena, Lesy, Lesya, Lexandra, Lexi, Lexie, Lexy, Lissandre, Lissandrine, Sandi, Sandie, Sandra, Sandy, Sandye, Sanndra, Sasha, Sohndra, Sondra, Xandra, Xandy, Zandra, Zandy, Zohndra, Zondra. ALEXANDRIA.Variation ofALEXANDRA. Turns Alexandra into a more distinctive place name, in both Egypt and Virginia. Alaxandria, Alecsandria, Aleczandria, Alexanderine, Alexandrea, Alexandrena, Alexandrie, Alexandrina, Alexandrine, Alexandrya, Alexanndria, Alexendria, Alexendrine, Alexia, Alixandrea, Alyxandria. ALEXIA.Diminutive ofALEXANDRIA. A pretty name, but it has a slightly pharmaceutical aura. Aleksia, Aleska, Alexcia, Alexea, Alexsia, Alexsiya, Allexia, Alyxia. ALEXINA.Feminine variation ofALEX. Trying too hard to stand out from the sea of Alexes. ALEXIS.English variation ofALEXIOS. This one-time Russian boys’ name has surpassed sister Alexandra in popularity in the US, where it has made the Top 5. Aalexis, Ahlexis, Alaxis, Alecsis, Alecxis, Aleexis, Aleksis, Alessa, Alessi, Alexa, Alexcis, Alexi, Alexia, Alexias, Alexiou, Alexiss, Alexiz, Alexsis, Alexxis, Alexys, Alixis, Allexis, Elexis, Lexi, Lexie, Lexis, Lexy. International: Alessia(Italian). Alexandra’s International Variations ALFONSINE.German, feminine variation of ALPHONSE. Try explaining to your teenager why you named her this. Alfonsa, Alfonsia, Alonza, Alphonsina. ALFREDA.English, ‘elf power’, feminine variation ofALFRED. Elf power? We weren’t crazy about it even before we knew that. Alfi, Alfie, Alfre, Alfredah, Alfredda, Alfredia, Alfreeda, Alfreida, Alfri, Alfried, Alfrieda, Alfryda, Alfy, Allfie, Allfreda, Allfredah, Allfredda, Allfrie, Allfrieda, Allfry, Allfryda, Allfy, Elfie, Elfre, Elfrea, Elfredah, Elfredda, Elfreeda, Elfrida, Elfrieda, Elfryda, Elfrydah, Ellfreda, Ellfredah, Ellfredda, Ellfreeda, Ellfrida, Ellfrieda, Ellfryda, Ellfrydah, Elva, Elvah, Freda, Freddi, Freddie, Freddy, Fredi, Fredy, Freeda, Freedah, Frieda, Friedah, Fryda, Frydah. ALI.Swahili, ‘exalted’. A sweet, simple short form, balanced enough to stand on its own. Allea, Alli, Allie, Ally, Aly. ALICE. German, ‘noble’. A classic name that’s both strong and sweet, Alice remains popular, though it’s slipping down the Top 50. Bonus: it’s a darling of literature, from the immortal heroine in Alice in Wonderland to fine modern writers like Alices Munro, Walker, Sebold, Hoffman, McDermott, Adams, and Elliott Dark. Adelice, Aleceea, Alecia, Aleece, Aleetheea, Aleethia, Alessa, Alesia, Ali, Alicah, Alicea, Alicen, Alicia, Alicie, Alidee, Alie, Aliece, Alikah, Aliki, Alis, Alisah, Alisann, Alisanne, Alise, Alisha, Alison, Alissa, Alisz, Alitheea, Alitia, Alix, Alise, Alia, Alla, Allecia, Alleece, Alleeceea, Alles, Alless, Alie, Alli, Allice, Allicea, Allie, Allis, Allise, Allison, Allissa, Allisun, Allisunne, Allix, Allsun, Ally, Allyce, Allyceea, Allys, Allyse, Allysia, Allysiah, Allyson, Allyssa, Allysson, Alyce, Alyceea, Alys, Alysa, Alyse, Alysia, Alyson, Alyss, Alyssa, Alysse, Elissa, Elli, Ellie, Ellissa, Ellsa, Elsa, Elyssa, Ilysa, Ilysah, Ilyssa, Ilysse, Leece, Leese, Lissa, Lyssa, Talicia. International: Ailis(Irish), Aili(Scottish), Alicia, Licha(Spanish), Aliz Ala, Alisia(Polish), (Hungarian),Alica.(Czech),Alisa(Bulgarian),Alisa, Alya(Russian), Alike, Aliz, Alizka, Lici(Greek),Aleka, Alika(Hawaiian). ALICIA.Variation ofALICE. Almost as popular as its mother name for several years, but it lacks Alice’s classic character. Aelicia, Alaysha, Alaysia, Alecea, Alecia, Aleecia, Ali, Alicea, Alicha, Alichia, Aliciah, Alician, Alicja, Alicya, Aliecia, Alisha, Allicea, Allicia, Alycia, Alyssia, Ilysa. ALIKA.Hawaiian, ‘truthful’; Swahili, ‘most beautiful’. Multicultural choice that’s far off the beaten track. Aleeki, Aleka, Alica, Alikah, Alike, Alikee, Aliki, Alliki. ALINA.Variation ofHELEN. One of the scores of global variations on the classic Helen. Aleen, Aleena, Alena, Alenah, Alene, Aliana, Alianna, Alinah, Aline, Alinna, Alleen, Allena, Allene, Alline, Allyna, Allynah, Allyne, Alyna, Alynna, Alynnah, Alyne, Alyona, Leena, Leenah, Lena, Lenah, Lina, Linah, Lyna, Lynah. ALISA.Hebrew, ‘great happiness’. Less popular than more complicated forms like Alyssa or Alicia, perhaps because of its association with the onceoverused Lisa. Alisah, Alissa, Alissah, Alitza, Alitzah, Aliza, Allisa, Allisah, Allissa, Allissah, Allysa, Allysah, Alyssa, Alyssah. ALISHA.Sanskrit, ‘protected by God’; also phonetic spelling ofALICIA. Member of the well-populated Alice family with overly literal spelling. Aaleasha, Aaliesha, Aalisha, Aleasha, Aleesha, Aleisha, Alesha, Ali, Aliesha, Aliscia, Alishah, Alishay, Alishaye, Alishia, Alishya, Alisia, Alissia, Alitsha, Allisha, Allysha, Alysha. ALISON.Scottish, diminutive ofALICE. Widely used since the 1950s, surpassing the original in popularity. Ali, Alicen, Alicyn, Alisan, Alisann, Alisanne, Alisen, Alisenne, Alisin, Alision, Alisonn, Alisoun, Alisson, Alisun, Allecenne, Alles, Allese, Alleyson, Allice, Allicen, Allicenne, Allie, Allisan, Allisann, Allisanne, Allisen, Allison, Allisoun, Allisson, Allisyn, Allix, Allsun, Ally, Allysann, Allysanne, Allyson, Allysoun, Alysan, Alysann, Alysanne, Alysen, Alyson, Alysoun, Alysun. ALIX.Diminutive ofALEXANDRA,spelling variation ofALEX. Just like Alex, except you have to spell it every time. Alex, Alexa, Alexis, Aliki, Aliks, Alixe, Alixia, Allix, Allyx, Alyx. ALIZA.Hebrew, ‘joyful’. The z adds zip. Aleeza, Aleiza, Alieza, Aliezah, Alitza, Aliz, Alizah, Alise, Alisee. ALIZABETH.Variation ofELIZABETH. Why make your child’s life more complicated than it has to be? Alyzabeth. ALIZ?E.(al-ee-ZAY) French, ‘trade wind’. This exotic name of a hot young French singer is catching on. Alise, Aliseh. ALLEGRA.Italian, ‘joyous’. In music, the term allegro means ‘quickly, lively tempo,’ which makes this still-unusual and quintessential ballet dancer’s name all the more appealing. Ally, Alegra, Alegria, Allegretta, Allegro, Lally, Legra, Leggra. ALLENA.SeeALANA. Alana, Alanicc, Alanis, Alanna, Alena, Alene, Allana, Allene, Alleyne, Allynn, Allynne, Allynn, Alynne. ALLURA.French, ‘to entice, attract’. Sounds like a princess – or an enticingly evil witch – in a fairy tale. Alloura, Alura. ALMA.Latin, ‘soul’. This somewhat solemn name had a burst of popularity a century ago, then faded into the flowered wallpaper – heard mostly in the term alma mater. Always well used in Hispanic families, it could just make a comeback, ? la Ella; appreciated for its simplicity and soul. Almah, Allma. ALMOND.Word name. Gwyneth Paltrow’s Apple has opened the world of botanical names beyond flowers to trees, herbs, fruits, and – why not? – nuts. Almandina, Almandine, Almondine, Amande, Amandina. ALOHA.Polynesian, ‘love’. This familiar Hawaiian greeting is, ? la the Hebrew Shalom, occasionally used for babies. ALOISIA.German, ‘famous fighter’. Inventive female form of Aloysius. Aloisa, Aloysia, Eloisia, Eloysia. ALOUETTE.French, ‘lark’. Gallic twist in the stylish bird name genre. Allouette, Alouetta, Alowette. ALPHA.Greek, first letter of the alphabet. Also the brightest star in every constellation, this would make an interesting choice for a first daughter, though it does give off some spectral sci-fireverberations. Alfa, Aphia, Aphra. ALTA.Latin, ‘elevated’. A meaning that might raise a child’s self-esteem. Allta, Altah, Altana, Altanna, Altea, Alto. ALTHEA.Greek, ‘with healing power’. Poetic, almost ethereal name found in Greek myth and pastoral poetry, associated with Althea Gibson, the great black tennis player. Altha, Althaia, Altheda, Altheya, Althia, Althiaa, Altheda, Althelia, Althia, Eltha, Elthea, Eltheya, Elthia, Thea. ALTON.SeeALDEN. ALURA.English, ‘god-like adviser’. Stems from a different root than Allura, but has the same feel. Alurea, Allura, Ellura. ALVA.Spanish, ‘blond, fair-skinned’; Hebrew, ‘foliage’. Best known as Thomas Edison’s middle name, but sounds distinctly, if frumpily, female. Alba, Albina, Albine, Albinia, Alvah, Alvana, Alvanna, Alvannah, Alver, Alvit. ALVINA.English, ‘noble friend’ or ‘elf-friend’. No more stylish than the original Alvin. Alveanea, Alveen, Alveena, Alveene, Alveenia, Alvenea, Alvie, Alvinae, Alvincia, Alvine, Alvinea, Alvineca, Alvinesha, Alvinia, Alvinna, Alvita, Alvona, Alvyna, Alwin, Alwina, Alwyn, Alwyne, Elveena, Elvena, Elvene, Elvenia, Elvina, Elvine, Elvinia, Vina, Vinni, Vinnie, Vinny. International: Alwyne(Scottish). ALYSSA.English variation ofALICIA. Hugely popular name in the US, related to the flower alyssum as well as to the classic Alice and variants. Ahlyssa, Alissa, Allisa, Allissa, Allyssa, Alyesa, Alyessa, Alyissa, Alysa, Alysah, Alysia, Elissa, Ilyssa, Lyssa, Lyssah. AMABEL.French, ‘beautiful lover’. Older than Annabel and a lot more distinctive. Worth consideration, even though your child will have to explain that no, her name is notAnnabel. Ama, Amabelle, Annabelle, Belle, Mab, Mabel. AMADEA.(ah-mah-DAY-a) Latin, ‘God’s beloved’. Strong and musical feminine form of Amadeus, as in Mozart. Amada, Amadee, Amadi, Amadia, Amadita, Amadore, Amadora, Amata, Amedee. AMALFI.Italian place name. Better as a picturesque town on the Italian Riviera than as a name. Amalfey, Malfie. AMALIA.(ah-MAH-lee-a or ah-mah-LEE-a) German, ‘industrious’. Italian, German, and Dutch twist on Amelia, recently chosen for the Dutch royal baby. Ahmalia, Amalberta, Amaleah, Amalee, Amaleta, Amalfried, Amalgunde, Amali, Amalija, Amalina, Amalisa, Amaliya, Amaly, Amalya, Amalyn. International: Amalie(French), Amila, Amalita, Amelida, Amelina, Emala(Spanish), Amalea, Amelie, Amilia(German), Amalja, Amelja(Polish), Mali, Malika(Hungarian). AMANDA.Latin, ‘much-loved’. After a long run as the prettiest name around, this romantic name is losing some of its glossy sheen, though it’s still lovely. Possible alternatives: the French Amandine or Shakespearean Miranda. Amada, Amanada, Amandah, Amandalee, Amandalyn, Amandi, Amandie, Amandine, Amandy, Amata, Manda, Mandaline, Mandee, Mandi, Mandie, Mandy. International: Amande, Amandine(French). AMANI.Variation ofIMANI. Growing in popularity due to similarity to Armani. Aamani, Ahmani, Aman, Amane, Amanee, Amaney, Amanie, Ammanu. AMARA.Greek, ‘lovely forever’. Strong, attractive, stylish, with an appealing meaning. Amar, Amaira, Amairani, Amarah, Amargo, Amargoe, Amargot, Amari, Amaria, Amariah, Amarinda, Amaris, Amarra, Amarrinda, Mara, Marra. AMARANTHA.Greek, ‘deathless’. Botanical name whose mythical equivalent was believed to be immortal. Amarande, Amaranta, Amarante. International: Amaranta(Spanish). AMARI.Hebrew, ‘eternal’. Related to names and words in a range of languages – Yoruba, Thai, Hebrew (where it’s used primarily for boys) – and with a variety of positive meanings. This inventive, lively choice is gaining notice among American parents. AMARIAH.Hebrew, ‘said of God’. The name of nine minor male biblical characters, this could make a gender switch as a substitution for the popular Mariah. Amaria, Amarissa, Amarit, Amarys, Maris. AMARYLLIS.Greek flower name. Showier name than Lily, but in the same botanical family. Amarilis, Amarillis, Amarylis. AMAYA.Japanese, ‘night rain’. Growing use relates to the popular name Maya rather than the Japanese root. AMBER.Word name. Still in the Top 50, but Ruby, Jade, or Pearl sound fresher. Aamber, Ahmber, Ambar, Amberia, Amberise, Amberly, Ambria, Ambur, Ambyr, Ambyre, Ammber, Ember. International: Ambrette(French), Ambra(Italian), Inbar(Israeli). Names That Mean Beautiful Alana Amara Anahi Arabella Belinda Bella Belle Bonita Bonnie Calla Callista Hermosa Ilona Jamilla Jolie Linda Mei Mirabella Naava Ramana Rosalind Shaina Shakila Vashti Venus Zaina AMBROSIA.Greek and Roman mythology name, ‘food of the gods’. Heavenly, if you like your names over the top. AMELIA.Variation ofEMILY. Lovely Victorian name, with heroic connection to aviatrix Amelia Earhart, that’s on the rise as an alternative to the overused Emily and Amanda. It has made it to the Top 20 in recent years. Warning: we think it could climb even closer to the top. Aemilia, Aimilia, Amaleeda, Amali, Amalia, Amalida, Amalie, Amaliya, Ameila, Ameilia, Amelida, Amelie, Amelina, Ameline, Amelisa, Amelita, Amella, Ami, Amie, Amilia, Amilie, Amilina, Amilisa, Amilita, Amilyn, Amylia, Emelie, Emelina, Emeline, Emelita, Emilia, Emilie, Emily, Emilya, Melia. International: Amilia(Scottish), Amalie, Amelie, Emilie(French), Ama, Amelcia, Melcia(Polish), Amalia, Emilia, Ilma, Malcsi, Mali, Malika(Hungarian), Amalia, Milica(Czech). AM?LIE.French variation ofAMELIAorEMILY. French favourite that recently entered the Top 10, perhaps thanks to the film of that name. Amalie. AMENA.Celtic, ‘honest, utterly pure’. Possible Born Again name – Amen! – in the same class as the rising Neveah (that’s Heaven spelled backwards) and Trinity. Amina, Amine. AMERICA.Place name. Given to children of both sexes as far back as colonial times, this carries a lot of baggage and might be easier to handle as a middle name. Americana, Americanna, Amerika. International: Am?rique(French). AMETHYST.Gem name. This purple birthstone for February could make a comeback, as Ruby and Diamond have. AMICA.Latin, ‘friend’. An ancient name with a likeable meaning and well suited to modern style. AMINA.Arabic, ‘trustworthy, faithful’. The name of the mother of the prophet Muhammad is well used among Muslims everywhere. Aamena, Aamina, Aaminah, Ameena, Ameenah, Aminah, Aminata, Aminda, Amindah. AMINTA.Greek, ‘defender’. One of the romantic names favoured by British pastoral poets, more appealing in its longer form, Araminta. Amintah, Amynta. AMIRA.Hebrew, Arabic, feminine variation ofAMIR. This shimmery name, often given to girls born on the harvest feast of Shavuot, and also used in the Arab community, is increasing in popularity. Ameera, Ameerah, Amirah. AMITA.Sanskrit, ‘infinite’. Feminine form of Amit that’s simple and lyrical and close in spirit to a familiar term for friendship. Amitah, Amyta, Amytah. AMITY.Latin, ‘friendship’. What nicer gift to give your little girl than a name that signifies friendship and harmony? This virtue name is also more rhythmic and feminine than the single-syllable Hope, Faith, and Grace. Amitee, Amiti, Amitie. AMORY.German, ‘industrious leader’. A prime candidate for feminisation, best known for the hero of Fitzgerald’s This Side of Paradise; could rise as a stand-in for Emily or Avery. Amery, Amoree, Amorey, Amori, Amorie. AMY.Latin, ‘beloved’; French, ‘friend’. One of the Top 25 for the last few years, Amy remains a short, sweet Little Women–style classic. Aami, Aime, Amatia, Amecia, Amee, Amey, Amia, Amiah, Amice, Amie, Amiee, Amii, Amiiee, Amio, Amiya, Ammee, Ammie, Ammiee, Ammy, Amye, Amylyn. International: Aime?, Amelie(French), Amalia, Amadea(Italian), Amada, Amata(Spanish), Amata(Swedish), Ema(Romanian), Amaliya(Russian). ANA.Variation ofHANNAH. Pared-down form loses none of the name’s grace or power. Anai, Anaia, Anita, Anna. ANAH?.Spanish, ‘beautiful like the flower’. Popular Mexican actress is making this unusual choice better known. Anahi. ANAHITA.Persian, ‘a river and water goddess’. Stylish choice. Anahai, Anahi, Anahit, Anahy. ANA?S.(an-EYE-is or an-AY-is) Hebrew, ‘gracious’; also French Proven?al version ofANNE. An unusual, exotic name forever attached to daring French-born American novelist and diarist Ana?s Nin – and later used for a popular perfume – that would make an attractive, creative choice. ANALA.Hindi, ‘fire’. Indian choice in step with American and British styles. ANALISA.Combination ofANNAandLISA. Unlike most combination names, this elegant blend – related to the German Anneliese – is more than the sum of its parts. Analice, Analicia, Analis, Analise, Analisha, Analisia, Analissa, Annalisa. ANAMARIA.Combination ofANAandMARIA. More feminine and stylish than Anne-Marie. Anamarie, Anamary, Annamaria. ANANDA.Hindi, ‘bliss’. Genuine Indian name some parents turn to as an Amanda alternative; also connected to a network of spiritual communities. Anda. ANASTASIA.Feminine variation of ANASTASIOS. This regal Russian name is now a viable – and increasingly popular – option, elegantly beautiful. An apt choice for an Easter or spring baby. Ana, Anastacia, Anastascia, Anastase, Anastashia, Anastassya, Anastasya, Anastatia, Anastay, Anastaysia, Anastazia, Anastice, Anasztasia, Anestassia, Annastasia, Annastazia, Anstass, Anstice, Asia, Nastassia, Stace, Stacee, Stacey, Staci, Stacia, Stacie, Stacy, Stasia, Stasiya, Taisie, Tasiya. International: Anastasie(French, German), Tasia(Spanish), Anastazja, Anatazja, Nastka, Nastusia(Polish), Anasztaizia(Hungarian), Anast?szie, Nast’a, Stasa, Staska(Czech), Anastasiya, Anastassia, Asya, Nastasia, Nastasya, Nastya, Stasya, Taskenka, Tasya(Russian), Anastacia, Anastasha, Natasa, Tasia, Tasoula(Greek). ANATOLA.Greek, ‘from the east’. Attractive place name of a beautiful resort region of Turkey. Anatolia, Anatolya. International: Anatalya(Russian). ANDI.Diminutive ofANDREA. Nickname name that seemed cool in the Ricki/Terri generation. Ande, Andea, Andee, Andie, Andy. ANDORRA.European place name. Pretty name of a pocketsized princedom in the Pyrenees, noted for its skiing. Andora. ANDRA.Variation ofANDREA. Arty 1970s name usually pronounced AHN-dra. ANDREA.Feminine variation ofANDREAS. Feminine form of Andrew (and a male name in several European cultures) with a choice of pronunciations, whose popularity, while never huge, has remained surprisingly steady. Aindrea, Andee, Andelis, Andera, Andere, Anderea, Andi, Andis, Andra, Andrae, Andrah, Andraia, Andraya, Andre, Andreah, Andreaka, Andreana, Andreane, Andreanna, Andreas, Andree, Andr?e, Andreea, Andreena, Andreia, Andreina, Andreja, Andreka, Andrel, Andrell, Andrelle, Andreo, Andresa, Andressa, Andretta, Andrette, Andrewena, Andrewina, Andreya, Andri, Andria, Andriana, Andrianna, Andricka, Andrieka, Andrietta, Andrina, Andrine, Andris, Andy, Aundrea, Ohndrea, Ohndreea, Ohndria, Ondrea, Ondreea, Ondria, Onndrea, Onndreea, Onndria. ANDR?E.(AHN-dray) French variation ofANDREA. Gilding the lily. ANDROMEDA.Greek mythology name. Beautiful daughter of Cassiopeia who, like her mother, became a star. ANEKO.Japanese, ‘older sister’. If you’re planning to have a younger one. ANEMONE.(ah-NEM-oh-nee) Greek, ‘breath’, flower name. lower name taken from a mythological nymph who was turned into a flower by the wind; an interesting, if challenging, choice. Anemona, Ann-Aymone, Anne-Aymone. ANGEL.Word name. Many more sightings of earthly Angels of both sexes have been reported recently, but be aware that a good proportion of them are Latin males. Angele, Ang?le, Angell, Angelle, Angil, Anjel. International: Anela(Hawaiian). ANGELA.Italian from Greek, feminine variation ofANGELO. Widely used through most of the twentieth century, but now seems terminally dated. Andzela, Anela, Anelja, Angala, Anganita, Angel, Angelanell, Angelanette, Angele, Angeleigh, Angelene, Angeles, Angeleta, Angeli, Angelic, Angelica, Angelina, Angella, Angelle, Angellina, Angellita, Angi, Angie, Angil, Angiola, Angy, Angyola, Anjali, Anjel, Anjela, Anjele, Anjelica, Anjelina, Anjella, Anji, Anjie, Anjy, Anngela, Anngil, Anngilla, Anngiola, Annjela, Aniujilla, Anyelle, Ohngel, Ohnjella, Onngelle, Onnjelia. International: Ange, Ang?le, Angelette, Angeline(French), Angelina(Italian, Spanish, Russian, and Greek), Ange, Angele, Angeles, Angelia, Angelita(Spanish), Anhelina(Russian), Ange, Angele, Angeliki(Greek), Erela, Erelah(Hebrew), Fereshteh(Persian), Anakela(Hawaiian). ANGELICA.Latin, ‘angelic’. Lacy and poetic, this is by far the best choice among the many forms of the angelic names – but other kids might relate it to the nasty nursery-schooler Angelica C. Pickles on Rugrats. Angalic, Angelic, Angelici, Angelicia, Angelike, Angeliki, Angelisa, Angelissa, Angellica, Angilica, Angyalka, Anjelica, Anjelika, Anyelika. International: Ang?lique(French), Angelika(German). ANGELINA.Diminutive ofANGELA. Ms Jolie’s star power has changed its image from delicate to intense – unless you think about the ballet-crazy mouse of Angelina Ballerina.Angalena, Angalina, Angeleana, Angeleen, Angelena, Angelene, Angeliana, Angellina, Angelyn, Angelyna, Angelyne, Angelynn, Angelynne, Anhelina, Anjelina. ANG?LIQUE.French variation ofANGELICA. Proof that a name can be too feminine. ANGELOU.Literary name. If you want to move beyond Maya. ANGIE.Diminutive ofANGELA. In the pizzeria with Guido. Ange, Angee, Angey, Angi, Angy. ANI.Hawaiian, ‘beautiful’. Folk singer DiFranco popularised this simple, appealing form. Aany, Aanye. ANICE.Modern invented name. Tomorrow’s Denise, trendy but destined to be dated. Anicka, Annice, Annick, Anis, Annis, Annys. ANICETA.Spanish from German, ‘unconquerable’. Delicate name with strong roots. St Anicetus was an ancient pope and martyr. Anicetta, Anis, Anisa, Anisha, Anissa, Anniceta, Annicetta, Annis, Annissa. ANIKA.(a-NEE-ka) African, Hausa, ‘sweetness of face’. Attractive name with ties to several cultures, both African and Scandinavian. ANINA.Aramaic, ‘let my prayer be answered’. Palindrome name rarely heard outside Italy. Anena, Anhma, Annina. ANISA.Arabic, ‘good-natured’. Phonetic spelling of the Muslim Aanisah, chosen by singer Macy Gray for one of her daughters. Aanisa, Aanisah, Anisah. ANISE.(ANN-iss) Nature name. Name of the liquorice plant whose downside, at least in school science classes, is its similarity to an anatomical word. Aneese, Anis, Anisette. ANITA.Spanish variation ofANN. Mid-century favourite, long in fashion limbo. Aneeta, Aneetah, Aneethah, Anetha, Anitha, Anithah, Anitia, Anitra, Anitte, Annita, Annitra, Annitta. ANIYA, ANIYAH.Variation ofANN. New hottie, with stylish sound related to the popular Aaliyah. ANJA.(AHN-ya) Russian variation ofANYA. A more exotic spelling of a popular ethnic version of Ann. ANN, ANNE.Variation ofHANNAH. The name of the sainted mother of the Virgin Mary was among the top girls’ names for centuries, in both the English Ann spelling and the French Anne. Both have fallen out of favour in recent years and show no signs of returning. Ann’s International Variations Anazizi, Anel, Anell, Anissa, Anitra, Anna, Annabel, Annabella, Annabelle, Annaelle, Annalee, Annelore, Anney, Annick, Annimae, Annis, Annise, Annora, Anona, Hanni, Hannie, Hanny, Nan, Nance, Nancee, Nancey, Nancie, Nanete, Nanette, Nanice, Nanine, Nanni, Nannie, Nanny, Nanon, Neti, Nettia, Nettie, Netty, Ninette, Ninon, Ninor, Nona, Nonie. ANNA.German, Italian, Czech, and Swedish, ‘grace’. This is the dominant form of the name, in the Top 25 in recent years. It offers a touch of the exotic and more style than the oversimplified Ann. Ahnna, Ana, Anah, Anica, Anita, Annah, Annina, Annora, Anona, Anyu, Aska. International: ?ine(Irish Gaelic), Ana(Spanish, Portuguese), Ane(Danish), Ania, Anya(Russian). ANNABELLE.Combination ofANNAandBELLE. Charming name on the rise along with other-belle names, especially in this form. Amabel, Anabel, Anabela, Anabele, Anabell, Anabella, Annabal, Annabel, Annabelinda, Annabell, Annabella. International: Anabelle(French). ANNALIE.Finnish variation ofHANNAH. Melodious and unusual form. Analeah, Analee, Analeigh, Anali, Analie, Annalea, Annaleah, Annalee, Annaleigh, Annaleigha, Annali, Anneli, Annelie. ANNALISE.Combination ofANNAandLISE. Lovely, but still on the mountain with Heidi. Analeisa, Analiesa, Analiese, Analisa, Analise, Anelisa, Anelise, Annaleisa, Annalie, Annaliesa, Annaliese, Annalise, Annalissa, Annalisse, Annelie, Annelisa, Annelise, Annelisse, Annelyse, Annissa. International: Anneliese(German), Anneli, Anneliese(Scandinavian). ANNAMARIA.Combination ofANNAandMARIA. Mama Mia! Pretty, if predominantly used by Italian Catholics. Anna-Maria, Annamarie, Anna-Marie, Annemarie, Annmaria, Annmarie, Anne-Marie. ANNETTE.French, diminutive ofANN. Among the first wave of Frenchified names, but now considered quite pass?. Anet, Aneta, Anetra, Anett, Anetta, Anette, Anneth, Annett, Annetta. Ann’s International Variations ANNIE.English, diminutive ofANN. Short form perennially fashionable for its casual charm. Anni, Anny. ANNIKA.Russian variation ofANN. Surprise hit of recent years, inspired by golfer Sorenson. Aneka, Anekah, Anneka, Anneke, Annica, Annick, Annicka, Annike, Anniki, Annikka, Annikki, Anninka, Anouk. ANNORA.Latin, ‘honour’. Noble name but still best in its most essential form: Honor. Anora, Anorah, Honour, Honora, Onora, Nora, Norah. ANNUNCIATA.Latin, ‘annunciation’. Religious name, referring to the announcement to the Virgin Mary that she was with child. Anunciada, Annunziata, Annunziate, Anunciac?on, Anunciata, Anunziata. ANONA.Latin, ‘of the harvest’. Name of the Roman goddess of harvest, appropriate for an Autumn baby. Annona, Anonna, Nona. ANOUK.Dutch and French variation ofANNA. Made famous by French actress Anouk Aim?e, this singular name is newly popular in the Netherlands. ANOUSHKA.Russian, diminutive ofANN. Old-fashioned diminutive wearing a baboushka and embroidered blouse. Annouska, Annuskha, Anoush, Anushka, Anuska, Anyoushka. ANSLEY.English, ‘clearing with a hermitage’. Ashley alternative climbing up the charts, probably due to the trendy ley/leigh ending. Annesleigh, Annslea, Annslee, Annsleigh, Annsley, Annsli, Annsly, Anslea, Anslee, Ansleigh, Ansli, Anslie, Ansly. ANSONIA.Feminine variation ofANSON. Sounds like a hotel. Annesonia, Annsonia, Annsonya, Ansonya. ANSWER.Word name. Implied spiritual meaning makes this a possible new name. ANTHEA.Greek, ‘flower-like’. British upper-class choice used as poetic symbol of spring. Annthea, Antha, Anthe, Antheemia, Antheia, Anthemia, Anthemya, Antheya, Anthia, Anthymia, Antia, Thia. ANTIGONE.(an-TIG-o-nee) Greek mythology name. Mythological daughter of Oedipus, never popular in mortal world. ANTIQUITY.Word name. Your daughter will like this better at twenty than she will at fifty. ANTOINETTE.French feminine form ofANTOINE. Feminisation of Anthony as out of style as other early French forms, such as Babette and Nanette. Anta, Antanette, Antoinella, Antoinet, Antonetta, Antonette, Antonia, Antonice, Antonie, Antonieta, Antonietta, Antonine, Antonique, Antwahnette, Antwanetta, Antwinett, Antwohnette, Netta, Netti, Nettie, Netty, Toinette, Toni, Tonia, Tonie, Tony, Tonye. International: Antonella(Italian), Antonin?(Slavic). ANTONIA.Latin, ‘beyond price, invaluable’. Distinguished female form of Anthony makes a strong, elegant choice, stronger than most feminised boys’ names, reflecting the pioneer spirit of Willa Cather’s My Antonia.Ansonia, Ansonya, Antania, Antinia, Antona, Antonetta, Anto??a, Antonice, Antonija, Antonine, Antoniya, Antonnea, Antonnia, Antonya, Netta, Netti, Nettie, Nety, Toinetta, Tloinette, Tonechka, Tonette, Toney, Toni, Tonia, Tonie, Tony, Tonya. International: Antoinette, Antonie, Toinette, Toinon(French), Antonieta, Antonina, Antuca, Tona(Spanish)Antonetta(Swedish), Tonia(Polish), Antonin?(Slavic). ANWEN.Welsh, ‘very fair’. One of the simplest and best of the classic Welsh girls’ names, more unusual than Bronwen but with the same serene feel. Anwyn, Anwynne. ANYA.Russian variation of ANNA. Succeeds in making Ann dynamic. Aaniyah, Aniya, Aniyah, Anja. AOBH, AOIBH.(eev) Irish Gaelic, ‘beauty, radiance’. Irish mythological equivalent of Eve, but prohibitively hard to pronounce. Aoife. AOIFE.(EE-fa) Irish Gaelic, ‘beauty, radiance’. Very popular in Ireland, but elsewhere in the easier-to-comprehend Anglo forms. Aife, Ava, Eva. APHRA.Hebrew, ‘dust’. While the Puritans used Dust as a name, Aphra is preferable in the modern world – especially since it’s the name of the first published female writer in English, the seventeenth century’s Aphra Behn. Affera, Affery, Afra. APHRODITE.Greek mythology name. Has never descended to mortal use, though Venus, thanks to tennis star Williams, seems newly possible. Afrodita, Afrodite. APOLLONIA.Feminine variation ofAPOLLO. Name of early Christian martyr with exotic, appealing feel in the modern world. Abbeline, Abbetina, Apollinia, Apollonia, Apollyne, Appolonia. International: Appoline, Appolinia, Apolline(French), Apolonia(Spanish), Abelone(Danish). APPLE.Nature name. Gwyneth Paltrow made international headlines when she chose this wholesome fruit name for her daughter. APRIL.Latin, ‘to open’. Still the most popular month name, but we think old-fashioned May is prettier. Aipril, Aprele, Aprelle, Apriell, Aprielle, Aprila, Aprile, Aprilete, Aprilette, Aprili, Aprill, Aprille, Apryl, Averel, Averell, Averil, Averill, Averyl, Averyll, Averylle, Avrill. International: Avril(French), Abril(Spanish). AQUA.Colour name. One of the new colour names that is catching on, invoking a calm, blue-green-sea feeling . AQUILIA.Latin, ‘eagle’. This and two other female forms – AQUILA and AQUILINA – of the Roman family name Aquilius might live on in modern times. AQUINNAH.Place name. The Native American name for Martha’s Vineyard in New England, this was used by Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan for one of their twin daughters. ARA.Arabic, ‘rain-maker’; Armenian, ‘handsome’. Simple and distinctive, also used for boys in the Armenian culture. Ahraya, Aira, Arae, Arah, Araya, Arayah, Ari, Aria, Arra, Arria. ARABELLA.Latin, ‘beautiful altar’. Well-used in Britain, we think it’s as lovely and classy as Isabella, and far more original. Sure to be hotter in the future. Ara, Arabel, Arabela, Arabele, Arbela, Arbell, Arbella, Arbelle, Bel, Bella, Belle, Orabel, Orabella, Orabelle, Orbel, Orbella, Orbelle. International: Arabelle(French). ARABESQUE.Word name, ‘ballet position’ or ‘ornate design’. Fanciful, edging toward bizarre. Names with No Nicknames Ara Ava Blair Bree Claire Drew Faith Ivy Jade Maeve Nora Paige Piper Ruby Skye ARABIA.place name. Phonetically attractive, politically difficult. Araby. ARACELI.Spanish, ‘altar of the sky’. Obscure but intriguing Spanish name. Araceli Segarra is a noted mountain climber. Aracelia, Aracelis, Aracely. ARAMINTA.Hybrid name fromARABELLAandAMINTA. This is an enchanting eighteenth-century playwright’s invention that is more familiar over here than elsewhere. Arameta, Aramintha, Areminta, Minta, Minty. ARANTXA.(ah-rahn-cha) Basque, ‘thornbush’. Basque names, indeed the entire Basque language, are unrelated to any other. This obscure choice was made known by tennis player Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario. ARAVA.Hebrew, ‘willow’. Unknown but eminently usable choice, especially for Jewish parents, with lovely meaning. Aravah. ARBOR.Nature name. Original unisex tree-related choice we’re sure to hear more of. ARCADIA.Greek, ‘region offering peace and contentment’. This name for an unspoilt paradise makes a secular alternative to Neveah. Arcadie, Cadi, Cadia, Cadie, Cady. ARCANGELA.Greek, ‘highranking angel’. If Angel or Angela isn’t elevated enough for you. Arcangel, Archangela, Archangella. ARCELIA.Spanish, ‘treasure chest’. Undiscovered Spanish treasure worth considering. Aricelia, Aricelly. ARCHER.Occupational name. Interesting – if somewhat masculine – choice in the stylish class of occupational names, with the added bonus of being the last name of heroine Isabel in Henry James’s Portrait of a Lady. ARDEN.English, ‘valley of the eagle’. Name of magical forest in Shakespeare’s As You Like It, poised to move up as stand-in for overused Aidan. Ardeen, Ardeena, Ardena, Ardene, Ardenia, Ardi, Ardin, Ardina, Ardine, Ardis, Ardon, Ardyn, Ardynn, Ardynne. International: Arddun(Welsh). ARDITH. Hebrew, ‘flowering field’. Lispy combination of Arden and Edith. Ardath, Ardi, Ardice, Ardyth. ARELLA.Hebrew, ‘messenger from God, angel’. Bell-like and original. Arelle, Orella, Orelle. International: Arela(English, Hebrew). ARETHA.Greek, ‘virtuous’. There’s still only one. Areatha, Areetha, Areta, Arete, Arethusa, Aretina, Aretta, Arette, Arita, Aritha, Oreta, Oretha, Oretta, Orette, Retha, Ritha. ARGENTA.Latin, ‘silvery’. More modern and exotic than Silver, but sounds a bit medicinal. Argentia. ARGENTINA.Place name. South America provides a continent of interesting, undiscovered names – Bolivia, Peru, Brazil and the tangorhythmed Argentina. ARI.Hebrew, diminutive variation ofARIEL. Still mostly a boys’ name, but works well for girls, too. Aria, Ariah, Arie, Ariea, Aryia. ARIA.Italian, ‘a melody’. Operatic choice. Arya. ARIADNE.Greek, ‘most holy’. Name of Cretan goddess of fertility, most popular now as the more melodic Ariana. Arene, Ariadna, Ariagna, Ariana, Arianie, Aryana, Aryane, Aryanie, Aryanna, Aryanne. International: Ariane, Arianne(French), Arianna(Italian). ARIANA, ARIANNA.Italian variation ofARIADNE. Smooth, exotic choice on the rise in both these spellings. Aeriana, Aerianna, Aerionna, Ahreanna, Ahriana, Ahrianna, Airiana, Ariane, Arieana, Ariona, Arionna, Aryonna. International: Aryana, Aryanna(Italian). ARIANWYN.Welsh, ‘woman of silver’. A mouthful. Variation Arianell might be slightly more user-friendly. Arianell, Arianwen, Arianwynn, Arianwynne, Aryanwen. ARIEL.Hebrew, ‘lion of God’. Biblical place and name of Shakespearean (male) sprite that enjoyed a burst of popularity with the release of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Although its wave has crested, it’s still a name any little girl would love. Aerial, Aeriale, Aeriel, Aeriela, Aeriell, Aeryal, Ahriel, Aire, Aireal, Airial, Airi?l, Ari, Aria, Arial, Ariale, Arieal, Ariela, Ariele, Ariella, Arielle, Ariellel, Arrieal, Arriel, Arriele, Arriell, Arrielle, Aryel, Aryelle, Auriel, Aurielle. ARIN.Hebrew, ‘exalted’. Too close to Erin and Aaron. ARISSA.Modern invented name. If you’re torn between Marissa and Alyssa. ARISTA.Greek, ‘the best’; Latin, ‘harvest’. From the root for aristocrat, an upwardly mobile choice that might put a bit of pressure on a child. Aris, Arissa, Aristana, Aristella, Aristelle, Aristen. ARIZA.Hebrew, ‘cedar panels’. Breezy modern Israeli choice. Arza, Arzice, Arzit. ARLEIGH.Modern invented name. Softer version of hot Harley or Marley. Arla, Arlea, Arlee, Arley, Arli, Arlie, Arly. ARLENE.Modern invented name. Busy knitting booties for granddaughter Arleigh. Airlen, Aria, Arlana, Arlee, Arleen, Arleene, Arlen, Arlena, Arlenis, Arleta, Arletta, Arlette, Arletty, Names from Books Arleyne, Arlie, Arliene, Arlina, Arlinda, Arline, Arluene, Arly, Arlyn, Arlyne, Arlynn, Lena, Lene, Lina. ARLETTE.French, diminutive ofCHARLETT,a variation ofCHARLOTTE. In modern times, it can make Arlene seem positively stylish. Arlet, Arietta. ARLISE.Irish, ‘pledge’. Feminine form of Arliss. But why not just use Arliss? Arliss, Arlyse, Arlyss. ARMANDE.French, feminine variation of ARMAND. Feminine form of Armand, has an elegant charm. Armanda, Armonde, Ormonde. ARMANI.Persian, ‘desire, goal’; Italian surname. One of the designer baby names – Chanel and Gucci are others – that have appeared in this era of branding everything from your purse to your offspring. Armahni, Arman, Armanee, Armanii. ARMINA.Italian from German, ‘army man’. Army plus meaner equals an unappealing name. Armantine, Armeena, Armine, Arminie, Armyne, Erminia, Erminie, Ermyne. ARNELLE.German, ‘eagle’. This is a polyester-like choice. Arnell, Arnella. ARSENIA.Feminine variation ofARSENIO. Could lead to ‘arsenic’ teasing. Arcenia, Arsania, Arsemia. ARTEMIS.Greek mythology name. Goddess of the moon and the hunt, equivalent to the Roman Diana, but a fresher and more distinctive, if offbeat, choice. Artemasia, Artemesia, Artemisia. ARTIS.Scottish, ‘bear’. Unusual multicultural choice that may appeal to the artistically inclined. Arthea, Arthelia, Arthene, Arthette, Arthurette, Arthurina, Arthurine, Artina, Artice. ARWEN.Welsh, ‘noble maiden’. Well-known as princess of the Elves in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings: a lovely name with an authentic Welsh ring. ARZA.Hebrew, ‘panels of cedar’. Straightforward yet intriguing, a winning combination. Ariza, Arizit, Arzice, Arzit. ASA.Hebrew, ‘doctor, healer’; Japanese, ‘born in the morning’. Simple, soft, strong, this usually male biblical choice – he was a king of Judah – may work even better today for girls. ASENCION.Spanish, ‘ascension’. Highly religious choice. Asuncion. ASH.Nature name. The tree, not the charred bit of soot in the fireplace, usually used for boys, but, as a short form of Ashley, works for girls, too. ASHANTI.Place name, former kingdom of western Africa. Authentic African name that rose in popularity a few years ago when US hip-hop singer Ashanti first arrived on the scene. Achante, Achanti, Asante, Ashanta, Ashantae, Ashantay, Ashante, Ashant?, Ashantee, Ashantie, Ashaunta, Ashauntae, Ashaunte, Ashauntee, Ashaunti, Ashonti, Ashuntae, Ashunti, Shantee, Shanti, Shauntae, Shauntee. ASHBY.English, ‘ash tree farm’. Ashley substitute that sacrifices too much of that name’s attractiveness for what it gains in originality. Ashbea, Ashbee, Ashbey, Ashbie. ASHIRA.Hebrew, ‘rich’ or ‘I will sing’. Unusual name with stylish, silky feel. Ashirah, Ashya, Ashyah, Ashyia, Ashyra, Ashyrah, Ayshia. ASHLEY.English, ‘ash tree meadow’. Once, this male name hit number 1 on the US girls’ list, but nowhere near as popular here. Still pretty but no longer even vaguely stylish. Ahshlee, Aishlee, Ashala, Ashalee, Ashalei, Ashaley, Ashely, Ashla, Ashlay, Ashlan, Ashlea, Ashleay, Ashlee, Ashleigh, Ashleye, Ashien, Ashli, Ashlie, Ashly, Ashlye. ASHLYN, ASHLYNN.Variation ofAISLINN. Though it relates to the Irish original, Ashlyn and its next most popular form, Ashlynn, owe some of their rising popularity to cousin Ashley. Ashelynn, Ashlan, Ashleann, Ashleen, Ashleene, Ashlen, Ashlene, Ashlin, Ashling, Ashlinne, Ashlyne, Ashlynne. ASHTON.English, ‘ash tree place’. In the US, hot star Ashton Kutcher is pushing this unisex choice toward the boys’ camp, but its variation Ashtyn is on the rise. Ashten, Ashtin, Ashtine, Ashtyn, Ashtynne. ASIA.Place name. This still attractive place name was one of the first to gain popularity, though it now probably owes some of its favour to its similarity to Aisha. Ahsia, Aisia, Aisian, Aja, Asiah, Asian, Asianae, Asya, Aysia, Aysiah, Aysian, Ayzia, Azha. ASPEN.Nature and place name. Nature name, chic Colorado ski resort name in the US and unisex feel equals redhot baby name. Aspin, Aspyn. ASSISI.Italian place name. This lovely Tuscan hill town became a striking first name for the young daughter of Jade Jagger. ASTA.Greek, ‘like a star’. There are many more melodious ways to say star. This was attached to a dog in early Hollywood movies. Astera, Asteria, Asti, Astra, Estella, Esther, Estrella, Etoile, Hadassah, Hester, Stella. ASTRA.Latin, ‘of the stars’. A kind of Jetsons-like, intergalactic name. Asta, Astara, Aster, Astera, Asteria, Asterina, Astraea, Astraeia, Astrea, Astri, Astria. Poet Names Angelou Auden Blake Byron Crane Dante Dylan Eliot Emerson Frost Jarrell Keats Millay Paz Poe Poet Saga Sonnet Whitman Yeats ASTRID.Norse, ‘divinely beautiful’. Familiar Scandinavian royal name that never really took off the way Ingrid did. Assi, Astra, Astri, Astrida, Astride, Astrik, Astrud, Astryr, Atti, Estrid. ATALANTA.Greek mythology name. Beautiful mythological maiden who refused to marry any man who couldn’t beat her in a foot race – some role model! Atalaya, Atlanta, Atlante, Atlee. ATARA, ATARAH.Hebrew, ‘crown’. Finally, an attractive, undiscovered Old Testament choice for girls. Ataree, Atera, Ateret. ATHALIA.Hebrew, ‘the Lord is exalted’. Old Testament king’s wife with a gory history. You don’t want to know – and you probably don’t want to name your kid after her either. Atalee, Atalia, Atalie, Atha, Athalee, Athalie, Attalie. ATHENA.Greek mythology name. The name of the daughter of Zeus who was the goddess of wisdom and fertility could appeal to enlightened parents who particularly prize intelligence. Athenais, Athene, Athenea, Athie, Athina, Atina, Attie. ATLANTA.Place name. In the US, Georgia and Savannah are popular, but Atlanta’s just entering the baby-name map. ATLANTIS.Place name. Mythical wonderland makes strong, evocative first name. AUBREY.English from French, ‘elf ruler’. This unisex name is moving up the popularity charts, along with the revived Audrey. Aubary, Auberon, Aubery, Aubray, Aubrea, Aubreah, Aubree, Aubreigh, Aubrette, Aubreyana, Aubreyanna, Aubreyanne, Aubreyena, Aubria, Aubriana, Aubrianna, Aubrianne, Aubrie, Aubry, Aubury, Avery. AUBURN.Colour name. Could be the next Amber, or Scarlett. AUDEN.English ‘old friend,’ literary name. Softly poetic surname name enjoying quiet but marked fashion status. This will definitely be one to watch during the next few years. Aud, Auda, Aude, Audine, Audny. AUDREY.English, ‘noble strength’. Saint’s name rising again thanks to reverence for the eternally radiant Audrey Hepburn. Adrey, Audey, Audi, Audie, Audra, Audray, Audre,Audrea, Audreanne, Audree, Audreen, Audria, Audriana, Audrianna, Audrianne, Audrie, Audrienna, Audrienne, Audrin, Audrina, Audriya, Audry, Audrye, Audy. AUGUST.Latin, ‘majestic, venerable’; month name. Though associated traditionally (and fashionably) with boys, it has been used occasionally for girls as well – by Garth Brooks, for one. AUGUSTA.Latin, feminine form of AUGUSTUS. Dignified name reminiscent of wealthy great-aunts, but with the fashion for August and Gus for boys, it could get some fresh energy. Agusta, August, Auguste, Augustia, Augustina, Augustine, Augustus, Augustyna, Augustyne, Austina, Austine, Austyna, Austyne, Gus, Gussie, Gusta, Tina. International: Augusteen(Irish). AURA.Latin, ‘air’. This name has an otherworldly glow. Aure, Aurea, Auria, Oria. AURELIA.Latin, ‘gold’. Richly evocative antique name, very common in the Roman Empire but rarely heard in modern Britian, has the right stuff to rise again. Aranka, Aural, Auralee, Auralei, Auralia, Aurea, Aureal, Aurel, Aurele, Aurelea, Aurelee, Aureliana, Aurellana, Aurelle, Aurelina, Aurelle, Auria, Aurie, Aurilia, Aurita, Ora, Oralia, Orel, Orelee, Orelia. International: Aur?lie(French). AURIEL.Latin, ‘gold’. Roman slave name revived during nineteenth-century craze for unusual names. Aureola, Aureole, Auriol, Oriel, Oriole. AURORA.Latin, ‘dawn’. Poetic name of the Roman goddess of sunrise and of Sleeping Beauty, sure to make any little girl feel like a princess. Arora, Ora, Ori, Orie, Rora, Rory, Zora, Zorica. International: Aurore(French). AUSTEN.Shortened form ofAUGUSTINE,literary surname. While Austin is a popular boys’ name, this version, honouring novelist Jane, is more girlish. Austin, Austine, Austyn, Austynn. AUSTRIA.Place name. Interesting, appealing, unexplored geographic destination. AUTUMN.Season name. Crisp and colourful, this is the most popular season name, now rivalled only by the sunnier Summer. AVA.Latin, ‘like a bird’. Glamour girl name given big popularity boost – when several high-profile stars such as Reese Witherspoon and Hugh Jackman chose it for their daughters. Aeva, Aiva, Avada, Avae, Avah, Ave, Aveen, Avis, Eva. AVALON.Celtic, ‘island of apples’. Island paradise of Celtic myth and Arthurian legend makes heavenly first name. Avallon. AVERILL.English. April with a unisex surname twist. Averil, Averille, Averyl, Avril, Avrill. AVERY.English, ‘ruler of the elves’. Though this unisex name has been around for a few decades, it’s just starting to become hot for girls, thanks to its distinctively feminine lilt. Aivree, Avari, Avary, Averi, Averie, Avori, Avory, Avry. Stellar Starbabies Beginning with A AVIS.Latin, ‘bird’. This is one bird name that’s sitting in the rental car park. Avais, Avi, Avia, Aviana, Avianca, Aviance, Avianna, Avice, Avys. AVIVA.Hebrew, ‘spring-like, fresh, dewy’. Vivacious and memorable. Auvit, Avi, Aviv, Avivah, Avivi, Avivice, Avivit, Avni, Avnit, Avri, Avrit, Avy, Viva. AVRIL.French variation ofAPRIL. French-Canadian pop star Avril Lavigne has put the spotlight on her name. Averel, Averell, Averil, Averill, Averyl, Avra, Avri, Avrilia, Avrill, Avrille, Avrillia, Avy. AYA.Hebrew, ‘bird’. Similar and prettier: Maya or Anya. Ayala, Ayla. AYANNA.Modern invented name. Trendy blend of Ayesha and Bryanna. Ahyana, Aiyana, Aiyanna, Ayan, Ayana, Ayania, Ayannia, Iana, Ianna. AYELET.(eye-uh-LET) Hebrew, ‘deer, gazelle’. Unusual – and somewhat challenging – Israeli name familiar thanks to writer Ayelet Waldman. AYESHA.Variation ofAISHA. This phonetic form may ease pronunciation but it undercuts the name’s inherent grace. Ayasha, Ayeshah, Ayessa, Ayisha, Ayishah, Aysha, Ayshah, Ayshe, Ayshea, Aysia. AYN.(rhymes with mine) Finnish variation ofANN. Nonconformist name associated with controversial Russian-born writer and philosopher Ayn Rand, (born Alisa) author of The Fountainhead. AZA.Arabic, ‘comfort’. Great Arabic choice: elegant and simple. Aiza, Aizha, Aizia, Azia. AZALEA.Flower name. If Lily and Rose are too tame for you, consider this brilliant pink springtime blossom with a touch of the exotic. Azaleia, Azalia. AZAMI.Japanese, ‘thistle flower’. Prickly image and feel. AZIZA.Hebrew, ‘mighty’; Arabic and Swahili, ‘precious’. Zippy palindromic choice. Azise. AZURE.Colour name. Good choice for a blue-eyed child. Azor, Azora, Azura, Azzura, Azzurra. B girls (#ulink_d1994e02-bf5b-5916-af81-fe50a09979dd) BABE.Diminutive ofBARBARA. You can call your baby ‘babe,’ but don’t name her that. Bebe, Babby, Baby. BABETTE.French, diminutive ofELIZABETHorBARBARA. A less common relic of the Claudette-Paulette-Annette era. Barbette. BAEZ.Spanish surname. Plausible music hero choice with undertones of Joan Baez’s social activist folkie persona. BAHAAR.Hindi, ‘springtime’. Invokes images of colourful bazaars. BAHIA.Spanish, ‘bay’. Cool tropical Latin word name. BAHIRA.Arabic, ‘dazzling, brilliant’. Sultry. BAI.Chinese, ‘outgoing’. Attractive middle name option. BAILA.Spanish, ‘dance’. An offbeat approach to Bella. Bailee, Bayla, Beyla. BAILEY.Occupational name, ‘law enforcer, bailiff’. This jaunty unisex surname was chosen for her daughter by Stella McCartney. Bailee, Baileigh, Bailie, Baillie, Baily, Bayleah, Baylee, Bayleigh, Bayley, Baylie, Bayly. BAISE.French, ‘dark brown’. This fabric word name would be a one-of-a-kind. Bayze, Baze. BAJA.Spanish place name, ‘lower’. Pronounced Bah-hah, this name of the Mexican peninsula attached to California makes for an out-of-the ordinary, exotic possibility. Baha. BALA.Sanskrit, ‘a young girl’. Exotic alternative to Bella. BALI.Sanskrit, ‘strength’; also place name. Evokes picture-postcard image of colourful Indonesia. BALDWIN.German, ‘brave friend’. Writer James Baldwin could make this an inspirational choice for a child of either sex. Baldwen, Baldwinne, Baldwyn, Baldwynne. BALLENCIA.Variation ofVALENCIA,Spanish place name. Might sound as if your child had the sniffles every time she said her name. BALLOU.French, ‘from Bellou’. Unusual surname name with rowdy quality. Bailou, Balou. BAMBALINA.Italian, ‘little girl’. Better saved for a doll. BAMBI.Italian, ‘child,’ diminutive forBAMBINA,‘baby girl’. Although Disney’s cute deer was a male, Bambi’s always been used for girls, but it sounds far too flimsy to face the modern world. Bambee, Bambie. BAO.Chinese, ‘adorable’ or ‘creative’. Name introduced via Chinese cinema, it has middleplace potential. BAPTISTA.Latin, ‘the baptised one’. Probably too evangelical for mass importation. International: Baptiste(French), Batista(Italian), Bautista(Spanish). BARA.Hebrew, ‘to select’. Gently appealing. Barah, Bari, Barra, Barrie. BARAKA.Kiswahili, ‘blessings’. Its resonant rhythm and positive connotations have led to some popularity with parents of African heritage, though it tends to have a masculine feel. BARBARA.Latin, ‘foreign woman’. Fashionable from the 1920s through to the 50s, it’s very much a grey-haired name now. Bab, Baba, Babba, Babbie, Babs, Bar, Barb, Barbe, Barbee, Barbi, Barbie, Barby, Barra, Bobbee, Bobbi, Bobbie, Bobby. International: Barbary(English, earlier form), Ba?rbre, Baib?n(Irish Gaelic), Barabal(Scottish Gaelic), Babette(French), Barbarella(Italian), Barbro(Swedish), Barbica, Barbika(Nordic), Basha, Basia(Polish), Borb?la,(Hungarian), Varvara, Varenka, Varinka, Vary, Varyusha(Russian), Babara(Hawaiian). BARBIE.Diminutive ofBARBARA. Despite the voluptuous doll’s various career choices, from astronaut to doctor, her name still remains a euphemism for ‘bimbo’. BARBRO.Scandinavian variation ofBARBARA. A more upbeat, modern-sounding version of a gereatric name. BARCELONA.Place name. This is an attractive but somewhat unwieldy place-name name. Lona. BARIAH.Arabic, ‘does well’. A name to consider when seeking an offbeat substitute for the more familiar Mariah. BARRETT.German, ‘ bear strength’. Masculine sounding surname. Baret, Barett, Barit, Baritt, Barret, Barrit, Barritt, Barryt, Baryt, Barytt. BARRY, BARRIE.Irish ‘spear’. Out of date for a boy, innovative for a girl. Bari, Barree, Barrey, Barri, Barry. BASHA.Polish, ‘stranger’. Sounds a bit like other newly popular Slavic names Sasha and Mischa, but also a bit like ‘basher’. Basia, Basja, Bashya, Batia, Batya. BASILIA.Greek, feminine variation ofBASIL. Rare but attractive female form of Basil. Basilie, Bassilly. BATHSHEBA.Hebrew, ‘daughter of the oath’ or ‘seventh daughter’. Popular with the Puritans, this name of the shrewd and beautiful wife of King David would be a heavy load for a modern girl to carry. Bat-Sheba, Bat-Sheva, Bathseva, Bathshua, Bathsua, Batsheba, Batsheva, Batshua, Batya, Bethsabee, Bethsheba, Sheba, Sheva. BATHSHIRA.Arabian, ‘seventh daughter’. The short form Shira is more manageable. Shira. BATYA.Hebrew, ‘daughter of God’. With Katya catching on, this sound-related name could too, though there is the Batgirl association. Basha, Basya, Batyah, Bitya, Peshe, Pessel(Yiddish). BAY.Vietnamese, ‘seventh child,’ nature name. One of the most usable of the pleasant, newly adopted nature/water names (like Lake and Ocean), especially in middle position. Bae, Baye. International: Baie, Baye(French), Bahia, Estera(Spanish), Selka(Finnish), Zaliv(Russian), Bandar(Persian), Floi(Icelandic). BAYA.Spanish, ‘berry’. Maya is exotic, Baya is singular. BAYLEE.SeeBAILEY. BAYLOR.English, ‘horse trainer’. Possible alternative to the tired Taylor. Bailer, Bailor, Bayler. BAYO.African, Nigerian, Yoruba, ‘joy has found us’. Conjures up a Harry Belafonte-ish calypso beat. BEA.Diminutive ofBEATRICE. Former old lady name gets cute again as a short form – but too brief to stand on its own. BEAH.Short form ofBEATRICE. A rarely seen member of the Beatrice clan. BEATA.Swedish, Italian, ‘blessed’; Italian version pronounced bay-AH-tah. Playground alert: apt to be mispronounced Beeta – or ‘beat her’. Bea, Beatta. BEATHA.(BEH-tha) Irish, ‘life, livelihood’. Another candidate for mispronunciation. Betha. Water Names BEATRICE.Latin, ‘blessed’ or ‘she who brings happiness’. Beatrice is back. Stored in the attic for almost a century, this lovely name with a long literary (Shakespeare, Dante) and royal history is being looked at with fresh eyes by parents (such as Paul McCartney) seeking a classic name with character and lots of upbeat nicknames. Bea, Beah, Beat, Beata, Beatie, Bee, Beatris, Beatriss, Bice, Trix, Trixi, Trixie, Trixy. International: Beatha(Irish), Beitris(Scottish Gaelic), Betrys(Welsh,)B?atrice(French), Beatrice(Italian), Beatriz(Spanish), Beatrix(Dutch), Beatrisa(German), Beate(Norwegian). BEATRIX.Latin, ‘blessed’ or ‘she who brings happiness’. Beatrix has a solid history of its own (think Beatrix Potter), and that final x adds a playful, animated note. BEATRIZ.Spanish variation ofBEATRICE. Another attractive translation of Beatrice, popular with Hispanic parents. BEBE.Diminutive ofBEATRICE, BEATRIX. High-kicking cohort of Coco, Gigi, Fifi, Kiki, et al. Beebee, Bibi. BECCA.Diminutive ofREBECCA. The currently preferred replacement for Becky, sometimes used on its own. Beccah, Becka, Beckah, Bekka, Bekkah. BECHET.French surname. Naming babies for personal heroes is the cool contemporary trend followed by Woody Allen when he honoured New Orleans jazz musician Sidney Bechet in his daughter’s name. Has a nice, catchy Gallic feel. BECHETTE.French, ‘little spade’. Pronounced Beshette, this unfamiliar French appellation sounds fresh and feminine. BECK.English, ‘one living beside a small stream’, short form ofREBECCA. Although the single-named singer is male, this remains a girl’s nickname name. BECKY.Diminutive ofREBECCA. One of those casual down-home names last popular in the 1960s. Beckey, Becki, Beckie. BEDELIA.Irish, ‘strength, power’. This fanciful Irish extension of Bridget is known here through the wacky Amelia Bedelia books for kids – an association your child may or may not like. Bedeelia, Biddy, Bidelia, Bridget, Delia. BEE.Diminutive ofBEATRICE. This buzzy form is for middle name consideration only. BEEJA.Hindi, ‘the beginning’ or ‘happy’. Rhythmic and exotic. Beej. BEGONIA.Flower name. One flower name that doesn’t smell or sound sweet enough for baby name use. BEIGE.Colour name. Nice sound, colourless image. BELA.Czech, ‘white’. Since this is strictly a male name in Slavic cultures, better to stick with the ‘Bella’ spelling here. Belah, Belalia, Biela. BEL?N.Spanish, ‘at Bethlehem’; Hebrew, ‘house of bread’. Popular throughout the Spanish speaking world. BELIA.Spanish variation ofBELLA. This is a pretty and unusual translation of Bella. Belicia, Belita. BELINDA.Spanish, ‘pretty one’; German, ‘serpent’. Belinda sits on the ‘Not in Current Usage’ shelf alongside cousins Linda and Melinda. Bel, Bellinda, Bellynda, Linda, Lindie, Lindy. BELINE.French, ‘goddess’. Possible Gallic import in the Celine mode. BELLA.Diminutive ofISABELLA. Ciao, Bella. Everything ella, from Ella to Bella to Gabriella, is red hot right now, and this is one of the less overused examples, with the hint of a nice old-fashioned grandmotherly veneer. Bela, Belia, Bell, Bellette. BELLE.French, ‘beautiful’. Nothing but positive associations come with this name, from ‘belle of the ball’ to ‘Southern belle’ to the heroine of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.Bel, Bela, Belia, Belinda, Belisse, Bell, Bellina. BELLEZZA.Italian, ‘beauty’. Beauty con brio italiano. BELOVED.Literary word name. Toni Morrison, the modern master of literary names, made this one famous as the title character of a novel. But things didn’t work out so well for that Beloved. BELVA.Latin, ‘beautiful view’. Has a decidedly middle-aged image. Belvah, Belvia. BENEDETTA.Latin, ‘blessed’. Saintly. Benita. BENEDICTA.Latin, ‘blessed’. Saintly, and a Mother Superior to boot. Benna, Benni, Bennie. International: B?n?dicte(French), Benicia(Spanish), Benedikta(German), Benedeka, Benedika, Benke(Eastern European), Benci(Hungarian), Venedicta(Greek). BENILDE.(ben-NIL-dee) French variation of Latin, ‘good’. Strong and unusual name of a medieval (male) saint and a contemporary (female) novelist, Benilde Little. BENITA.Latin, ‘blessed’. In fashion limbo with Anita and Juanita. Bena, Beneta, Benetta, Benni, Bennie, Benny, Binnie, Binny, Nita. BENJAMINA.Hebrew, ‘daughter of the right hand’. The kind of feminised male name that never caught on. Benay, Jamina. International: Bannerjee(Gaelic), Vernamina(Greek). BERENICE.SeeBERNICE. BERIT.Scandinavian variation ofBIRGIT. Well used in northern Europe. Beret, Berette, Beri, Berry, Berta, Beryt. BERMUDA.Place name. Maybe if you spent your honeymoon there. We did say maybe. BERNADETTE.German, ‘brave as a bear’. Pleasant, feminine, but strong name associated with the saint who saw visions of the Virgin Mary, now no longer strictly inhabiting the Catholic diocese. Bern, Berna, Bernadene, Bernadina, Bernadine, Bernarda, Bernardette, Bernetta, Bernette, Berni, Bernie, Bernita, Berny, Berrie, Berry. International: Berneen(Irish), Bernardetta(Italian), Bernardita(Spanish), Bernadett(Hungarian). BERNADINE, BERNARDINE.German, ‘brave as a bear’. This is as dated as an old Pat Boone song. Berna, Bernadeene, Bernadina, Bernadyne, Bernardin, Bernardine, Berni, Bernideene, Bernidine, Bernie, Bernydeene, Bernydine. BERNARDA.German, ‘brave as a bear’. Too close in sound to the so-far-out-it-will-always-be-out Bernard. Bennie, Benny, Berna, Bernadeena, Bernadett, Bernadetta, Bernata, Bernette, Bernie, Bernina, Bernita. International: Benadette, Bernadette, Bernardine, Bernardene(French), Bernadina(Spanish), Bernharda(German and Austrian), Bernarda(Eastern European), Vernada(Greek). BERNICE, BERENICE.Greek, ‘she who brings victory’. Since most Bernices were called Binnie, Benny or Bunny anyway, few will notice that this old Greek name has faded away. Beranyce, Bereniece, Berenyce, Bern, Bernee, Berni, Bernie, Berry, Bunny. International: Bernise, Bearnas(Scottish Gaelic), B?r?nice, Berenicia, Bernelle(French), Beronia(Italian), Bernessa, Bernise(German), Beranice, Beraniece, Berenice, Berenike(Greek). BERRY.Nature name. With the recent arrival of fruit names like Apple, Peaches and Plum, this older example might also rise in popularity. Berree, Berri, Berrie. BERTHA.German, ‘bright, glorious’. Ever since the enormous German cannon was dubbed ‘Big Bertha’ in World War I, this name hasn’t worked for a sweet little baby girl. Not true of the Polish version, Berta. International: Berthe, Bertille(French), Berrta, Berrti, Berrty, Berti, Bertilde, Bertina, Bettina(German), Berit, Bertie, Bird, Birdie, Birta(Swedish), Berte(Norwegian), Berta(Polish). BERTILLE.French, ‘heroine, bright maiden’. Name of medieval French saint and still often found preceded by the word ‘Sister’. Bertilla. BERTRICE.Combination ofBERTHAandBERNICE. One not-very-attractive name combined with another not-very-attractive name will usually equal a third not-very-attractive name. Bert, Bertee, Berti, Bertie, Berty. BERYL.Greek, ‘sea-green jewel’. World War II-period favourite. Why not try Jade as a more popular green gem choice. Barry, Beril, Berri, Berrie, Berrill, Berry, Beryle, Berylla, Beryn. BESS.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. Declared its independence as far back as the reign of Elizabeth I, yet now sounds less pass? than Beth or Betsy. Bessa, Besse. BESSIE.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. After a century of association with names for horses and cows, Bessie could be ready for revival by a fearless baby namer – after all, it did happen to Jessie and Becky. Bessee, Bessey, Bessi, Bessie, Bessy. BETA.Greek, second letter of the Greek alphabet. If you can’t have an Alpha male, how about a Beta girl? BETH.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. The sweetest and most sensitive of the pet names for Elizabeth, now also one of the most dated. Betha, Bethah, Bethia. BETHAN.Welsh, diminutive ofELIZABETH. Very popular in Wales, this perfectly nice name’s only problem is its similarity to the dated Beth Ann. BETHANY.Hebrew, ‘house of figs’; also New Testament place name. Though beginning to slip on the popularity lists, this lyrical name still strikes many parents as a fresher, more substantial substitute for the overused Brittany/Brittney. Beth, Bethanee, Bethaney, Bethani, Bethanie, Bethanne, Bethannie, Bethanny, Bethenee, Betheney, Betheny. BETHEL.Hebrew, ‘house of God’. A rarely used Biblical place name with a soft and pleasant sound. Bethell. BETHESDA.Hebrew, ‘house of mercy’. Beware if you plan to move to the US – this might be too closely associated with a Maryland suburb of D.C. BETHIA.Hebrew, ‘daughter of Jehovah’. Long forgotten Old Testament name with modern potential. Betia, Bithia. BETSY.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. From Betsy Ross to the Betsy Wetsy doll, this was seen as a perkier, younger-sounding alternative to Betty. No longer. Bets, Betsey, Betsi, Betsie, Betts. BETTE.Dinutive ofELIZABETH. Pronounced ? la Bette (Betty) Davis or Bette (Bet) Midler, a twentieth-century relic. BETTINA.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. Ballerina version of Betty. Battina, Betiana, Betina, Bettine. BETTY. Diminutive ofELIZABETH. Popular during World War II, when it blanketed the English-speaking world. Bett, Betta, Betti, Bettie, Bettye. BEULAH.Hebrew, ‘married’; another name for Palestine. Fatally stereotyped as a black Nicknames for Elizabeth Bess Bessie Beth Betsy Bette Bettina Betty Eliza Libby Lisa Liz Liza Lizbeth Lizzie Tibby maid’s name in movies and TV, the biblical Beulah would challenge the most audacious baby namer. Beula, Bewlah, Byulah. BEVERLY.English, ‘dweller near the beaver stream’. More visible in reference to a posh California community than as a girls’ name. Bev, Bevalee,Beverle, Beverlee, Beverley, Beverlie, Beverlye, Bevverly, Bevvy, Buffy. BEVIN.Scottish, ‘sweet, melodious woman’. Possible alternative to Devin. Bev, Bevan, Bevann. International: B?bhinn(Irish Gaelic). BEYONC?.Modern invented name. The unique name of the hot young singer will not remain unique for long. BIANCA.Italian, ‘white’. Livelier Shakespearean version of Blanche; Blanca is a favourite in the Spanishspeaking community. Beanka, Beonca, Beyonca, Beyonka, Biancha, Bianka, Blancha. International: Blanche(French), Blanca(Spanish), Blanka(Czech). BIBI.French, ‘toy’ or ‘delight’; Persian, ‘lady of the house’; diminutive of BIBIANA. A spunky nickname name for parents with showbiz aspirations for their daughter. Bebe, Beebee. BIBIANA.Latin, ‘animated’. Melodic and unusual, and she will outgrow any bib jokes. Bibi, Bibianna, Biviane. International: Bibiane(French). BICE.Italian, diminutive ofBEATRICE. Though Beatrice has the lovely Italian pronunciation bay-uh-TREE-chay, Bice has the problematic BEE-chay – a bit too close to ‘bitchy’. BICHETTE.French, ‘little doe’. Charming Gallic possibility but with some obvious playground problems. BIDDY.Diminutive ofBRIDGET. In this country, it usually follows the word old.Biddie, Bidou. BIDU.Diminutive ofBRIDGET. Uncommon choice too reminiscent of ‘bidet’. BIENVENIDA.Spanish, ‘welcome’. Somewhat unwieldy, but would certainly make your little girl feel wanted. BIJOU.French, ‘jewel’, from Old English ‘bizou’. A name that lives up to its definition – a real jewel. Warning: not unheard of on poodles’ dog collars. Bijoux, Bizou. BILLIE.English, diminutive ofWILHELMINA, WILMA. Tomboyish nickname name and a possible retro choice for fans of jazz great Billie Holiday. Billa, Billee, Billi, Billina, Billy, Willa. BINA.Hebrew, ‘understanding’; Yiddish, ‘bee’; also diminutive ofSABINAand other -ina names. Tends to sound incomplete. Binah, Bine. BINNIE.Celtic, ‘crib, wicker basket’. Like Minnie and Winnie, eccentric enough to appeal to the iconoclastic parent. Binne, Binni, Binny. BIONDA.Italian, ‘blond’. As with the pop singer Blondie, more a description than a name. BIRD.Nature name. Too flighty. Birdella, Birdena, Birdey, Birdie, Byrd, Byrdie. BIRDIE.English, ‘bird’. A middle-aged Ladies’ Club member wearing a birddecorated hat. BIRGIT.Scandinavian variation ofBRIGHID. Pronounced with a hard g and sure to be misunderstood in more ways than that. Bergette, Berit, Birget, Birgetta, Birgite Birgitt, Birgitta, Birgitte, Britta. BJ?RK.Icelandic, ‘birch tree’. Destined to remain a one-person name – in this country anyway. BLAINE.Irish, ‘slender, angular’. Best friend of Blair, Blake, and Brooke. Blain, Blane, Blayn, Blayne. BLAIR.Scottish, ‘dweller on the plain’. One of the first upwardly mobile unisex names to hit the charts, Blair retains its air of slightly snobby sophistication. Blaire, Blare, Blayr, Blayre. BLAISE.Latin, ‘one who stutters’. Blaze with a French accent. Blaise, Blas?, Blasia, Blaza, Blaze. BLAKE.English, means both ‘fair-haired’ and ‘dark’. The unisex Blake has a briskly efficient image when used for a girl. Blaike, Blaque, Blayke. BLANCA.Spanish, ‘white’. More colourful than Blanche, but blanker than Bianca. Bellanca, Blanka, Blankah. BLANCHE.French, ‘white’. Originally a nickname for a blonde, Blanche was in style a century ago, then became a faded Southern belle, now might be preparing for revival. Blanchette. BLAZE.English, ‘one who stutters’. This is a hot name, but more in the stripper sense. Blais, Blaise, Blaiz, Blaise, Blase. BLEU.French, ‘blue’. The middle name of the Travoltas’ Ella, this French colour alternative hasn’t caught on with many other parents. BLISS.English word name. Only for parents positive their daughter won’t ever have a tantrum. Blisse, Blyss, Blysse. Names for Blond Babies Alben Alva Aubrey Banning Blake Blanca/Blanche Bionda Bowie Boyd Dory Elvira Fairfax Finn Finnian Flavian Gaynor Gwynn Kyle Linus Xanthus BLODWEN.Welsh, ‘white flower’. One of the lessappealing Welsh wen names. Blodwyn. BLOSSOM. English, ‘to bloom’. Few parents today would pick this dated generic flower name that had a showgirl aura in the Floradora days. International: Bluma(German),Blume(Yiddish). BLUE.Colour name. Blue is the starbaby middle name du jour, occasionally used as a first. Bleu, Blu. BLUEBELL.Flower name. Geri ‘Ginger Spice’ Halliwell joined her former Spice Sisters in creative baby-naming with this adventurous – some might say outlandish – choice. Distinctive and charming? Or better suited to a farmyard animal? Your call. Bluebelle. BLUMA.Hebrew, ‘flower’. SeeBLOSSOM. BLYTHE.English, ‘free spirit, happy, carefree’. Embodies a cheerful, carefree spirit and could be the next Brooke. Blithe, Blyth. BOBBIE.English, diminutive ofROBERTA, BARBARA. Dated nickname of the 1930s and 40s; Barbie without the wasp waist. Bobbe, Bobbee, Bobbi, Bobby. BOHEMIA.Place or word name. More a concept than a place – or a name. BOLIVIA.Place name. If you’re tired of Olivia, you could be the first on your road to introduce this unique sound-related place name with Latin flair. BONITA.Spanish, ‘pretty’. Like Benita, had some popularity in the 1950s. Boni, Bonie, Bonni, Bonnie, Bonny, Bunita, Bunnie, Bunny, Nita. BONNIE.Scottish, ‘beautiful and cheerful’. Despite its appealing meaning and amiable air, Bonnie’s been out of the fashion loop since Bonnie and Clyde’s 1967 Oscar nomination. Boni, Bonne, Bonnee, Bonni, Bonnibel, Bonny, Bunni, Bunnie, Bunny. BORA.Czech, diminutive ofBARBARA. ‘Bore’ and ‘boring’ are teasing possibilities; Thora, Nora and Flora are alternatives. BRADLEY.English ‘broad clearing’. Fading boys’ name making fresh start for girls, aided by -ley ending. Brad, Bradlee, Bradleigh, Bradli, Bradlie, Bradly. BRADY.Irish, ‘broad meadow,’ ‘one with broad eyes’. Has the energetic-Irish-slightly-boyish image that many modern parents love. Bradee, Bradey, Braedi. BRAE.Modern invented name. A newly hatched cousin of Bree and Brea. BRAEDEN.English, ‘broad hill’. One of several trendy boys’ names now being adopted for girls with feminised spellings. Bradyn, Bradynn, Braedan, Braedyn, Braedynn, Braedynne, Braiden, Braidin, Braidyn, Braidynn, Braidynne, Braydon, Braydyn, Braydynn, Braydynne. BRAELYN.Modern invented name. One of the most girlish offshoots of Braeden. Braelan, Braelen, Braelin, Braelinn, Braelon, Braelynn, Braelynne, Braylan, Braylen, Braylin, Braylinn, Braylon, Braylyn, Braylynn, Braylynne. BRANDY.Dutch, ‘burnt wine’. The alcohol-laced member of the Randy-Candy-Mandy sorority of 1970s to 80s nickname names; now pretty much on the wagon. Bran, Brande, Brandea, Brandee, Brandey, Brandi, Brandie, Brandye, Branndea, Branndi, Branndie. BRANWEN.Celtic, ‘blessed raven’. Attractive Celtic mythological name, possibly a variant of Bronwyn. Branwyn. BRAYDEN.English, ‘broad hill’. One in the currently modish aden family of boys’ names beginning to be used for girls. BRAZIL.Place name. Place name with character. Brasilia. BREA.Short form ofBREANA.SeeBRIA. BREANA.SeeBRIANA. This spelling is running a close second in pereference to Briana. Breann, Breanna, Breanne, Breawna, Bryanna, Bryanne. BREE.Variation ofBRIGHIDorBRIANA. Sophisticated yet upbeat image, preferable to the cheese-related Brie; featured on Desperate Housewives and in several films. Brae, Bray, Bre, Brei, Breigh, Bri, Brie, Brielle. BREEZE.Word name. Refreshing middle name possibility. BRENDA.Celtic, ‘blade of a sword’. First a glamorous 1940s debutante, now fading in favour of more modern Brenna, Briana, and Bryn. Bren, Brenn, Brenna, Brennda, Brenndah. BRENNA.Irish, ‘raven’. As Jennifer begat Jenna, so did Brenda lead to the steady use of this female form of Brendan. Branna, Bren, Brenn, Brennah, Brenne, Brinna, Brynna, Brynne. BRENNAN.Irish, ‘descendent of the sad one’. Poised for popularity, an Irish last name soft enough to borrow from the boys. BRETT.Celtic, ‘from Brittany’. First spotted as a female name in Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, Brett retains its pleasingly brisk, executive air. Bret, Brette, Britt. BRIA.Short form ofBRIANA. Sweet but spirited shortening of Briana, becoming increasingly popular. Brea. BRIALLEN.Welsh, ‘a primrose’. Unusual combination choice. BRIANNA, BRIANA.Feminine variation ofBRIAN. There are nine different popular versions of this name in the US – a sure sign that, though pretty, it’s getting more and more difficult to make it distinctive. Brana, Breana, Breann, Breanne, Breeanna, Breeanne, Bria, Brianna, Brianne, Brielle, Brienna, Brinn, Brinna, Briny, Bryana, Bryann, Bryanna, Bryannah, Bryanne, Bryn, Bryna, Brynne. BRIAR.English, ‘a thorny patch’. Fairy-tale memories of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ inspire some parents to call their daughters Briar Rose. Brier, Bryar. BRICE.Celtic, ‘bright strength’; Welsh, ‘speckled, freckled’. Among the more masculine of the short unisex B names. Bryce. BRIDE.(BREE-da) Irish, ‘strength’. Pronunciation problems complicate this choice. Breeda, Bridie, Br?d?n. BRIDGET.Anglicised variation ofBRIGHID. This most familiar form of the name of the Celtic goddess of wisdom is still used by traditionalists. Biddy, Bidu, Bree, Bridey, Bridgette, Bridgie, Bridgit, Bridgitte, Bridie, Brie, Brigid, Brigit, Brigita, Brigitte. International: Breda, Br?d, Bride, Brigid, Brighid(Irish),Ffraid(Welsh), Brigitte(French), Brigida(Italian), Brigitta, Gitta(German), Birgit, Birgitta, Bridgette, Brigitta(Scandinavian), Berget, Brigitta, Brita, Britt, Britta, Gittan(Swedish), Berit, Birgit, Birgitte, Birte(Norwegian), Piritta, Pirjo, Pirkko, Riitta(Finnish), Brygid, Brygida(Polish). BRIE.French, place name of cheese-producing region. Place name and homonym of Bree, less popular than its enlargement, Brielle. Bree, Briella, Brielle, Briette. BRIELLE, BRIELLA.Long form ofBRIE. Feminine, breezy name but lacks heft. BRIGHID.Irish, ‘strength, power’. This is the original Gaelic form of the name of the mythological goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom. BRIGIDINE.Irish variation ofBRIGHID. Unique take on Bridget used by singer Sinead O’Connor. BRIGITTE.French variation ofBRIGHID. French version long associated with 1950s sex symbol Brigitte Bardot. BRILIE.Modern invented name. Combines elements of the megapopular Briana and Riley to form a pleasant merger. Brilee, Brileigh, Briley, Brily, Brylee, Bryleigh, Bryley, Bryli, Brylie, Bryly. BRIO.Italian, ‘vivacity, zest’. Musical term with great verve and energy. BRIONA, BRIONNA.Variation ofBRIANA. Another in creasingly popular Bri pick. Breona, Breonna, Brione, Brionne. BRIONY.SeeBRYONY. BRISA.Spanish, ‘beloved’. Commonly used in Latino families, all but unheard of in others. Breza, Brisha, Brishia, Brissa, Bryssa. BRITANNIA.Latin, ‘Britain’. Hail Britannia? We think not. Britania, Britanja, Britanya, Brittannia, Brittanja, Brittanya. BRITNEY.Variation ofBRITTANY. This abbreviated spelling, which also relates to Whitney, quickly took on a life of its own, thanks to the megafame of Ms Spears, but it’s already beginning to burn out. Britini, Britnee, Britni, Britny, Britnye. BRITT.Swedish, contracted form of BIRGIT. Brisk but rather brittle. Brita, Brite, Britta. BRITTANY.Celtic, ‘from Brittany, a Breton’. One of the sensations of the last two decades, it started as an upscale name, quickly became overused to the point of clich?, now almost overtaken by little sister Britney. Brett, Brit, Briteney, Briteny, Britni, Britny, Britt, Britta, Brittan, Brittanee, Brittaney, Brittani, Britteny, Brittin, Brittnee, Brittni, Brittny, Britton. BRONNEN.Cornish, ‘a rush’. Similar to so many others, sure to provoke a lot of ‘What was that again?’ queries. BRONT?.Greek, ‘thunder’. Lovely surname of the three novel-writing sisters, now used as a baby name; a fitting tribute for lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. BRONWEN.Welsh, ‘fairbosomed’. Widespread in Wales, but not as common in the rest of Britain, we think it’s a real winner. (Note: the Bronwyn spelling is strictly for males in its native land.) Branwen, Bronnie, Bronny, Browin, Bronwyn, Bronwynn, Bronwynne, Bronya. BRONYA.Polish, ‘protection’. Evokes an image of peasant blouses, dirndl skirts and babushkas. Bronia, Bronja. BROOKE.English, ‘small stream’. Brooke still retains a large measure of freshness and sophistication. Brook, Brooks. International: Bahr(Arabic). BROOKLYN.Place name. Although known more for the borough in New York City, it has become a popular feminine girl’s name. Brookelyn, Brookelynn, Brooklen, Brooklin, Brooklinn, Brooklyne, Brooklynn, Brooklynne. BRUNA.Italian, ‘brown’. Possibility for a dark-haired babe. International: Brunette(French), Brona, Brune, Brunetta(Italian). BRUNHILD, BRUNHILDA.Norse, ‘armour-wearing fighting maid’. One of the Valkyries, still clad in heavy armour. Brinhild, Brinhilda, Brinhilde, Brunhilde, Brynhild, Hilda, Hilde, Hildi, Hildie, Hildy. BRYANA, BRYANNA.Variations ofBRIANA. More of the seemingly infinite variations of this name. Bryann, Bryanne, Bryanni. BRYCE.SeeBRICE. Italian Names Beyond Rosa & Rosetta BRYN, BRYNN.Welsh, ‘hill’. An up-and-coming gentle, yet substantial, Welsh name, would also be effective in the middle spot. Brin, Brinn, Brinne, Brynne. Stellar Starbabies Beginning with B BRYNNA.Welsh, ‘hill’. You say Bryn, he says Bryana – here’s a name you might agree on. Brena, Breena, Brinah, Brinna, Brinnah, Bryna, Brynah, Brynnah. BRYONY.Latin, ‘to sprout’; botanical name, vine with green flowers. Unusually strong plant name with the popular Bry begining. Brihoney, Brioney, Briony, Bryonie. International: Bryonia(Greek). BUENA.Spanish, ‘good, excellent’. Affirmative adjective that is occasionally used as a name. Buona. BUFFY.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. One-time sorority girl with a roommate named Muffy, then a fearless vampire slayer, though still basically fluffy. Buffee, Buffey, Buffi, Buffie. BUNNY.Nickname deriving from a variety of B names. If Buffy is fluffy, what would that make this? Bunnee, Bunni, Bunnie. BUONA.Italian, ‘good’. Naming your child the word for good comes with no guarantees. BURGUNDY.French place name; also colour name. It’s a place! It’s a wine! And a colour! – no wonder trend-heavy Burgundy’s been discovered as a name. Burgandi, Burgandie, Burgandy, Burgundee, Burgundey, Burgundi, Burgundie. BURMA.Place name. Less-travelled member of this fashionable group, with less than attractive sound. BUTTERFLY.English word name. Fluttery and flighty. International: Papillon(French), Fella(Italian), Borboleta(Portuguese), Babochka(Russian), Farasha(Arabic). C girls (#ulink_d1004a4f-c43c-54de-85ca-6cd7cd75a96f) CACHET.(ka-SHAY) French, ‘prestigious, desirable’. One of those word names – Clich? is the most egregious example – that sounds lovely but seems slightly ridiculous when taken literally. Cachae, Cache, Cachea, Cachee, Cach?e. CADEAU.(kad-DOH) French, ‘gift’. A decidedly exotic twist on the word name trend, but don’t be surprised if you encounter ponies and poodles with the same moniker. CADENCE.Latin, ‘rhythm, beat’. Musical word name zooming up the American charts. Cadencia, Cady, Kadena, Kadence. International: Cadenza(Italian). CADY.English, diminutive ofCADENCEand surname. Stylish name that might relate to nickname names like Katie or Kaylee or may honor women’s rights leader Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Cade, Cadee, Cadey, Cadi, Cadie, Cadye, Caidie, Kade, Kadee, Kadi, Kadie, Kady, Kadye. CAI.Vietnamese, ‘feminine’. Unusual, exotic, simple. Cae, Cay, Caye. CAILIN.American variation ofCAITLINorKAYLIN. While this spelling doesn’t appear on popularity charts, other forms do, along with several similar names, from Caitlin to Jalen to Kayla. The result: a name that feels more common than it actually is. Caelin, Caelyn, Caileen, Cailen, Cailene, Cailine, Cailyn, Cailynn, Cailynne, Calen, Calin, Cayleen, Caylen, Caylene, Caylin, Cayline, Caylyn, Caylyne, Caylynn, Caylynne. CAIRO.Place name. American model Beverly Peele put this exotic name on the map when she chose it for her daughter; it’s much less faddish sounding than more typical US place names like Dallas and Dakota. CAITLIN.Irish variation ofCATHERINE. Most forms of this megapopular name, which is in the Top 50, including this most-authentic one, are starting to dip, though there have been thousands of girls named Caitlin – and Katelyn and Kaitlyn ad infinitum – every year for the past two decades. Caetlin, Cailin, Caithlin, Caitlan, Caitland, Caitlandt, Caitlann, Caitleen, Caitlen, Caitlene, Caitlenn, Caitline, Caitlinn, Caitlon, Caitlyn, Caitlyne, Caitlynn, Caitlynne, Catelin, Cateline, Catelinn, Catelyn, Catelyne, Catelynn, Catlee, Catleen, Catleene, Catlin, Catlinn, Catlyn, Catlynn, Catlynne, Cayetin, Caylin, Haitian, Kaitlann, Kaitlin, Kaitlinn, Kaitlyn, Kaitlynn, Katelan, Katelin, Katelynn, Kayelin, Kayelyn. CAITRIONA.Scottish variation ofCATHERINE. Considerably less exotic – and less appealing – when you know it’s pronounced like Katrina. Catriona. CALA.Arabic, ‘castle, fortress’. Extremely simple and extremely distinctive – a winning combination, though more often spelled Calla. Calah, Calan, Calla, Callah. CALAIS.(kal-LAY) French place name. Undiscovered name of the picturesque northern French port. CALANDRA.Greek, ‘lark’. Calista Flockhart opened the door to a whole flock of graceful Music Names Allegra Alto Amadea Banjo Brio Cadence Calliope Calypso Clarion Corisande Danae Drum Fife Guitar Harmony Harper Haydn Jaz/Jazz Lyric Music Octavia Piano Piper Viola and unusual Greek names like this. Cal, Calan, Calandre, Calandrea, Calandria, Caleida, Calendra, Calendre, Calee, Calley, Calli, Callie, Cally, Kalandra, Kalandria. CALANTHA.Greek, ‘lovely flower’. Another of the new Greek-accented Cal- names. Cal, Calanthe, Callee, Calley, Calli, Callie, Cally, Kalantha. CALEDONIA.Latin, ‘poetic appelation for Scotland’. This is a rhythmic place name appropriate for a child with Scottish roots. CALI.Diminutive of anyCAL-name. A short form that can stand on its own, though not all that steadily. CALICO.English word name. Word name with fashionable o ending that has associations with both the homespun fabric and the mottled cat. CALIDA.Spanish, ‘heated’. Unusual but accessible Hispanic choice with stylish sound. Calina, Calinda, Calla, Calli, Callida, Callinda, Kalida. CALIFORNIA.Place name. Has not caught on as much as other place names linked to the American state– Sierra, Marin, West, or even Francisco – probably because of its length. CALISTA.Greek, ‘most beautiful’. Ally McBeal actress Calista Flockhart didn’t just introduce a name (or a body type or a skirt length), she introduced a whole sensibility. Pretty and delicate, it’s definitely worthy of consideration, especially for parents with Greek roots. Cala, Calesta, Calixta, Calla, Callesta, Calli, Callie, Callista, Callixta, Cally, Callysta, Calysta, Kala, Kalesta, Kalista, Kalla, Kallesta, Kalfi, Kallie, Kallista, Kally, Kallysta. CALLA.Greek, ‘beautiful’. Flower name more distinctive and delicate than Lily. CALLIE.Greek diminutive, ‘beautiful’. This Hallie-esque nickname name is starting to dip, while the sleeker, more nouveau Cali is rising. Cal, Calee, Caleigh, Cali, Calie, Callee, Calley, Calli, Cally, Caly, Kallee, Kaleigh, Kalley, Kalli, Kallie, Kally. CALLIOPE.(ka-LYE-oh-pee) Greek mythology name. Calliope is the name of the muse of epic poetry – and also the musical instrument on the merry-go-round. Bold and creative, it would not be the easiest name for a girl lacking such qualities. Callia, Callyope, Kalliope. CALVINA.Latin, feminine form ofCALVIN. There are several better Cal- names that don’t simply echo a male form. Calvine, Calvinetta, Calvinette. CALYPSO.Greek, ‘she who hides’. Name of a mythological nymph and West Indian music makes a dramatic, rhythmic choice. Calipso, Callypso, Caly, Kallypso, Kalypso, Lypsie, Lypsy. CAMBRIA.Place name. Most names that start with Cam- are on the up, so why not this obscure term for Wales as well as for a prehistoric time period? Cambaria, Camberry, Cambie, Cambrea, Cambreah, Cambreia, Cambrie, Cambrina, Cambrya, Cami. CAMBRIE.Modern invented name. Cute but slight mix of stylish sounds Cam and Bree. Cambree, Cambreigh, Cambrey, Cambri, Cambry. CAMDEN.Scottish, ‘winding valley’; American and British place name. Newly popular boys’ name could cross over in much the way the related Cameron has. Camdan, Camdin, Camdon, Camdyn, Camdynne, Kamden. CAMELLIA.Flower name. Exotic flower name with distinct roots related to the Camille/ Camila group. Could be a floral replacement for Amelia. Camala, Camalia, Camallia, Camela, Camelia, Camelita, Camella, Camellita, Cami, Canunelia, Kamelia, Kamellia. CAMEO.Word name. This evocative term for a stone or shell carved in relief could make a striking first name for a girl, though she would have a starring role in her story, rather than a cameo. Cami, Cammeo, Kameo. CAMERA.Word name. Late tennis great Arthur Ashe (whose wife was a photographer) pioneered word names when he used this for his daughter. Camara, Kamara, Kamera. CAMERON.Scottish, ‘crooked nose’. Cameron Diaz almost single-handedly transported this sophisticated Scottish male surname into the girls’ camp, where it is proving increasingly popular – though it hasn’t caught up with the boys. The phonetic, more feminine spelling of Camryn is also a possibility. Cam, Camaran, Cameran, Cameren, Cameri, Cameria, Camerin, Camie, Camira, Camiran, Camiron, Camran, Camren, Camrin, Camron, Camry, Camryn, Kameran, Kameren, Kamerin, Kameron, Kamran, Kamren, Kamrin, Kamron, Kamryn. CAMILA, CAMILLA.Latin, ‘young ceremonial attendant’. The Spanish Camila, pronounced ka-MEE-la, is the fastest rising version of this ancient Roman name, but recent royal Camilla may have helped promote the brand. In Roman myth, Camilla was a swift-footed huntress so fast she could run over a field without bending a blade of grass. Cam, Cami, Camia, Camilia, Camilya, Cammi, Cammie, Cammilla, Cammille, Cammy, Cammylle, Camyla, Camylla, Camylle, Chamelea, Chamelia, Chamika, Chamila, Chamilia, Kamille, Kamyla, Mille, Millee, Milley, Milli, Millie, Milly. International: Cama, Camala, Camile(Spanish), Kamilka, Milla(Polish), Kamila, Kamilla(Hungarian), Camelia(Romanian). CAMILLE.French variation ofCAMILLA. Once connected to Greta Garbo’s tragic ‘Lady of the Camellias,’ but that image has faded, replaced by a sleek, chic, highly attractive one. Cam, Cami, Camia, Camiel, Camielle, Camil, Camila, Camile, Camilia, Camill, Camilla, Camillia, Camilya, Camylle, Camyle, Camyll, Cammilla, Cammille, Cammillie, Cammilyn, Cammyl, Cammyll, Camylle, Chamelea, Chamelia, Chamelle, Chamika, Chamila, Chamilia, Chamille, Kamille. CAMPBELL. Scottish ‘crooked mouth’. This unisex name, which is also a family surname, can make a more unusual Cameron alternative. CAMRYN.SeeCAMERON. CANADA.Iroquois place name, ‘where the heavens touch the earth’. Undiscovered but attractive place name possibility, up till now a masculine territory. CANDACE.Latin, ‘white, pure, sincere’. This ancient title of a dynasty of Ethiopian queens, associated both with actress Candice Bergen and Sex and the City writer Candace Bushnell, is rarely used for babies today, perhaps due to the sticky sweetness of nickname Candy. Cace, Canace, Canda, Candaice, Candas, Candase, Candayce, Candece, Candee, Candelle, Candes, Candi, Candiace, Candias, Candice, Candie, Candies, Candis, Candise, Candiss, Candus, Candy, Candyce, Candys, Candyse, Cyndyss, Dace, Dacee, Dacey, Dacie, Dacy, Kandace, Kandice, Kandiss, Kandy. CANDIDA.Latin, ‘white’. Attractive ancient name borne by several saints but sullied by association with the yeast infection. Candeea, Candi, Candia, Candie, Candita, Candy. International: Candide(French). CANDY.Diminutive ofCANDACE. Too sugary sweet and inconsequential for a modern girl. CANTARA.Arabic, ‘little bridge’. Lovely and unusual choice, with a choral feel. Cantarah. CANTRELLE.French, ‘song’. Vocal name seldom heard, with most elle-ending names these days dropped in favour of the more straightforward Elle and Ella. Cantrella. CANYON.Spanish word name. Rugged nature name with possibilities…but more for boys. CAPRICE.French from Italian, ‘impulsive change of mind’. This word name has an appealing sound, however it’s spoilt by its trivialising meaning. Cappi, Caprece, Caprecia, Capreece, Capresha, Capri, Capria, Capricia, Caprie, Capriese, Caprina, Capris, Caprise, Caprisha, Capritta, Capry. CAPUCINE.French, ‘cowled monk’. Capucine was a sexy French actress half a century ago, but today, the name is more likely to be mistaken for a cup of coffee – or a long-tailed monkey. Cappucine. CARA.Latin, ‘dear’. Simple, sweet, Italian endearment that enjoyed some popularity from the 1970s through the 1990s. It’s faded now…though that may be a good reason to use it. Caira, Carabel, Carabell, Carabelle, Caragh, Carah, Caralea, Caralee, Caraleigh, Caralia, Caralie, Caranda, Carely, Caretta, Carey, Carina, Carine, Carrah, Carrie, Carry, Kara, Karina, Karine, Karra, Karrie, Karry. International: Carra(Irish). CARBRY.Irish, ‘charioteer’. Male name from Irish mythology makes stylishsounding choice for girls. C?irbre, Carbery, Carbury. CARDEN.English occupational name, ‘wool carder’. Unusual, serious, no-nonsense occupational surname that could be borrowed from the boys. Cardin, Cardon, Cardyn. CAREY.Irish, ‘dark, black’. Variously spelt trendy name in the 1970s, but it hasn’t been used much in the last decade. Caree, Cari, Carie, Carrey, Cary, Kari. CARINA.Italian, ‘dear little one’. Pretty feminissima name whose fall from popularity may be speeded by similarity to (hurricane name) Katrina. Careena, Caren, Carena, Caridad, Carin, Carinah, Carine, Carinn, Carinne, Carinna, Kareena, Karena, Karina, Karine. CARISSA.Greek, ‘grace’. Trending down, along with others of both the Car and the issa groups. Caresa, Carese, Caressa, Caresse, Carisa, Carise, Carisha, Carisia, Carrisa, Charessa, Charesse, Charisa, Charissa, Karessa, Karisa, Karissa, Kharissa. CARITA.Latin, ‘beloved’. Sweet as a nickname – but it’s like naming your child ‘Dearie’. Caritta, Karita, Karitta. CARLA.Feminine variation ofCARL. While the K version is still rising, Carla-with-a-C, the somewhat severe feminisation of the Germanic Carl, gets more unfashionable every year. Carila, Carilla, Carlah, Carlana, Carleta, Carletta, Carlette, Carlia, Carliqua, Carliyle, Carlla, Carlonda, Carlyjo, Carlyle, Carlysle, Karla, Karlla. CARLEIGH.SeeCARLY. CARLIN.Irish, ‘little champion’. Stronger and more contemporary twist on Carla or Carly. Carlan, Carlana, Carlandra, Carlina, Carlinda, Carline, Carling, Carllan, Carlyn, Carlyna, Carlynn, Carlynne, Carllen, Carrlin. CARLOTTA.Italian variation ofCHARLOTTE. Familiar name that retains its Latin rhythm. Carletta, Carlita, Carlota. CARLY.Feminine diminutive ofCARL. Though a couple of its more ‘creative’ spellings – Carli and Karlee, for example – are still on the rise, this feminine form of Carl, popularised by singer Carly Simon in the 1970s, could by no stretch be considered fashionable. Carle, Carlea, Carleah, Carlee, Carleen, Carleh, Carleigh, Carlene, Carley, Carli, Carlie, Carline, Carlita, Carlye, Carlyne, Carlyta, Karlee, Karleigh, Karlene,Karli, Karlie, Karline, Karlita, Karly, Kavlyta. CARMEL.Hebrew, ‘garden’. Biblical place name with sweet association, commonly heard in Ireland. Carma, Carmaletta, Carmalit, Carmalita, Carmalla, Carman, Carmania, Carmanya, Carmarit, Carmeli, Carmelia, Carmelina, Carmelit, Carmelita, Carmelitha, Carmelitia, Carmella, Carmelle, Carmellia, Carmellina, Carmellit, Carmellita, Carmellitha, Carmellitia, Carmesa, Carmesha, Carmi, Carmia, Carmie, Carmiel, Carmiela, Carmil, Carmila, Carmile, Carmilla, Carmille, Carmina, Carmine, Carmisha, Carmit, Carmiya, Carmy, Karmel, Karmela, Karmelit, Karmen, Leeta, Lina, Lita, Melina, Melita, Mina. CARMELA.Italian and Spanish variation ofCARMEL. It will be a long time before Carmela shakes the image of TV’s Sopranos wife.Carmela. CARMEN.Spanish variation ofCARMEL. Carmel’s sexier, more operatic sister, also used for boys in Hispanic culture. Carma, Carmaine, Carman, Carmelia, Carmelina, Carmelita, Carmencita, Carmene, Carmi, Carmia, Carmie, Carmin, Carmina, Carmine, Carmita, Carmon, Carmyna, Carmynn, Carmyta, Charmaine, Karmen, Karmia, Karmina, Karmita, Lita, Mina. CARO.Italian, ‘dear’, Short form ofCAROL or CAROLINE. Upper-crusty nickname occasionally used in Britain; in the US it’s been eclipsed by Carrie et al. CAROL.English, feminine variation ofCHARLES. Caroline abbreviation wildly popular with Mum’s generation…or Grandma’s. Caral, Carel, Carey, Cari, Cariel, Carla, Carleen, Carlene, Carley, Carlin, Carlina, Carline, Carlita, Carlota, Carlotta, Carly, Carlyn, Carlynn, Carlynne, Carola, Carole, Carolee, Carolena, Carolenia, Carolin, Carolina, Carolinda, Caroline, Caroll, Caroly, Carolyn, Carolynn, Carolynne, Carri, Carrie, Carrol, Carroll, Carrolyn, Carry, Cary, Caryl, Caryle, Caryll, Carylle, Charla, Charleen, Charlena, Charlene, Charlotta, Charmain, Charmaine, Charmian, Charmion, Charyl, Cheryl, Cherlyn, Karel, Kari, Karla, Karleen, Karli, Karlie, Karlina, Karinka, Karlote, Karlotta, Karole, Karolina, Karyl, Karyll, Karrole, Karryl, Karryll, Kerril, Kerryl, Keryl, Lola, Loleta, Lolita, Lotta, Lotte, Lotti, Lottie, Sharleen, Sharlene, Sharline, Sharmain, Sharmian. CAROLINA.Variation ofCAROLINE;also place name in US. Languid, romantic and classy, this variation heats up Caroline and modernises Carol. CAROLINE, CAROLYN.French, feminine variation ofCHARLES. Royal name with a well-earned patina. Caroline’s only downside: it’s quite straightlaced. Carolyn, while less formal, brings the name distinctly down-market. Caraleen, Caraleena, Caralin, Caraline, Caralyn, Caralyne, Caralynn, Caralynna, Caralynne, Cari, Carileen, Carilena, Carilene, Carilin, Cariline, Carilyn, Carilynn, Carilynne, Carleen, Carleena, Carlen, Carlena, Carlene, Carley, Carli, Carlie, Carlin, Carline, Carly, Carlyn, Carlyna, Carlyne, Carlynn, Carlynne, Carlyne, Caro, Carol, Carola, Carolann, Carole, Caroleen, Caroleena, Caroleina, Carolena, Carolin, Carolina, Carolyn, Carolyne, Carolynn, Carolynne, Carollyn, Carri, Carrie, Carroleen, Carrolena, Carrolene, Carrolin, Carroline, Carroll, Carrolyn, Carrolynn, Carrolynne, Cary, Caryl, Carylin, Carylyn, Carylynn, Charla, Charleen, Charleena, Charlena, Charlene, Charlyne, Ina, Karaleen, Karaleena, Karalina, Karaline, Karalyn, Karalynna, Karalynne, Kari, Karie, Karla, Karleen, Karlen, Karlena, Karli, Karlie, Karlina, Karoline, Karolyn, Karolyna, Karolyne, Karolynn, Karolynne, Leena, Sharla, Sharleen, Sharlene, Sharline, Sharlyne. International: Karoline, Lina, Linchen, Line(German), Carolinda, Karila(Swedish), Karoliina(Finnish), Karolina, Karolinka(Polish), Karola, Karolina(Czech). CARON.Welsh, ‘loving, kind-hearted, charitable’, or variation of KAREN. Though it sounds like Karen, this spelling makes the name more distinctive. Caren, Carin, Caronne, Carren, Carron, Carrone, Caryn. CARRIE.Diminutive ofCAROLorCAROLINE. Retains some charm, thanks to Sex and the City heroine Carrie Bradshaw, but was last stylish in the disco era. Carey, Carree, Carrey, Carri, Carria, Carry, Cary, Kari, Karri. CARSON.Scottish and Irish, ‘son of the marsh dwellers’. Very popular surname choice – at least as a boy’s name – beginning to catch on for girls. Carsen, Carsin, Carsyn, Karsen, Karsin, Karson, Karsyn. CARTER.English occupational name, ‘cart maker or driver’. One of the megapopular Wasp-ish surname names for boys just dipping its toe into the girls’ pool. CARYN.Danish variation ofKAREN. Modernised spelling not enough to revive Karen. Caren, Carren, Carrin, Carryn, Caryna, Caryne, Carynn. CARYS.(KAR-is) Welsh, ‘love’. Common in Wales, this name was introduced elsewhere when Welsh-born Catherine Zeta-Jones and husband Michael Douglas chose it for their daughter. Caris, Caryse, Ceris, Cerys. CASCADE.Word name. It’s a nature name evocative of waterfalls. But in the US it’s also a washing-up detergent. CASEY.Irish, ‘brave in battle’. One of the original unisex Irish surname names, energetic Casey bounced onto the scene in the 1960s, then peaked in the 1980s for both boys and girls. Cacey, Caci, Cacie, Cacy, Caesi, Caisee, Caisie, Caisey, Caisi, Caisie, Casce, Casci, Cascy, Casi, Casie, Casse, Cassee, Cassey, Cassye, Casy, Cayce, Caycee, Caycey, Cayci, Caycie, Cayse, Caysee, Caysey, Caysi, Caysie, Caysy, Cazzi, Kacey, Kacie, Kacy, Kacyee, Kasey, Kaycee, Kaycey, Kayci, Kaycie, Kaysee, Kaysey, Kaysi, Kaysie, Kaysy, Kaysyee. CASHMERE.Word name. Soft, luxurious – and out of the ordinary. CASS.Diminutive ofCASSANDRA. Once tied to the unfortunate Mama Cass, still feels a bit flimsy to stand on its own. Cassee, Cassey, Cassi, Cassii, Cassy, Casy, Kass, Kassi, Kassie, Kassy. CASSANDRA.Greek, ‘prophetess’. The name of the mythological sibyl condemned never to be believed has been used for exotic characters in movies and soap operas. Ethereal and delicate, it was well used in the 1990s, but is now descending in popularity. Casandera, Casandra, Casandre, Casandrea, Casandrey, Casandri, Casandria, Casanndra, Casaundra, Casaundre, Casaundri, Casaundria, Casondra, Casondre, Casondri, Casondria, Cass, Cassandre, Cassandry, Cassatindra, Cassaundra, Cassaundre, Cassaundri, Cassi, Cassie, Cassondra, Cassondre, Cassondri, Cassondria, Cassundra, Cassundre, Cassundri, Cassundrai, Kasandera, Kassandra, Kassi, Kassie, Kassy, Sande, Sandee, Sandera, Sandi, Sandie, Sandy, Saundra, Sohndra, Sondra, Zandra. CASSIA.Greek, ‘cinnamon’. It’s rare to find a name that’s truly unusual yet has a stylish feel. This one has the added attraction of the sweet smell of cinnamon. Casia, Casiah, Cass, Cassa, Casya. CASSIDY.Irish ‘curly-haired’. This one has fallen off its peak. Casadee, Casadi, Casadie, Casidee, Casidi, Casidy, Cass, Cassaday, Cassadee, Cassadey, Cassadi, Cassadie, Cassadina, Cassady, Cassandre, Cassandri, Cassandry, Cassaundra, Casseday, Cassi, Cassiddy, Cassidee, Cassidey, Cassidi, Cassidie, Cassie, Cassity, Cassondra, Kassadey, Kassidy, Kassodey. International: Caiside(Irish). CASSIE.Diminutive ofCASSANDRA. Though not much in use, still retains a cozy Little House on the Prairie-type pioneer feel. CASSIOPEIA.(kass-ee-OH-pee-uh) Greek mythology name. This name of a mythological mother who became a stellar constellation is challenging but intriguing, and has all those softening Cass nicknames available. Cassio, Cassiopia, Kassiopeia, Kassiopia. CATALINA.Spanish variation ofCATHERINE,place name. This name of an island in sight of Los Angeles makes an attractive and newly stylish variation on the overused Catherine or Caitlin. Cataleen, Catalena, Catalene, Catalia, Catalin, Catalyn, Catalyna, Cateline. CATERINA.Italian variation ofKATHERINE. If your ancestry is Italian, you may want to consider this elegant twist on a classic. CATHERINE.Greek, ‘pure’. One of the oldest and most consistently well-used female names, with endless variations and nicknames. The C form feels more gently old-fashioned and feminine than the more popular K versions. Most stylish nickname right now: Kate…or Cate, ? la Blanchett. Caitlinn, Caity, Caren, Carri, Carrin, Caryn, Carynn, Cass, Cassey, Cassi, Cassie, Cataina, Cataleena, Catarena, Cate, Caterin, Caterine, Catey, Catha, Cathaleen, Cathaline, Catharen,Catharin, Catharyn, Catharyna, Catharyne, Cathe, Cathee, Cathelin, Cathenne, Catheren, Catherene, Catheria, Catherin, Catherina, Catherinn, Catheryn, Cathey, Cathi, Cathie, Cathirin, Cathiryn, Cathleen, Cathlene, Cathline, Cathrinn, Cathryn, Catina, Catlaina, Catreeka, Catreena, Catrelle, Catrice, Catricia, Catrika, Catrine, Kait, Kaitey, Kaitie, Kaitlin, Kaitlinne, Kaitrin, Kaitrine, Kaitrinna, Kaitriona, Kaitrionagh, Kaity, Kat, Kataleen, Katalina, Katchen, Kate, Katee, Katelle, Katey, Katha, Katharyn, Katherin, Katherina, Katherine, Katheryn, Katherynn, Kathi, Kathie, Kathileen, Kathiryn, Kathleen, Kathlene, Kathleyn, Kathline, Kathrine, Kathrinna, Kathryn, Kathryne, Kathy, Kathyleen, Kathyrine, Katica, Katie, Katina, Katinka, Trina, Trinette. CATHLEEN.Spelling variation ofKATHLEEN. Way more unusual, and distinctive, than the now-cliched K version. Caithlyn, Cathaleen, Cathelin, Cathelina, Cathelyn, Cathi, Cathleana, Cathleene, Cathlene, Cathleyn, Cathlin, Cathline, Cathlyn, Cathlyne, Cathlynn, Cathy, Catleen, Catlin, Catline. Catherine/Katherine’s International Variations CAYENNE.Word name. Spicy. CAYLEE.Spelling variation ofKAYLEE. Softer spelling of the wildly trendy Kaylee. Caela, Caelee, Caeleigh, Caeley, Caeli, Caelie, Caelly, Cailee, Caileigh, Cailey, Caili, Cailie, Cailley, Caillie, Caleah, Caleigh, Caley, Cayle, Cayleah, Cayleigh, Cayley, Cayli, Caylie, Cayly, Kaileigh, Kailey, Kailie, Kaleigh, Kaylee, Kayleigh, Kayley. CEARA.(KEER-ah) Spelling variation of ItalianCIARA. Would tend to be mispronounced as Sierra. CECILIA.Latin, ‘blind one’. Delicate feminine form of Cecil, from a Roman clan name, beginning to be rediscovered. Saint Cecilia is the patron of music. Caceli, Cacelia, Cece, Ceceilia, Ceceley, Cecely, Ceceli, Cecil, Cecila, Cecilea, Ceciley, Ceciliane, Cecilija, Cecilla, Cecille, Cecillia, Cecilya, Cecilyann, Ceclia, Cecyl, Cecyle, Cee, Ceil, Ceila, Ceilagh, Ceileh, Ceileigh, Ceilena, Cela, Cele, Celia, Celie, Celli, Cellie, Cesia, Cesilia, Cesya, Cicelia, Cicely, Cicily, Cile, Cilia, Cilly, Cissey, Cissi, Cissie, Cissy, Kikelia, Kikylia, Sacilia, Sasilia, Sasilie, Seelia, Seelie, Seely, Sesilia, Sessaley, Sesseelya, Sessile, Sessilly, Sessily, Sheila, Sile, Siseel, Sisely, Siselya, Sisile, Sisifiya, Sissela, Sissie, Sissy. International: S?le(Irish), S?leas(Scottish), C?cile(French), Caecilia(German), Silje(Norwegian, Danish), Silja(Finnish), Cecylia(Polish), Cecilija, Cilka(Slovene), Sisel, Zisel(Yiddish). CECILY.Feminine variation ofCECIL. As dainty as a lace handkerchief. CEDAR.Word name. Fresh and fragrant nature name more apt to be used for a boy. CEIL.Short form ofCECILIA. Vintage canasta-playing name that could be due for a comeback. CELESTE.Latin, ‘heavenly’. Softly pretty and somewhat quaint name with heavenly overtones, which kids might associate with Queen Celeste of Babar’s elephant kingdom: a light and lovely choice that’s finally getting noticed. If you want a more unusual variation, consider Celestia – or even Celestial. Cela, Cele, Celeeste, Celense, Celes, Celesia, Celesley, Celest, Celesta, Celestena, Celestene, Celestia, Celestial, Celestijna, Celestin, Celestine, Celestyn, Celestyna, Celestyne, Celia, Celie, Celina, Celinda, Celine, Celinka, Celka, Cellest, Celleste, Celueste, Celyna, Saleste, Salestia, Seleste, Selestia, Selestina, Selestine, Selestyna, Selestyne, Silesta, Silestena, Silestia, Silestijna, Silestina, Silestyna, Silestyne, Tina, Tinka. International: Celestina(Italian, Spanish). CELIA.Diminutive ofCECILIA. Underused today, but splendidly sleek and feminine, Celia was scattered throughout Shakespeare and other Elizabethan literature, but still manages to feel totally modern. Ceilia, Celie, Celya. CELIE.(seel-ee) French variation ofCECELIA. Attractive, underused name made famous by the heroine of The Color Purple. Author Toni Morrison is widely acknowledged as a master of character names. CELINDA.Variation ofCELESTE. Feels like a hybrid of Celine and Melinda – either of which would be preferable. Celinde, Salinda, Salinde, Selinda, Selinde. C?LINE.French variation ofCELESTE. French Canadian singer Dion made us notice this variation, but most parents would prefer the Selene spelling. Celina, Selene. CERELIA.Latin, ‘relating to springtime’. Melodic and unusual choice, perfect for a child born in April or May. Cerelia, Cerelisa, Cerella, Ceres, Sarelia, Sarilia. CERES, CERYS.(SEER-eez) Roman mythology name. Little known name of the goddess of the harvest, a possibility for the parent seeking something original, but with the aura of classical myth. Cerys made a brief appearance in the Top 100 in recent years. CERIDWEN.(keh-RID-wen) Welsh, ‘beautiful as a poem’. Celtic goddess of poetry, though less-than-poetic name. Ceri. CERISE.(se-rees) French, ‘cherry’. Preferable to the English version. Cera, Cerea, Cerese, Ceri, Ceria, Cerice, Cericia, Cerissa, Cerisse, Cerra, Cerria, Cerrice, Cerrina, Cerrita, Cerryce, Ceryce, Cherise, Sarese, Sherise. CERULEAN.Colour name. Vivid new sky-blue colour name, at present used mostly for boys. CESSAIR.(KAH-seer) Irish, ‘sorrow, affliction’. Mythological widow whose tears rained on Ireland, and whose name is lovely but, if pronounced phonetically, might be taken for a charter airline. CEYLON.(say-lon) place name. Lovely, exotic, tea-scented possibility undiscovered by baby namers. C?ZANNE.Artist name. The last syllable being a female name makes the surname of the great French Post-Impressionist a creative natural for a girl. CHABLIS.(sha-BLEE) French place and wine name. Chardonnay’s twin sister. Chabeli, Chabelly, Chabely, Chablee, Chabley, Chabli. CHAKA.Hebrew, ‘life’. We all know that Chaka really means disco. CHAKRA.Sanskrit, ‘wheel, circle’. For devoted New Agers only: yoga practitioners know this as the centre of spiritual energy in the body.Chaka, Chakara, Chakaria, Chakena, Chakina, Chakira, Chakrah, Chakria, Chakriya, Chakyra. CHAMBRAY.French word name. Another one of those word names, like Cachet, with a pretty sound and a silly meaning: chambray is a fabric. Chambrae, Chambre, Chambree, Chambr?e, Chambrey, Chambria, Chambrie. CHAN.Cambodian, ‘sweet- smelling tree’. Common Asian surname also works as a first. CHANAH.Hebrew variation ofHANNAH. Begs for the guttural pronunciation that’s a problem in this culture. Chaanach, Chaanah, Chana, Chanae, Chanach, Chanai, Chanay, Chanea, Chanie. CHANDELLE.French, ‘candle’. Sounds classy…but isn’t. Chandal, Chandel, Chantelle, Shandal, Shandel, Shandelle, Shantelle. CHANDRA.Hindi, ‘goddess of the moon’. Name last groovy when incense and meditation were hot new concepts. Candra, Chanda, Chandee, Chandi, Chandie, Chandin, Chandrae, Chandrah, Chandray, Chandre, Chandrea, Chandrelle, Chandria, Shandra. CHANEL.French, ‘dweller near the canal’. Fans of the classic French designer would now more fashionably choose Coco. Chanal, Chaneel, Chaneil, Chanele, Chanell, Chanelle, Channal, Channel, Channell, Channelle, Chenel, Chenell, Chenelle, Shanel, Shanell, Shanelle, Shannel, Shannelle, Shenelle, Shynelle. CHANTAL.French, ‘stone, boulder’. Better to look to one of the more modern names popular for little girls in France today: Oc?ane, L?a, Manon.Chandal, Chanta, Chantaal, Chantae, Chantael, Chantai, Chantala, Chantale, Chantall, Chantalle, Chantara, Chantarai, Chantasia, Chantay, Chantaye, Chante, Chant?, Chant?a, Chanteau, Chantee, Chanteese, Chantel, Chantela, Chantele, Chantell, Chantella, Chantelle, Chanter, Chantey, Chantez, Chanti, Chantia, Chantle, Chantoya, Chantrel, Chantrell, Chantrelle, Chantrill, Chatell, Chaunte, Chauntea, Chaunt?a, Chauntee, Chauntel, Shantal, Shantalle, Shantel, Shantell, Shantelle, Shontel, Shontelle. CHANTILLY.French place name noted for lace. Look for it in the credits of a soft-porn film. Chantiel, Chantielle, Chantil, Chantila, Chantil?e, Chantill, Chantille. CHARDONNAY.French, a dry white wine. If you’re actually considering this as a name for your child, you must have had a glass too many. Save it for your poodle. Char, Chardae, Chardnay, Chardney, Chardon, Chardonae, Chardonai, Chardonay, Chardonaye, Chardonee, Chardonna, Chardonnae, Chardonnai, Chardonnee, Chardonn?e,Chardonney, Shardonay, Shardonnay. CHARIS.(KAR-is) Greek, ‘grace’. Reference to the mythological Three Graces of womanly charm, this one representing charity. Charece, Chareece, Chareesse, Chareeze, Charese, Chari, Charice, Charie, Charish, Charissa, Charisse, Charysse, Karas, Karis, Karisse. CHARISMA.Word name. Trying to imbue your child with charisma at birth involves a certain degree of chutzpah. It was brought into the mix by ex–Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress Charisma Carpenter, who was named after an Avon perfume. CHARITY.Virtue name. Faith and Hope are on the rise, while the arguably more melodic Charity is fading. Carissa, Carita, Chareese, Charesa, Charese, Charessa, Charesse, Chariety, Charis, Charisa, Charise, Charisha, Charissa, Charisse, Charissee, Charista, Charita, Charitee, Chariti, Charitey, Charitye, Chariza, Charyssa, Cherri, Cherry, Sharitee, Sharitey, Shanty, Sharity, Sharitye. CHARLENE.Variation ofCAROLINEorCHARLOTTE. Charlene wears a beehive hairdo and a too-tight turquoise tube top. Char, Charla, Charlaina, Charlaine, Charlane, Charlanna, Charlayna, Charlayne, Charlea, Charlean, Charleen, Charleene, Charleesa, Charlena, Charlenae, Charlesena, Charline, Charlyn, Charlyne, Charlynn, Charlynne, Charlzina, Charoline. CHARLIE.Diminutive ofCHARLESorCHARLOTTE. One of the original oh-so-cute boys’ names for girls, now a bit last decade, recently falling out of the Top 100. Charle, Charlee, Charleigh, Charley, Charli, Charly, Chatty, Sharli, Sharlie. CHARLISE.Variation ofCHARLOTTE. A name that owes its very life to a star: elegant blond South African actress Theron. Charlise. CHARLOTTE.French, ‘little and womanly’. An elegant royal name now at Number 12 with such varied role models as Charlotte Bronte and Charlotte of E. B. White’s Web – not to mention Charlotte Church. If You Like Charlotte, You Might Love… Arabella Caroline Celia Clementine Colette Georgina Jane Juliet Lucy Madeline Margaret Nora Rosa Sophia Susannah Carleen, Carline, Carlyne, Char, Chara, Charil, Charill, Charl, Charla, Charlaine, Charlet, Charlett, Charletta, Charlette, Chariot, Charlisa, Charlita, Charlott, Charlottie, Charlotty, Charolet, Charolette, Charolot, Charolotte, Charly, Charlyne, Charmain, Charmion, Charo, Charty, Cheryn, Cheryll, Karleen, Karlene, Karlika, Karlotte, Karlyne, Lotta, Lottey, Lotty, Sharel, Sharil, Sharla, Sharlaine, Sharlet, Sharlette, Sharlot, Sharmain, Sharmayne, Sharmian, Sharmion, Sharyl, Sherie, Sherye, Sheryl. International: S?arlait(Irish Gaelic), Carlotta(Italian), Carlota(Spanish), Karlotta(German and Greek),Charlotta(Swedish), Sarolta(Hungarian), Sharlotta(Russian). CHARMAINE.Latin, ‘a singer’. An ancient name soiled by toilet paper association. Charamy, Charma, Charmae, Charmagne, Charmaigne, Charmain, Charmalique, Charman, Charmane, Charmar, Charmara, Charmayane, Charmayne, Charmeen, Charmeine, Charmene, Charmese, Charmian, Charmin, Charmine, Charmion, Charmisa, Charmon, Charmyan, Charmyn, Charmyne, Charmynne, Sharmain, Sharman, Sharmane, Sharmayne, Sharmian, Sharmion, Sharmyn. CHARMIAN.Greek, ‘joy’. Shakespearean name less charming than the sound might imply. Charmiane, Charmin, Charmyan, Sharmian, Sharmiane, Sharmyan. CHARNA.Jewish/Yiddish, ‘dark, black’. Popular name in Israel, worth considering for a dark-haired daughter with a bit of a bohemian cast. Charnke, Charnele. CHARO.Spanish variation ofROSA. Arriba! CHASTITY.Virtue name. One of the original so-weird-it’s-cruel starbaby names. Chasa Dee, Chasadie, Chasady, Chasaty, Chasidee, Chasidey, Chasidie, Chasidy, Chasiti, Chasitie, Chasitti, Chasity, Chassedi, Chassidi, Chassidy, Chassiti, Chassity, Chassy, Chasta, Chastady, Chastidy, Chastin, Chastitee, Chastitie, Chastitey, Chastney, Chasty, Chasydi. CHAVA.Hebrew, ‘life’. Ava or Eva are more appealing. Chabah, Chavae, Chavah, Chavalah, Chavarra, Chavarria, Chave, Chav?, Chavette, Chaviva, Chavvis, Chaya, Chayka, Eva, Hava, Haya, Kaija, Ka?a. CHAYA.Hebrew, ‘life’. For parents who want the kosher version of Eve. Chaike, Chaye, Chayka, Chayla, Chaylah, Chaylea, Chaylee, Chaylene, Chayra. CHELSEA.London and New York place name. Once swinging but it recently dropped out of the Top 100. Chelce, Chelcee, Chelcey, Chelci, Chelcie, Chelcy, Chelese, Chelesia, Chelli, Chellie, Chellise, Chellsie, Chelsa, Chelsae, Chelsah, Chelsay, Chelse, Chelseah, Chelsee, Chelsei, Chelseigh, Chelsey, Chelsi, Chelsia, Chelsie, Chelssie, Chelssey, Chelssy, Chelsy, Chelsye, Cheslea, Cheslee, Chesley, Cheslie, Chessea, Chessie. CHER.French, ‘beloved’. There’s only one – and that’s plenty. Chere, Cheree, Cherey, Cheri, Cherice, Cherie, Cheriee, Cherise, Cherish, Cherri, Cherrie, Cherry, Chery, Cherye, Cherylee, Cheryiie, Sher, Sherelle, Sherey, Sheri, Sherice, Sherie, Sherry, Sheryll. CHERILYN.Variation ofCHERYL. Cher’s pre-icon birth name. Charalin, Charalyn, Charalynne, Charelin, Charelyn, Charelynn, Charilyn, Charilynn, Cheralin, Cheralyn, Cherilin, Cherilynn, Cherilynne, Cherralyn, Cherrilin, Cherrilyn, Cherrylene, Cherrylin, Cherryline, Cherrylyn, Cherylin, Cheryline, Cheryllyn, Cherylyn, Sharalin, Sharalyn, Sharelyn, Sharelynne, Sharilynn, Sheralin, Shera-Lynne, Sheritin, Sherralin, Sherrilyn, Sherrylene, Sherryline, Sherrylyn, Sherylin, Sherylyn. CHERISH.English word name. So sweet it makes our teeth hurt. Charisa, Charise, Charish, Charisha, Cheerish, Cherece, Chereese, Cheresa, Cherese, Cheresse, Cherice, Cherise, Cherishe, Cheriss, Cherissa, Cherisse, Cherrise, Cherrish, Sherish. CHERRY.Fruit name. Why give your future teenager even more reason to hate you? Chere, Cheree, Cherey, Cherida, Cherise, Cherita, Cherrey, Cherri, Cherrie, Cherrita, Cherry-Ann, Cherry-Anne, Cherrye, Chery, Cherye. CHERYL.Modern invented name. As frozen in the pre-Beatles era as short white gloves. Charel, Charell, Charelle, Charil, Charyl, Cherell, Cherelle, Cheriann, Cherianne, Cherell, Cherrelle, Cherryl, Cheryl-Ann, Cheryl-Anne, Cheryle, Charylee, Cheryll, Cherylle, Cheryl-Lee, Cherilynn, Chyril, Chyrill, Sharel, Sharil, Sharyl, Sharyll, Sheral, Sherianne, Sheril, Sherill, Sheryl, Shyril, Shyrill. CHESLEIGH.English, ‘camp on the meadow’. Chelsea with dyslexia. Cheslea, Chesley, Chesli, Cheslie, Chesly, Chesslea, Chesslee, Chessley, Chessli, Chesslie, Chessly. CHESNEY.English from French, ‘oak grove’. We don’t care how much you love Kenny: this is going too far. Chesnea, Chesneigh, Chesnie, Chesni, Chesny, Chessnea, Chessney, Chessni, Chessnie, Chessny. CHEYENNE.Sioux, ‘people of a different language’. The name of a courageous tribe, Cheyenne became popular in the US in the 1990s, inspiring a wide range of spelling variations – ShyAnne is one example that’s still on the rise. Chayan, Chayanne, Chey, Cheyan, Cheyana, Cheyane, Cheyann, Cheyanna, Cheyanne, Cheye, Cheyeana, Cheyeanna, Cheyeanne, Cheyeene, Cheyena, Cheyene, Cheyenna, Cheyna, Cheyne, Cheynee, Cheyney, Cheynna, Chi, Chi-Anna, Chie, Chyan, Chyana, Chyane, Chyann, Chyanna, Chyanne, Chyeana, Chyenn, Chyenna, Chyenne, Chyennee, Shayan, Shayanne, Shianne, Shyann, Shyanne. CHIARA.(kee-AHR-a) Italian, ‘light’ or ‘clear’. Romantic Italian name that’s familiar but not widely used: a winner. Cheara, Chiarra, Kiara, Kiarra. CHINA.Place name. One of the first and still most striking place names; preferably used in its original spelling. Chinaetta, Chinah, Chinasa, Chinda, Chinea, Chinesia, Chinita,Chinna, Chinwa, Chyna, Chynna. CHIQUITA.Spanish, ‘little one’. Banana. Chaqueta, Chaquita, Chica, Chickie, Chicky, Chikata, Chikita, Chiqueeta, Chiqueta, Chiquila, Chiquin, Chiquite, Chiquitha, Chiquithe, Chiquitia, Chiquitta. CHLOE.Greek, ‘young green shoot’. Pretty Greek name found in romantic poetry is in the Top 10, and for several years has been one of the most popular names in England. Chl?e, Chloee, Chloie, Clo, Cloe, Cloei, Cloey, Cloie, Khloe, Khloey, Kloe. International: Chlo?(French). CHLORIS.Greek, ‘pale’. Antiseptic sounding. Caloress, Cloris, Clorissa, Khloris, Kloris. CHRISTA.German, short form ofCHRISTINA. Fading since the 1970s – but still a lovely name. CHRISTABEL.Latin/French, ‘fair Christian’. Though Isabel is a smash hit, Christabel still sounds slightly like what you’d name a cow. Charystobel, Christabell, Christabella, Christabelle, Christable, Christobel, Chrystabel, Chrystabelle, Cristabel, Cristabella, Cristabelle, Crystabel, Crystabella, Kristabel. CHRISTIAN.Greek, ‘anointed one,’ English, from Latin, ‘follower of Christ’. While Christian is still on the rise for boys, for girls it’s heading down along with the rest of the Chris names. But we like it and think it sounds more original than the girlier versions. International: Carsten(Low German), Kristen(Danish). CHRISTIANA.Feminine variation ofCHRISTIAN. Not cutting edge, but still graceful and feminine. Christiane, Christianna. CHRISTINA.Greek, ‘anointed, Christian’. This pretty and feminine classic may be trending downwards, but it’s never out of style. A royal name best used in its full glory. Chris, Chrisa, Chrisie, Chrissa, Chrissee, Chrissta, Chrisstan, Chrissten, Chrissti, Chrisstie, Chrissty, Christa, Christain, Christal, Christalene, Christalin, Christaline, Christall, Christalle, Christalyn, Christan, Christana, Christann, Christanna, Christeen, Christeena, Christella, Christen, Christena, Christene, Christi, Christian, Christiana, Christiann, Christi-Ann, Christianna, Christianne, Christi-Anne, Christianni, Christiaun, Christie, Christiean, Christien, Christiena, Christienne, Christin, Christinaa, Christinan, Christinea, Christini, Christinia, Christinna, Christinnah, Christiona, Christmar, Christum, Christy, Christy-Ann, Christy-Anne, Christyn, Christyna, Christynna, Chrys, Chrysa, Chryssa, Chrysta, Chrystalle, Chrystee, Chrystelle, Chrysten, Chrystena, Chrysti, Chrystie, Chrystina, Chrystine, Chrystle, Chrysty, Chrystyan, Chrystyna, Cris, Crissa, Crissey, Crissie, Crissy, Cristal, Cristeena, Cristelle, Cristi, Cristiann, Cristie, Cryssa, Crysta, Crystene, Crystian, Crystie, Crystin, Crystine, Crystyn, Crystyna, Crystyne, Khrissy, Khristeen, Khristena, Khristine, Kit, Kris, Kristeen, Kristeena, Kristena, Kristi, Kristie, Kristy, Kristyna, Krystina, Krystyna, Teena, Teyna. CHRISTMAS.English word name. Day name long and quietly used. Prettier and more modern than Noel or Noelle. CIA.Short form. What’s it short for? Cynthia or most any other C name. But too close to the Central Intelligence Agency. CIARA.(KEER-a) Irish, ‘black haired’. Very popular in Ireland, more familiar here as the more easily pronounced Keira or Kyra. Ceaira, Ceairah, Ceairra, Cearaa, Cearie, Cearah, Cearra, Ceira, Ceirah, Ceire, Ceiria, Ceirra, Cera, Chiarah, Ciaara, Ciaera, Ciaira, Ciarah, Ciaria, Ciarra, Ciarrah, Cieara, Ciearra, Ciearria, Ciera, Cierra, Cierrah, Cierre, Cierria, Cierro, Cioria, Cyarra, Cyera, Cyerra, Cyerria, Keera, Kira, Searra, Siara. International: Ceara, Ciar(Irish). CICELY.English variation ofCECILIA. Prissy but pretty Victorian name, a surprise choice for comedienne Sandra Bernhard. Cecilie, Cecily, Chilla, Chilli, Cicelia, Cicelie, Ciciley, Cicilia, Cicilie, Cicily, Cile, Cillie, Cilly, Cilka. Christina’s International Variations CIEL.(see-EL) French, ‘sky’. Simple yet evocative, though many will misunderstand it as ‘seal’. CILLA.Diminutive ofPRISCILLA. Takes the priss out of Priscilla. CIMMARON.Place name. A name that conjures up rugged images of the American wild west. Cimeron, Simarron, Simeron. CINDERELLA.French, ‘little ash-girl’. One familiar name never used for real people, for obvious reasons. Cendrillon, Cenerentola, Cindella, Cindie, Cindy, Ella. CINDY.Diminutive ofCYNTHIAorLUCINDA. Cindy’s gone from cute teenager to peppy mum, but it’s not for her daughter. Cindee, Cindi, Cindie, Cynda, Cyndal, Cyndale, Cyndall, Cyndee, Cyndel, Cyndi, Cyndia, Cyndie, Cyndle, Cyndy, Sindi, Sindie, Sindy, Syndi, Syndie, Syndy. CINNABAR.Word name. Associated with a vivid red-orange-coloured lacquer, would make a more than distinctive colour-related choice. CINNAMON.Word name. The only spice name we have a taste for is Saffron. Cynnamon, Sinemmon, Sinnamon. CIPRIANA.Greek, ‘from the Island of Cyprus’. Offbeat and exotic place name. CIRCE.(SUR-see) Greek mythology name. In The Odyssey, she’s the nymph who can turn men into swine. CITRON.French, ‘lemon’. Gallic twist on word or nature name, has a nice lemony feel. CLAIRE.French variation ofCLARE. Luminous, simple and strong, Claire is one of those special names that is familiar yet distinctive, feminine but not frilly, combining historical depth with a modern edge. And though it’s enjoying revived popularity, it will never be seen as trendy. Great middle name choice as well. Ceara, Cearra, Cheeara, Ciara, Ciarra, Clair, Claireen, Claireta, Clairey, Clairice, Clairinda, Clairine, Clairissa, Clairita, Clairy, Clarabel, Clarabelle, Clare, Clarene, Claresta, Clareta, Clarey, Clari, Claribel, Claribella, Claribelle, Clarice, Clarie, Clarinda, Clarine, Clarisse, Clarita, Clarrie, Clarry, Clary, Claryce, Clayre, Clayrette, Clayrice, Clayrinda, Clayrissa, Cliara, Clorinda, Klaire, Klare, Klaretta, Klaryce, Klayre, Kliara, Klyara, Sinclair, Sinclaire. International: Clairette, Clarette(French), Chiara, Chiarina, Claretta, Clarina, Clarissa(Italian), Clareta, Clarisa, Clarita(Spanish), Clarissa, Klarissa(German), Klarika(Hungarian), Klara(Slavic), Kalea(Hawaiian). CLANCY.Irish ‘red-haired warrior’. Irish surnames are hot, and this one can cross the line to work for girls, replacing the outdated Casey. CLARA.Latin, ‘bright, clear’. European-sounding Claire variation that was hugely popular a century ago, and is just starting to revive today, picked up on by parents like Ewan McGregor. Claira, Claire, Clarabelle, Claramae, Claramay, Clare, Claresta, Claretha, Clarey, Clari, Claribel, Clarie, Clarina, Clarinda,Clarine, Claris, Clarisse, Claritza, Clarry, Clary, Claryce, Cleriese, Klara, Klarice, Klarise, Klarra. International: Clarice, Clarissa(Italian), Clarita(Spanish). CLARABELLE.Latin, ‘bright and beautiful’. This is a clown and cow name. Clarabella, Claribel, Claribell. CLARE.Latin, ‘bright’. This is the original, more prosaic spelling, but the airier Claire now dominates. CLARET.Colour name, also Bordeaux wine. Rich purplish- red colour choice that may gain favour along with Claire, though the wine connection can’t be ignored. CLARICE.Variation ofCLARE. Murdered by Hannibal Lecter. Claris, Clarise, Clarisse, Claryce, Cleriese, Clerissa, Clerisse, Clerysse, Klarice, Klarise, Klarissa, Klaryce. CLARION.Music name. Tuneful variation on the Claire names. CLARISSA.Italian, variation ofCLARA. Although it had its day in the 1990s, it still could make a pretty and dainty alternative to the overused Melissa and Vanessa. Clairisa, Clairissa, Clairisse, Claraissa, Clarecia, Claressa, Claresta, Clarisa, Clarissia, Claritza, Clarizza, Clarrisa, Clarrissa, Clerissa. CLARITY.Virtue name. One of the newly rediscovered virtue names, like Peace and Justice, with old-fashioned charm and a clear vision for the future. CLAUDE.Latin, ‘lame’. Ancient clan name used in France for girls as well as boys, which makes a distinctive choice here, too. CLAUDETTE.French, feminine variation ofCLAUDE. Leave this dated feminisation back with Annette and Paulette. CLAUDIA.Latin, feminine variation of CLAUDE. A classic name with a hint of ancient Roman splendour that has never been truly in or truly out, Claudia still feels like a strong, modern choice – though Claude or Claudie may be more special. Claudee, Claudeen, Supermodel Babies Cecily Clementine Dylan Blue Ella Frankie-Jean Iris Jasmine Kaia Jordan Leni Saffron Sahara Sahteene Sailor Scyler Pim Skyla Lily Lake Tallulah Pine Claudel, Claudella, Claudelle, Claudetta, Claudex, Claudey, Claudi, Claudiana, Claudiane, Claudie, Claudie-Anne, Claudy, Claudya, Clodia, Klaudia, Klod. International: Claude, Claudette, Claudine(French),Claudeta, Claudina, Claudita(Spanish). CLAUDIE.French, feminine variation ofCLAUDE. Attractive form still tr?s Parisienne. CLAUDINE.French, feminine variation ofCLAUD. There are much chicer versions of this name today. CLEA.(CLAY-uh) Literary name. Attractive and unusual name that may be a variation of Cleo, possibly invented by Lawrence Durrell for a character in his Alexandria Quartet. Claea, Klea. CLELIA.Latin, ‘glorious’. Obscure yet not unappealing name of a legendary heroine of Rome. CLEMATIS.Greek flower name. Flower name that sounds a bit too much like a disease. Clematia, Clematice, Clematiss. CLEMENCE.(CLAY-mahnz) French feminine variation ofCLEMENT. Calm, composed and chic. Clemency. CLEMENCIA.Latin, ‘mercy’. This ancient feminine form is the kind of name your child will grow into…at least by her fiftieth birthday. CLEMENCY.Virtue name. May come back along with the more familiar Puritan virtue names, like Hope and Faith; has a nice three-syllable sound, and funky nickname. Clem. Clem, Clemmie. CLEMENTINE.Latin, ‘mercy’. Fashionable name, but if ‘Oh, My Darlin‘ ’ still rings too loudly in your ears, consider pronouncing it Clementeen – or even using Clementina, which rhymes with Christina. Stylish supermodel Claudia Schiffer chose it for her daughter. Clem, Clemencia, Clemencie, Clemency, Clementya, Clementyna, Clementyn, Clemenza, Clemette, Clemmie, Clemmy, Klementina. International: Cl?mence(French), Clementia, Clementina(Spanish),Clemenza, Klementyna(Polish). CLEO.English, short form ofCLEOPATRA. One of the few girls’ names to boast the cool- yet-lively o ending, but we prefer Clio’s history. Clio. CLEOPATRA.Greek, ‘her father’s renown’. A royal name in ancient Egypt that’s never quite made it to the modern world. Chleo, Clea, Cleo, Cleona, Cleone, Cleonie, Cleta, Clio. CLIANTHA.Greek, ‘glory-flower’. Another flower name that sounds uncomfortably disease-like. Cleantha, Cleanthe, Clianthe, Kliantha, Klianthe. CLIO. (CLEE-o) Greek mythology name. The name of the ancient Greek mythological muse of history is rich with modern charm and would make an intriguing choice. Clea, Klio. CLODAGH.(CLO-dah) Irish river name. Extremely popular in Ireland, but here, we’re afraid, a bit cloddy. CLORINDA.Latin literary name. Romantic name invented by a sixteenth-century poet, but has a synthetic sound today. Chlorinda, Clarinda. CLOTILDA.German, ‘renowned battle’. Old and aristocratic European name that would be tough for a kid to pull off today. Clothilda, Clothilde, Clotilde, Klothilda, Klothilde. CLOUD.Nature name. This kind of plainspoken nature name (think River and Sunshine) still carries a whiff of the hippy. Cloudy. CLOVE.Nature name. Spice name a tad more piquant than Saffron or Cinnamon. CLOVER.Flower name. Charming, perky choice if you want to move beyond hothouse blooms like Rose and Lily. COBALT.Colour and nature name. Even among the range of blue names on the current baby naming palette – Blue itself, Azure, Cerulean, Teal, Aqua, Cyan, Indigo – Cobalt remains the most unusual. COCO.Spanish nickname. A new starbaby favourite, inspired by legendary designer Chanel and chosen by Courteney Cox, that the press loves to ridicule – but we predict it’s heading for more widespread acceptance and even popularity. COLBY.English, ‘from a coal town’. One of the first reality show-inspired names in the US; hugely trendy for boys but just starting for girls. Colbee, Colbey, Colbi, Colbie, Kolbee, Kolbey, Kolbi, Kolbie, Kolby. COLETTE.French, diminutive ofNICOLE. Modern parents might be attracted to this name because of the French novelist – though pen name Colette was actually her last name, Sidonie her first. Coe, Coetta, Coleta, Coletta, Collet, Collete, Collett, Colletta, Collette, Kolette, Kollette, Nicolette. COLINE.Feminine variation ofCOLIN. Wishy-washy, and too similar to Colleen. Colena, Colene, Coletta, Collina, Colline, Niceleen, Nicolene, Nicoline, Nicolyne. International: Colina(Spanish). COLLEEN.Irish, ‘girl’. Midcentury Irish-American favourite, never used in Ireland itself, being the generic word for ‘girl’; rarely given today. Coe, Coel, Cole, Coleen, Colena, Colene, Coley, Colina, Colinda, Coline, Colleene, Collen, Collene, Collie, Collina, Colline, Colly, Kolleen, Kolline. COLOMBIA.Latin, ‘dove,’ place name. South American country name, with peaceful connotations. COLOMBINE.English from Latin, ‘dove’. Flower name too redolent of disaster. Columbine. COLORADO.Place name. Inspired by the American western state. COLUMBA.Latin, ‘dove’. Early saint’s name that rhumbas to a modern beat. Collie, Colly, Colombe, Columbana, Columbia, Columbine. International: Colombe(French), Colomba, Colombina, Colombita, Columbias, Columbita(Spanish). COMET.Nature name. Soaring astral name with two strikes against it: a masculine feel, and the fact that it’s also a well-known cleanser in the US. COMFORT.Word name. This Puritan virtue name is unstylish, but sympathetic and appealing, in these largely uncomfortable times. CONCEPCI?N.Latin, ‘conception’. Enshrined in the Latin and Catholic culture. Chiquin, Chita, Concetta, Concha, Concheta, Conchissa, Conchita. CONCETTA.Italian, ‘pure’. A name that relates to Concepcion and the Virgin Mary, but feels a good deal more secular. Concettina, Conchetta. CONCHITA.Spanish, diminutive ofCONCEPCI?N. Concepci?n dressed in red satin. Chita, Conceptia, Concha, Conchata, Conchissa, Conciana. CONCORDIA.Latin, ‘peace, harmony’. The name of the goddess of peace. Con, Concord, Concorde, Cordae, Cordaye. CONDOLEEZZA.Modern invented name. Made famous by US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, whose parents fashioned her name from a musical term meaning ‘with sweetness’. Conde, Condi, Condie, Condy. CONNELLY.Irish, ‘love, friendship’. Rollicking and rare example of this popular genre that may work even better for girls. Con, Conn, Connally, Connaly, Connelli, Connely, Connolly, Connoly. CONNEMARA.(kahn-ah-MAHR-ah) place name. Wild, lovely place in western Ireland makes wild, lovely name. CONNOR.Irish, ‘lover of hounds’. Popular boys’ name that might – but that’s a big might – work for girls. Con, Conn, Connar, Conner, Connery, Conor. CONSTANCE.Latin, ‘steadfastness’. With its icy and forbidding image, this is the kind of name given to the strong matriarch in American TV dynasties, while nickname Connie brings it downscale – all of which gives it little appeal for modern parents. Con, Conetta, Connee, Conney, Conni, Connie, Conny, Constancy, Constanta, Constantine, Constantya, Constanze, Constynse, Konnie, Konny, Konstance. International: Concettina, Constantia, Constanza(Italian), Constancia, Constanza(Spanish), Constanz, Konstanze(German), Konstancji, Konstanty(Polish), Konstantin, Kostenka, Kostya, Kostyusha, Kotik(Russian), Dina, Kosta, Kostantina, Tina(Greek), Kani(Hawaiian). CONSUELO.Spanish, ‘consolation, comfort’. Sophisticated Spanish name works well with Anglo surnames. Chela, Chelo, Consolata, Consuela, Consuella, Consula, Conzuelo. CORA.Greek, ‘maiden’. A lovely, old-fashioned name – she was a daughter of Zeus and the heroine of The Last of the Mohicans – recently rejuvenated and strengthened by its contemporary-feeling simplicity. Corabel, Corabella, Corabelle, Corabellia, Corah, Coralee, Coree, Corella, Corena, Corene, Coresa, Coressa, Coretta, Corey, Cori, Corie, Corilla, Corine, Corinna, Corinne, Corisa, Corissa, Corita, Corra, Correen, Corrella, Correlle, Correna, Correnda, Correne, Correy, Correye, Corri, Corrie, Cortina, Corrine, Corrissa, Corry, Corynna, Corynne, Coryssa, Kora, Korabell, Kore, Koreen, Korella, Koretta, Korey, Korilla, Korina, Korinne, Korissa, Korry, Koryne, Korynna, Koryssa. CORAL.Nature name. First used during the Victorian craze for jewel names; it could rise again, along with Ruby and Pearl, although it doesn’t have as much lustre. Coraal, Coralee, Coralena, Coralie, Coralina, Coraline, Corallina, Coraly, Coralyn, Coralyne, Corral, Koral, Korall, Koralig, Koralline. CORALIE.French extension ofCORAorCORAL. Unusual name, afforded some appeal by Neil Gaiman’s spooky and lovely children’s book. Coralea, Cora-Lee, Coralee, Coralena, Coralene, Coraley, Corali, Coralia, Coralina, Coraline, Coraly, Coralyn, Coralynn, Coralynne, Corella, Corilee, Koralee, Koraley, Korali, Koralie, Koraly. CORAZ?N.Spanish, ‘heart’. Well-used Spanish name expressing heart-filled emotion, with religious relevance to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. CORBIN.Latin, ‘raven’. Rising boys’ name could cross the gender line. Corban, Corbe, Corben, Corbi, Corbinne, Corby, Corbyn, Corbynn, Corbynne, Korban, Korben, Korbin, Korbinn, Korbyn, Korbynn. CORDELIA.Latin, ‘heart’; Celtic, ‘daughter of the sea’. The name of King Lear’s one sympathetic daughter has style and substance, and is exactly the kind of old-fashioned, grown-up name that many parents are seeking today. Cordae, Cordelie, Cordelle, Cordett, Cordette, Cordey, Cordia, Cordie, Cordilia, Cordilla, Cordula, Cordy, Delia, Delie, Kordella, Kordella, Kordelie, Kordelia, Kordula. International: Cordi(Welsh). CORDIS.Latin, ‘of the heart’. Unusual and substantial unisex choice. Cordiss. CORETTA.English, elaborated form ofCORA. Famous in the US as the name of the widow of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. COREY.Irish, ‘from the hollow’. Cool a few decades ago, along with Lori and Tori – but no more. Coree, Cori, Antiques Ready for Restoration Adeline Amabel Amity Beatrice Celia/Cecilia Cecily Clarissa Clementine Cora Cordelia Edith Eliza Emmeline Evangeline Flora Genevieve Lavinia Letitia Matilda Maude May, Mae Millicent Mirabel Nell Violet Corie, Correy, Correye, Corrie, Corry, Cory, Korie, Korrey, Korri, Korry. CORINNA.Greek, ‘maiden’. Delicate and gentle old-fashioned name, the kind found in early English poetry. CORINNE.French variation ofCORINNA. 1930s era name, much prettier when the second syllable is pronounced in, rather than een. Carinna, Carinne, Carine, Carynna, Carynne, Coreen, Coreena, Coren, Corenne, Coriana, Corianna, Corin, Corina, Corinda, Corine, Corinee, Corinn, Correen, Corren, Correna, Corrianne, Corrienne, Corrin, Corrina, Corrinda, Corrine, Corrinn, Corrinna, Corrinne, Corryn, Coryn, Coryna, Corynn, Corynne, Karinne, Karynna, Koreen, Korina, Korinne. CORISANDE.Greek, ‘chorussinger’. Very unusual choice, musical in every way. Corissanda, Corissande, Corrisande. CORLISS.English, ‘carefree person’. Eccentric yet well-established, has an independent and artistic air. Corlee, Corless, Corley, Corlie, Corlisa, Corlise, Corlissa, Corly, Korliss. CORNELIA.Latin, feminine variation ofCORNELIUS. In ancient Rome, Cornelia was considered the paragon of womanly virtue, making it a handsome name with an excellent pedigree. Rare today, so if you want a name no one else is using, this should be on your list. Carna, Carniella, Cornalia, Corneelia, Corneelija, Corneilla, Cornela, Cornelija, Cornella, Cornelle, Cornelya, Cornie, Cornilear, Cornisha, Corny, Korneelia, Korneelya, Kornelija, Neely, Nell, Nelli, Nellie, Nelly. International: Cornelie(French), Melia, Nelia(Spanish), Kornelia, Nele(German), Kornelis(Swedish), Kornelia(Czech). CORONA.Spanish, ‘crown’. Let’s face it – most modern British men will think of the beer. Coronetta, Coronette, Coronna. CORSICA.Place name. The picturesque Mediterrean island birthplace of Napoleon makes an easy switch from atlas to baby name book, with its delicate, feminine ending. Just don’t consider neighbouring island Sardinia. CORVINA.Latin, ‘like a raven’. Sounds too much like a car model. Corva, Corveena, Corvetta. COSETTE.French, ‘victorious people’. This female version of Nicholas is best known as the heroine of Les Mis?rables.Cossetta, Cossette, Cozette. International: Cosetta(Italian). COSIMA.(KO-see-mah) Greek, feminine variation ofCOSMO. The kind of exotic name the British upper classes once used for their daughters; most often heard in the classical music world. Cosma, Cosme, Kosma. COURTNEY.French, courteous, from the court, also Old French nickname, ‘short nose’. Although still in the Top 100, today’s Courtney is more apt to be the babysitter than the baby. Cordney, Cordni, Cortenay, Corteney, Cortland, Cortne, Cortnea, Cortnee, Cortneia, Cortneigh, Cortney, Cortni, Cortnie, Cortny, Corttney, Courtaney, Courtany, Courtena, Courtenay, Courtene, Courteneigh, Courteney, Courteny, Courtland, Courtnae, Courtnay, Courtne, Courtnee, Courtn?e, Courtnei, Courtneigh, Courtni, Courtnie, Courtnii, Courtny, Courtonie, Kordney, Kortney, Kortni, Kortnie, Kortny, Kourtenay, Kourtneigh, Kourtney, Kourtnee, Kourtnie. CRESCENT.French, ‘increasing, growing’. Intriguing word name with a pretty sound. Crescence, Crescenta, Crescentia, Cressant, Cressent, Cressentia, Cressentya. CRESSIDA.(KRESS-i-da) Greek, ‘gold’. Mythological and Shakespearean heroine name much better known among theatre-goers. It is worth considering by the more adventurous baby namer. Cressa. CRIMSON.Colour name. A possible competitor for Scarlett’s success, though lacking that Gone With the Wind charm. CRISANTA.Spanish from Greek, ‘golden flower, chrysanthemum’. Pretty and highly unusual Christine Stellar Starbabies Beginning with C alternative. Chrisanta, Chrisantha, Chrissanta, Chrissantha, Chryssantha. CRISPINA.Latin, ‘curly- haired’. Unfortunately, everyone will hear this feminine form of Crispin as Christina. CRISTINA.Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian variation ofCHRISTINA. One case where the streamlined version feels more exotic. CRUZ.Spanish, ‘cross’. A sister for Concepci?n and Coraz?n, although its masculine side was emphasised when the high profile David Beckhams chose it for their son. Crucita, Cruise. CRYSTAL.Gem name. Originally a male name, Crystal was hot in the 1980s along with shoulder pads and big hair, but retains none of the sparkle it once had. Christal, Christalle, Chrystalle, Chrystal-Lynn, Chrystel, Chrystle, Cristal, Cristalie, Cristalina, Cristalle, Cristel, Cristela, Cristelia, Cristella, Cristelle, Cristhie, Cristle, Crysta, Crystala, Crystale, Crystalee, Crystalin, Crystall, Crystalle, Crystaly, Crystel, Crystela, Crystelia, Crystelle, Crysthelle, Crystl, Crystle, Crystol, Crystole, Crystyl, Khristalle, Khrystle, Kristle, Krystal, Krystle. International: Criostal(Irish Gaelic), Chrystal(Irish), Christel, Christelle(French), Krystalle(German). CUBA.Place name. Cuba Gooding Jr notwithstanding, this sounds better for girls. CURRAN.Irish, ‘hero, champion’. Curry-flavoured Irish surname-y name that could work as well for girls as boys. Cura, Curin, Curina, Curinna, Curren, Currin, Curryn. CURRY.Word name. Peppy choice. Currey, Curri, Currie, Kurri, Kurry. CURTIS.French, ‘courteous, polite’. This familiar boys’ name could be considered as a fresh girls’ choice. CYANE.(SY-an) Greek, ‘bright blue enamel’. Mythological Sicilian nymph who lived in a pool and whose name is an intriguing twist on the colour name trend. Cyan. CYBELE.(si-BELL) Greek, ‘the mother of all gods’. This name of a Greek goddess of fertility, health and nature would undoubtedly be confused with Sybil. Cybel, Cybela, Cybil, Cybill, Cybille, Cyebele, Sibyl, Sybil. CYDNEY.Spelling variation ofSYDNEY. Unnecessary complication. Cydne, Cydnee, Cydnei, Cydni, Cydnie, Cydny. CYMBELINE.Greek, ‘hollow’; Celtic, ‘sun lord’. Musical name that is the title of a Shakespeare play. Cymbaline. CYNARA.Greek, ‘thistly plant’. Poetic though thorny. Cinara, Zinara. CYNTHIA.Greek, ‘of the moon’. Attractive name – in classical mythology an alternate for Artemis or Diana – that was so overexposed in the middle of the twentieth century that few style-conscious parents would choose it today. Cia, Cinda, Cindee, Cindi, Cindra, Cindy, Cinnie, Cinny, Cinthia, Cyn, Cynda, Cyndee, Cyndi, Cyndia, Cyndie, Cyndra, Cyndy, Cyneria, Cynethia, Cynithia, Cynnie, Cynthy, Cynthea, Cynthiana, Cynthiann, Cynthie, Cynthria, Cynthy, Cynthya, Cyntia, Cyntria, Cythia, Cytia, Kynthija, Sindee, Sindi, Sindy, Sindya, Sinnie, Sinny, Synda, Syndee, Syndi, Syndy, Syntha, Synthee, Syntheea, Synthia, Synthie, Synthya. International: Cinzia(Italian), Cinta(Spanish), Cintia(Spanish, Portuguese), Kynthia(Greek). CYRA.(SEER-a) Persian, ‘sun’ or ‘throne’. Twist on all those Keiras, but not as attractive. CYRILLA.Latin, ‘lordly’. If you want something even more tightly laced than Priscilla. Cerelia, Cerella, Ciri, Cirilla, Cyrella, Cyrille, Siri, Sirilla, Syrilla. International: Cira(Spanish). CYTHEREA.Greek, ‘from the island of Cythera’. Home of Aphrodite, this name seems stuck in ancient Greece. D girls (#ulink_6967383f-c585-5803-bd68-feedf8d46771) DACEY.Irish, ‘from the south’. Delicate and lacy Irish name with real possibilities. Dacee, Dacei, Daci, Dacia, Dacie, Dacy, Daicee, Daici, Daicie, Daicy, Daycee, Daycie, Daycy. DACIA.Latin place name. Ancient place name – it was in Eastern Europe – as lacy as Dacey, but more substantial. DAEL.Dutch variation ofDALE. Vowel switch gives an old nature name a hipper look. DAFFODIL.Flower name. Yes, girls were actually sometimes given this name a century ago; now so uncommon it would make a strong springtime statement. Biggest obstacle: the nickname Daffy. DAGAN.(dah-ghan) Hebrew, ‘corn, grain’. Popular in Israel for girls and boys born on Shavout, a harvest festival. DAGMAR.Norse, ‘Dane’s joy’. Royal Danish name, unlikely choice for British commoners. Dagna, Dagomar. DAGNY.Scandinavian, ‘new day’. If you’re looking for a name with Scandinavian roots, this would make a stronger and more appealing import than Dagmar. Dagna, Dagnanna, Dagne, Dagney, Dagnie. DAHLIA.Flower name. One of the rarer flower names, used occasionally in Britain (where it’s pronounced DAY-lee-a); can have a slightly affected la-di-dah air. Dahiana, Dahliah, Dahlya, Dahlye, Dalia, Dalla, Dalya. DAI.(dah-ee) Japanese, ‘great,’ also Welsh, ‘to shine’. Pronunciation is not obvious to English speakers. Dae. Names All Your Friends Will Think Are Cool Asia Bronwyn Cameron Delaney Delilah Georgia Lark Lola Maisie Paloma Sam Sasha Siena Violet Willa DAIJA, DAIJAH.French variations ofD?JA.SeeDEJA. DAISY.Flower name, diminutive ofMARGARET. Fresh, wholesome and energetic, Daisy is one of the flower names bursting back into bloom after a century’s hibernation. Has a colourful literary history (Henry James, F. Scott Fitzgerald), and is currently in the Top 25. Daisee, Daisey, Daisi, Daisie, Daizy, Dasey, Dasi, Dasie, Daysee, Daysey, Daysi, Daysie, Daysy, Deisy, Deysi. DAKIRA.Modern invented name. Like cousin Shakira, exotic and evocative. Dakara, Dakaria, Dakarra, Dakirah, Dakyra. DAKOTA.Native American, Sioux, ‘friendly one’. One of the first trendy 1990s American place names, now galloping into the sunset. Dakkota, Dakoda, Dakodah, Dakotah, Dekota, Dekotah. DALE.English, ‘valley’. An early unisex name, now outmoded but still simple and serene. Daelyn, Dalena, Dalene, Dalenna, Dayle, Deal. International: Dael(Dutch), Dair(Norse). DALIA, DALYA.Hebrew, ‘branch’; Swahili, ‘gentle’. Similar in sound to the flower name Dahlia, this gentle but distinctive name, heard in many cultures, shows signs of being on the rise. Daleah, Daleia, Daliah, Dalit, Dalya, Dalyah. DALILA.Swahili, ‘gentle’. Rhythmic name that sounds similar to Delilah and is heard in several different languages: Hebrew, Spanish, Tanzanian and Swahili. Dalilah, Dalilia. DALILI.Swahili, ‘a sign from the gods’. Lovely, melodic Dalila/Delilah cousin. Leeli, Lilie. DALLAS.Irish, ‘skilled’; place name in Scotland and Texas. This was a trendy name a decade ago. Dalis, Dalise, Dalisha, Dalisse, Dalles, Dallis. DAMARA.Greek, ‘gentle girl’. This name of an ancient fertility goddess is associated with the month of May and could make a pretty, unusual choice for a springtime baby. Damaris, Mara, Mari. DAMARIS.Greek, ‘sweet heifer’. New Testament Puritan favourite that’s still attractive and accessible. Damara, Damarys, Damiris, Dammaris. DAMIA.Greek mythology name. Greek nature goddess name that, though lacking a specific image, has a pleasing femininity. Damiane, Damienne. DAMIANA.Greek, ‘tame, domesticated’. This feminine form of DAMIAN projects a positive and lilting image, a distinct contrast to its male counterpart. Damiane, Damianna, Damienne, Damiona, Damya, Damyan, Damyana, Damyenne. DAMICA.French, ‘open-spirited, friendly’. Rarely heard but pleasing feminissima name for a baby girl. Dameeka, Dameka, Damekah, Damicah, Damie, Damika, Damikah, Demeeka, Demeka, Demekah, Demica, Demicah, Damicia, Damicka. DAMITA.Spanish, ‘little noblewoman’. Has a petite, dainty charm. Dametia, Dametra. DANA.English, ‘from Denmark’; also feminine variation ofDANIEL. This name found in both Celtic and Scandinavian mythology has gone from all-boy to almost all-girl, retaining a strong, slightly boyish quality; the birth name of Queen Latifah. Daina, Dainna, Danacia, Danae, Danah, Danalee, Danette, Danka, Danna, Danula, Dayna. International: Danuta(Polish), Danka, Danulka(Czech). DANA?.(dah-NAY) Greek mythology name. A Greek goddess of music and poetry, Danae has a novel yet familiar sound. Danai, Danay, Danaye, Danayla, Danea, Danee, Dani, Danie, Dannae, Denae, Denee, Dinae, Donnay. DANCER.Word name. Appealing when applied to a person boogying or doing ballet; a different story in the context of Santa’s reindeer. DANE.English, ‘from Denmark’. This rarely heard name pares down all the ultrafeminine Dan names to one that’s much more powerful, for both boys and girls. DANI.Hebrew and Italian, diminutive ofDANIELLA, DANIELLE, DANITA. Short form occasionally used on its own, with an open and friendly androgynous quality. Danee, Daney, Danie, Dany. DANIA.Hebrew, diminutive ofDANIELLE,‘God is my judge’. Offbeat name with a multi-ethnic flavour. Daniah, Danya, Danyah. DANICA.Norse, ‘morning star,’ the planet Venus. Unique and accessible European spin on the no longer fresh Danielle and Daniela. Danaca, Daneca, Daneeka, Danicah, Danicka, Danika, Danikah, Danikka, Danneeka, Dannica, Dannika. DANIELLA.Italian, Polish, Czech, feminine variation ofDANIEL. Daniela (and Danielle) were among the hottest names for twenty years, but now, though still popular, they can no longer be considered stylish options, lagging behind the newer Ella, Stella, Bella, Gabriella, and Isabella. Dalella, Dani, Dania, Daniellah, Danijela, Danila, Danna, Danni, Danniella, Dannilla, Danny, Dany, Danya, Danyela, Danyella. International: Dani?le, Danelle, Danette, Danice(French), Danele(Basque), Daneila, Daniela(Eastern European), Daniyelle(Israeli). DANIELLE.Hebrew, feminine variation ofDANIEL. Well used for decades, now not even in the Top 100. Danelle, Dani, Danialle, Daniele, Daniell, Daniyelle, Danny. DANIKA.Eastern European, ‘morning star’. SeeDANICA. Danica, Danicka, Danyca, Danycka, Danyka. DANIQUE.French variation ofDANICA. This Danielle/ Monique hybrid offers a new twist on an old favourite. DANIT.Hebrew, ‘God is my judge’. Israeli spin on Danielle is rarely heard here. Danita. DANNA.Modern invented name. This Dana-Donna variation has started to gain in popularity; an interesting alternative to Daniella as a namesake for a relative named Daniel. DANU.(DAH-noo) Celtic, goddess of fruitfulness. This sprightly Irish mythology name would make an attention-grabbing choice. High-Energy Names Barnaby Clancy Dart Dash Dasha Finian Ivo Juniper Keagan Keenan Lulu March Mateo Mitzi Murphy Piper Pippa Poppy Rory Rosie Tatum Ving Viva DANUBE.River name. Unique and fluid river name with the lilt of a Viennese waltz. DANY.French, diminutive ofDANI?LLE. Sometimes used on its own. SeeDANI. DANYA.Hebrew, ‘judgment of God’, Russian, diminutive of Daniel. Ethnic, embroidered feel. Dania, Daniah, Daniya. DAPHNE.Greek, ‘laurel tree’. Its origins may be Greek, but it’s seen as quintessentially British. Daffy, Dafnee, Dafneigh, Dafny, Daphnee, Daphney, Daphni, Daphnie, Daphny. DARA.Hebrew, ‘pearl of wisdom’; Irish, ‘son of the oak tree’. Though Dara was an (extremely wise) male figure in the Bible, this name couldn’t be more feminine sounding. Dahra, Dahrah, Darah, Daralis, Darda, Darelle, Dareth, Daria, Darice, Darissa, Darra, Darrah, Darya. International: Darach(Irish Gaelic). DARBY.Irish, ‘free one,’ or ‘free from envy’; Norse, ‘from the deer estate’. Once a common boys’ name in Ireland (e.g., Darby O’Gill and the Little People), the dynamic Darby now has a definite unisex feel. Darbee, Darbey, Darbi, Darbie, Derby. DARCY, DARCI.Irish, ‘dark one,’ originally d’Arcy; French, ‘from Arcy’ or ‘from the fortress’. Delicate ballerina name with grace, charm, and heft courtesy of Jane Austen’s Mr Darcy. D’Arcy, Darce, Darcee, Darcel, Darcelle, Darcey, Darcia, Darsey, Darsi, Darsie. DARI.Variation ofDARAorDARIUS. Breezy and flyaway. DARIA.Persian, ‘having many possessions’; feminine variation ofDARIUS. An early Christian martyr, and now a Canadian supermodel: Daria Werbowy. Dariah, Darie, Darina, Darinka, Darissa, Dariya, Darria, Darriah, Darrya, Darryah, Darya, Daryah, Daryia. International: Daru?ska(Czech), Dariya, Darya, Dasha(Russian). DARIAN.Variation ofDARIUS. A rarely heard member of the Darren-Darius clan. Darien, Daryan, Daryen. DARLA.English, ‘darling’. Dimpled Our Gang comedy name. Darlah, Darlie, Darly. DARLENE.English, ‘darling’. Attending crochet classes for the seniors at the community centre with her friends Arlene and Marlene. Darleen, Darleena, Darleene, Darlina, Darline, Darlonna, Darlyn, Darlyne. DARREN.Irish, ‘little great one’. Once-popular boys’ name works better now for girls, as a kind of Dara/Karen blend. Daran, Daren, Darin, Daron, Darran, Darrin, Darron, Darryn, Daryn. DARSHA.Hindi, ‘to see, to perceive, to have vision’. This is an Indian name similar in feeling to some of the increasingly popular Russian names. Darshika, Darshina, Darshini, Darshna. DARU.Hindi, ‘pine or cedar’. Exotic, aromatic Indian name. DARVA.Slavic, ‘honeybee’. Reality TV show-type name. DARYA.Russian variation ofDARIA.SeeDARIA. Dariya, Dasha. DARYL.Variation ofDARRELL. Actress Daryl Hannah made this a girls’ name. Darel, Darelle, Daril, Darille, Darrel, Darrell, Darrellem, Darrill, Darryl, Darryll, Daryll, Derel. DASHA.Russian, diminutive ofDARIYAorDARYA. Nice, energetic – dare we say dashing? – quality. Dasia. DASHAWNA.American variation ofSHAWNA. One of many now-downscale names that begin with Da-or De-, a prefix that originally indicated patrimony. Daseana, Dashauna, Dashona, Deseana, Deshauna, Deshawna, Deshona, Seshawna. DATYAH.(dah-TI-ah) Hebrew, ‘belief in God’. Heard more in Israel than the UK. Datia, Datiah, Datiya, Datya. DAVIDA.Feminine variation ofDAVID. As pass? as Bernarda and Benjamina. Daveeda, Daveen, Daveisha, Davene, Davesia, Daveta. International: Daibhidha(Scottish Gaelic), Taffy(Welsh), Dabida(Basque), Daven(Scandinavian), Davita(Israeli). DAVINA.Hebrew, ‘beloved’; Scottish, ‘little deer’. A Scottish favourite occasionally heard in the UK. Dava, Davannah, Daveen, Daveena, Davene, Davenia, Davi, Davia, Davida, Davinah, Davita, Devina, Devinah, Devinia, Divina, Divinah. DAWN.Word name. There are more substantial names with the same golden meaning: Aurora (Latin), Zora (Arabic), and Roxana (Persian). Daun, Daune, Dawna, Dawne, Dawnelle, Duwad, Dwan. DAY.Word name. This is a bright and optimistic middle name choice. DAYA.Hebrew, ‘bird of prey’. Possible alternative to the trendy Maya. Dayah. DAYAA.(dah-YAH) Hindi, ‘compassion’. The double vowel changes this name’s pronunciation and gives it a novel twist. DAYANA.Latin variation ofDIANA. This creative spelling of Diana has taken on a life of its own. Dayani, Dayanita, Dayanna. DAYANARA.Modern invented name. Too close to ’sayanara’. Dayanarah. DAYO.Nigerian, ’joy arrives’. This has an evocative African beat. DAYTON.English variation ofDEIGHTON,’place with a dike’. A city name in the US that is more successful as a girl’s name than some others due to similarity in sound to Peyton et al. Deyton. DEAN.English, ’valley,’ or ’church official’. Like many pass? boys’ names, this one sounds fresh again for girls. Deani, Deanie, Deen, Deeni, Deenie, Deeny, Dene, Deni, Denie, Deny. DEANA.Variation ofDIANAor feminine variation ofDEAN. Depending on how you say it, either a streamlined version of Deanna, or the namesake of a male Dean. But today, why not name her Dean? Deanah, Deanna, Deeana, Deeanna, Dena. DEANNA.English spelling variation ofDIANA. Though still being used, Deanna hit its peak in the 1940s. Deana, Deandra, Deanne, Dee, Deeana, Deona, Deonna. DEBORAH.Hebrew, ’bee’. In the mid-twentieth century, there were so many Debbies on the block that the beauty and meaning of the original name got lost. Now this lovely name of an Old Testament prophetess and the only female judge of Israel suddenly sounds fresher than overused Sarah, Rachel and Rebecca. Deb, Debara, Debbi, Debbie, Debbora, Debborah, Debbra, Debbrah, Debby, Debera, Deberah, Debi, Debora, Deboreh, Deborrah, Debra, Debrah, Debs, Devora, Devorah. DEBRA.Spelling variation ofDEBORAH. When Deborah seemed too formal in the laid-back 1960s, Debra stepped in as a pared-down alternative, but the pendulum is about to swing back. Deb, Debbie, Debbra, Debbrah, Debrah, Debry. DECEMBER.Word name. Cooler than April, May or June, but also a tad icy. Decembra. International: Dicembre(Italian). DECIMA.Latin, ’tenth’.In the days of huge families, this Roman goddess of childbirth’s name would be saved for bambina number ten. Now might be used for a girl born in October, the tenth month. Decia. DECLA.Irish, feminine variation ofDECLAN. Has an incomplete feeling… DEIRDRE.Irish, ’sorrowful’. Sadly, this strong Celtic name often has ’of the sorrows’ attached to it because of the tragic character in Irish legend. Also a bit drab when compared with newer Irish imports. Dedre, Deedra, Deedrah, Deedre, Deerdra, Deerdre, Deidre, Deirdra, Deirdrah, Deirdre, Dierdra, Dierdre, Dierdree, Dierdrie. D?JA.French, ’already’. D?ja was a name sensation of the 1990s in the US, reaching the Top 15 in African-Caribbean popularity lists, but it has d?ja fallen far from those lofty heights. D’Ja, Daeja, Daija, D?jah, Dejai, DeJana, Dejana. DELANCEY.French, ’from Lancey’. Energetic dance of an Irish surname, great for both genders. Delancie, Delancy. DELANEY.Irish, ’dark challenger’. A top Irish surname name for a decade, projecting buoyant enthusiasm plus a feminine feel. Dalaney, Dalayne, Daleney, Del, Delaina, Delaine, Delainey, Delanee, Delani, Delanie, Delany, Delayna, Delaynie, Dellaney. DELFINA.Italian and Spanish variation ofDELPHINE.SeeDELPHINE. DELIA.Greek, ’born on the island of Delos’. Seductive charmer associated with cookery writer Delia Smith. Dehlia, Deilyuh, Delea, Deliah, Dellya, Delya. D?LICE.French, ’delight’. French delicacy. DELICIA.Latin, ’delight’. Tastier than Alicia or Felicia. Daleesha, Dalicia, Dalisha, Dalisia, Deleesha, Delesha, Delica, Delight, Delisa, Delisha, Delishia, Delisia, Delisiah, Delite. DELIGHT.Word name. The mythical daughter of Eros and Psyche becomes a modern-sounding word name. Danger: could be seen as X-rated. DELILAH.Hebrew, ’desirable, seductive’, Arabic, ’guide’. Has shed the stigma of its biblical beguiling-temptress image, and is now appreciated for its haunting, melodic, feminine qualities. Dalialah, Dalila, Dalilah, Delila, Delilia. DELISE.Latin, ’delight’. Variation on the Delight-Delicia theme. Delesha, Delisa, Delisha, Delisiah, Delissa. DELJA.(DEHL-yah) Polish, diminutive ofKORDELJA,’daughter of the sea’. Pretty in a polka-dancing way. DELLA.Diminutive ofADELA. One of the few ella names that’s not on every other new mother’s lips—a definite plus. Dell, Dellah, Delle, Dellia, Dellya, Delya, Delyah. DELLEN.Cornish, ’petal’. Intriguing combo of elements. Dellan, Dellin, Dellon. DELORES.Variation ofDOLORES.SeeDOLORES. Deloris. DELPHINE.French from Greek, ’woman from Delphi’. Sleek, chic French name with two nature associations—the dolphin and the delphinium—definitely fresher than over-the-hill Danielle. Adephine, Dauphin, Delfa, Delfine, Delpha, Delphene, Delphi, Delphia, Delphina, Delphinea, Delphinia, Delphy, Delphyne, Delpina. International: Delfina(Italian and Spanish). DELTA.Greek, fourth letter of Greek alphabet. This name has a lazy-day-down-by-the- river feel. DELYTH.Welsh, ’pretty and blessed’. If you like soft, lispy Welsh names like Gwyneth, consider this out-of-the-ordinary one. DEMELZA.Cornish, ’fort on the hill’. Complex and challenging—but aren’t childhood and parenthood challenging enough? Da & De Names Dajuana Dameesha Danacia Da’nell Darenda D’arline Dashawn Dashay Dejana Deleanna Delinda Delisa Delondra Demika Denisha Denita Deondray Deshandra Dewanda D’shay DEMETRIA.Greek, goddess of fertility. Dramatic earth goddess possibility with film-star nickname. Demeta, Demeter, Demeteria, Demetra, Demetras, Demetris, Demi, Demita, Demitra, Detria, Dimetra, Dimitra. DEMI.(de-MEE) Greek, ’half’; diminutive ofDEMETRIA. Tied to a single celeb in Hollywood, megapopular in Holland and just appearing in the Top 100 here. Deme, Demee, Demeter, Demetra, Demetria, Demia, Demie, Demitra, Demmi, Demy, Dimitira, Dimitra. DENA.English, ’valley’. Dated namesake of dated Dean. Deana, Deanna, Deena, Dina. DENI.English, diminutive ofDENISE. Cute nickname name used by Woody Harrelson for his daughter. Denee, Deney, Denie, Denni, Dennie, Denny, Deny. DENISE.French, feminine variation ofDENIS. A French favourite of the 1950s and 1960s, not exactly chic now. Danica, Danice, Daniece, Danise, Denese, Deni, Denice, Deniece, Deniese, Denisse, Denni, Dennise, Denny, Denyce, Denyse. International: Dinisia(Portuguese),Deniska(Russian). DENISHA.American variation ofDENISE. Typical of formula that takes a traditional name syllable and adds -isha ending. Daneesha, Danisha, Danysha, Deneesha, Denishe, Denita, Denysha. DERVLA.Anglicised form of IrishDEARBH?IL,’daughter of F?l’. Tongue twister of a name common in Ireland in both its Gaelic and its Anglicised forms. Deirbhile, Derb?il, Derval, Dervila, Dervilia. DERYN.Welsh, ’bird’. This 1950s Welsh bird name sounds less dated than Robin, popular at the same time. Deron, Derren, Derrin, Derrine, Derron. DESDEMONA.Greek, ’ill-starred’. Shakespearean as a name can be, but because the beautiful and innocent wife of Othello came to such a tragic end, her name’s been avoided for centuries. DESIR?E.French, ’desired’. Desired and chosen by many, despite (or because of) its blatantly sensual image. Desairee, Desarae, Desaray, Desaraye, Desaree, Desarhea, Desary, Deseri, Desi, Desirae, Desirai, Desiray, Desree, Des’ree, Des-ree, Desyrae, Desyray, Desyree, Dezarae, Dezaray, Dezeret, Dezirae, Deziree, Dezray, Dez’ree. DESTINY.Word name. This is a popular girl’s name in the US, and there are three alternate spellings in hot pursuit. Destanee, Destanie, Destany, Destenee, Desteney Desteny, Destinay, Destinee, Destinei, Destiney Destini, Destinie, Destinni, Destinny, Destinyi, Destnay, Destney, Destonie, Destony, Destunee, Destynee, Destyni. DESTRY.English variation of French, ’warhorse’. It was the hero’s last name in the classic film Destry Rides Again,but in today’s anything-goes naming climate, nobody blinked when the Steven Spielbergs picked it for their daughter. A real winner. Destrey, Destri, Destrie. DEVA.Hindi, ’divine, shining one’. If you don’t want your daughter to be a Diva, try this Hindu moon goddess name instead. Deeva, Devi. DEVI.Sanskrit, ’divine’. This Hindu goddess name has a powerful heritage plus lively sound with a devilish edge. Devaki, Devee. DEVIN.Irish, ’poet’. Used far more for boys with this spelling, but still has a nice impish Irish feel for a girl. Davin, Devan, Deven, Devena, Devini, Devinn, Devinne, Devyn, Devynne. DEVON.English place name. This spelling makes it a pretty and popular British place name, evoking dramatic seascapes and moors. Davon, Deaven, Devan, Devann, Devaughn, Deven, Devin, Devinne, Devona, Devonne, Devvon, Devyn. DEVORA, DEVORAH.Variation ofDEBORAH. Both a biblical and an Israeli place name, this can be used as an offbeat substitute for Deborah. Deva, Devra, Devrah, Devoria, Dvora, Dvorit. DEVYN.Spelling variation ofDEVIN. A more feminine version of Devin. DEXTER.Latin, ’right- handed, skillful’. Perfect example of a name that’s nerdy for a boy, but turns ultracool for a girl; Diane Keaton named her daughter Dexter Dean. Dex, Dexee, Dexey, Dexie, Dextra, Dexy. DHARA.Hindi, ’the earth’. An exotic take on Dara. DHARMA.Buddhist and Hindu basic principle of cosmic existence. Rarely used in real life; the name of the hippyish character on the sitcom Dharma & Greg and part of the title of a Kerouac novel. Dharana. DIA.Spanish, ’day’. One fine day. DIAHANN.Alternate spelling ofDIANE.SeeDIANE. DIAMANTA.Greek, ’unconquerable’. Softens the Names Kids Love Having Angelica Ariel Belle Britney Daisy Diamond Jade Jasmine Miranda Princess Rosie Silver Skye Starr Willow Zoe hardness of the stone. Diamante, Diamantina. DIAMOND.Gem name. Sparkled all through the 1990s, now its shine is slightly diminished. Diamin, Diamon, Diamonda, Diamonde, Diamonte, Diamund, Diamunde, Diamyn, Dyamond. DIANA.Latin, ’divine’. The tragic British princess inspired many fashions, but strangely, not one for her classic and lovely moon-goddess name, which is infrequently used today. Daiana, Daianna, Dayana, Dayanna, Deana, Deanna, Dede, Dee, DeeDee, Di, Dia, Dianah, Dianca, Diandra, Diane, Diania, Dyana, Dyanna. DIANDRA.Greek, ’twice a man’. One of many variations on Diana, but lacking its classic class. Deandra, Deandre, Diandrea, Dyandra. DIANE.French variation ofDIANA. Like Joanne and Christine, middle-aged Diane has been overshadowed by the a- ending version of her name. Deanne, Dede, Dee, DeeDee, Di, Diahann, Dian, Dianne, Dione, Dionne, Dyan, Dyane, Dyann, Dyanne. DIANTHA.Greek, ’divine flower’. Mythological flower of Zeus, melodious and more unusual Diana cousin. Dianthe, Dianthia. DIARRA.African, ’gift’. Could lead to teasing re association with certain digestive problem. Diara, Diera, Dierra, Dyara, Dyarra, Dyera. DIAZ.Spanish from Latin, ’days’. If Cameron’s first name could start a girl’s name craze, why not her second? DIDI.Pet name for Di-starting names. Not as lively or independent as Gigi, Kiki or Coco. Dee, DeeDee. DIDO.Greek, meaning obscure. Heroine of Virgil’s Aeneid; could have some awkward associations down the line. DIGNA.Latin, ’worthy’. Seems to cry out for another syllable. DIJA.(DEE-jah) Diminutive ofKHADIJA. Uncommon and cool. DILLIAN.Latin, ’image of worship’. Real name that sounds like a made-up combination of Dillon and Lillian. Diliana, Dilla, Dillianna, Dillanne, Dilly. DILLON.Irish, ’loyal’. Turns trendy boy’s name into trendy surname name. Dilen, Dillan, Dillen, Dillin, Dillyn, Dillynn, Dillynne, Dilynn, Dilynne. DILLY.Diminutive ofDILYS, DILWENandDAFFODIL. Silly. DILYS.(DILL-is) Welsh, ’genuine, steadfast, true’. Common in Wales, but would really stand out here. DIMANCHE.(dee-MAHNZH) French, ’Sunday’. Pleasant-sounding word that could morph into a unique Sunday-picnic-type name. DINA.English, feminine variation ofDINO. OK, as long as it’s not pronounced diner. DINAH.Hebrew, ’God will judge’. As the song says, ’Dinah, is there anyone finer?’ Charming, underused Old Testament name, long shunned for old slave-name stereotype, but has a rich literary and musical r?sum? and would make a vivid name for a contemporary girl. Deena, Dina, Dinna, Dyna, Dynah. International: Dine(Yiddish). DIONE.(dy-OH-nee) Greek, ’divine queen’. In Greek mythology the mother of Aphrodite by Zeus, and also one of Saturn’s moons; this is an astral name quite distinct from the better known Dionne. Dion, Dionne. DIONNE.(dee-ahn) Greek, feminine variation ofDION. Americanised version of the Greek Dione, with many subversions of its own. Deona, Deonne, Dion, Diona, Diondra, Dione, Dionis, Dionna, Dyon, Dyone, Dyonne. DIOR.French surname. Could join Chanel and Armani on the fashionista hit parade of names. DISCOVERY.Word name. A lot to handle, but it does give a sense of openness, joy and awe. DIVA.Latin, ’goddess’. Once unique to the Zappa family, now you can have your own little prima donna. Deeva, Dyva. DIVERSITY.Word name. As a name, it’s a bit too politically correct. DIVINA.Variation ofDAVINA. A choice of two pronunciations, making this little girl divine or diveen. DIVINITY.Word name. A sister to Trinity, Genesis or Heaven. DIXIE.Latin, ’I have spoken’; French, ’tenth’. Saucy American showgirl, wise-cracking waitress. Dixee, Dixey, Dixi, Dixy. DJUNA.(JOON-a) Meaning unknown. Novelist Djuna (born Djalma) Barnes introduced this interesting name to the mix. DODIE.English, diminutive ofDOROTHY. Good only up to the age of 2 1/2 years old. DOE.English, ’a female deer’. Soft and gentle-eyed middle name possibility. DOLLY.English, diminutive ofDOROTHYandDOLORES. Goodbye, Dolly. Dolley. DOLORES.Spanish, ’lady of sorrows’. Though it’s related to the Virgin Mary, this name was once perceived as the height of exotic sensuality, a role since taken over by nickname Lola. Dalora, Dalores, Daloris, Dalorita, Delora, Delores, Deloris, Dolly, Dolora, Dolorcita, Doloriana, Doloris, Dolorita, Doloritta, Dolours, Lola, Loli, Lolica, Lolicia, Lolita. International: Dores(Portuguese). DOMINI.Latin variation ofDOMINIC. Most distinctive of the Dominic-related girls’ names. Dominee, Dominey, Dominie, Dominy. DOMINGA.Spanish, feminine variation ofDOMINGO. Nice for a little girl born on Sunday. DOMINIC.Latin, ’lord’. Instead of trying to feminise it, actor Andy Garcia gave this historically male name to his daughter, making it instantly and appealingly unisex. DOMINICA.Italian, feminine variation ofDOMINIC. Fashionably continental, much fresher than Dominique. Domenica, Domenika, Domineca, Domineka, Domini, Dominicka, Dominika, Domynica, Domynicka, Domynika. DOMINIQUE.French, feminine variation ofDOMINIC. Had a surge of popularity in the Dynasty days, now has subsided in the wake of fresher French choices like Destry and Delphine. Domaneke, Domanique, Domeneque, Domenique, Domineek, Domineke, Domineque, Dominika, Dominiqua, Meeka, Mika. DOMINO.Latin, ’lord, master’. One of those ultimate cool-girl names, played by Keira Knightley in a film about a supermodel-turned-bounty hunter, but kids might associate it with the game. DONATA.Latin, ’given’. Evokes a sympathetic feeling of generosity and charity. Donada, Donatila, Donatilia, Donatta. DONATELLA.Italian, feminine diminutive ofDONATO. Stylish and dramatic, ? la Donatella Versace. DONNA.Italian, ’lady’. The perfect housewife of the 1950s. DONNELLY.Celtic, ’dark brave one’. Makes Donna into a cool twenty-first-century unisex Irish surname. DOON, DOONE.Scottish surname. Photographer Diane Arbus named her daughter Doon, inspired by the sand dunes she walked among when pregnant. DORA.Greek, ’gift’; diminutive ofTHEODORA. Poised for a comeback, right behind Laura, Nora, Cora, and Flora. Dorah, Doro, Dory. DORCAS.Greek, ’doe, gazelle’. Classic name used by the Romans, the Puritans, and the Bard, but pretty much taboo today due to the objectionable connotations of both its front and back ends. Dorcia, Dorkas. DOR?.(dor-AY) French, ’gilded’. Glitzy and pretentious. DOREEN.Variation ofDORA;also Anglicised variation of IrishDOIREANN,’sullen’. Much fresher Irish imports available for colleens now. Dairinn, Dorean, Doreena, Dorena, Dorene, Dorienne, Dorina, Dorine. DORETTA.Variation ofDOROTHY. Frilly, feminissima, unstylish Dor name. DORIA.Variation ofDOROTHY. Not quite Dora or Daria, this name suffers from an identity crisis. Dorria, Dorrya, Dorya. DORIAN.Greek, ’from Doris’. Strictly male in the Oscar Wilde days, the attractive Dorian crossed the lake into the girls’ camp several years ago. Dorea, Dorean, Doreane, Doria, Doriana, Doriane, Doriann, Dorianna, Dorianne. DORINDA.Greek, ’bountiful gift’; also extension ofDORA. Cinderella stepsister-type Victorian-valentine name. Derinda, Dori, Dorin, Dorrinda, Dory, Drinda, Dyrinda. DORIS.Greek, ’gift of the ocean’. Has long been on our so-far-out-it-will-always-be-out-for-babies list, and seems written there in indelible ink. Doria, Dorice, Dorika, Dorise, Doriss, Dorita, Dorrise, Dorrit, Dorrys, Dorys. DORIT.(do-REET) Hebrew, ’ of this generation’. Popular in Israel, sounds a lot more current than Doris. Dorith, Doritt, Dorritt, Dorli. DORKAS.SeeDORCAS. Dorca, Dorcas, Dorcea, Dorcia. DORO.Diminutive ofDOROTHY. Improvement on Dotty, but still not quite a name. DOROTHEA.Greek, ’gift of God’. Flowing and romantic Victorian-sounding name with a literary heritage and choice of two appealing nicknames. Dorete, Dorethea, Doretta, Dorine, Dorita, Doro, Dorota, Dortha, Dorthea, Thea. International: D?orbhail(Scottish Gaelic),Doroth?e(French),Dorotea(Italian),Doortje(Dutch),Dorotea(Swedish and Italian),Dorete, Dorte, Dorthe(Danish),Dortea, Tea(Norwegian),Dorota, Dosia(Polish, Czech),Dorika, Dorottya(Hungarian),Doroteya, Dosya(Russian). DOROTHY.English variation ofDOROTHEA. In the 1930s Dorothy left Kansas for Oz, but by the 1980s she was ready for retirement. Do, Doa, Doe, Dodo, Dodie, Dollie, Dolly, Dorettam, Dori, Dorothea, Dorothee, Dorothey, Dorothi, Dorothie, Dorthee, Dorthy, Dorrit, Dot, Dotti, Dottie, Dotty, Totie. DORSEY. English from French, ’from Orsay’. Big Band-ish name could easily be confused with Darcy. Dorsee, Dorsi, Dorsie, Dorsy. DORY.French, ’golden’, or diminutive ofDOROTHY. Dorothy nickname name with a measure of modern charm. Doree, Dorey, Dori, Dorie, Dorree, Dorrey, Dorri, Dorrie, Dorry. DOT.English, diminutive ofDOROTHY. Old-fangled nickname could make dot.com era short form or middle name. DOTTIE.English, diminutive ofDOROTHY. Synonym of screwy—but London tastemakers are restoring it to style. Dottey, Dotti, Dotty. Ancient Roman Names DOUCE.(doos) French, ’gentle, sweet’. A sweet French word name possibility, but with unsavoury teasing potential. Docina, Douceline, Doucette, Duce. DOVE.Nature name. One of the new bird names, like Lark and Wren, this one’s associated with the billing and cooing sounds of love. DOVEVA.Hebrew, ’graceful’. Feminine but strong name heard in Israel. Dova, Dovevet, Dovit. DREA.(DRAY-a) Diminutive ofALEXANDRIAorANDREA. Introduced via Sopranos star Drea (born Andrea) de Matteo, and catching on with a wider audience. DREAM.Word name. Singular and serene noun name. DREE.Diminutive ofALEXANDRIAorANDREA. Unique one-syllable name added to the mix by Mariel Hemingway for her daughter; could make a distinctive middle name or Bree substitute. DREW.Diminutive ofANDREW. Elegant formerly male alternative to Andy, now in the stylishly upscale Paige-Brooke-Blair sorority, thanks largely to Drew Barrymore. Dru, Drue. DRU.Diminutive ofDRUCILLA. Flimsier than Drew spelling. Drew, Drue. DRUCILLA, DRUSILLA.Latin, ’strong’. Pleasingly quaint and dainty New Testament possibility; the nickname Dru modernises it. Dru, Drucella, Drucila, Druesila, Druscila, Druscilla, Drusila. DRUELLA.German, ’elfin vision’. A little too close to Cruella. DUANA.Irish, ’song’. Name her after a Duane relative if you like, but please pronounce it doo-ahn-a and not doo-wain-a. DUANE.Irish, ’swarthy’.On second thought, why not just call her Duane, putting her in synch with her girlfriends Dylan, Dustin and Daryl? DUFFY.Irish, ’dark’. This Irish surname packs a lot of attitude, projecting an image of spunk and sass. Duff. DULCE.(DOOL-chay) Latin, ’sweet’. Popular Spanish name that refers to ’dulce nombre de Maria’— the sweet name of the Virgin Mary. Douce, Doucie, Dulcea, Dulcee, Dulcey, Dulci, Dulcia, Dulcie, Dulcina, Dulcinea, Dulcinia, Dulcy. DULCIE, DULCY.Latin, ’sweet’. Dating back to the Roman Empire, Dulcy may be too lightweight to merit a revival. Dulciana, Dulcine, Dulcita. International: Dulcet, Dulcette (French), Dulce, Dulcea, Dulcia, Dulcinea(Spanish and Italian). DUNE.Nature name. Haunting and evocative sandy-beach name, also with sci-fi connections. Doon, Doone. DUNYA.Russian, ’well-regarded’. Courageous sister of Raskolnikov in Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment. DU?ANA.(doo-sha-nah) Slavic, ’spirit or soul’. Pretty Slavic name, with some obvious pronunciation challenges. Du?anka, Du?i?ka, Du?ka. DUSCHA.(DYOO-sha) Russian, ’happy’. Possible alternative to the more Stellar Starbabies Beginning with D popular Sascha. Dusa, Duschinka, Dusica. DUSTIN.German, ’brave warrior’. Just a few years ago, Dustin, Dylan and Daryl seemed like radical, edgy names for girls; now even Great-aunt Alberta wouldn’t raise an eyebrow. Dustan, Dusten, Duston, Dusty, Dustyn. DWYN.Diminutive ofDWYNWEN. Short, but still kind of a mouthful. Dwynwen. DWYNWEN.Welsh, ’wave’. Far from a win-win. DYAN.Variation ofDIANE. Creative spelling can’t revive uncreative name. Dian, Dyana, Dyane, Dyani, Dyann, Dyanna, Dyanne. DYANI.Native American, ’deer’. Could sound like a babyish nickname for Diane. DYLAN.Welsh, ’son of the sea’. A favourite boy’s name that retains more of its poetic, windswept quality when used for a girl, as Robin Wright and Sean Penn did. Dylann, Dylen, Dylin, Dyllan, Dyllen, Dyllon, Dylon, Dylynn. DYLANA.Feminine variation ofDYLAN. Feminises Dylan – but why bother? E girls (#ulink_66b196a1-88a5-559f-9cfd-94a15519fc03) EACHNA.(EEK-na) Irish, ’horse’. Irish goddess renowned for her beauty and fashion sense—though her name has neither. EARHART.German surname, ’honor, bravery’. Conceivable middle name choice for admirers of flyer Amelia. EARLA.English, feminine variation of EARL. If there’s an ancestral Earl you want to honour, consider Early instead. Earldena, Earldene, Earldina, Earlean, Earlecia, Earleen, Earlena, Earlene, Earletta, Earley, Earlie, Earlina, Earlinda, Earline, Erla, Erlana, Erlene, Erlenne, Erletta, Erlette, Erlina, Erlinda, Erline, Erlinia, Erlisha, Ireleen, Irelene, Irelina, Irelene. EARLY.Word name. A word that’s been used, very infrequently, as a name for hundreds of years. Interesting sound and meaning. EARTHA.English, ’earth’. Used by the Puritans, and, three hundred years later, by Eartha Kitt’s parents, it sounds dated and dry. Earth, Erda, Ertha, Herta, Hertha. EAST.Word name. North and West are easier on the ear, but this works fine if it has some significance for your family. EASTER.Word name. Used as a name for several hundred years, as part of the day-naming tradition, this rarely heard holiday celebration would make a novel choice for a springtime baby. Eastan, Eastlyn, Easton. EAVAN.(EE-vahn) Irish, ’beautiful, radiant’. Anglicised spelling of the unpronounceable Aoibheann, the name of several Irish princesses, this has pronunciation problems of its own, as most people would think it rhymed with ’heaven’. EBBA.English, ’fortress of riches’; German, ’strength of a boar’. Soft yet strong name heard in Germany and Scandinavia could be readily assimilated. Ebbe. EBONY.English, ’deeply black wood’. Word name that came into favour because of its connotations of blackness and beauty, trending down since the 1980s. Abonee, Abony, Eban, Ebanee, Ebanie, Ebany, Ebboney, Ebbony, Ebone, Ebon?, Ebonea, Ebonee, Eboney, Eboni, Ebonie, Ebonique, Ebonisha, Ebonne, Ebonnee, Ebonney, Ebonni, Ebonny, Eboni, Ebonie, Ebonye, Ebonyi. ECCENTRICITY.Word name. The definition of quirky. ECHO.Greek mythology name. Pretty choice, though the legendary nymph Echo became only a voice. Echoe, Ecko, Ekko, Ekkoe. ECRU.Colour name. Neutral colour, but as a name, too much of an oddity. EDA.German, ’wealthy, happy’. Sounds too much like ’eater’. EDANA.Irish, ’fire’. Feminine of Aidan, but now girls would prefer to use the original. Aydana, Eda, Edan, Edanna. EDDA.Italian variation ofHEDDA. If her dad’s name is Ed, then name her…Emily, Margot, Susannah, but not Edda. Etta. EDEN.Hebrew, ’place of pleasure, delight’. Attractive paradise-equivalent of the more-popular Nevaeh (yes, that’s heaven spelled backwards). The two long e’s make it sound especially serene. Eaden, Eadin, Ede, Edena, Edene, Edenia, Edin, Edyn. EDINA.English, ’wealthy’. Infectious-sounding Minnesota place name, featured in the British cult hit TV show Absolutely Fabulous.Adena, Adina, Edeena, Edyna. EDIE.English, diminutive ofEDITH. Cute short form that sometimes stands on its own, due for rediscovery along with Warhol ’It Girl’ Edie Sedgwick. Edea, Edee, Edeigh, Edi, Edy. EDITH.English, ’prosperous in war’. Hugely popular name a hundred years ago that’s being revived among stylish parents in London. Definitely worth considering for those with a taste for forgotten, old-fashioned names. Eadie, Eadith, Ede, Edie, Edit, Edithe, Ediva, Edy, Edyth, Edythe, Eidith, Eidyth, Eyde, Eydie, Eydith, Edyte. International: Edetta, Edita, Editta(Italian),Edita, Dita(Spanish),Editha(German),Eda, Edda, Edka, Edyta, Ita(Polish),Dita, Ditka, Edita(Czech),Edi, Ekika(Hawaiian). EDLYN.English, ’small, noble one’. Feels like a hybrid. It would be better to go for Edith or Evelyn. Edelynn, Edlin, Edlinn, Edlinna, Edlynn. EDNA.Hebrew, ’rejuvenation, delight’. Though Emma and Ella have had successful return engagements, we don’t see much hope for Edna. Adna, Adnisha, Clunky but Cool Names Eddi, Eddie, Eddna, Eddnah, Eddy, Ednah, Edneisha, Edneshia, Ednisha, Ednita, Edona. EDWIGE.(ed-WEEG) French from GermanHEDWIG. Haitian writer Edwidge Danticat highlighted this sophisticated, chignon-wearing choice for literate parents. Edvig, Edwidge, Edwig. International: Edvige(Italian),Hedwig(German). EDWINA.Feminine variation ofEDWIN. Edwina’s still a little old-fashioned, but we can see her joining friends like Matilda and Josephine for a comeback. Better pronounced like Edwin than Edween. Eady, Eddi, Eddie, Eddy, Edina, Edweena, Edweina, Edwena, Edwine, Edwinna, Edwyna, Edwynn, Edy, Win, Winnie. International: Edwynna, Edwynne(Welsh),Eduina(Spanish),Edvina(Eastern European). EFFIE.Greek, ’pleasant speech’. Old-fashioned short form for Euphemia, a little too barefoot and tattered to be worth reviving. Effemie, Effemy, Effi, Effia, Effy, Efthemia, Ephie, Eppie, Euphemia, Euphemie, Euphie. EGLANTINE.French botanical name. This name is for the sweetbriar shrub—where is should remain, not the best choice your daughter. Eglantyne. EGYPT.place name. Ever since Little Egypt practically invented the belly dance in the 1890s, this name has had a suggestive aura. Try Cairo instead. EIBHLIN.(ev-lin) Irish, ’shining, brilliant’. Gaelic spelling complicates what is, phonetically, Evelyn. Aibhlin. EILA.Hebrew, ’oak tree’. Hebrew name heard in Israel, without much spark. Ayla, Eilah, Eilona, Ela, Elah, Eyla, Ila. EILEEN.Irish variation ofHELEN. Plain-Jane Irish name that’s so far out it’s…still out. Aileen, Ailene, Alene, Aline, Ayleen, Eila, Eilah, Eilean, Eileena, Eileene, Eilena, Eilene, Eiley, Eilie, Eilieh, Eilina, Eiline, Eilleen, Eillen, Eiley, Eily, Eilyn, Eleen, Elene, Ilene Ilianna, Leana, Lena, Lianna, Lina. EILIDH.(ay-lee) Scottish, ’sun’. A pretty name obscured outside of Scotland by difficult spelling and impossible pronunciation. EILIS.(eh-LEESH) Irish variation ofELIZABETH. Interesting, but far too susceptible to confusion with the Alicia family of names. Ailis, Ailish, Eilish, Elis, Elish. EIR.(air) Norse, ’peacefulness, mercy’. So airy, it’s almost not there. EIRA.(I-ra or AY-ra) Welsh, ’snow’. Or, to avoid confusion with the outmoded male Ira, you could just name her Snow. ?IRE.(air-ih), Irish place name. Eire was a mythological goddess who named Ireland after herself. Rarely used today, even in Eire. EIRIAN.Welsh, ’silver’. A modern Welsh name that will be misunderstood as Irene. EITHNE.(ETH-na, EN-ya) Irish, ’fire’. Name of a goddess who survived only on milk. Pretty and soulful, but the phonetic spelling may save everyone a lot of trouble. Aine, Aithnea, Eithne, Ena, Enya, Ethnah, Ethnea, Ethnee. EKATERINA.Slavic variation ofCATHERINE. This exotic variation was publicised by Olympic skater Ekaterina Gordeeva. Ekaterine, Ekaterini, Yekaterina. ELAINA.Variation ofELAINEorELENA. Sounds exotic, feels familiar. ELAINE.French variation ofHELEN. Form of Helen first popularised in Arthurian legend, it is now unfashionable, except in its a-ending forms. Alaina, Alayna, Alayne, Allaine, Eilane, Elaene, Elain, Elainea, Elaini, Elainia, Elainna, Elan, Elana, Elane, Elania, Elanie, Elanit, Elanna, Elauna, Elayna, Elayne, Ellaina, Ellaine, Ellane, Ellayne, Lainey, Layney. International: Elaina(French),Elena(Spanish and Italian),Eline(Scandinavian). ELARA.Greek mythology name. Elara, a lover of Zeus who gave birth to a giant son (ouch!); it’s also the lovely name of one of the moons of Jupiter. ELBA.Place name. The site of Napoleon’s exile became the great-great-aunt in the purple hat. Elbe, Ellba. ELBERTA.English, ’highborn, shining’. The great-great-aunt in the purple hat, singing jazz. Elbertha, Elberthe, Elberthina, Elberthine, Elbertina, Elbertine. ELDORA.Spanish, ’covered with gold’. Elderly. Eldorada, Eldoree, Eldorey, Eldori, Eldoria, Eldorie, Eldoris, Eldory. ELEANOR.French variation ofHELEN. In and out of fashion since Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine brought it from France to England in the twelfth century, this stately name is hot again and in the Top 50. Big plus: it’s a serious name, with a nickname—Ellie—that’s endearing. Aleanor, Alenor, Aleonore, Aline, Allinor, Eileen, El, Elaine, Elan, Elana, Elanee, Elaney, Elani, Elania, Elanie, Elanna, Elanni, Elanor, Elanore, Ele, Elea, Eleanora, Elen, Elena, Eleni, Elenie, Elenor, Elenorah, Elenore, Eleny, Elianora, Elianore, Elie, Elienora, Elienore, Ell, Ella, Elladine, Elle, Elleanor, Ellee, Elleigh, Ellen, Ellene, Ellenor, Ellenora, Ellenorah, Ellenore, Elleonor, Elli, Ellie, Ellin, Elliner, Ellinor, Ellinore, Elly, Ellyn, Elna, Elnora, Elnore, Elyn, Elynor, Elynora, Elynore, Enora, Heleanor, Helen, Helena, Helene, Helenora, Heleonor, Leanora, Lena, Lenora, Lenore, Leonora, Leonore, Leora, Lina, Nelda, Nell, Nelle, Nelley, Nelli, Nellie, Nelly, Nonnie, Nora, Norah, Norina. International: Eilean?ra(Irish),Ealanor, Eilon?ra(Gaelic),Eleanore, El?onore, Elinor, ?l?nora, Elinore(French),Eleonora(Spanish, Italian, and Swedish),Eleonore(German). ELECTRA.Greek, ’shining, bright’. Though the tragedies, of the Greeks and Eugene O’Neill, that used this name are filled with incest and murder, Electra is still a brilliant choice. Alectra, Elektra, Elettra, Ellectra, Ellektra, Oectra. International: Elettra(Italian). ELENA.(ee-LAY-na) Spanish variation ofHELEN. The rising popularity of this name is undoubtedly due to its being ’exotic lite’. Elaina, Elana, Eleana, Eleen, Eleena, Elen, Elene, Elenitsa, Elenka, Elenna, Elenoa, Elenola, Elina, Ellena, Lena. ELENI.(ee-LAY-nee) Greek variation ofHELEN. Much more old-fashioned than Elena, very common in Greece. ELERI.(el-AYR-ee) Welsh, ’greatly bitter’. Striking name of a legendary princess and a Welsh river that feels both moody and modern. ELEVEN.Word name. If Erykah Badu can name her son Seven, why can’t you name your daughter (or son) this? Though it could lead to some confusing wordplay. ELEXIS.Greek variation ofALEXIS. We’d stick with the original A version. Elexas, Elexes, Elexess, Elexeya, Elexia, Elexiah, Elexius, Elexsus, Elexus, Elexxus, Elexys. ELFRIDA.English, ’elf power’. Unappealing on every level. Alfrida, Alfrieda, Elfie, Elfre, Elfrea, Elfreda, Elfredah, Elfredda, Elfreeda, Elfreyda, Elfrieda, Elfryda, Elfrydah, Ellfreda, Elva, Elvah, Freda, Freddi, Freddy, Freeda, Frieda, Friedah, Fryda. ELGA.Slavic, ’sacred’. Olga variant without the Russian spirit. Elgiva, Ellga, Helga. ELIA.Diminutive of ELIJAH. Though the most famous Elia, screenwriter Kazan, was male, this name sounds purely female. ELIANA.Hebrew, ’my God has answered me’; Greek, ’sun’. Lilting, rhythmic choice, more distinctive than Elena, heard in Israel, Italy, Spain and Portugal, but rarely used here. One celebrity who chose it is Christian Slater. Eilane, Elia, Eliah, Elianna, Elliana, Ellianna, Liana, Liane, Lianne. ?LIANE.(ae-lee-AHN) French variation ofELIANA. The soign?e French member of this family of names. Elia, Eliana, Elianna, Elianne, Eliette, Elice, Eline, Elliane, Ellianne, Elyette. International: Eline(Dutch). ELIDI.Greek, ’gift of the sun’. Try Elodie instead. Elida, Elide, Elidee, Elidia, Elidy. ELIN.Swedish variation ofELLEN. Makes an old favourite sleeker and more modern. ELIORA.Hebrew, ’the Lord is my light’. Melodic name ripe with vowel sounds. Eleora, Eliorah, Elira, Elleora, Elliora, Elora. ELISA.Spanish and Italian, diminutive ofELIZABETH. The variations that start with A are heading up, the E versions down. Alisa, Elecea, Eleesa, Elesa, Elesia, Elise, Elisia, Elisya, Ellisa, Ellisia, Ellissa, Ellissia, Ellissya, Ellisya, Elysa, Elysia, Elyssia, Elyssya, Elysya, Ilisa, Lisa. ELISABETH.Spelling variation ofELIZABETH. Found in France, Germany, Greece and other cultures, and represented by such notables as Swiss-born psychiatrist and author Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. ELISE.French variation ofELIZABETH. This form maintains a steady popularity, due to its dash of French flair. Eilis, Eilise, Elese, Eliese, Elisa, Elisee, Elisie, Elisse, Elise, Eliz?, Ellecia, Ellice, Ellise, Ellyce, Ellyse, Ellyze, Elsey, Elsie, Elsy, Elyce, Elyci, Elyse, Elyze, Ilise, Liese, Liesel, Lieselotte, Liesl, Lise, Lisel, Lisl, Lisette, Lison, Lissie, Lise. ELISHA.Hebrew, ’God is my salvation’. An Old Testament male name, sometimes borrowed for girls. Eleacia, Eleasha, Elecia, Eleesha, Eleisha, Elesha, Eleshia, Eleticia, Elicia, Elishah, Elisheva, Elica, Elicea, Elicet, Elichia, Elishia, Elishua, Elisia, Eliska, Elissia, Ellecia, Ellesha, Ellexia, Ellicia, Ellisha, Elsha, Elysha, Elyshia. ELISHEVA.Hebrew, ’the Lord is my pledge’. The name of Aaron’s wife in the Book of Exodus, it gains strength and distinction via the v sound. Eliseva, Elisheba. ELISSA.Variation ofALICEorELIZABETH. This version of a long-popular name is fading in favour of Alyssa and other variants. Alissa, Allissa, Allyssa, Alyssa, Elissah, Ellisa, Ellissa, Ellyssa, Elys, Elyssa, Elyssia, Ilissa, Ilysa, Ilyssa, Lissa, Lissie, Lissy Lyssa. ELIXYVETT.Hybrid name. Few people go to such lengths to make a name different. Aren’t you glad? Alixevette, Alixyvetha, Elixevetta, Elixyvetha, Elixyvette. ELIZA.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. Okay, we admit it, this one of our favourite names; we love its combination of streamlined modernity and Elizabeth’s International Variations Eliza Doolittle charm and spunk, and offer it as one of our top recommendations. Aliza, Alizah, Eliz, Elizah, Elizaida, Elizalina, Elise, Elisea, Elyza, Elyzza, Liza. ELIZABELLA.Combination ofELIZAandBELLA. The megapopularity of Isabella may give this awkward hybrid a boost. Elizabel, Elizabell, Elizabelle. ELIZABETH.Hebrew, ’pledged to God’. While Elizabeth, one of the premiere classic girls’ names, is still in the Top 50, there are actually fewer babies getting the name these days. It has so much going for it—rich history, broad appeal and timeless style—that no matter how many little Lizzies, Elizas and Beths are out there, you can still make it your own. Alizabeth, Bess, Bessi, Bessie, Bessy, Bet, Beth, Betsey, Betsi, Betsie, Betsy, Bett, Bette, Bettey, Bettie, Betty, Buffy, Elisabeth, Elisabith, Elisheba, Elisheva, Elizabee, Ellie, Ellisa, Ellsi, Ellspet, Ellyse, Ellyssa, Ellyza, Elsee, Elsy, Elysabeth, Elyse, Elyssa, Elyza, Elyzza, Leesa, Leeza, Libbi, Libby, Lilabet, Lilibet, Lilibeth, Lisabet, Lisabeth, Lisanne, Lisbeth, Liz, Lizabeth, Lizanne, Lizbet, Lizbeth, Lizzi, Lizzie, Lizzy, Lysa, Lyssie, Lyza, Lyzanne, Lyzbet, Lyzbeth, Lyzbette, Lyzette. ELKE.(el-kee) Dutch, diminutive ofADELHEID. Creates a seemingly contradictory image: a German sex kitten—though there was one, Elke Sommer, in the 1960s. Elka, Elki, Ellke, Ilka, Ilki. ELLA.German, ’all, completely’; English, ’fairy maiden’. Staying strong in the Top 20 and one of the fastest rising names among the glitterati – including the John Travoltas, the Warren Beattys, and Eric Clapton – riding on the coat-tails of both the Isabella and Emma bandwagons. Ella Fitzgerald adds jazzy edge. Alia, Ela, Elladine, Ellah, Ellamae, Elletta, Ellette, Elley, Elli, Ellia, Ellie, Ellina, Elly. ELLAMAE.Combination ofELLAandMAE. Proof that one plus one sometimes equals zero. Ellamay. ELLE.French, ’she’. Add the charming heroine of the film Clueless to a supermodel (Elle Macpherson) and to another charming movie heroine in the Legally Blonde films, and you have one hit name. ELLEN.English variation ofHELEN. Fading fast, in favour of Ella, Eleanor, Ellie – a Top 10 favourite—Elle and even Elena. Elan, Elea, Elen, Elena, Elene, Elenee, Eleni, Elenita, Eleny, Elenyi, Elin, Elina, Elinda, Ellan, Ellena, Ellene, Ellie, Ellin, Ellon, Elly, Ellyn, Ellynn, Ellynne, Elon, Elyn. ELLERY.English, ’island with elder trees’. In the past few years this formerly male-only name has become a hot girls’ name. Eleree, Eleri, Elerie, Elery, Elleree, Elleri, Ellerie, Ellerie. ELLIOT.Anglicisation ofELIJAHorELIAS. This is another boy’s name that has been lured into the girls’ camp. Variously spelled Eliot, Elliot and Elliott, its star is definitely on the rise for girls, as it wanes for boys. Bonus is cute and feminine nickname, Ellie. Eliot, Eliott, Elliott, Ellyot, Ellyott, Elyot, Elyott. ELLIS.Welsh, ’benevolent’. Surname name that was used as first in the Wallace/Morris period, but it sounds new now for girls. Elice, Ellice. ELLISON.English, ’son of Ellis’. Updates Allison – which everyone will misunderstand it as. Elisan, Elisen, Elison, Elisyn, Ellisan, Ellisen, Ellisin, Ellisyn, Ellyson, Ellysyn. ELM.Nature name. This is for tree huggers. ELMA.Diminutive of names likeWILHELMINA. Elma’s rocking on the porch, with Thelma and Velma (and Wilhelmina, too). Ellma. ELMIRA.English, ’noblewoman’; also New York State place name. Has hardly been heard of since Mark Twain was buried there in 1910. Allmera, Almyra, Elmeera, Elmera, Elmeria, Elmyra, Mera, Meera, Mira, Mirah, Myra, Myrah. International: Almeria, Almira(Spanish). ELODIE.French, from Greek, ’marsh flower’. Overlooked medieval saint’s name that could be a more sophisticated tribute to an Aunt Melody. Recommended to parents with exotic tastes and a short and simple last name. Elodea, Elodee, Elodia, Elody, Helodea, Helodia, Helodie. International: Elodia(Spanish). ELOISE.French variation ofLOUISE. Brought to England by the Normans, Eloise is still in common use. Aloysia, Elois, Eloisa, Eloisia, Elouisa, Elouise, Heloise. International: Eloisa, Elsita, Ilsa(Spanish). ELOQUENT.Word name. If you want to give your child the gift of…gab. ELSA.Diminutive ofELIZABETH. Operatic and leonine name not enjoying the resurgence of Ella and her sisters. Ellsa, Ellse, Ellsie, Ellsy, Else, Elsi, Elsia, Elsie, Elsje, Elssa, Elsy, Elza, Lisa. International: Elsje, Ilsa(Dutch),Else(Scandinavian). ELSIE.Diminutive ofELIZABETHvia its Scottish variation,ELSPETH. Popular name at the end of the nineteenth century; it’s faded during the twentieth century – however it could conceivably rise again on the heels of Ella and Ellie. Ellsey, Ellsi, Ellsie, Elsea, Elsee, Elsey, Elsi. ELSPETH, ELSBETH.Scottish variation ofELIZABETH. This Scottish contraction of Elizabeth does have a certain childlike charm. Elsbeth, Elsbet, Elsepet, Elspet, Elspie. ELUNED.(el-LOOND) Welsh, ’idol, image’. Exotic and mysterious, like the heroine of a medieval Welsh fairy tale, but another of those Celtic names that would not be easy for a girl living elsewhere to carry. Elined, Eiluned, Lanet, Lanette, Linet, Linette, Luned, Lunette, Lynnette. ELVA.Irish, ’leader of the elves’. Anglicised version of Ailbhe, growing more popular in Ireland. Ailbhe, Elfie, Elvia, Elvie. ELVINA.English, ’noble friend’ or ’elf friend’. Sounds elven in every sense of the word. Alveena, Alvina, Alvine, Alvinia, Ehrena, Elveena, Elvenea, Elvenia, Elvine, Elvinea, Elvinia, Elvinna, Vina, Vinni, Vinnie, Vinny. ELVIRA.Spanish, ’white, fair’. Elvira was the long-suffering wife of Don Juan, and unfortunately this negative image still clings to it. Ellvira, Elva, Elveera, Elvina, Elvyra, Vira. International: Elv?ra, Elvire(French),Elvera(Italian), Albira, Alvira (Spanish), Alviria (German),Elwira(Polish). ELYSE.Variation ofELISEorELYSIA. Yet another variation on a familiar theme. ELYSIA.Latin, from ’Elysium’. This version stands out from the pack, as it relates to Elysian Fields, the mythological home of dead heroes. Aleesyia, Eleese, Eliese, Elise, Elishia, Elisia, Ellicia, Ellysa, Ellyse, Ellyssa, Elyce, Elycia, Elys, Elyse, Elysee, Elyssa, Elysse, Ileesia, Ilise, Ilysa, Ilyse, Ilysha, Ilysia. ELZA.Hebrew, ’God is my joy’; Russian from German, ’noble’. Intriguing twist on several familiar names, though many people will mistake this for Elsa, Eliza and so on. EMANI.Arabic variation ofIMAN. While this spelling is unusual, the I-beginning version is quite popular. Eman, Emane, Emane?, Emanie, Emann. EMBER.French variation ofAMBER. Unlike Amber, still has a bit of a glow left – though confusions between the two will inevitably arise. Emberlee, Emberly. EMBETH.Combination ofEMMAandBETH. South African—raised actress Embeth Davidtz added this unique name to the mix. EMELINE.German, ’industrious’. An old name, with a history separate from Emily and Emma and a different kind of vintage feel, that’s a possible alternative to top-of-the-pops names. Em, Emaleen, Emalene, Emaline, Emalyn, Embline, Emblyn, Emelen, Emelyn, Emiline, Emlyn, Emmalee, Emmalene, Emmaline, Emmalyn, Emmalynne, Emmeline, Emmiline, Emmy, Emylin, Emylynn. EMENY.English, uncertain origin. Emily substitute, though it sounds like a child’s mispronunciation of ’enemy’. Emonie, Imanie, Ismene. ?MER.(EE-mer) Irish mythology name. The wife of legendary Irish hero C? Chulainn, blessed with the gifts of beauty, sweet speech, wisdom, needlework and chastity—a mixed bag. Ema, Eamhair, Eimear, Eimer. International: ?imhear(Scottish Gaelic). EMERALD.Gem name; Persian, ’green’. Colour and jewel name of the deep green stone treasured as far back as ancient Egypt, could make for an interesting, unusual name. International: Emeraude(French),Emelda, Emeralda, Emeraldina, Esmeralda(Spanish). EMERSON.German, ’son of the chief’. The combination of Emily and Emma’s popularity have put this choice in the limelight. Desperate Housewives’ star Teri Hatcher’s daughter is named Emerson. EMERY.German, ’industrious’. The popularity of Emily and Emma could boost the unisex Emery. Emeri, Emerie. EMILIA.Feminine variation ofEMIL. This lovely feminine form of the Roman clan name Aemilius is rising as an Emily/Amelia alternative. EMILY.Latin, ’industrious’; Teutonic, ’energetic’. Reaching Number 1 in recent years, this popular name appeals on many levels: it’s feminine, classic, simple, pretty, and strong. But, at this point, waaaaaaay overused. Aemiley, Aemilie, Amalea, Ameldy, Amelia, Ameline, Amelita, Amella, Em, Ema, Emaili, Emaily, Emalee, Emaleigh, Emali, Emalie, Emalina, Emaly, Emelea, Emelina, Emeline, Emellie, Emelly, Emely, Emelyn, Emelyne, Emera, Emi, Emie, Emilee, Emileigh, Emiley, If You Like Emily, You Might Love… Amalia Amelia Amelie Ellery Emery Emilia Emiliana Emlyn Emmeline Emmi Emmy Mallory Millie Emilie, Emilienne, Emilis, Emilla, Emillea, Emillee, Emilley, Emillie, Emilly, Emillyn, Emillynn, Emlin, Emlyn, Emlynn, Emlynne, Emma, Emmalee, Emmalene, Emmalie, Emmalina, Emmaline, Emmaly, Emmalyn, Emmalynn, Emmalynne, Emmelee, Emmelie, Emmeline, Emmely, Emmey, Emmi, Emmie, Emmilee, Emmilie, Emmy, Emmye, Emyle, Emylee, Melia, Mila, Milia. International: Aimiliona, Eimile(Irish),Aimil(Scottish),Amalie, ?milie(French),Emilia, Emiliana(Italian),Amalia, Ema, Emelia, Emilia, Emilita(Spanish),Amilie, Amma, Emelie, Emmi(German),Amalia, Emelia, Emilka(Eastern European),Alalija(Russian),Aimilios(Greek),Emele, Emalia(Hawaiian). ?EMMA.German, ’healer of the universe’. This is a long-time favourite that has consistently been in the Top 30 list in recent years, thanks to a legion of Emma heroines, from Bovary to Jane Austen’s protagonist to The Avengers’ Mrs Peel. So parents who have turned from Emily to Emma seeking something more distinctive will have to keep looking. Em, Ema, Emelina, Emeline, Emelyne, Emmah, Emmaline, Emmalyn, Emmalynn, Emmalynne, Emme, Emmeleia, Emmeline, Emmelyn, Emmelyne, Emmet, Emmett, Emmette, Emmi, Emmie, Emmy, Emmye. EMMALEE.Combination ofEMMAandLEE. Parents trying to personalise Emily have hit on this a combo of Emma and Lee, but it still sounds just like the popular Emily. Emalea, Emalee, Emi, Emie, Emilee, Emily, Emmalea, Emmalei, Emmaleigh, Emmaley, Emmali, Emmalia, Emmalie, Emmaliese, Emmalyse, Emmi, Emmie, Emmye, Emy, Emylee. EMMALYNN.Combination ofEMMAandLYNN. Not the classiest variation. Emelyn, Emelyne, Emelynne, Emilyn, Emilynn, Emilynne, Emlyn, Emlynn, Emlynne, Emmalin, Emmalinn, Emmalyn, Emmalynne. EMMANUELLE.French, feminine variation ofEMANUEL. The female version of Emanuel could become more prominent, but for some it still carries a steamy image dating back to an erotic French film. Emanual, Emanuel, Emanuela, Emanuella, Emanuelle, Emmanuel, Emmanuella, Emonualle, Manuella, Manuelle. International: Emmanuela, Manuela(Spanish). EMMY.Diminutive ofEMILY. Long a nickname for all the Em-names, as well as an annual award in the US, Emmy is now being given on its own, as are soundalikes Emme and Emmi. Emme, Emmee, Emmi, Emmie. EMMYLOU.Combination ofEMMYandLOU. There’s only one: Emmylou Harris, the US country singer who gives dignity to an old-style combo name. Emlou, Emmalou, Emmelou, Emmilou, Emylou. ENA.Diminutive of several names. Names that started off as diminutives – Ena, Ita, Etta – seem too insubstantial for a modern female. Eena, Enna, Ina. ENDEAVOUR.Word name. Neo—word name that maybe tries too hard. ENERGY.Word name. Better than Synergy. ENGLAND.Place name. Most parents would prefer London for their daughters. ENGRACIA.Spanish from Latin, ’endowed with God’s grace’. Exotic and charming alternative to the overused Grace. Agraciana, Agracianna. ENID.Welsh, ’life, spirit’. Celtic goddess and Arthurian name that sounds terminally old-ladyish. Eanid, Ened, Enedd, Enidd, Enyd, Enydd. ENJOLI.Modern invented name. This perfume name, undoubtedly a takeoff on the French word for pretty, has somehow wafted into the girls’ lexicon. It’s a bit too commercial for our tastes. Enjolie. ENNIS.Irish, ’from the island’. Irish town names are now fair game—as are most other places with connections to Ireland—but are much better suited to boys. ENORA.Breton, ’honour’. Unusual Honor or Nora alternative, but we prefer the originals. ENRICA.Italian, feminine form ofENRICO. Novel way to honour Grandpa Henry. Enricketta, Enrieta, Enrietta, Enrika, Enriqua, Enriqueta, Enriquetta, Enriquette, Rica, Rika. International: Enriqua(Spanish). ENTERPRISE.Word name. The virtue? Or the Starship? ENYA.Irish, ’fire’. New Agey name that’s an Anglicisation of Eithne, brought to attention here by the popular Irish singer. Aenya, Ennya. ?PIPHANIE.French word name, ’realisation’. You could just spell it epiphany, but that’s so much more pedestrian. It’s also a holiday name, ? la Christmas and Easter: the Epiphany marked the visitation of the Three Wise Men to Baby Jesus. Epiphany. ERGA.Hebrew, ’yearning, craving’. Urgh. ERICA.Norse ’eternal ruler’. Cool name…over thirty years ago, but its use is still widespread in some countries. Aerica, Aericka, Africa, Airicka, Airika, Enrica, Enrika, Eraca, Ereka, Ericca, Ericha, Ericka, Erickah, Erika, Erikaa, Erikah, Erikka, Errica, Erricka, Errika, Eryca, Erycka, Eryka, Erykah, Erykka, Eyrica, Eyrika, Rickee, Ricki, Rickie, Ricky, Rikki, Rikky. ERIN.Irish, ’from the island to the west’. First-wave Irish name and place name—the poetical name for Ireland—now supplanted by newer alternatives. Aeran, Aerenne, Aerin, Airin, Earin, Earrin, Eire, Eirin, Eirinn, Eiryn, Eiryne, Eirynn, Eran, Eren, Erena, Erene, Ereni, Eri, Erian, Erina, Erine, Erinetta, Erinn, Erinna, Erinne, Errin, Eryn, Eryne, Erynn, Erynne. ERMA.Variation ofIRMA. Once, believe it or not, this name seemed more stylish than Irma. Ermelinda, Ermina, Erminia, Erminie, Hermia, Hermine, Herminie, Hermione, Irma, Irminia, Irminie. ERMINE.French, ’weasel’; English variation ofHERMINE. Fur names? We don’t think so. Erma, Ermin, Ermina, Erminda, Erminia, Erminie, Erminne. ERNA.Irish, ’to know’. That er sound—as in Myrna, Myrtle and Bernice—sounds terminally dated. Ernaline, Ernalynn, Irna. ERNESTINE.Feminine variation ofERNEST. Joke name in the US, that of a character created by comedienne Lily Tomlin. Erna, Ernaline, Ernesia, Ernestina, Ernestyna. International: Ernesta(Spanish and Italian),Ernesztina(Hungarian). EROICA.Latin, ’heroic’.The name of Beethoven’s third symphony, and too close to the word erotica. Eroiqua, Eroique, Heroica. ESM?.French, ’esteemed’; Persian, ’emerald’.This is a sophisticated, distinctive and charming name used by the author J. D. Salinger and also a current favourite among celebs, including Michael J. Fox. Esma, Esmae, Esmay, Esm?e, Esm?e, Isme. ESMERALDA.Spanish, ’emerald’. Emerald equivalent long popular with Hispanic parents, given increased visibility via the Disney version of The Hunchback of Notre Dame.Em, Emelda, Emerald, Emerant, Emeraude, Emmie, Esma, Esmarada, Esmaralda, Esmarelda, Esmaria, Esm?, Esmeralda, Esmeraldina, Esmeranda, Esmerelda, Esmerilda, Esmie, Esmiralda, Esmiralde, Esmirelda, Ezmirilda, Ismaerelda, Ismaralda. International: Ismeralda(Spanish). ESPERANZA.Spanish, ’hope, expectation’. Another Spanish classic finding its way onto the popularity list in the US. Esparanza, Espe, Esperance, Esperans, Esperansa, Esperanta, Esperantia, Esperanz, Esperenza. ESSENCE.Word name. Heavily perfumed word name that peaked a few years ago. Essa, Essenc, Essencee, Essences, Essenes, Essense, Essynce. ESTEFANIA.Spanish variation ofSTEPHANIE. Attractively exotic Stephanie alternative. Estafania, Estefana, Estefane, Estefani, Estefanie, Estefany, Estephani, Estephania, Estephanie, Estephany. ESTELLA.SeeESTELLE. ESTELLE.French, ’star’. Estelle is a muumuu-wearing canasta player of a certain age; Estella, introduced inGreat Expectations, has more energy and charm, while Estrella is the most stylish of the trio. Essa, Essey, Essie, Essy, Esta, Estee, Est?e, Estel, Estela, Estele, Esteley, Estelina, Estelita, Estell, Estella, Estellina, Estellita, Esthella, Esti, Estrella, Estrellita, Stelle. ESTHER.Persian, ’star’.One of the major female figures in the Old Testament, quiet, studious Esther was popular a hundred years ago, but is rarely used today; it could appeal to parents – Ewan McGregor is one – seeking an underused biblical name with a history and serious image. Essa, Essey, Essie, Essy, Esta, Estee, Esti, Esthur, Ettey, Etti, Ettie, Etty, Hesther, Hettie, Hetty, Hittie. International: Eistir(Irish),Est?e(French),Ester(Scandinavian),Ester, Estzer, Eszter, Eszti (Slavic). ESTRELLA.(es-STRAY-a) Spanish, ’star’. Rising star among Hispanic families, would make a good cross-cultural choice. Estrela, Estrelinda, Estrell, Estrelle, Estrellita. ETANA.Hebrew, ’strength of purpose’. Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual. ?TAOIN.(AY-deen) Irish, ’jealousy’. This name of a mythical beauty transformed into a scarlet fly by a jealous wife is popular in its native land; elsewhere, while pleasant to the ear, it’s bewildering on paper. ETERNITY.Word name. Might have a shot as a name, ? la Genesis and Destiny, if it weren’t for yet another perfume connection. Eternal. ETHEL.English, ’noble maiden’. Sounds as dated today as the old Anglo-Saxon names that hatched it—Ethelreda and Elthelburga—though it was the Ashley of a hundred years ago. Ethelda, Ethelin, Ethelinda, Etheline, Ethelle, Ethelyn, Ethelynn, Ethelynne, Ethill, Ethille, Ethlin, Ethlyn, Ethlynn, Ethyl, Ethyll. ETHEREAL.Word name. Otherworldly. ETHICAL.Word name. Upstanding to a fault. ?TOILE.(ay-TWAHL) French, ’star’. Novel French twist on Starr or Stella. ETTA.English and Scottish, feminine diminutive suffix. Once a short form of Henrietta, it has long been used on its own, and we wonder if it could follow the progression of Emma to Ella to…Etta? Etka, Etke, Etti, Ettie, Etty, Itke, Itta. EUDORA.Greek, ’generous gift’. The name of five minor goddesses of Greek mythology and a major goddess (in the person of Eudora Welty) of modern literature, Eudora is pleasant and euphoneous. Dora, Dorey, Doric, Eudore. EUGENIA, EUGENIE.Feminine variations ofEUGENE. The elegant Eugenie enjoyed a major dusting off when Fergie and Prince Andrew chose it for their daughter, restoring some its tarnished royal sheen. Eugenee, Eugenina, Eugina, Geena, Gena, Gene, Genia, Genie, Janie, Jeena, Jenna, Jennie. International: Eug?nie, G?nie(French),Evgenia, Yevgenia, Zenechka, Zenya(Russian). EULALIA.Greek, ’sweet-speaking’. Melodious name with a lilt. Eula, Eulala, Eulalee, Eulalya, Eulaylie, Eulia, Lallie, Lally, Ulalia. International: Eulalie(French),Eulaylia, Olalla(Spanish). EUNICE.Greek, ’victorious’. New Testament name that sounds terminally gawky. Euna, Eunices, Eunike, Eunique, Eunise, Euniss, Eunisse, Unice, Uniss. EUPHEMIA.(yu-FEM-ee-a) Greek, ’well spoken’. Ancient martyr’s name that, though not especially appealing, might still be mildly possible. Effam, Effie, Effy, Ephan, Ephie, Eppie, Eppy, Euphan, Euphemie, Euphenia, Euphie, Fanny, Mia, Phemie. International: Eadaoine(Irish),Euph?me(French),Eufemia(Italian and Spanish). EURYDICE.(yu-RID-ih-see) Greek mythology name.Poisoned by a snake and condemned to the underworld, where her husband, musician Orpheus, tried and failed to bring her back: this is a name too tragic for real life. Euridice, Euridiss, Euridyce, Eurydyce. Cool Biblical Names Deborah Delilah Dinah Eve Jemima Keturah Keziah Leah Lydia Sela Susannah Tabitha Tamar EUSTACIA.Greek, ’fruitful’. Ancestor of Stacy, both now have disappeared in limbo. Eustacie, Eustasia, Stacey, Stacia, Stacie, Stacy. EVA.Variation ofEVE. Simple, classic name, with a recent appearance in the Top 100, but be warned: There are suddenly a lot of little Evas (and Avas and Eves) around. Eba, Ebba, Eeva, ?va, Evah, Evalea, Evalee, Eve, Evelin, Evelina, Evelyn, Evita, Evlyn. EVADNE.(ee-VOD-neh) Greek, ’pleasing one’. This is a difficult to pronounce name, ? la Ariadne. Evadney, Evadnie, Evanne. EVAN.Welsh variation ofJOHN. Boys’ favourite recently brought to the girls’ side. EVANGELINE.Greek, ’bearer of good news’. Old name on the brink of a major comeback, via religious overtones, Eva popularity and hot star of TV megahit Lost, Evangeline Lilly. Evangelica and Evangelina are sure to tag along for the ride. Eva, Evangel, Evangelene, Evangelia, Evangelica, Evangelina, Evangelique, Evangelista, Evangelyn, Evangelynn, Eve, Vangie, Vangy. EVANTHE.(ee-VAHN-thuh) Greek, ’fair flower’. Leave it at Eva or Evan. Evanthey, Evanthie. EVE.Hebrew, ’life’. The oldest name in the Book, and consistently in the Top 100, it has the virtues of simplicity and purity, yet has more strength and resonance than other single-syllable names like Ann. Clive Owen chose it for his daughter. Eba, Ebba, Eva, Evaleen, Evelina, Eveline, Evelyn, Evetta, Evette, Evey, Evicka, Evie, Evike, Evka, Evlyn, Evonne, Evuska, Evvie, Evvy, Evy, Evyn, Ewa, Ewie, Ewy, Yeva. International: Aioffe Aobh, Aoibh, Aoife, Eeve, ?ahba Eibhlin(Irish Gaelic),Efa(Welsh),Evaine(French),Evelia, Evetta, Evia, Eviana, Evita(Spanish),Evchen, Evi(German),Eeva(Finnish),Ewa(Polish),Evicka, Evka, Evuska(Czech),Evva, Yeva, Yevka(Russian),Evathia(Greek),Chava, Chaya, Hava(Yiddish),Ewalina (Hawaiian). EVELINA.Latin variation ofEVELYN. Eclipsed by Evelyn in the last century, but has a chance at a well-deserved comeback now. Eveleen, Evelene, Eveline, Evelyne. EVELYN.English, ’dear youth’. Soft and feminine, and hugely popular a hundred years ago (especially in the 1910s), Evelyn is just beginning to return to favour now. Avalyn, Evalin, Evalina, Evaline, Evalyn, Evalynn, Evalynne, Eveleen, Evelene, Evelin, Evelina, Eveline, Evelyna, Evelyne, Evelynn, Evelynne, Evilyn, Evleen, Evlene, Evlin, Evlina, Evline, Evlyn, Evlynn, Evlynne, Ewalina. International: Aveline, Evaleen(Irish). EVER.Word name. Truly unusual and simple name with evocative meaning. EVEREST.Place name, world’s tallest mountain. Attractive enough sound and lofty enough meaning to come into style, ? la Sierra. EVERETT.German, ’brave boar’. Male name that’s a prime crossover candidate, much like Eliot and Ellery. EVERLY.English, ’wild boar in woodland clearing’. Part Eva, part Emily and a large part Everly Brothers. EVERY.Word name. All-inclusive word name. EVIAN.Variation of EVAN. Might sound elegant, if you could forget the water. But no one will. Evyan. Stellar Starbabies Beginning with E EVIE.Diminutive ofEVEor EVA. Evie has zoomed in popularity, making into the Top 25 in recent years, with nickname names such as Ellie, Rosie, Billy, and Archie all the rage. Evi, Evy. EVITA.Spanish, diminutive ofEVA. There’s only one Evita. EVONNE.French variation ofYVONNE.SeeYVONNE. Evanne, Eve, Evenie, Evenne, Eveny, Evette, Evin, Evon, Evona, Evone, Evoni, Evonna, Evonnie, Evony, Evyn, Evynn, Evyonne, Eyona, Eyvone. EXPERIENCE.Word name. Used by the Puritans but probably too joke-worthy for a modern child…or teenager. EXPLORER.Word name. One occupational name destined to seek and find greater things. EZRI.Hebrew, ’helper, strong’. Boys’ name that sounds quirky and cute for a girl. Ezra, Ezria. F girls (#ulink_7d1bfc69-6104-5064-ae82-e1568d675022) FABIA.(FAH-bia) Latin female variation ofFABIAN. One of several pleasant international-accented female versions of Fabian. Fabiane, Fabianna, Fabianne, Fabiola, Fabra, Favianna, Faviola. International: Fabienne(French),Fabiana(Italian, Spanish). FABIENNE.French variation ofFABIA. Instead of the usual French suspects—Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle—why not consider Fabienne, which is less common and just as pretty? FABIOLA.French, Italian, and German variation ofFABIA. Romantically elaborate name of a saint who organised the first hospice. Fabiana, Fabiane, Fabianna, Fabienne, Fabra, Fania, Fanianne, Favianna, Favilola. FABLE.Word name. Like Story, a word name with real potential, combining enchanted tale-telling with a moral edge. FABRIZIA.Italian, ’works with the hands’. An Italian name sizzling with electricity. Fabrice, Fabricia, Fabrienne, Fabriqua, Fabritzia. FAINE.English, ’joyful’. A very unusual one-syllable option. Faina, Fayna, Fayne. FAIRUZA.Turkish, ’turquoise’. Instead of the more obvious Aqua or Blue, why not consider this offbeat Turkish name. FAITH.Virtue name. Several of the Puritan virtue names have recently come back into fashion, with Faith, Grace and Hope in the vanguard. At the moment Faith is rising quickly in the Top 100. Many parents still choose Faith as an indicator of their religious conviction. Fa, Fae, Faithe, Fay, Fayanna, Faye, Fayette, Fayth, Faythe. International: Fe(Spanish). FAIZAH.(FAH-ee-zah) Arabic, ’victorious’. Hauntingly exotic. Faiza, Fayza. FALALA.African, ’born in abundance’. Add a few more la’s and you have a jolly Christmas refrain. Fala. FALINE.Latin, ’catlike’. A Disneyfied name: Faline was the sweet doe Bambi fell in love with. Faeleen, Faleen, Falene, Fallyne, Fayline, Felina, Feyline. FALLON.Irish, ’leader’. One of several boyish surname names introduced in the over-the-top 1980s American TV programme Dynasty: they sounded cutting-edge at the time, but no longer. Falan, Fallan, Fallen, Fallyn, Falon, Falyn, Falynn. FAMKE.Dutch, ’little girl’. Introduced elsewhere via Dutch-born actress Famke Janssen, but not likely to appeal to many non-Dutch parents. FANA.African, ’light’; also West African word for ’jungle’. Simple, delicate and unusual. FANCHON.(fahn-shon) French variation ofFRAN?OISE. Sweet and affectionate Gallic choice. FANIA.Anglicisation of IrishFAINNE,’ring’. Would make an interesting choice for a child of Irish-Russian heritage, being a Celtic name with a Russian Tania-like feel. Fanya. FANNY.Diminutive ofFRANCES. A staple of Brit Lit, appearing in novels by Fielding, Dickens, Trollope, Eliot and Hardy, this nickname could make a comeback. Fan, Fania, Fannee, Fanney, Fanni, Fannia, Fannie. FANTASIA.Greek, ’imagination’. One of the more prominent by-products of reality TV, via Disney. Faintasi, Fantasy, Fantasya, Fantaysia, Fantazia. FANTINE.Latin, ’infant’. Rarely heard French name, a character in the Victor Hugo novel Les Mis?rables. FARAH.Arabic, ’happiness’. SeeFARRAH. Fara, Fariha, Farra, Farrah. FARIDA.Arabic, ’unique, precious pearl’. A Muslim name more distinctive than the Americanised Farah/Farrah. Fareeda, Fareedah, Farideh. International: Faridah(Persian). FARRAH.English, ’lovely, pleasant’; Arabic, ’happiness’. For a few seconds there in the late 1970s, Farrah Fawcett’s name was as frequently copied as her hairstyle: both are now equally unfashionable. Fara, Farah, Farra, Fayre, Ferra, Ferrah. FARRELL.Irish, ’courageous’. Though usually considered a boy’s name, the soft sound of this Irish surname makes it perfectly appropriate for a girl. Farrelly. Names That Mean Happy Ada Aida Asher Beatrice Bliss Blythe Felicity Felix Hana Hilary Ilaria Seeley FATIMA.Arabic, ’captivating, a woman who abstains’. Thousands of Muslim girls are annually given this name of the daughter of Muhammad and one of the four perfect women according to the Koran—unlikely to cross cultures. Fateema, Fateemah, Fatia, Fatimah, Fatina, Fatma, Fatmah. International: Fatemeh(Persian). FAUNA.Latin, ’the animals of a specific area’; Roman goddess of nature and animals. Fauna was one of the fairies who protected Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, but it’s still a bit too generic to be recommended as a baby name. Faune, Fauniel, Fauniella, Fawna. FAUSTINE.Latin, feminine variation ofFAUST. Although it means good luck, the association with the character who sold his soul to the devil is off-putting. Consider one of the other ’lucky’ names, like Felicity, instead. Fauste, Faustena, Faustia, Faustiana, Faustyna. International: Fausta(Italian),Faustina(Spanish). FAVOR.Word name. This word has too many conflicting associations to make a satisfying name. FAWN.Nature name, ’a young deer’. The doe-eyed Fawn, like other retrograde names such as Tawny and Taffy, does not, in our opinion, give a girl enough to live up to. Faan, Faandelia, Fahn, Fahndelia, Faina, Faun, Fauna, Faunia, Fawna, Fawndelia, Fawne, Fawnia, Fawniah, Fawne, Fawnya. FAY, FAYE.French, ’fairy’; shortened form ofFAITH. Napping quietly since the 1930s, Fay/Faye, like cousins May/Mae and Ray/Rae, has sat up and started rubbing her eyes, ready for a minicomeback, especially as a middle name. Fae, Fay, Fee, Fey, Fayette. FEATHER.Word name. Though it was used for a character in a novel, Feather seems too light and fluttery for a real-life girl. FEDERICA.Italian, feminine variation ofFREDERICK. Latin version of one of those formerly stuffy female names—think Josephine and Eleanor—that feels fresh and elegant again. FEDORA.Greek variation ofTHEODORA. Occasionally heard among the Mayfair and Belgravia set, but we’re afraid that in some places there would be too strong an association with the man’s felt hat. Fadora, Feodora, Fyodora. FEE.Diminutive ofFIONA. Too fiscal. FELICE.Italian, ’lucky’. The Italians pronounce it fa-LEECH-ay; the Americanised version, feh-LEESE, now sounds dated and not very appealing. FELICIA.Latin, ’lucky’; feminine variation ofFELIX. A lacy, lucky name very popular in the Hispanic community a decade ago, less so now. Falecia, Faleece, Faleshia, Falicia, Falisha, Felecia, Felica, Felice, Feliciana, Felicidad, Felicie, Felicity, Felis, Felisa, Felise, Felisha, Feliss, Felita, Fellysse, Felyssia, Filicia, Filisha, Phalisha, Phelicia, Phylicia, Phyllicia, Phyllisha. International: Felicita, Felicitas, Felisa, Felixa, Feliz(Spanish). FELICIDAD.Spanish, ’happiness’. Used exclusively in Latino families. FELICITY.Latin, ’happy’. As accessible as Hope and Faith, but more feminine—and dare we say happier? Felecia, Felice, Feliciona, Felicitee, Felicitie, Felise, Felisha, Felita, Feliza, Filicia, Flick. International: Felicienne, F?licit?(French),Felicita(Italian),Felice, Felicia, Felicidad, Felicita, Felisa, Felixa, Feliz(Spanish),Felicidade(Portuguese),Felicie(German),Fela, Felka(Polish). FELIXA.(fay-LEEK-sah) Spanish, ’happy, lucky’. The futuristic consonant x sets this apart—for better and worse – from all the other Felices, Felicias and Felicitys. Felecia, Felia, Felica, Felicanna, Feliciania, Felicianna, Felicina, Felisa, Felixia, Felizia. FENELLA.Celtic, ’white-shouldered one’. This engaging Scottish name, the heroine of a Sir Walter Scott novel, is, though scarcely heard elsewhere, much more user-friendly than some of the Irish versions. Fennella, Finella, Finola, Fionnuala, Fionola, Fynella. FENNEL.Vegetable and herb name. Word name possibility carrying the scent of liquorice-like anise. FEODORA.(fay-oh-DOR-a) Slavic variation ofTHEODORA. An interesting choice for the intrepid name giver, especially with its dynamic nickname, Feo (pronounced FAY-oh).Feo. FERGIE.Diminutive ofFERGUS. One Fergie was an aberration. But two women with that nickname—the duchess and the Black Eyed Pea – might make a trend. FERN.Nature name. Of all the botanicals, Fern has never really moved from the conservatory into the nursery, despite the appealing girl character in the children’s classic Charlotte’s Web.Fearne, Ferna, Ferne. FERNANDA.Spanish and Portuguese, feminine variation ofFERDINAND. Very popular in the Latino community, with a lot more charm than its male counterpart. Anda, Annda, Ferdinanda, Ferdinande, Fern, Fernande, Fernandina, Fernandine, Nan, Nanda. FERNANDE.French, feminine variation ofFERDINAND. A dark-haired femme fatale choice. FEY.Word name. For middle name purposes, could be thought of as a fey spelling of Fay. International: Feya(Hebrew). FFLUR.(Fleer) Welsh, ’flower’. Why bother to invent a new name or spelling when there are intriguing oddities like this in existence? Also in the Welsh encyclopedia of names: Ffion, Ffiona and Ffraid, the Welsh form of Brigid. FIA.Irish, diminutive ofFIACHNA,’raven’. A pleasantly light and distinctive possible alternative to Mia. FIAMMETTA.Italian, ’little fiery one’. Derived from the Italian word for flame, this name has both femininity and fire. Fiamma. FIANNA.Irish, ’fair’ or ’white’. This virtually unknown Irish name combines the best elements of Fiona and Brianna. FIDELITY.Word name. An admirable virtue, yes, but as a name it tends to sound like a financial institution. Fedelia, Fedila, Fideila, Fidela, Fidele, Fidelia, Fidelina, Fidelita, Fidella, Fidylia. FIFI.French, diminutive ofJOSEPHINE. A perfect name—for a French poodle. Fifine. FILIPA.Slavic variation ofPHILIPPA.SeePHILIPPA. FILOMENA.Greek, ’lover of singing’; Spanish variation ofPHILOMENA.SeePHILOMENA. Filomela. FINELLA.Irish variation ofFINOLA.SeeFINOLA. FINLEY.Irish, ’fair-haired hero’. This was a 100 per cent male name until recently. Can Finleigh be far behind? Finlay, Finlea, Finleah, Finlee, Finleigh, Finli, Finlie, Finly, Fynley, Fynlie, Fynly. FINN.Irish, ’bright, fair’. The most enduringly popular hero of Irish myth was Finn McCool, whose name is one of the coolest ever. When used for the female protagonist of How to Make an American Quilt,it established its hipness for girls as well. FINOLA.Irish, ’white shoulders’. This readily accessible version of some of the more problematic Gaelic versions would make a welcome addition to the stockpot of Irish girls’ names. Fennela, Finella, Finnguala, Finoula, Fionnala, Nola. FIONA.Scottish, ’the fair one’. This late nineteenth-century Scottish invention is still being given to baby girls today. Also popular in the US since the 1954 musical Brigadoon had a character with the name. Fee, Ffion, Ffiona, Ffyona, Fina, Fione, Fionn, Fionna, Fiora, Fyona. FIONNUALA.(fin-OO-lah) Irish Gaelic, ’white shoulders’. This lovely Gaelic name, very popular in the Emerald Isle, would pose obvious pronunciation problems elsewhere. Simplify to Finola or Fenella. Fenella, Finella, Finola, Fionnuala, Fionnualagh, Nola, Nuala. FIORELLA.Italian, ’little flower’. Feminine, floral and rarely enough heard here to be exotic. FLAIR.Word name. Beware: extremely high pressure, high-expectation name. FLAME.Word name. Beware again: the kind of name used by women named Fran when engaging in endeavours they’d just as soon their parents weren’t aware of. FLANNA.Irish, ’red-haired’. An uncommon name for a red- haired girl, not as familiar as its nickname, Flannery. Flana, Flanagh, Flannerey, Flannery. FLANNERY.Irish, diminutive ofFLANNA. Long before the vogue of using Irish surnames for girls names, writer Flannery O’Connor gave this one some visibility. It has a warm (flannelly) feel and the currently popular three-syllable ee-ending sound. FLAVIA.Latin, ’golden, blond’; from ancient Roman family nameFLAVIUS. An ancient Roman clan name, Flavia is one choice that’s unusual but historic. International: Flaviana, Flavie, Flaviere, Flavyere(French). FLEUR.French, ’flower’. This generic, delicate flower name risks sounding a bit precious. Fleurette, Fleurine. FLOR.Spanish, ’flower’. Attractive Spanish name heard in the film Spanglish. Roll that final r. FLORA.Latin, ’flower’. The name of the Roman goddess of flowers and spring, who enjoyed eternal youth, is one of the gently old-fashioned flowery classics we think is due for a comeback. Fiora, Fiordenni, Fiore, Florella, Fiori, Flo, Floralia, Fiorella, Florelle, Florentia, Florentina, Florenza, Floressa, Floretta, Florette, Flori, Floria, Florianna, Florinda, Florrie. International: Floraigh(Gaelic),Fleur, Flore, Fleurette(French),Flor, Florida, Florinda, Florita, Floridita(Spanish),Florka(Hungarian). FLORENCE.Latin, ’blooming, flowering,’ place name. Connection to the lovely Italian city got lost in Florence’s last flowering as a name—but the association to the place seems to be helping it stir back to style life. Flo, Florance, Florella, Florentina, Florentine, Florentyna, Florian, Florice, Stellar Starbabies Beginning with F Florie, Florina, Florinda, Florine, Floris, Florrance, Florrie, Florry, Florynce, Floss, Flossey, Flossie, Flossy. International: Blathnaid(Irish),Fiorentina, Fiorenza(Italian),Florencia, Florinia, Floriana, Florencita(Spanish),Florentia(German). FLORIDA.Latin, ’flowery’; Spanish, variation ofFLORA;also place name. It lacks the cachet found in some newer place names. FLOWER.Word name. It may sound sweet smelling, but remember, it was the name of the little skunk in Bambi. Better to pick a single bloom from the bouquet, like Violet or Lily or Daisy. FLYNN.Irish ’son of the red-haired one’. A winning last-name-first Celtic choice. Flinn, Flyn. FOLAMI.African, ’honour and respect me’. Nigerian name with some teasing potential: ’follow me’? ’salami’? FOREVER.Word name. Timeless. FORSYTHIA.Flower name. This yellow spring bloom is not as sweet as such other exotic species as Acacia and Azalea. FORTUNE.Latin ’luck, fate, wealth’. Contemporary sounding word name with an ancient history, widely used in the Roman Empire, and based on the mythic goddess of good luck and fertility. International: Fortuna, Fortunata(Spanish). FRANCA.Latin, ’free’.One of the most attractive and exotic spins on the ’Eran’ franchise. International: Franka(German). FRANCE.Place name. Geographic name with lots of Gallic ?lan. Fran, Franci, Francie. FRANCES.Latin, ’from France’. This soft and gentle classic, last popular a hundred years ago, was as faded as old wallpaper until such hip parents as Courtney Love, Sean Penn, Michael J. Fox and Brooke Shields picked it as a first or middle name for their daughters. Fan, Fancey, Fanchette, Fancie, Fancy, Fanechka, Fani, Fania, Fanni, Fannia, Fannie, Fanny, Fran, France, Franceen, Franci, Francie, Francille, Francina, Francique, Francis, Francys, Franki, Frankie, Franky, Franni, Frannie, Franny, Fransabelle, Franze, Franzetta, Franzi, Fronia. International: Proins?as(Irish Gaelic),Fanchon, Francine, Franette, Fran?oise(French),Franca, Francesca(Italian),Francisca, Paquita(Spanish),Franziska, Ziska(German),Franka(Russian), Fanya (Slavic). FRANCESCA.Italian variation ofFRANCES. Lighter and more feminine than the English classic, Francesca is popular with upscale parents, such as movie directors Martin Scorsese and Clint Eastwood. FRANCINE.French variation ofFRANCES. Dated and d?class?. Franceen, Francene, Franci. FRAN?OISE.(frahn-SWAHZ) French variation ofFRANCES. In France it’s sometimes bestowed as a patriotic gesture; elsewhere it has an air of genteel sophistication. Fanchon, Fanchone, France, Franchon, Francine. FRANKIE.Diminutive ofFRANCES.Really retro name, part of the nickname revolution. Frankee, Frankey, Franki, Franky. FRAYDA.Yiddish, ’joy’. An old favourite in traditional Jewish families. Frayde, Fraydel, Freyda, Freyde, Freydel. FREDA.German, ’peaceful,’ diminutive ofFREDERICA, ALFREDA,andWINIFRED. Pronounced as Fred with an a, it has been surpassed by Freya. Freada, Freeda, Freida, Frida, Frieda, Frydda. FREDERICA.Feminine variation ofFREDERICK. An interesting possibility for the parent unintimidated by its old-fashioned formality, Frederica has some vintage charm and verve lurking inside its stuffiness. Farica, Farika, Federica, Fred, Freda, Fredalena, Fredda, Freddee, Freddi, Freddie, Freddey, Fredericha, Fredericka, Frederickina, Frederine, Fredi, Fredia, Fredie, Fredricia, Fredrika, Frerika, Frida, Frieda, Friedegard, Friederike, Frika, Frikka, Fritzi, Fritzie, Fryda, Rica, Ricki, Rickie, Ricky, Rikki, Rikky. International: Fr?d?rique(French),Federica(Italian),Friederika, Frerika(German),Frederika, Frideborg(Swedish),Frydryka(Polish),Frici(Hungarian). FREE.Word name. The 1960s are back! Freedom. FREESIA.Flower name. A really exotic flower name for the parent who wants to move beyond Rose and Daisy. Freezia, Fresia. FREYA.(FRAY-a) Norse, ’a noble woman’. The name of the Norse goddess of love and fertility is very popular, making a recent appearance in the Top 25. International: Freja(Swedish),Freyde(Yiddish). FRIDA.German, ’peaceful’. The dynamic personality and paintings of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo have inspired growing numbers of parents to resurrect this form of the name. FRIEDA.German, ’peaceful ruler’. The traditional Germanic Frieda holds little appeal for the modern baby namer. Frayda, Freda, Fredia, Freeda, Freeha, Freia, Freida, Frida. FRITZI.German, diminutive of FREDERICA. Like Mitzi, the bubbly Fritzi shows signs of rising again. FUCHSIA.Plant and colour name. A plausible colour name, it was chosen by the singer Sting as a middle name for his daughter, after a character in the Gormenghast fantasy trilogy. FULVIA.Latin, ’blond one’. This name of the wife of Mark Antony in ancient Rome sounds a tad too anatomical for a modern girl. FUTURE.Word name. Gives the message that you want your daughter to keep her eye on the prize. G girls (#ulink_2ef6045e-c522-57d7-9d39-785601e4b9d5) GABRIELA, GABRIELLA.Italian and Spanish, feminine variation ofGABRIEL. This strong yet graceful feminine form of Gabriel is on the rise, given to many baby girls each year, with the double L spelling more popular. Gabbe, Gabbey, Gabbi, Gabbie, Gabbriel, Stylish Girly-Girl Names Angelina Arabella Carolina Cassandra Cecily Clarissa Gabriella Georgiana Isabella Juliana Larissa Mirabelle Savannah Scarlett Tatiana Valentina Gabbrielle, Gabbryel, Gabby, Gabey, Gabie, Gabielle, Gabreal, Gabreale, Gabrealle, Gabreil, Gabrial, Gabriala, Gabrialla, Gabriana, Gabrielia, Gabriell, Gabriellen, Gabriellia, Gabrila, Gabrilla, Gabrille, Gabrina, Gabriyelle, Gabryel, Gabryell, Gabryella, Gabryelle. International: Gabriel, Gabrielle, Gaby, Gigi(French),Gabriela, Gabriella(Italian),Gabella, Gabrela, Gabriela, Gebriela, Graviella(Spanish),G?ba, Gabi, Gabina, Gabinka, Gabra(Czech),Gavi, Gavriela, Gavriella, Gavrielle, Gavrilla(Hebrew). GABRIELLE.French, feminine variation ofGABRIEL. Just beginning its descent after years on the rise, the quintessentially elegant and worldly Gabrielle – designer Coco Chanel’s real name—has recently fallen from the Top 100. For variations, see above. GAETANA.(gy-TAH-nah) Italian place name. Gaeta is a southern Italian region; this makes a sunny first name. Gaetan, Gaetanne. International: Gaetane(French). GAIA, GAEA.(GAY-ah or GUY-ah) Greek, ’earth mother’. The name of the Greek mythological earth goddess and universal mother; actress Emma Thompson stated that she was attracted by its ecological element. Gaea, Gaiea, Gaya, Kaia. GAIL.Hebrew, ’my father rejoices’. Mid-twentieth century favourite, now far surpassed by its original form, Abigail. Gael, Gaela, Gahl, Gaila, Gaile, Gaill, Gal, Gale, Gayel, Gayelle, Gayla, Gayle, Gayleen, Gaylene, Gayline, Gayll, Gaylla. International: Gaelle(French). GALA.Russian, diminutive ofGALINA;English word name. Festive name of the wife of Salvador Dal?. Gaila, Galla. GALATEA.(gal-ah-TEH-ah) Greek, ’white as milk’. Mythical statue sculpted by Pygmalion and brought to life by Aphrodite, the inspiration for My Fair Lady.Galatee, Galathea. GALAXY.Word name. Otherworldly. Galaxia. GALE.SeeGAIL. GALEN.Greek, ’healer, calm’. The final n makes this choice infinitely more modern than Gail. Gaelen, Gaelin, Gaellen, Gailen, Gailin, Gailyn, Galin, Galyn, Gaylaine, Gayleen, Gaylen, Gaylene, Gaylyn. GALI.Hebrew, ’wave, billow’. Sprightly. Gal, Galice, Galie, Galila, Galiya, Galya. GALILA.Hebrew, ’rolling hills’. Interesting alternative to Dalila, relates to the Biblical Galilee. Galilah, Galilea, Galilee, Galya, Gelila, Gelilah, Gelifia, Getilya, Glila, Glilah. GALINA.Latin, ’hen’; Russian variation ofHELEN. Commonly used in Russia, has an old-fashioned Slavic feel. Gailya, Gala, Galayna, Galena, Galenka, Galia, Galiana, Galiena, Galinka, Gallina, Galochka, Galya, Galyna, Lina. GALWAY.place name.The familiar Irish city and bay is one place name that seems distinctly masculine. GALYA.Hebrew, ’God has redeemed, hill of God’. Well used in Israel and in Russia, either on its own or as an endearment for Galila or Galina. Galenka, Galia, Galina, Gallia, Gallya, Galochka. GANESHA.(gay-NAY-sha) Hindi, ’fortunate’. The name of the Hindu elephant-headed goddess of success and wisdom. Ganesa. GANYA.Hebrew, ’garden of the Lord’; Zulu, ’clever’. Tanya with a G.Gana, Gani, Gania, Ganice, Ganit. GARBO.Italian nickname, ’polite, kind’. Patricia Arquette named her daughter Harlow, so why not consider this other great early screen icon? GARCELLE.Modern invented name. Although it sounds like it could be a genuine French name, it’s an invention. GARCIA.Spanish and Portuguese, ’fox’. Evocative ethnic surname choice for a girl. GARDENIA.Flower name. More exotic and powerful than garden varieties like Rose and Lily. Deeni, Denia, Gardeenia, Gardena, Gardinia. GARDNER.English, ’keeper of the garden’. One of the best of this fashionable occupational group, strong and particularly well suited to a girl, also with alluring connection to glamour girl Ava Gardner. Gardener, Gardie, Gardiner. GARLAND.Word name. Fragrant and celebratory, and also has a celebrity-tribute tie to the star of The Wizard of Oz.Garlan, Garlande, Garlandina, Garlen, Garlin, Garlind, Garlinde, Garlyn, Garlynd, Garlynde. GARNET.Jewel name, from the French, ’pomegranate’. One of the jewel names in use a hundred years ago, due for revival along with sisters Ruby and Pearl. Garnetta, Garnette, Granata, Grenata, Grenatta. GARY.English, ’spear man’. While not generally thought of as unisex, this is a male name that, like Perry and Barry, has occasionally been used for girls over the years. Gari, Garri, Garry. GAURI.(GAU-ree) Hindi, ’fair, pale’. Gauri the Brilliant is one of the many names for the Hindu goddess Shakti, but it’s not very euphonious to the Western ear. Gawri, Gori, Gowri. GAY.Word name. Out of the question these days. Gae, Gai, Gaye. GAYNOR.Welsh, ’white and smooth, soft’. Early androgynous name with a positive association, related to the Cornish megastar Jennifer. Gaenor, Gayna, Gayner. GAZELLA.Latin, ’gazelle’. Graceful. Gazelle. GEENA.Variation ofGINA. Actress Geena Davis (born Virginia) put her own distinctive stamp on the spelling of Gina. Geania, Geeana, Geeanna, Gena. GEELA.(GEE-lah) Hebrew, ’joy’. Gay, nearly giddy, gee-whiz feel; also too reminscent of a gila monster. Geela, Geelah, Geelan, Geila, Geiliya, Geiliyah, Gila, Gilah, Gilalah, Gilana. GELSEY.Persian, ’flower’. Given a lithe and graceful image by ballerina Gelsey Kirkland, but since surpassed by Kelsey and Chelsea. Gelsomina, Jelsomina. GEMINI.Latin, ’twins’. Astrological sign with enough rhythm to make a plausible astral name. Gemella, Gemelle, Gemima, Gemina, Geminine, Gemmina. GEMMA.(JEM-mah) Italian, ’precious stone’. Very popular in 1980s England, but it hasn’t been seen in the Top 100 since 2002. Gem, Gema, G?mma, Gemmey, Gemmie, Gemmy, Jemma, Jemsa. GEN.Japanese, ’spring,’ or diminutive of names beginning with ’Gen’. Commonly used in Japan, and so much more distinguished than Jen. GENA.Variation ofGINA. Actress Gena Rowlands publicised this name, which she pronounces with a soft e. GENE.Diminutive ofEUGENIAor variation ofJEAN. This is still usually the boy’s spelling. Genie. GENEEN.Scottish variation ofJEANINE. Somewhat flat-footed spelling variation. Geanine, Geannine, Gen, Genene, Genine, Gineen, Ginene. GENEROSITY.Word name. Full-hearted new virtue choice, though five syllables is a lot to handle. Generous. GENESIS.Word name. The name of the first book of the Bible, not nearly as original for babies as you’d think, since it has recently been used for thousands of baby girls in the US. Genes, Genese, Genesha, Genesia, Genesies, Genesiss, Genessa, Genesse, Genessie, Genessis, Genicis, Genises, Genisis, Gennesis, Gennesiss, Genysis, Jenesis, Jenesyss, Jennasis, Yenesis. GENEVA.French, ’juniper tree’; Swiss place name.Unlike its somewhat formal Swiss city namesake, this is a lively and appealing place name that also has a real history as a female name. Geena, Gen, Gena, Geneieve, Geneiva, Geneive, Genever, Genevia, Genevre, Genovela, Genovella, Genoveva, Ginebra, Ginevre, Ginneva, Janeva, Janevra, Jeaneva, Jeneva, Jenovefa, Jineeva, Jineva, Joneva, Jonevah. International: Gen?ve(French),Genevra, Genoveffa, Ginevra(Italian). GENEVIEVE.(zhahn-vee-EV or GEN-uh-veev) French ’woman of the people’; Celtic, ’white wave’. Perfect choice for anyone who wants to retain the gen sound but is tired of all the overused Jen names. The medieval saint Genevieve, patroness of Paris, defended the city against Attila the Hun. Gen, Gena, Genaveeve, Genaveve, Genavie, Genavieve, Genavive, Geneva, Geneveeve, Genever, Genevera, Geneveve, Genevie, Genevievre, Genevive, Genivieve, Gennie, Genny, Genoveve, Genovieve, Genovive, Genvieve, Gin, Gina, Ginata, Ginett, Ginetta, Ginette, Gineveve, Ginevieve, Ginevive, Ginnetta, Ginnette, Guinevieve, Guinivive, Gwenevieve, Gwenivive, Janeva, Jenevieve, Jennavieve, Jennie, Jenny. 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