Names That Mean Healthy

Kenzo is a common Japanese name with several creative bearers: the single-named fashion designer, prizewinning architect Kenzo Takada, and painter Kenzo Okada, which makes it internationally recognizable.

In many minds this one belongs to Barbie, but with such positive meanings and international connections, can Ken make the transition to usability again?

Samina is a little-known name in the US, given to only a handful of baby girls each year, that is prime for wider use. It's attractive, easy to spell and pronounce, and makes a perfect alternative to the waning Samantha. The only problem may be confusion over pronunciation. Native Arabic speakers may pronounce it with equal emphasis on all syllables, but English speakers will say sa-MEE-na (correct) or sa-MY-na (not, but be prepared for a lifetime of corrections).

A common Roman cognomen, borne by a 4th-century Roman emperor among others. From the same root as vale, the Roman word of parting, which means "be well". Note: the Classical Latin pronunciation for this name would be "WAAH-lens" (so if using this name around purists, beware!).

Another name for the herb sage -- which sounds younger and more modern than this version.

A rare Arabic name related to the Hebrew Shalom, Solomon or Salome, meaning "peace", " safety" or "completeness". In complete contrast, it could be related to the word "dhulm" or "zulm" meaning "unfairness", and conveying the idea of overcoming oppression.

Used in Italy and Spain, but in non-Latin countries could be confused with Valencia.

Hungarian form of Valentine.

Very popular throughout the Arab world and growing in use in the US as well, where it was given last year to more than 50 baby girls.

Catalan version of Valentine.

Elwell is an English surname as well as a place name. Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick used it as a second middle name for one of their twin daughters in 2009.