Greek Names

This adorable name of the young daughter on "Big Love" might be thought of as a variation of Tansy, an obscure flower name whose star may rise on the heels of such current favorites as Lily and Daisy.

Has an arty, creative image.

Parthenios, the name of a Greek river god, is draped in a toga.

This name was used by Shakespeare (who got it from Plutarch) in Antony and Cleopatra for one of the attendants of the Egyptian queen. An interesting possibility, it is heard occasionally in the UK, even less frequently in the US.

Also relating to the sea and the islands, this name is a bit more melodic than its cousins.

Rhythmic and powerful, if you don't mind the nickname Vern.

Queen Hecuba was the legendary queen of King Priam of Troy, mother of Hector, Paris, Cassandra and others. Euripedes' tragedy Hecuba depicts Hecuba's grief over the death of her daughter Polyxena, and the revenge she takes for the murder of her youngest son Polydorus.

Another light new twist in the Nicole family.

Soft and gentle, but feels like a less meaningful contraction of Theodora.

Arcangela is a heavenly possibility if Angel or Angela isn't elevated enough for you.

If you can't have an Alpha male, how about a Beta girl.

Common nicknames for Christopher in Ireland, we think Christy or Christie have a certain cheery charm, especially now that Chris is feeling less ubiquitous.

Sure to give a complex.

Philomela, the name of a mythological Athenian princess who was transformed into a nightingale, is rarely heard outside the Greek community. The mellifluous Philomela might make a more distinctive and prettier update for Pamela or Phyllis. Philomela may also be a good choice for a music-lover's daughter. Try Pippa or Millie for short.