Names That Mean Feminine

Josephe is much less well-known in the English-speaking world than Josephine or Joanna.

Numeria was a feminine forename in ancient Rome, said to derive from Numeria, the goddess of childbirth.

An ancient Roman name that hasn't found favor in the modern world.

This feminine diminutive of John from the Isle of Man is also sometimes used as a variant of Judith. Still, we think it is as attractive as Thomasina or Jacoba -- that is, not very.

Shalailah is a soft name made most familiar by journalist Shalailah Medhora. Given the popularity of Layla and all her variants, Shalailah has potential for parents looking for something off the beaten track.

So many names sound better with a French accent, and Petronille is one of them -- it feels unusual in an elegant way. But in the US, you'd have to be adventurous to choose it.

Variation of Suhail.

Rarely used aristocratic name with ancient roots and less than appealing sound.

One case where the English version -- Josephine -- is far preferable.

Turning Paul or Paol -- whether it's as Paolo, Paolina, or even Paola -- instantly makes it more romantic and appealing.

Unlike Lachlan, this Scottish name for girls is likely to be mispronounced. Is that...LaChina?

Nicandra is the name of a plant known as apple-of-peru and also shoo-fly plant. It's also the feminine form of Nicander, an ancient Greek poet, physician, and grammarian.

If you're looking for an unusual Michaela alternative, try this Spanish route.

Variation of Clementine.

Not even if your husband is named Ron.

Familiar outside the Hispanic community through male opera singer Placido Domingo, this name has a calm, serene feeling.

Almost completely unknown in this country: an intriguing possibility.