Names That Mean Form

Panya is a Russian diminutive that sounds a tad feminine to the Western sensibility.

A Catalan classic that runs the risk of looking like a typo for those not in the know.

Actress Leelee Sobieski's real name is Liliane, after her French grandmother -- a better choice for any baby-namer.

Mike with a standout spelling. The musician Meic Stevens is considered to be Wales' answer to Bob Dylan.

Jowanet is the feminine form of Jowan (the Cornish form of John), making this name equivalent to Joan, Jane, Janet, Joanna, and the rest of that name family.

An alternative spelling of Austin that is occasionally given to boys in the US.

This Croation take on Russian stalwart Vladimir has a softer sound that may appeal to many.

Alternative spelling of Welsh Carys or Greek Charis, found on British boxer Karriss Artingstall.

The second-most-common variation of John in Iceland, behind Jón. Jóhann has had more steady rankings over the years.

This could be a cool addition to the ranks of O-ending boy names.

No, it's not a typo: it's William as a Welsh speaker would spell it. Gwilym is the more traditional Welsh version, though.

Kalenah, another form of Kalena, may have a variety of possible derivations, though we see it as one of the many descendants of Katherine.

Like Edmund, but with a double-take. (W is a vowel in Welsh.)

A pared-down spelling of Odette that's currently popular with parents in Hungary. Elsewhere, it may feel like something is missing.

Like currently-stylish Finnian, but as a native Welsh speaker would spell it.

If you like such uplifting New Age word names as Peace and Justice, the evocative and pretty Imagine should definitely be on your short list.

This biblical compound was found on a Romani man in England around 1900, but wouldn't be out of place on a boy today.