Names That Mean Meaning

An obscure medieval saint’s name which nevertheless sounds pretty on-trend right now: a softer alternative to Matilda, perhaps. If you're searching for Spanish names for girls, this can make an unusual but usable choice.

Variation of Dashiell.

Zalán is a very trendy name for boys in Hungary, although its origins are unclear. Zalán's use as a name may be inspired by the Zala River or Zala region, both in Hungary.

Kinnia is an ancient Irish saint's name — legend has it she was a maiden baptized by St. Patrick.

A rare name that rose briefly in the trail of Donna. Tonna has Choctaw roots.

In Greek mythology, Nomia was a nymph and companion of Callisto.

An ancient Roman family name, best known from the orator and author Marcus Tullius Cicero.

A feminine name in Choctaw culture.

An upbeat English word name with a Puritanical feel, famously borne by Zulu king Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who reigned for over 50 years until his death in 2021.

Surname-sounding unisex cousin of Peyton is gaining in popularity, especially for girls.

Tiasa is a little-known river nymph from Greek mythology. Her name would be easily wearable on a child today.

A masculine name in Choctaw culture.

A name from the Choctaw tribe of Mississippi and Alabama.

Apparently a smoosh of Isabel and Mara, this name is used in Brazil, but very rare in the USA. For parents looking for alternatives to Isabella and Isadora, it could be an undiscovered gem.

Regal Japanese name borne by the imperial Prince Toneri. In modern times, seen on moon-child Toneri Ōtsutsuki in the Naruto series.

Similar to the Turkish name Bilge (Bil-jeh), which has the same meaning.

A common Chinese surname that made the Top 1000 in 1881.

Carries a different meaning in American English. You may also like Sootima.

Onnolee is a name immortalized in American legend. She was the last surviving member of the Munsee tribe of Native Americans, native to the Finger Lakes region of New York. In the 14th century, Onnolee was captured by Mickinac, the leader of the Mengnee tribe who slaughtered the Munsees. She stole an unsuspecting Mickinac's knife from his sheath and stabbed him in the heart before fleeing and jumping to her death. Onnolee's ghost is said to haunt the region.

An elaborate way to get to Cleo, rooted in Greek mythology. Cleocharia was a water nymph married to King Lelex of Laconia.