Names ending in a

Popular ever since it appeared on the 1987 sitcom A Different World. Inventive variations include Geleexa, Ja Leesa, Ja Lisa, Jaleisa, Jalisa, Jaliza, Jilleesa, Jilleisa, Joleesa, Joleisa.

Providentia was an ancient Roman goddess that was important to religion and the Imperial cult of ancient Rome. She personified the ability to foresee and make provisions. As a baby name, Providentia is an elaborate and feminine alternative to Providence.

Russian form of Martha, used in several novels by Feodor Dostoyevsky.

Marfa is perhaps best known as the name of artistic city Marfa, Texas. Rumor has it that the town was named after the Dostoyevsky character in The Brothers Karamazov, but it was actually named for a different literary character—Marfa Strogoff in MIchael Strogoff by Jules Verne.

An Italian word name that could join the burgeoning Fran community.

The Romanian form of Medea, famously borne by actress Medeaa Marinescu.

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

While this spelling is running a close second on the popularity charts to the original Briana, it feels more invented -- probably because it is. Some parents may want to move further away from Brian, root name for all the feminine variations, and so prefer the e versions. But we like the older, more authentic Briana best. Another spelling way: Breanna.

Christia is a rare Chris name that doesn't add much to the mix. We'd prefer lengthening Christia to Christiana or shortening it to Christa.