Names ending in a

Ida is one of those terminally old-fashioned names that suddenly sounds fresh again, especially given how fashionable it is in Europe. Ida, usually pronounced ee-da, is a Top 100 name in Scandinavia and German-speaking countries, and is rising more gently in the US.

This feminine form of Damian projects a positive and lilting image, a distinct contrast to its male counterpart.

Makes the intriguing Olga even more so.

We like all forms of this name—Annabel, Anabel, Annabelle, Anabela, and Annabella—so you decide how elaborate you want to get. Actress Sela Ward chose the Anabella spelling.

With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.

What a difference one letter makes - the somewhat tired, though still heavenly Angela, gets a makeover as sweet and subtle Aniela. Definitely worth considering.

Variant of Mariella

Nazia is a name seen in both Pakistan and India, which derives from the word naaz, meaning pride. It may be difficult to introduce this name into the West, given the first four letters, which is unfortunate given its lovely meaning. Nazia Hassan (a singer, lawyer and social activist) was probably the most famous woman with this name.

Lisa was one of the first names to spawn a range of variations, and this is one, sometimes pronounced lee-sha. The original is simpler and prettier.

Even though the pronunciation of Ceara and the more usual Ciara is KEER-a, most Americans would tend to mispronounce this spelling variation as Sierra.

Unusual and pretty, if lispy.

The name of a famous valley in ancient Greece, with ties to the historic Nemean Games.

The Italian form of Hilda is rarer but sweeter than its mother name, which still isn't ready for revival in the US.

If you can see past its violent first syllable, Killa actually has a sweet sound and lovely meaning.