Greek Girl Names

This adorable name of the young daughter on "Big Love" might be thought of as a variation of Tansy, an obscure flower name whose star may rise on the heels of such current favorites as Lily and Daisy.

Ear-catching alternative to Lydia.

Diandra is one of many variations on Diana, but without the regal, classic feel. For some, that might be a drawback, while others may see it as a plus.

Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.

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

One Greek mythological name -- she was the goddess of order -- not yet embraced by American parents.

Your zany neighbor, the one who's a potter and has five cats.

Cinderella stepsister type Victorian-valentine name.

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

So many short forms of Margaret, from Peggy all the way through Maggie and Megan, are outdated now that Mago has value simply by being undiscovered. But still, not very appealing.

Ioanna may be an original spin on the Joanna family, but American tongues may have trouble wrapping themselves around all its vowels. Ioanna is pronounced ee-oh-ah-nah.

Philomela, the name of a mythological Athenian princess who was transformed into a nightingale, is rarely heard outside the Greek community. The mellifluous Philomela might make a more distinctive and prettier update for Pamela or Phyllis. Philomela may also be a good choice for a music-lover's daughter. Try Pippa or Millie for short.

One of the more prominent by-products of reality TV, via Disney.

This spelling of Electra makes this vibrant name less electric and more kinetic.

If you can't have an Alpha male, how about a Beta girl.

Streamlined version of outdated Nicki.

Arete is a minor goddess in Greek mythology who personifies the idea of excellence or perfect virtue. There is also a mythological queen Arete, with her sister an "exacter of justice".