Greek Girl Names

The name of one of the Greek Muses would be really difficult to bear here on earth.

Astraia -- or Astraea or Asteria -- is the Greek goddess of justice and innocence who became the constellation Virgo. While largely unknown today, this is one of the Greek goddess namesthat may be rediscovered.

Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.

Many old-school girl names are feminine forms of male names. This one gets an exotic twist from being the female version not of Basil but the form used very commonly in Greece, Vasilios. This uncommon name would make an interesting and rare V-starting choice.

Bronte is the lovely surname of the three novel-writing sisters, now used as a baby name; a fitting tribute for lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. An extra element of Bronte's appeal: the surprise of it dramatic meaning coupled with its mellifluous sound.

Thessaly is the name of an area of Greece, known for being near Mount Olympus. This variation lends itself to the nickname Sally. You may also wish to consider the name Larissa, which is the capital of the Thessaly region.

Eulala is a melodious name highlighted for American parents when actress Marcia Gay Harden chose it for her older daughter. The pronunciation is yoo-LAY-la; Eulalia is the related name of the patron saint of Barcelona.

Aliz, traditionally spelt Alíz, is a Top 50 name in Hungary and puts a zippy spin, thanks to that final z, on the classic Alice. Its similarity to names such as Elise may cause some confusion, but its simplicity makes it a winner.

Another light new twist in the Nicole family.

Omega is a perfect choice for a youngest child.

A star in the constellation of Leo, perfect for a sci fi character but for a baby, not so much.

Lex is still used mostly for boys, but like Alex, may cross over with the rising popularity of all long forms of the name. Lexi is another, more feminine option.

Place-name mentioned in the New Testament and not yet on the name map. Philadelphia Thursday was the character played by Shirley Temple in John Ford's 1948 "Fort Apache."

The French word for angel is Ange, but Angèle is the French version of the name Angela, and feels much fresher nowadays.

Also relating to the sea and the islands, this name is a bit more melodic than its cousins.

Agapi has a sweet meaning of love and affection, but though this name is used in modern Greece, it's one of the Greek names for girls that has not yet emigrated to the US along with so many of her sisters.

Antimony is a lustrous grey metal. Beware though - antimony is very poisonous and harmful to the environment, so a bit of a harsh name to give to a child.

One of a number of similar forms of the "violet" name family used throughout Europe — others include Yolanda, Violante and Iolanthe.