Names That Mean Little

A Roman name that's unused by English speakers today, but might appeal as a shorter, lighter alternative to Aurelia. The Latin vocabulary word aula also meant "hall".

Variation of Alana.

Famke was introduced to this country via Dutch-born actress Famke Janssen, but is not likely to appeal to many American parents.

This was a common name in early Ireland, borne by numerous saints, but pronunciation problems would make it prohibitive here.

Ettie or Etty works as a nickname for any name with a prominent "et" sound, usually at the end: think Henrietta, Juliette or Colette. The -ette ending is a French diminutive suffix.

An attractive update to Gladys.

Gladiola is a character in the 1991 novel and 1995 film How to Make an American Quilt

Bold Irish surname, full of energy and cheer.

A virtually unheard of girl name with a lot of potential — giving classic Sara an elegant and extra-princessy spin.

Tuulikki is a Finnish name meaning "little wind" -- tuuli means wind in Finnish -- and also the name of a forest goddess. Supermodel Else Hosk, whose mother is Finnish, chose this name for her daughter.

As a term of endearment, maybe, but not as a proper name, where it would practically demand the refrain "Banana."

Ro- names are on the rise — think Roman, Rory, and Rowan — but straightforward and streamlined Row (and Rowe, Roe, and Ro) takes this trend to the next level. The pared-down single syllable gives Row an ultra-cool edge.

Tenten is not a given Japanese name, but it was used for a character in the Naruto franchise.

One of the most usable names for an American child from the Icelandic Top 50.

Cendrine derives from Cendrillon, the French form of Cinderella. It's quite uncommon, even in France, but if the fairy tale made a big impression on you, it could be a sweet tribute.

One you might like for its cozy meaning, but there is that Pied Piper rat connection.

Derived from the Irish M'Aodh Óg, making it a relative of Aidan. Saint Máedóc (also known as Áedán) of Ferns was a 7th-century Irish bishop.

Somewhat reminiscent of the better known Beccan, this is an Irish saints' name – there were no fewer than five St. Bercans, as well as a noted manuscript artist called Bercanus. In Ireland, it is sometime shortened to Barry.

Common surname rarely used as a first.

Rousseau gives French flair to other red-haired names like Russell and Rory. It is associated with the influential eighteenth century philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, as well as the painter Henri Rousseau.

Originally a nickname, this has become a given name in Sweden, albeit rare. It's much more common as a middle, however.