Names That Mean Beloved

A striking form of international favourite Maria, the meaning of which is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Variant of Mariella

Dariel is one of many similar forms and variations of different names—Dara, Dariela, Daria and Darya—that are all unusual and pretty if not quite authentic-feeling.

Whether you pronounce it like the original Amy or the Frenchified Ay-may, this form adds considerable elan to an old favorite.

Dariela may have a not-quite-authentic provenance, but it's a pretty name and an unusual choice in the girly Isabella-Gabriella group.

A beautiful African name which can also lead to the always-wearable "Addy" nickname.

Common transcription of Maria throughout Europe.

Carita may feel like an endearing nickname but it's a name in its own right, used throughout Scandinavia in this form and as Karita, Caritas, and Karitas as a variation on Charity.

A captivating and sprightly name brought into the limelight by actress Thandiwe Newton.

Variant of Marybeth

An intriguing variation of classic Mary that could act as a more inherently feminine alternative to the rising unisex Micah.

An ancient name belonging to several medieval English clergymen, also spelt Leofwin or Leobwin.

Name that's virtually unknown here but has a lovely meaning and a simple sound and spelling.

Variant of Marianne

Variant of Maribel

A loveday in medieval England was a day when people engaged in a dispute would come together and try to resolve their differences amicably. The name was sometimes given to babies, male or female, who were born on such a day. The etymology of Loveday is English, yet historical use was mainly relegated to Cornwall, and it is considered a traditional Cornish name. Loveday is rarely used today, however, when it is, it is usually used for baby girls.

Maori form of Mary

Davit, a form of the biblical classic David, is currently the most popular name for baby boys in Armenia.

Dutch diminutive of Marie, the meaning of which is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).