Names That Mean Great

In Greek mythology, Zagreus was a god of the underworld and the son of Persephone and either Hades or Zeus. The word zagreus refers to a hunter who catches (and dismembers) live animals — the mythical Zagreus is often considered the "first Dionysius," as Dionysius was dismembered as an infant.

Familiar as a Latin surname but has potential as a first.

This Yoruba name, with a mighty meaning, might seem a mouthful at first, but is often shortened to Tobi, which makes it far more manageable for non Nigerians.

A very popular Japanese boys' name whose characters refer to the constellation Ursa Major. Short form Hiro might work better in the West, as may another popular Japanese boys' name, Ren.

A cross-cultural name that can be a nickname for David, as is common in Wales, pronounced "dye".

A rare, gender-neutral take on Darren. As a feminine name, Derin has Turkish roots.

The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.

Kabir is the 37th name of God in Islam. Kabir is also the name of an Indian poet and mystic saint. In the US, Kabir is on the rise as a boys' name, favored by Muslim parents.

The feminine form of German and French name Augustin, ultimately derived from Latin Augustus. Names with the -ine ending are considered chic in France at the moment; Augustine re-entered the French top 500 in 2009 and is climbing fast.

Well, parents are naming their children Eden and Heaven...so why not?

Skater Tai Babilonia brought this sleek modern name to the world's attention. Pronounced "tie."

Kenver is derived from the ancient British name Cunmorus, meaning "great chief." We much prefer this newer iteration.

A medieval and early English variant of the Ismenia, which feels surprisingly on trend today.

Though many might find it too syrupy, hundreds of parents each year choose this name for their daughters to make them feel special. Precious Ramotswe is the engaging African sleuth in the popular No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series.

A positive word name that came into use in the early 21st century. Also a large motorcycle manufacturer based out of the UK; Harley and Triumph could make an interesting sibset.

Once-popular boys' name works better now for girls, as a kind of Dara/Karen blend.

Unusual alternative to Roman, chosen for his son by Matthew Modine.

Variation of Magni or Magnus, popular throughout modern Scandinavia. In mythology, Magni was a son of Thor.

An energetic Igbo name belonging to several sports stars, notably American basketball player Emeka Okafor. It can also be short for Chukwuemeka.

The Old French name of the Frankish king Charles the Great (742-814), which surprisingly remained in the Top 500 in France until the mid-20th century.