Ancient Girl Names

This popular Muslim name would more easily translate to English-speaking cultures in its Bahar form.

An Indonesian name that is virtually unknown in the Western World but that is eminently portable, sister of India and Indre or Indra.

An ancient Roman name, lost to time.

Many parents these days are responding to names meaning peace, and this is one of the more unusual ones (more often heard as a surname). Pronounced PACH-ee-a, it relates to such other peaceful names as PAZ, PAX, and PAXICO

It feels like a slenderized modern version, but Jennet actually has deep roots. Could this plucky name rescue Janet and Jenny from their datedness?

A name with an ancient pedigree which might prove confusing to the modern ear.

A rarely heard ancient Latin names for girls that has a not-so-appealing brand name feel. Try Alba instead.

Similar to the Turkish name Bilge (Bil-jeh), which has the same meaning.

A Frenchy name that doesn't exist in France, probably an attempt to create a classy feminine version of John or Johnny by rhyming it with Monet.

Most often heard as an Italian surname, this might be an unusual yet musical option. While it's not among the traditional Italian names for girls, it can fill that role.

Like Quentin, Quintin and Quintana, Quintia was once reserved for the fifth child in a family, but now would make an interesting choice for a child coming anywhere in the birth order.

A shimmery ancient Roman name that could still shine today. VARIATION: ARGENTA

The name of an area of Peru, this could be a possibilty for a springtime baby born under the sign of Taurus.

If you live in the city, you might call your urban baby Urbana; if you live in the suburbs--don't even think of Surbana.

The name of one of the 35 tribes of ancient Rome, virtually unknown in the modern world

Phillida is a "Masterpiece Theatre" appellation, proper to an almost comical degree yet might make an original way to honor an ancestral Phyliis. Actress Phyllida Law is the mother of Emma and Sophie Thompson.

A name found in 16th century marriage records, but still manages to sound like a modern, made-up elaboration of MERRY.

A cute alternative to FANNY, with a slight Russian accent.

The name of a high-born ancient Roman matrona who led a dramatic life--she was said to have had an affair with Julius Caesar--is similar to LUCIA, but not as attractive.