Middle Names with Meaning

For basketball fans, in honor of Magic Johnson. Or anyone who believes in magic.

We call Savvy a Modern Virtue Name, a contemporary version of the Puritan's Hope and Charity, extolling the virtue of shrewdness. And who doesn't want their daughter to grow up to be Savvy in the ways of the world? So far, this name has been used only for girls, perhaps because some parents remember the women's magazine called Savvy.

An appealing Hawaiian name which belongs to a town, river and bay on Kauaʻi island in Hawaii. The two possible meanings of the name, "crescent bay" or "garland (lei) valley" both describe the beauty of the place.

Power is one of the new crop -- Justice, Liberty, Peace -- of strong, clear-cut, declarative choices, though this one carries more assertiveness than virtue.

Alternative to Princess or Queenie.

Mythical wonderland makes strong, evocative first name.

Eighties star Judge Reinhold (born Edward Jr. , he was given this nickname at the age of two weeks) made this possible, but it could cause a lot of confusion.

A word name that's appealing when applied to a person boogying or doing ballet; a different story in the context of Santa's reindeer.

A bit too self-congratulatory and, understandably, exceedingly rare. Still, if you're looking for a modern virtue name for your daughter, this may be one of the best qualities to exemplify.

A very distinctive musical choice, but be aware that many people will think you've named your child Oprah.

Eternal--or eternally pretentious?

This Puritan virtue name may be unstylish, but it is also sympathetic and appealing in these largely uncomfortable times.

A musical name without much rhythm or harmony.

A beyond-bold shooting-star name choice, sure to raise some relatives' eyebrows.

This one's cutting right to the chase, but with such names as Justice and Peace on the rise, why not? And we guarantee your seven-year-old son will love it, though your 17-year-old, maybe not so much. Could be used as a middle name, as Talisa Soto and Benjamin Bratt did.

Royal names are on the rise. Along with names such as King, Prince, and Royal, why not Palace? Why not indeed.

With the first name True receiving a Kardashian dose of popularity for girls, Truth is gaining in visibility too. Though its still more popular for boys two to one, the truth is that the name works equally well for both genders -- but may inspire a lot of puns.

Many parents are seeking a strong name--well there's no denying that Strong fits that bill.

Better than Synergy.