Names with Inspirational Meanings

Certainly qualities desired for our sons.

A surname very rarely heard as a first, associated with Hall of Fame basketball star Patrick Ewing and, in the 1980s, the oil-rich Ewing family on the nighttime soap, "Dallas"

This name is a variation of U'i lani, which means heavenly beauty in Hawaiian.

This feminine name — simply "angel" imported into Māori phonology — is fresher than Angela and less Hollywood than Angelina.

Opera star Domingo was responsible for giving this popular Latin name its green card. It was commonly used by early Christians to convey their serenity in the faith, and it was borne by several minor saints.

Mirembe is a feminine Ugandan name stemming from the Luganda word "emirembe" meaning peace, quiet. In Luganda, Rs are pronounced similar to Ls, so mill-EM-beh is an approximate pronunciation.

An Arabic name with Quranic connections -- it represents one of the essential qualities -- that would have no trouble assimilating. Sabira or Sabirah is a form used for girls, and Sabri can be used for either sex.

The meaning makes this name interesting, but the sound is too related to nemesis.

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.

Genuine Indian name some parents turn to as an Amanda alternative; also connected to a network of spiritual communities.

Keefe is an energetic Irish surname occasionally used as a first. Only caveat: Will people think your little Keefe is a Keith with enunciation problems?

Despite its virtuous meaning, Fergall - along with the more standard spellings Fergal, Ferghal and Fearghal - has never made it across the ocean. In the States, Fergall is a rare yet pronounceable name with strong ties to Ireland. In its native land, it's been worn for over a thousand years by everyone from chieftains to poets to sportsmen, and still appears steadily in birth records.

More familiar now via its Salman form, thanks to author Rushdie; this is an unusual biblical alternative.

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

Long associated with Egyptian-born actor/bridge expert Omar Sharif, also a title bestowed on descendants of Muhammad.

Graziella, an Italian form of Grace, is another Latin version that adds spice. Consider Graziella as a distinctive alternative to either Grace or Gabriella.

Sowena is the Cornish word for success, a wonderful and encouraging meaning for a baby girl's name.

Satya can be either a feminine or masculine name. It is strongly connected to the virtue, and in order to have "satya" one must be truthful not only in words, but also in actions and thoughts. Satya is a great name for those in the West who have Indian roots or are looking for a discreet virtue name.

The name of the Hindu elephant-headed god of success and wisdom, son of Shiva and Parvati.

The Basque name has enough Zs in it to make it look spaceaged and trendy, but it is in fact a traditional Basque name. Despite its wonderful meaning, it may be too close to the feminine English name Susan for usage in the Anglosphere.