Names That Mean Strong

The name of the mother of Aethelred the Unready was once common among the Anglo-Saxon nobility, and was briefly revived during the 19th century, only to be lost once again to history.

Alsie and Alcie feel more baby-ready now that names such as Elsie, Elsa, and Isla are becoming popular again. Mother name Alcina was an operatic sorceress who turned men into animals and trees.

This fanciful Irish extension of Bridget is known here through the wacky Amelia Bedelia books for kids -- an association your child may or may not like.

An ancient saint's name belonging to an 8th century English missionary. Variants include Walpurga and Walpurgis.

Traditional African name made cartoonish by the Disney character in The Lion King. In Shona it means "strength".

There was an ancient Saint Fort, and this is a modern, original way to convey a powerful meaning, especially in the middle place.

This unique one-syllable name was added to the mix by Mariel Hemingway for her now grown model/actress daughter; it could make a distinctive middle name or Bree substitute.

A Top 100 pick in Israel that feels simple and appealing enough to work in almost any language.

Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual.

Dark, woody name that's brings to mind rich panelling, beautiful colors and luxury.

The name of several minor Biblical characters seems streamlined and modern.

Uzziah was an Old Testament king of Judah, among other personages. The initial U is a bit funky for modern tastes; we don't see this one enjoying a revival ala Isaiah and Noah anytime soon.

Used in Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, this strong-sounding name belonged to a hero in Persian legend. Its derivation is unclear, but the consensus seems to be that it relates to the hero’s great size and strength, possibly from Avestan raodha "to grow" and takhma "strong, brave, valiant".

Relatively unknown outside of its native region, Sendoa is an intriguing international name with a strong meaning.

Last name occasionally used as a first, can be seen as a Lance Armstrong athlete-hero name.

Pacome is a French saint's name rarely heard in this country, but currently being revived in its native France.

Some variants are Pacomi, Pacomio and Pacomius.

Tetsu is a female name with an unusually strong and powerful meaning. It sounds spunky and cute too.

Energetic nickname name.

Hereswith is a rare name that comes to us from the dark ages. She was a Northumbrian saint, whose more famous sister, Hilda, was the Abbess at Whitby and patron of the first English poet, Caedmon. The name has a soft, lispy sound that is more wearable than its spelling would suggest.