Polish Family Tree

Adam -- a primal Old Testament name -- was revived as a 1960s cowboy name. Adam is not as popular as it once was and feels ready for a respite, replaced by newer A names like Aidan/Aiden, Avery and Axel. Its most prominent current bearers include Adams Sandler, Levine, Brody and Driver -- who plays a character named Adam on Girls.

An international variation of classic Alexander, this form has slightly softer sounds, yet feels just as strong. Popular in Poland, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia, but familiar in the UK too, short forms include Aleks, Sander, Sandi, and Sašo (Sasho).

Polish form of Alice and Alicia

Anna has become the dominant form of the Ann family, offering a touch of the international to English speakers and a bit more style than the oversimplified Ann or Anne.

Despite the popularity of Anthony and its masculine variants, female derivatives of its source – the Roman family name Antonius, of unknown meaning – have never caught on in the same way. Sister name Antonia peaked at #336 in the US way back in 1882, while Antonina itself has never ranked higher than #865 (in 1915). It has been outside of the Top 1000 ever since.

Apolonia is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from Apollo, the Greek god of sun, light, music, and poetry. It can be considered a variant of Apollonia, which gained recognition through Saint Apollonia, an early Christian martyr. The name has been used across various European cultures, particularly in Poland, Spain, and Portugal. Apolonia carries an elegant, classical feeling with its melodic sound pattern. While not among the most common names, it has maintained steady usage throughout history. In recent years, parents drawn to vintage names with historical depth have shown renewed interest in Apolonia, appreciating its sophisticated sound and mythological connections.

The Arthur variation preferred in Portugal and across much of Eastern Europe. It’s a truly international name, and one that would be easy to wear in the US as well.

Bernadetta is the feminine Italian and Polish form of Bernard, derived from the Germanic elements "bern" (bear) and "hard" (brave, strong), meaning "strong as a bear." The name gained prominence through Saint Bernadette Soubirous, the French visionary of Lourdes, though Bernadetta represents a more formal variant of her name. This elegant name carries a classic European charm and remains in use particularly in Italy, Poland, and other Catholic countries. While not among the most common names internationally, Bernadetta offers a sophisticated alternative to the more familiar Bernadette. The name conveys both strength and femininity, with potential nicknames including Berna, Detta, or Etta, adding to its versatility.

Cecylia is a distinctive spelling variant of Cecilia, a feminine name of Latin origin meaning 'blind' or traditionally associated with the Latin family name Caecilius. This particular Polish spelling variation maintains the melodious quality of the original while giving it a unique Eastern European flair. The name carries rich historical connections, as Saint Cecilia is the patroness of musicians in the Catholic tradition. While the standard spelling Cecilia has remained consistently popular throughout Western history, the Cecylia variant is far less common outside of Polish communities. The name conveys elegance and cultural heritage, with its distinctive 'y' spelling offering a subtle uniqueness to this classic name.

A Polish form of the Lithuanian Danutė, the name Danuta is possibly a feminine form of the Hebrew Daniel, meaning "God is my judge", or an elaboration of Dana, a multicultural name meaning "gift" from the Slavic root danŭ, "wise" in Persian and Arabic, and "to judge" from Hebrew.

Dominika is the feminine form of Dominic, with Slavic origins particularly popular in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries. The name derives from the Latin "dominicus," meaning "of the Lord" or "belonging to God," reflecting its religious roots. Traditionally associated with Sunday (the Lord's day) or children born on Sunday, Dominika carries spiritual significance. The name gained popularity in Eastern Europe after Saint Dominic founded the Dominican Order in the 13th century. In the United States, Dominika remains uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being relatively easy to pronounce. Its four syllables create a rhythmic, musical quality. The name conveys strength and femininity simultaneously, with nickname options including Nika, Mika, or Domi, offering versatility for different stages of life.

Unlike perennials William, John and James, Edward is a classic that moves in and out of fashion. This royal Anglo-Saxon standard has benefited in recent years from the popularity of the hot hero of the vampire sensation Twilight — Edward Cullen — who has given his name a new infusion of cool.

Elwira is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant of Elvira. The name's roots can be traced to the ancient Germanic elements 'alb' meaning 'elf' and 'wer' meaning 'true' or 'protected,' essentially meaning 'protected by elves' or 'elf counsel.' This enchanting name is more common in Eastern European countries, particularly Poland and Russia, where this spelling variation is embraced. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Elwira offers an exotic alternative to the more familiar Elvira. The name carries an air of mystery and elegance, evoking images of Slavic folklore and cultural richness. Its distinctive character makes it a unique choice for parents seeking a name with both historical depth and uncommon appeal.

Eugeniusz is the Polish variant of the Greek name Eugene, meaning "well-born" or "noble". This distinguished masculine name carries a sense of dignity and classical heritage. While popular in Poland throughout the 20th century, Eugeniusz has become less common among younger generations. The name is often shortened to the friendlier nickname "Gienio" in everyday use. Notable bearers include Eugeniusz Kwiatkowski, an influential Polish economist and politician who helped develop the Polish economy between the World Wars. Though not widely used internationally, Eugeniusz represents a strong connection to Polish cultural heritage and maintains an air of traditional elegance.