Old New England Names from Maine

  1. Niobe
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Description:

      The mythological queen whose perpetual weeping for her slain children turned her into a stone has always cast a pall over this name. Still, when other names with less-than-savory associations -- Delilah, Ophelia, Persephone -- are becoming popular, parents might want to consider this one of the more unusual mythology names for girls.
  2. Noma
    • Description:

      Noma is a feminine name with diverse cultural origins. In Japanese, Noma means 'field of wild flowers,' creating a naturally beautiful image. In Swahili, it carries the meaning 'comfortable' or 'pleasant.' The name also appears in some Native American cultures. Noma has maintained a low profile in popularity charts but offers a distinctive quality with its simple two-syllable structure. The name's cross-cultural versatility makes it appealing to parents seeking something uncommon yet easy to pronounce. Noma's understated elegance and natural connotations give it a subtle charm without being overly elaborate.

  3. Nori
    • Origin:

      Japanese, English short form or Eleanor, Leonora, Nora, Honora, or North, form of Nor or Nuri, Arabic, Turkish,"ceremonial rites, doctrine, seaweed; unknown, honor, north; my light"
    • Meaning:

      "ceremonial rites, doctrine, seaweed; unknown, honor, north; my light"
    • Description:

      Nori is one of those names with several origins that would have no trouble assimilating into a variety of cultures. It might also be associated with the dried seaweed used to wrap sushi or with the nickname Kim Kardashian and Kanye West use for their daughter North.
  4. Neally
    • Netina
      • Olin
        • Origin:

          Swedish, Norwegian, English
        • Meaning:

          "ancestor, to inherit, legacy; from the low-lying land"
        • Description:

          Distinctive yet familiar, Olin is both a Scandinavian name and an English surname. Currently a rare choice, yet reminiscent of popular options, like Oliver, Orion, and Colin.
      • Orella
        • Origin:

          Latin
        • Meaning:

          "announcement from the gods, oracle"
        • Description:

          A pleasantly unfamiliar addition to the ella family of names.
      • Orianna
        • Description:

          Orianna is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from elements meaning 'golden' or 'dawn.' It can be interpreted as 'golden dawn' or 'rising light,' carrying beautiful imagery of daybreak and new beginnings. The name gained modest popularity in the early 21st century, appreciated for its elegant, flowing quality and romantic feel. Orianna offers the friendly nicknames Ori or Anna while maintaining its sophisticated full form. The name has a musical quality with its rhythm and vowel sounds, giving it a graceful, feminine energy. Though not among the most common names, Orianna has remained consistently recognized across English-speaking countries, striking a balance between familiarity and distinction.
      • Orra
        • Origin:

          Variation of Ora, Latin
        • Meaning:

          "prayer"
        • Description:

          Orra and Ora are simple yet rare names with a lovely religious meaning.
      • Orrie
        • Description:

          Orrie is a masculine name that serves as a diminutive form of names like Orville, Orson, or Orlando. With English origins, it carries a vintage charm that was more common in the early 20th century. The name has connections to Latin roots, with 'or' often relating to gold or dawn in various name origins. Orrie has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and simple pronunciation. While it has fallen into relative obscurity in recent decades, it retains appeal for parents seeking short, distinctive vintage names that aren't commonly heard. The name balances masculinity with a certain gentleness, making it versatile for various personalities. Orrie also occasionally appears as a surname in English-speaking countries.

      • Oshea
        • Origin:

          Hebrew
        • Meaning:

          "salvation"
        • Description:

          Variation of Hosea.
      • Otho
        • Description:

          Otho is a masculine name of Germanic origin that carries ancient historical significance. The name traces back to Old Germanic roots meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' Notably, it was borne by several important historical figures, including a Roman Emperor and German kings. While never extensively popular in modern times, Otho maintains an aristocratic and distinguished air. The name has various forms across European languages, including Otto in German and Othon in French. Today, Otho remains quite rare, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive classical name with historical depth and a strong masculine character.
      • Ommie
        • Orenas
          • Orillie
            • Orlevia
              • Orman
                • Orrilla
                  • Othneil
                    • Pamelia
                      • Description:

                        Pamelia is a feminine name with Greek origins, representing an elaborate variation of Pamela, which was created by Sir Philip Sidney for his 16th-century pastoral romance 'Arcadia.' The name is derived from Greek elements meaning 'all honey' or 'all sweetness.' This ornate version with the extra syllable gives the name a more formal, antique quality that evokes Victorian elegance. Pamelia enjoyed modest popularity in the 19th century and early 20th century but has since become quite rare, making it an uncommon vintage choice. The name carries associations of classic femininity and literary romance. For parents drawn to historical names with a touch of elaboration, Pamelia offers the familiarity of Pamela with a distinctive traditional twist that sets it apart from more common revival names.