Old-Fashioned, Vintage, Retro, Classic, Eclectic, Unusual and Uncommon Names for Girls
- Sofie
Origin:
German, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Dutch, CzechMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
A streamlined spelling of Sophie, popular in several European nations, including Norway, Czechia, Denmark, and The Netherlands. While English speakers may say this as SO-fee, it may also be said as zo-FEE in German, so-FEE-uh in Danish and Norwegian and SO-fih-yeh in Czech.
- Solveig
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"the strong house or daughter of the sun"Description:
Common in Scandinavia, this name has rarely come to our shores. The name of the heroine in Ibsen's Peer Gynt, Solveig is currently a widely-used name in Norway. Pronounced authentically, with a silent 'g', it becomes much more appealing.
- Sookie
Origin:
Variation of Sukey, pet form of SusannaMeaning:
"lily"Description:
This spelling seems to be taking off as a result of media appearances as characters in first "Gilmore Girls" and then as Sookie Stackhouse, the Anna Paquin character in "True Blood," based on "The Southern Vampire Mysteries" series of books by Charlaine Harris.
- Sophia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
Sophia, which was the Number 1 girls' name in the US from 2011 to 2013, is among the top girl names in the Western World, with a sensuous sound and high-minded meaning. A real winner, Sophia reached the top of the charts without losing any—okay, much—of its sophisticated beauty.
- Sophie
Origin:
French variation of SophiaMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
Sophie is the French form of the Greek Sophia, for which it is also commonly used as a nickname. Given Sophia's long standing among the Top 10 girl names in the US, Sophie may feel more popular than it actually is.
- Sophronia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"sensible, prudent"Description:
A name some people first encountered in the old children's book series The Five Little Peppers, in which Sophronia, the youngest of the Peppers is nicknamed Phronsie.`It was also used by Dickens in two of his novels: The Old Curiosity Shop and Our Mutual Friend.
- Sosie
Origin:
Diminutive of SusanDescription:
Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon chose this unusual diminutive for their daughter.
- Starla
Description:
Starla is a feminine name that emerged in mid-20th century America as a creative elaboration of the word 'star.' This celestial-inspired name peaked in popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s, reflecting the era's interest in nature-themed and inventive names. With its glamorous connotations and cosmic imagery, Starla suggests brilliance, aspiration, and uniqueness. The name carries a distinctly Americana quality while evoking the beauty of the night sky. Though never extremely common, Starla developed a steady following, particularly in Southern states. The melodic combination of 'star' with the feminine 'la' ending creates a name that feels simultaneously familiar and distinctive.
- Starlene
Description:
Starlene is a feminine name that combines 'star' with the feminine suffix '-lene', creating a celestial and luminous image. It emerged in the mid-20th century in America during a period when unique, aspirational names were gaining popularity. While never among the most common names, Starlene has maintained a steady presence, particularly in southern regions of the United States. The name conveys brightness, uniqueness, and a touch of glamour. Its celestial association connects it to qualities of guidance, hope, and brilliance. Starlene can be seen as a more distinctive alternative to names like Marlene or Darlene.
- Starletta
Description:
Starletta is a whimsical feminine name that combines 'star' with the diminutive suffix 'letta,' creating a name that evokes celestial beauty with a touch of endearment. This elaboration of the nature-inspired name 'Star' follows the pattern of adding decorative endings to create more ornate names, a trend that gained popularity in the late 20th century. Starletta conveys qualities of brightness, aspiration, and uniqueness. While not among common given names in most countries, it appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with positive connotations and an inherently feminine quality. The name might be particularly appealing to those drawn to celestial themes or wishing to suggest their child is special and destined to shine.
- Stella
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"star"Description:
Stella is a name with star quality and sparkle, that manages to sound both ethereal and earthy. Celestial but not otherworldly, it lands somewhere between the popular Ella and bold Seraphina.
- Stephanie
Origin:
Feminine variation of Stephen, GreekMeaning:
"garland, crown"Description:
Stephanie is the feminine form of Stephen, derived from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning "crown." It’s been the name of several royal women throughout history, including the medieval Stephanie, Queen of Navarre, and Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, the daughter of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco. International variations of Stephanie include the German Stefanie, Italian Stefania, and Spanish Estefanía.
- Sudie
Origin:
Variation of Susanna, HebrewMeaning:
"lily"
- Sue
Origin:
Diminutive of SusanDescription:
Much-used midcentury diminutive, now fallen far from favor even as a middle name.
- Suellen
Origin:
Compound name, blending Susan and EllenMeaning:
"shining lily"Description:
Suellen is a smoosh name that combines two classic names into one that feels both mid-century and modern, a little like Carolyn, a bit like Elowen. Notably used by Margaret Hill in her novel, Gone with the Wind, Suellen peaked in the 1940s and is rarely used today.
- Sukey
Origin:
Diminutive of SusanDescription:
Eighteenth-century nickname that still appears occasionally as an alternative to Suzy.
- Suki
Origin:
Japanese or EnglishMeaning:
"loved one; lily"Description:
As a Japanese name, Suki has the sweet meaning "loved one". It's also an English diminutive of Susanna, making it a creative and modern way to honor a Susan in your life.
- Sukie
Origin:
Diminutive of SusanDescription:
This centuries-old nickname feels fresher and more modern today than Susie or Sue. A good short form if you're tempted by Susan, Susanna, or Susannah; another spelling is Sukey.
- Suky
Description:
Suky is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Susan or Susannah, which derive from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning "lily" or "rose." This playful, affectionate nickname has occasionally been used as an independent given name, particularly in 18th and 19th century England. It has a quaint, vintage charm reminiscent of rural English countryside life. While uncommon in modern use, Suky appeals to those drawn to short, sweet names with historical roots. The name has a cheerful, friendly quality that conveys warmth and approachability. Despite its historical usage, Suky maintains a youthful sound that works well across all ages. Its rarity today gives it a distinctive quality for those seeking an uncommon name with traditional origins.
- Susan
Origin:
English diminutive of Susannah, HebrewMeaning:
"lily"Description:
Although Susan had her heyday from the thirties to the sixties, and is now common among moms and new grandmas, and though most modern parents would prefer Susanna/Susannah, we have spotted some flickers of interest in a revival. It still retains a certain black-eyed-Susan freshness.