Alternate Spellings
- Fae
Origin:
Spelling variation of FayeDescription:
Now that Faye is back on the Top 1000 after a decades-long absence, its spelling variations are being revived as well. Fae was given to nearly as many baby girls last year as Fay and may be especially attractive as a middle name option.
- Fenix
Origin:
Variation of Phoenix, Spanish, GreekMeaning:
"dark red"Description:
Fenix is a spelling variation of the place name and mythological name Phoenix, possibly inspired by the Romani form, Fennix, or the Spanish Fénix. Derived from Greek and meaning "dark red", the phoenix is an immortal bird that, having lived for a number of centuries, would be consumed by fire and rise from its own ashes.
- Flynt
Description:
Flynt is a masculine name of English origin, representing a variant spelling of Flint. The name refers to the hard, sedimentary rock that produces sparks when struck against steel, symbolizing strength, durability, and the ability to create fire. This association gives the name a rugged, resilient quality with natural world connections. The unique 'y' spelling adds a distinctive touch to this short, punchy name. Flynt gained some recognition through fictional characters and occasional celebrity usage but remains uncommon as a given name. Its brief, one-syllable structure with strong consonants projects confidence and decisiveness. The name appeals to parents seeking a masculine option that's concise yet carries substantial symbolic meaning.
- Graeme
Origin:
Scottish variation of GrahamMeaning:
"gravelly homestead"Description:
An interesting vowel combination lightens up Graham.
- Hanna
Origin:
Spelling variation of HannahDescription:
This simplified version is not nearly as popular as the original (it also destroys a perfectly good palindrome), and has been on the decline in recent years.
- Hayli
Description:
Hayli is a modern variant spelling of Hayley, a name with English origins derived from a surname meaning 'hay clearing' or 'hay meadow'. This contemporary spelling emerged during the late 20th century as parents sought distinctive variations of popular names. Hayli maintains the cheerful, friendly sound of the original while offering a more unique written form. The name peaked in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s, influenced by celebrities and fictional characters. Hayli has a youthful, energetic quality that many parents find appealing. The 'i' ending gives the name a femininity and modernity that distinguishes it from the more traditional spelling. While less common than Hayley/Hailey, Hayli provides a recognizable yet individualized option for parents seeking familiar sounds with distinctive spelling.
- Henri
Origin:
French and Finnish variation of Henry, GermanMeaning:
"estate ruler"Description:
The chic Euro spelling of Henry is rising along with the original form.
- Hew
Description:
Hew is a masculine name of Scottish origin, traditionally considered a variant of Hugh, which derives from the Germanic element 'hug' meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit.' In Scottish usage, Hew has existed as a distinct name in its own right for centuries, particularly common in medieval and renaissance Scotland among nobles and common folk alike. This short, strong name carries a distinctly Celtic heritage while remaining simple and unpretentious. Though rare in modern usage, Hew has never completely disappeared, maintaining a quiet presence particularly in families with Scottish connections. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary appeal despite its ancient roots, fitting modern preferences for concise, straightforward names with historical depth.
- Hilarie
Description:
Hilarie is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Hillary or Hilary, which derive from the Latin name Hilarius, meaning "cheerful" or "happy." This spelling variation with an -ie ending gives the traditional name a slightly softer, more feminine feel. While Hilary/Hillary gained popularity in the mid-20th century, Hilarie has always remained much less common, never entering mainstream popularity charts. The name carries associations with joy and positivity through its Latin roots. Notable namesakes include American actress Hilarie Burton, which brought some recognition to this spelling variant. Hilarie offers parents a way to use a recognizable name with established history while choosing a less common spelling that distinguishes their child from others with the more standard spellings.
- Islay
Origin:
Scottish place-nameDescription:
Islay is the name of a Hebridian island famous for its whisky. Don't be fooled by the "y" at the end - this name is pronounced exactly like the more well-known Isla.
- Jacque
Description:
Jacque is a masculine name that serves as a French variant of Jacob, ultimately derived from Hebrew origins meaning 'supplanter' or 'holder of the heel.' While Jacques (with the 's') is the standard French form, Jacque represents a simplified spelling that maintains the French pronunciation. The name carries sophisticated European flair while remaining relatively easy to pronounce in English-speaking contexts. Jacque has seen moderate usage throughout the 20th century, particularly in French-influenced regions and families with French heritage. The name bridges classical biblical roots with Continental elegance, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with international appeal. Its combination of historical depth and stylish sound gives Jacque enduring charm despite never reaching mainstream popularity.
- Jeaneva
Description:
Jeaneva is a feminine name that appears to be a creative blend of Jean and Geneva, or possibly a variant of Genevieve. With French and English influences, this uncommon name carries a delicate, vintage quality. Jean derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' while Geneva relates to the Swiss city or comes from the Old French 'genevre' meaning juniper tree. Jeaneva emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century but never achieved widespread popularity. The name has a melodic flow with its three syllables and soft ending, offering parents a distinctive choice that maintains connections to more traditional names while standing apart from them.
- Jeronimo
Origin:
Spanish and Portuguese form of Hieronymus or JeromeMeaning:
"scared name"Description:
An anglicized spelling of the Spanish and Portuguese form of Jerome.
- Journee
Origin:
Spelling variation of Journey, English word nameMeaning:
"travel or passage from one place to another"Description:
With Journey becoming increasingly popular, it's no surprise that this alternative spelling is not far behind. However, you may be surprised to learn that in recent years, the Journee spelling has actually passed the original spelling in popularity — Journee is currently in the Top 200. This word name may be appealing to parents attracted to the idea of a spiritual -- or even an actual -- voyage.
- Karren
Description:
Karren is a feminine name that originated as a variant spelling of Karen, which derives from the Danish form of Katherine. Katherine itself comes from the Greek name Aikaterine, possibly meaning "pure." Karren gained some popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century but remained less common than Karen. The unique double-r spelling gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Karren peaked in usage during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States, aligning with the popularity surge of Karen. Today, the name has decreased in frequency, giving it a vintage quality. Karren projects strength and clarity while its uncommon spelling offers individuality to those who bear it.
- Kaydence
Origin:
Variation of Cadence, word nameDescription:
We'd prefer to stick with the more-familiar Cadence and avoid the overly trendy Kay- prefix.
- Klara
Origin:
German, Russian, Polish, Scandinavian variation of ClaraMeaning:
"light"Description:
German, Slavic and Scandinavian form of Clara, which is a Top 100 girl name in multiple European countries, including Austria, Croatia, Iceland and Poland. While Clara is fashionable in the US, the Klara spelling retains an Old World air.
- Korey
Origin:
Spelling variation of CoreyDescription:
See COREY.
- Linsey
Description:
Linsey is a feminine name that originated as a Scottish surname derived from the place name Lindsey, referring to 'Lincoln marsh' or 'island of linden trees.' As a given name, it gained popularity in the mid-20th century alongside similar names like Lindsay and Lindsey. This particular spelling variant with '-ey' offers a slightly different visual form while maintaining the same pronunciation ('LIN-zee'). The name carries associations with naturalness and Scottish heritage. While its popularity peaked in the 1970s and 1980s, Linsey maintains a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and familiar cadence. The name works well across ages and has avoided becoming overly dated despite its strongest associations with the late 20th century.
- Londyn
Origin:
Spelling variation of London, place nameDescription:
Londyn is now a more popular name than the original London for girls. Some parents feel that varying the spelling nudges the name away from over-identification with the British capitol. Substituting a y for another vowel is also seen by some as more feminine. For boys, London is five times as popular as Londyn -- though both variations are far more popular for girls.