If you like Game of Thrones names...
- Dael
Origin:
Dutch variation of DaleDescription:
Dael is cooler than Dale -- but why? Vowel switch gives an old nature name a hipper look.
- Daemon
Origin:
LiteratureDescription:
The name of a warrior and dragonrider in the Game of Thrones universe, played by Matt Smith in the HBO prequel House of the Dragon. The word daemon also features in the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman, as the physical manifestations of humans' souls in the form of an animal.
- Daeron
Description:
Daeron is a masculine name with literary origins, most notably appearing in J.R.R. Tolkien's mythology of Middle-earth as the name of an elven minstrel. The name has an elegant, otherworldly quality typical of Tolkien's elvish naming conventions. While not from traditional naming etymologies, Daeron carries connotations of artistry, wisdom, and ethereal elegance. The name may also appeal to fans of George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series, where similar-sounding names appear. Daeron has gained limited usage among parents influenced by fantasy literature and those seeking unique names with melodious sounds. Its construction follows patterns found in Celtic and Welsh naming traditions, giving it a familiar quality despite its literary invention.
- Damarys
Description:
Damarys is a feminine name with biblical and Greek origins. It appears in the New Testament as a woman of Athens who converted to Christianity after hearing the Apostle Paul speak. The name may derive from the Greek word 'damaris' meaning 'gentle' or 'heifer.' With its ancient roots yet contemporary sound, Damarys appeals to parents seeking a name with historical significance that remains relatively uncommon. The name has seen modest usage across Spanish-speaking countries and among families seeking biblical names beyond the most common choices. Damarys combines melodic qualities with spiritual heritage, offering both beauty and meaning.
- Dario
Origin:
Italian variation of DariusMeaning:
"possessing goodness"Description:
More creative and artsy than Mario. Dario is starting to edge up the US popularity list after languishing near the bottom of the Top 1000 over the last four decades. Is that inspired by Dario's popularity in Italy, Spain, Germany, and Switzerland?
- Darren
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little great one"Description:
Darren and wife Sharon shop for fifties memorabilia on eBay. The Connecticut place-name Darien might offer an update.
- Darya
Origin:
Russian or Persian, variation of Daria or feminine form of DariusMeaning:
"kingly; possessing goodness; the sea"Description:
The beguiling Darya is the name of a character in Tolstoy's Anna Karenina. As a Russian name, it's a spelling variation of Daria, while in Iran, it's a girl's name that means "the sea".
- Dessa
Description:
Dessa is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive of names like Odessa or Theodessa, or it could derive from the Greek name Odessa, referring to the ancient Greek city. Alternatively, it might be connected to the Latin "adessa," meaning "to be present." In some Slavic languages, similar names relate to "destiny" or "fate." Dessa has gained some recognition through its use by the American rapper and writer Dessa Darling. The name has a soft, gentle sound while maintaining a certain strength and brevity. Its short, two-syllable structure makes it practical and memorable, appealing to parents seeking a name that's uncommon yet accessible, with a feminine quality that's neither overly frilly nor traditionally masculine.
- Doran
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"stranger, exile"Description:
Strong but gentle Irish last-name-first. Could bring to mind long-running rock group Duran Duran.
- Drystan
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"sad, tumult"Description:
The Welsh form of Tristan, and the name of a counselor to King Arthur.
- Edvard
Description:
Edvard is a masculine name of Scandinavian and Eastern European origin, representing a variant of Edward. The name combines the Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune' and 'weard' meaning 'guardian,' thus translating to 'wealthy guardian' or 'prosperous protector.' Notable bearers include the Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and the expressionist painter Edvard Munch, creator of 'The Scream.' While Edward remains more common in English-speaking countries, Edvard is particularly popular in Norway, Sweden, and parts of Eastern Europe. The name carries an air of sophistication and cultural depth, with its continental European spelling offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Edward while maintaining the same classic heritage and meaning.
- Eiryn
Description:
Eiryn is a feminine name with Celtic origins, likely representing a modern variation of the Welsh name Erin (meaning "peace") or possibly connected to the Irish word "Éirinn" (poetic name for Ireland). This distinctive spelling incorporates the 'y' common in Welsh naming traditions, creating a unique alternative to more familiar forms. The name carries a mystical, ethereal quality that evokes Celtic heritage and natural landscapes. Extremely rare in official records, Eiryn appeals to parents seeking names with authentic cultural connections but distinctive presentations. Its unusual letter combination and flowing sound give it a lyrical quality that distinguishes it from more common Celtic-inspired names while still maintaining pronounceability. The name projects both delicacy and ancient strength.
- Eleri
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"greatly bitter"Description:
Striking name of a legendary princess and a Welsh river that feels both moody and modern. It is currently popular in Wales.
- Elia
Origin:
Italian variation of Elijah, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah is God"Description:
Though the most famous Elia, screenwriter Kazan, was male, this name sounds like a spin on many popular girls' names, from Ella to Ellie to Isla and Leah. While the Italian pronunciation has the middle syllable as LEE, making it closer to the original Elijah would give the middle syllable a long I sound -- eh-LYE-ah.
- Elias
Origin:
Greek variation of Elijah, HebrewMeaning:
"Yahweh is God"Description:
Strong, charismatic, and sleek, Elias has followed in the footsteps of Elijah and Eli to become a popular choice among parents today.
- Elinor
Origin:
Spelling variation of EleanorDescription:
Slimmed down spelling is well-established and makes an old name more modern, for better and worse. Katie Couric spells her Elinor's name this way.
- Elynor
Description:
Elynor is an uncommon variant spelling of Eleanor, a name with Greek and Provençal origins meaning 'light' or 'bright one.' This distinctive spelling gives a fresh twist to the classic name while maintaining its elegant, timeless quality. Eleanor has royal connections throughout European history, most notably through Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women of medieval Europe. The 'y' spelling of Elynor creates visual interest and a slight Welsh or medieval flavor. While much less common than the traditional Eleanor or modern variants like Elinor, Elynor offers the same rich history and dignified character with a unique spelling that stands out. The name remains feminine and sophisticated with multiple nickname possibilities.
- Eyre
Origin:
Literary name and Old NorseMeaning:
"gravel bank river"Description:
This lovely name is best-known as the surname of eponymous Bronte heroine, Jane Eyre, and would make an appealing and distinctive middle name for the child of fans of that book. While the surname Eyre is found mainly in England, its origins are Norse and it's thought to derive from Norse settlers. Still, the status of the classic books means Eyre deserves to stand proudly among English baby names.
- Freya
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"a noble woman"Description:
Freya has long been popular in the U.K. but has only taken off in the US in the last decade, along with the entire category of mythological names. Derived from the Old Norse name Freyja, meaning "Lady, noble woman", Freya is the name of the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.
- Genna
Description:
Genna is a feminine name with Italian origins, serving as a diminutive form of Giovanna, the Italian equivalent of Jane or Joan. Ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' Genna carries this beautiful spiritual significance. The name has gained modest popularity in English-speaking countries as both a standalone name and a shortened form of Genevieve or Jennifer. With its soft, flowing sound and two-syllable structure, Genna strikes a perfect balance between uniqueness and familiarity. The name exudes a gentle, warm quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce and spell.