Names by Nickname

Cosette is best known as the heroine of Les Miserables. In the Victor Hugo novel, Cosette was the nickname given to the girl named Euphrasie by her mother. Although Hugo invented the name, some etymologists believe it's a spin on Colette, originally a female short form of Nicolas.

Derived from the Shakespearean Cressida, or perhaps from Crescentia or Lucrezia, Cressie is a sweet but unexpected nickname-name, reminiscent of Essie, Josie, Jessie, Cassie, and Lettie. For some, however, it might be too close to the salad garnish.

Cynthie is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Cynthia, which derives from Greek mythology as an epithet of Artemis, goddess of the moon, who was born on Mount Cynthus. This variation adds a sweet, informal quality to the classic name through the '-ie' ending. While Cynthia saw peak popularity in the mid-20th century, Cynthie remains relatively uncommon, offering a slightly distinctive alternative to the more traditional form. The name carries the same lunar associations as Cynthia, evoking celestial imagery and mythology. Cynthie creates a friendly, approachable impression while maintaining connections to its more formal counterpart and its rich classical heritage.