Why do bad names happen to good people?

Agatha until recently summoned up visions of martyred saints, mauve silk dresses, and high lace collars, but now that some dauntless excavators have begun to resurrect it, we're sure more will follow their lead. Actor Thomas Gibson used it for his daughter in 2004.

Agnes is the Latin variation of the name Hagne, which itself derived from the Greek word hagnos, meaning "chaste." In medieval times, St. Agnes was a very popular saint, leading to its popularity as a girl's name. Agnes Grey is the title of one of the two novels written by Anne Brontë.

With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.

In music, the term allegro means "quickly, lively tempo," which makes this quintessential Bohemian ballet dancer's name all the more appealing. Allegra is one of the most distinctive yet accessible girl names starting with A.

Archangella is a rare feminine name derived from the word 'archangel,' referring to the highest-ranking angels in several religious traditions. The name combines the Greek elements 'arch' (chief) and 'angelos' (messenger). This elaborate and dramatic name carries powerful religious connotations, suggesting divine protection and spiritual significance. While uncommon in most countries, Archangella occasionally appears in deeply religious Catholic families, particularly those with Italian heritage. The name's elaborate nature and strong religious associations have kept it relatively rare through history. Bearers of this distinctive name might use nicknames like Archy, Angela, or Ella for everyday use.

The great philosopher's name is commonly used in Greek families, and is one that could work for daring, philosophical American ones. With user friendly nicknames such as Ari, Aris, Artie, and Ris, Aristotle is a ambitious choice, associated with morality, ethics, literature, and psychology.

Chester is a comfortable, little-used teddy-bear of a name that suddenly sounds both quirky and cuddly.

Star Wars and Harry Potter actor Domhnall Gleeson put this Irish and Scottish name on the international map. Sometimes Anglicized as Donal, its pronunciation is close to Donald without the final d.

Maybe if you're planning to have only one child -- and iffy even then.

Fredericka is the feminine form of Frederick, a classic Germanic name meaning 'peaceful ruler,' derived from the elements 'frid' (peace) and 'ric' (ruler, power). This elegant feminine variation adds the traditional Latin feminine suffix '-a' to create a distinctly female version with regal associations. The name has historical connections to nobility across Europe, including Prussia and the German states. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Fredericka has maintained a steady, if modest, presence throughout the centuries. It offers several appealing nickname options including Freddie, Freda, Ericka, or Rica. The name carries an air of classic sophistication and strength while being recognizable yet distinctive enough to stand out in contemporary settings.

Frostine, best known in the U.S. as the name of the Candyland queen, is newly fashionable in France and is certainly a choice that any little girl the world over would love. Fanciful, if over-the-top, but a perfect name for a winter baby girl.

This name of the wife of Mark Antony (no, not Marc Anthony) in ancient Rome sounds a tad too anatomical for a modern girl.

This variation of Theodore is familiar here mostly via the great Russian novelist Dostoyevsky. It was also the name of three early tsars of Russia.

Guillaumette is a feminine French name derived from Guillaume, the French form of William, which has Germanic origins meaning "resolute protection" or "will helmet." This name represents the feminine diminutive form, historically given to daughters named after their fathers or grandfathers named Guillaume. Guillaumette was moderately popular in medieval and Renaissance France, particularly among noble families. While rare in modern usage, it carries an elegant, historical quality that connects to French heritage. The name's traditional feminine suffix "-ette" adds delicacy to the strong root name. Though uncommon internationally, Guillaumette might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive French name with historical depth and aristocratic associations.

An offbeat way to get to Gwen.

Has the fusty charm of recently excavated ancient Roman male names like Augustus and Magnus, which might just appeal to the fearless baby namer.

More grown up than Jamie, but never given to more than 13 baby girls in the US per year (and that back in 1968). Modern parents prefer Jamie, Jameson or even James itself, as Blake and Ryan Reynolds chose in 2014.

Jimbo is a masculine name that originated as a familiar, affectionate nickname for James. With English-American origins, it combines the shortened form 'Jim' with the suffix 'bo,' which was a popular addition to nicknames in the southern United States. This playful diminutive has occasionally been used as a given name in its own right, particularly in the late 20th century when informal names gained acceptance. Jimbo conveys a friendly, approachable quality with a distinctly casual American flair. While not commonly found on birth certificates, it maintains popularity as a nickname and carries associations with down-to-earth warmth and unpretentious charm. The name has folksy appeal and projects an easygoing personality.

Lettice is still occasionally heard in upper-class British families, but we fear it would cause too much salad-green teasing to be considered in the U.S. Calling your little Lettice Lettie could help make the name more user-friendly, or go all the way to the original Letitia.

Libertad is the forceful name recently given to his daughter by Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal. English equivalent Liberty has been in use for girls for some time. Libertad might be considered a Spanish virtue name or word name. See our list of other Spanish word names.