Names That Are Variations

Periodically used in Slovenia — the Sergey form is more common in Estonia and Russia.

A quirky international translation of Benedict.

Stylish short form Zala is the most common name in Slovenia.

A sparky diminutive of Erszébet, the Hungarian form of Elizabeth.

More distinct than the upward-trending Gemma.

An upbeat and unusual name featuring the fashionable V sound and striking initial Z.

So many names sound better with a French accent, and Petronille is one of them -- it feels unusual in an elegant way. But in the US, you'd have to be adventurous to choose it.

A pretty and unusual spin on Maria.

As Miles begat Myles, so Niles has begotten Nyles, with the name of the effete brother played by David Hyde Pierce on Frasier morphing into Andy Samberg's cool guy lead character in Palm Springs. While there were 63 boys named Niles and 37 called Nyles in the US in 2021, we predict this name will be coming soon to a baby name popularity list near you.

Evronie is an alluring variation of the German Apronia — and also the name of a German saint in the 6th century.

Juliana variant heard in various European countries.

This Hawaiian take on Miriam has all the sounds of a modern-day smash hit — think Amelia, Mila, etc. — but is virtually undiscovered.

A classic Top 10 name in Iceland, where it is the predominant form of John.

Rikissa is an old Swedish name famously borne by Rikissa Birgersdotter, Queen of Norway. Her name was derived from the Germanic Richiza, which is derived from the same source as Richard. That makes Rikissa an unexpected, quirky way to honor an important Richard in your life.

A variation of the Latin Marianus that is strictly male in its native countries — unlike the English counterpart Marian which is traditionally unisex.

This form, common in Ireland, could create confusion.