So little is known about medieval names and how they came to be. Whether peasants, nobility, or the king himself, people of the Middle Ages had names unlike any other period. It all depends on what kind of name you want to resurrect for your baby boy or girl.
Look no further because we’ve got a concise list of 100 impressive medieval names for your perusal. From famous bearers to fascinating origins, our list has everything you need to make the right choice.
100 Cool Medieval Baby Names
Find your favorite medieval names for boys and girls they’ll love showing off.
Abel
Abel derives from the Hebrew “hevel,” meaning “breath” or “vigor.” It also means “son” in Assyrian. Abel is best recognized as one of the brothers making up Cain and Abel in the Bible.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Breath
- Pronunciation: EY-Bahl
- Variations: Abele
- Namesakes: Abel Gance, a French director known for the silent film J’accuse (1919). Abel Fernandez, an American actor best known for the ABC series The Untouchables (1959 to 1963).
- Popularity: Abel ranked 775th worldwide, is mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 125th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Alaric
Alaric comes from the Old German Alaricus. It’s made up of “ala,” meaning “all’ and “rik,” meaning “rule.” Alaric is the most royal of medieval boy names as the name of many Gothic kings.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful ruler
- Pronunciation: AEL-ah-Rihk
- Variations: Alarick, Alarik
- Namesakes: Alaric Alexander Watts, a British writer with the New Monthly Magazine in London from 1818 to 1819. Alaric Hall, a British medievalist who wrote Elves in Anglo-Saxon England (2007).
- Popularity: Alaric is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 861st for boys in 2021.
Aldous
Aldous was originally the Middle English Aldus. It was a nickname for names beginning with “Ald-,” like Aldred or Aldrith. Aldous may be associated with the German Aldo, meaning “from the old house.”
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Old
- Pronunciation: AEL-Dahs
- Variations: Aldus, Aldis
- Namesakes: Hannah Topp (known as Aldous Harding), a New Zealand folk singer-songwriter and winner of the 2019 APRA Silver Scroll award. Aldous Huxley, an English writer nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature nine times.
- Popularity: Aldous is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the Philippines.
Amabel
Amabel is based on the Latin “amabilis,” meaning “lovable.” It appeared as Amabel, Amable, and Amiable after the 12th-century. Amabel has been all but forgotten among medieval girl names but has been replaced by Mabel.
- Origin: Latin, French
- Meaning: Lovable
- Pronunciation: AEM-ah-Behl
- Variations: Annabel, Amable
- Namesakes: Amabel Roberts, an American nurse and the first American nurse to die in France during World War I. Amabel Williams-Ellis, an English writer and member of the Bloomsbury Group.
- Popularity: Amabel is very rare worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines, and ranked 1,582nd in Uruguay in 2014.
Amira
Amira also means “treetop” or “proverb” in Hebrew. It also means “high-born girl” in Arabic and Hindi, which is perfect for a modern princess.
- Origin: Arabian
- Meaning: Princess
- Pronunciation: Ah-MIH-Raa
- Variations: Ameera, Amyra
- Namesakes: Amira Edrahi, a Libyan swimmer who competed at the 2004 Summer Olympics. Amira Willighagen, a Dutch singer who won Holland’s Got Talent in 2013.
- Popularity: Amira ranked 1,034th worldwide, is mainly used in Egypt and ranked 217th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Annora
Annora began as the Norman-French version of Honora. It was common between the 12th- and 14th-centuries. Annora means “grace” in Hebrew, which pairs nicely with “honor” for your little lass.
- Origin: Latin, French
- Meaning: Honor
- Pronunciation: Ah-NAWH-Raa
- Variations: Annoura
- Namesakes: Annora Bourgeault, a Canadian beauty pageant contestant, crowned Miss World Canada 2014.
- Popularity: Annora is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the Philippines.
Ansel
Ansel is another version of Anselm. It was originally a medieval Germanic name meaning “follower of a nobleman.” Ansel also means “God’s helmet” and is best known by the photographer Ansel Adams.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: With divine protection
- Pronunciation: AEN-Sahl
- Variations: Anselm
- Namesakes: Ansel Briggs, the first Governor of Iowa (1846 to 1850). Ansel Adams, an American photographer known for his American West landscapes.
- Popularity: Ansel is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,227th for boys in 2021.
Archibald
Archibald is made up of the German “erchan,” meaning “precious,” and “bald,” meaning “bold.” It once appeared as the medieval Erchambald, Erkanbold, and Erkanbald, but you can call your Archibald Archie today.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: AAR-cheh-Baald
- Variations: Archibold, Archimbald
- Namesakes: Archibald Primrose, the Prime Minister of the UK from 1894 to 1895. Archibald W. O. Totten, an American justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court from 1850 to 1855.
- Popularity: Archibald is rare worldwide and mainly used in Scotland, where it ranked 189th in 2014.
Arne
Arne is a known nickname for Arnold and the lesser-known Arnbjörn and Arnsten. It derives from the Old Norse Árni, meaning “eagle,” and has been around since the 11th-century.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Eagle
- Pronunciation: AAR-Neh
- Variations: Arnie
- Namesakes: Arne Rustadstuen, a Norwegian Nordic skier and bronze medalist at the 1932 Winter Olympics. Arne Dahl, the first North Dakota Commissioner of Agriculture from 1966 to 1974.
- Popularity: Arne is rare worldwide and primarily used in Norway, ranking 9th in 2014.
Avice
Avice came to England with the Normans but is based on the Old German Aveza. It was common from the 12th- to 14th-centuries and might be associated with the personal name Avitia.
- Origin: German, French
- Meaning: Warlike
- Pronunciation: AAY-Vihs
- Variations: Avis
- Namesakes: Avice Landone, an English actress in the series Man at the Top between 1970 and 1972.
- Popularity: Avice is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Bahram
Bahram was the Zoroastrian god of victory and war. It also means “smiting of resistance” to help fulfill your little boy’s fantasy of being a warrior.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Victory over resistance
- Pronunciation: BAA-Raam
- Variations: Bahran, Bairam
- Namesakes: Bahram Nouraei, an Iranian-Swedish hip-hop artist called one of the 50 most influential people in Middle Eastern culture. Bahrām Beyzāêi, an Iranian filmmaker whose film Bashu, the Little Stranger was voted Best Iranian Film of All Time in 1999.
- Popularity: Bahram is rare worldwide and mainly used in Iran, where it ranked 125th in 2014.
Baldwin
Baldwin comes from the Old English Bealdwine, meaning “bold friend.” It was also a medieval British surname. Baldwin also uses the German roots “bald,” meaning “brave,” and “win,” meaning “friend.”
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Bold friend
- Pronunciation: Baold-WIYN
- Variations: Baldewin, Baldwinn
- Namesakes: Baldwin Domingo, an American politician in the New Hampshire House of Representatives from 2004 to 2012. Baldwin of Luxembourg, the Archchancellor of Burgundy from 1307 to 1354.
- Popularity: Baldwin is rare worldwide, primarily used in Zambia, and ranked 860th in Jamaica in 2014.
Bard
Bard also means “singer-poet.” Medieval bards were singers and musicians who entertained the royal court. “The bard” is a nickname for William Shakespeare and appears as Bård in Norwegian.
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: Minstrel
- Pronunciation: Baerd
- Variations: BARH
- Namesakes: Bård Solhjell, the Norwegian Minister of the Environment from 2012 to 2013. Bård Borgersen, a Norwegian footballer for Odd Grenland.
- Popularity: Bard is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Bartholomew
Bartholomew uses the Aramaic word for “son” and may refer to Ptolemy. It may also mean “son of furrows” or “son of Ptolemy.”
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Son of Talmai
- Pronunciation: Baar-THAAL-ah-Muw
- Variations: Bartholemew, Bartholome
- Namesakes: Bartholomew Columbus, the Italian brother of Christopher Columbus and the founder of Santo Domingo. Bartholomew Boriello, an American mobster in the Gambino crime family and John Gotti’s favorite bodyguard.
- Popularity: Bartholomew is extremely rare and mainly used in the U.S.
Beatriz
Beatriz also means “she who brings happiness.” It’s a more Spanish version of the French Béatrice. Beatriz uses the Latin “beatus,” meaning “blessed,” as a holy example of Russian baby names.
- Origin: Latin, Spanish
- Meaning: Bringer of joy
- Pronunciation: Beh-aa-TRIYS
- Variations: Beatris, Beatrice
- Namesakes: Beatriz Stix-Brunell, an American ballet dancer with the Royal Ballet in London. Beatriz Merino, the first female Prime Minister of Peru from June to December 2003.
- Popularity: Beatriz ranked 452nd worldwide, is primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 57th in Colombia in 2014.
Bellaflor
Bellaflor is one of many medieval names using the root “bella.” It also means “charming” and “pleasant” and is a gorgeous flower name for modern princesses.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Beautiful flower
- Pronunciation: BEH-lah-Flor
- Namesakes: Bellaflor “Bella” Angara, the third female governor of the Philippine Aurora province from 2004 to 2013.
- Popularity: Bellaflor is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the Philippines.
Berenice
Berenice also means “she who brings victory.” One of the only famous Berenices was the wife of King Ptolemy I of Egypt. It’s made up of the Greek “phérō,” meaning “bear,” and “nī́kē,” meaning “victory.”
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Bringer of victory
- Pronunciation: Behr-ah-NEESE
- Variations: Bernice, Berniece
- Namesakes: Berenice Abbott, an American photographer of 20th-century cultural figures. Berenice Celeita, a Colombian human rights activist and winner of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award in 1998.
- Popularity: Berenice is rare worldwide and mainly used in Mexico, ranking 311th in 2014.
Bertram
Bertram was once the German Berahthraben. It’s made up of “berht,” meaning “bright,” and “hrabn,” meaning “raven.” Bertram came to England with the Norman conquest and can live on with your young prince.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Bright raven
- Pronunciation: BAHR-Trahm
- Variations: Bertrand, Bartram
- Namesakes: Bertram Clements, an English footballer who competed at the 1936 Summer Olympics. Bertram Benedict, an American book reviewer for The New York Times Magazine.
- Popularity: Bertram is rare worldwide, primarily used in Germany, and ranked 194th in the Bahamas in 2014.
Bogdana
Bogdana is the feminine form of Bogdan. It may have origins from the Greek Theodore. Bogdana is also the name of an Orthodox Christian monastery in Romania.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Gift from God
- Pronunciation: Baog-DAA-naa
- Variations: Bohdanna, Bohdana
- Namesakes: Bogdana Karadocheva, a Bulgarian singer who won The Most Bulgarian Singer award in 1998.
- Popularity: Bogdana is rare worldwide and mostly used in Bulgaria, where it ranked 467th in 2014.
Brenna
Brenna derives from the Old Norse “brinna.” It also was used for “dark-haired” people and means “descendant of Braonán” when used as a surname. Brenna is still not very common outside of Ireland but deserves a comeback.
- Origin: Celtic, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Little raven
- Pronunciation: BREHN-ah
- Variations: Brena, Brennah
- Namesakes: Brenna O’Brien, a Canadian actress whose voice appeared in the anime series Inuyasha. Brenna R. Hassett, an American-British bioarchaeologist and founder of TrowelBlazers.
- Popularity: Brenna is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it’s slightly uncommon.
Bronwen
Bronwen uses an English spelling for the Welsh Bronwyn. It means “fair and blessed breast” (with “breast” referring to a “hill”). Bronwen was a beautiful maiden and daughter of Llyr in Welsh mythology.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: White breast
- Pronunciation: BRAHN-Wehn
- Variations: Bronwyn, Bronwynne
- Namesakes: Bronwen Dickey, an American author and contributing editor at The Oxford American. Bronwen Maher, the Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin in 2005.
- Popularity: Bronwen is rare worldwide, primarily used in South Africa, and ranked 482nd in Wales in 2014.
Cassian
Cassian was originally the Roman Cassius. The Latin “cassus” means “empty” and “vain.” Cassian is a great way to bring the ancient world through the medieval times into today.
- Origin: Latin, Irish
- Meaning: Hollow
- Pronunciation: KAE-Shahn
- Variations: Kassian
- Namesakes: Cassian Elwes, a British film producer and brother of actor Cary Elwes.
- Popularity: Cassian is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Tanzania.
Catalina
Catalina is the Spanish form of Catharine. It’s been in the top 1,000 U.S. girls’ names since the 1800s but needs a push.
- Origin: Spanish, Greek
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: Kaet-ah-LIYIYN-aa
- Variations: Catalyna
- Namesakes: Catalina Donoso, a Chilean lawyer and president of the National Television Council. Catalina Berroa, a Cuban pianist and Cuba’s first female conductor.
- Popularity: Catalina ranked 1,421st worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 101st in Romania in 2014.
Cecilia
Cecilia is the female equivalent of Cecil. It’s based on the Latin “caecus,” meaning “blind.” Saint Cecilia is the most famous namesake and the patron of musicians.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Blind
- Pronunciation: Sah-SIYL-yah
- Variations: Ceceilia, Cecelia, Cecillia
- Namesakes: Cecilia Morel, the First Lady of Chile from 2018 to 2022. Cecilia Mangini, the first female documentary filmmaker in Italy.
- Popularity: Cecilia ranked 386th worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 132nd for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Celestina
Celestina may be the best version of Celeste from the Latin “cælestis,” meaning “from the sky.” A close cousin of Celestina is Celestine, the name of five different popes.
- Origin: Italian, Latin
- Meaning: Heavenly
- Pronunciation: Seh-LEHS-tiy-Naa
- Variations: Celestyna
- Namesakes: Celestina Popa, a Romanian artistic gymnast and silver medalist at the 1985 World Championships. Celestina Boninsegna, an Italian opera singer known for performing Verdi’s operas.
- Popularity: Celestina is rare worldwide and mostly used in Angola, ranking 170th in 2014.
Clement
Clement began with the Latin Clemens, meaning “merciful.” It was the name of a Christian saint, along with multiple popes. Clement was quite common from the 12th-century through the Reformation.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Merciful
- Pronunciation: KLEHM-ehnt
- Variations: Clements
- Namesakes: Clement Cheng, a Hong Kong Canadian who co-won the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Director in 2010. Clement Higgins, a British member of Parliament between 1892 and 1895.
- Popularity: Clement ranked 1,485th worldwide, is mainly used in DR Congo and ranked 59th in Rwanda in 2014.
Clotilda
Clotilda was the simpler version of the German Chlotichilda. It belonged to Saint Clotilde, a Frankish queen who helped spread Christianity.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Famous in battle
- Pronunciation: Klow-TIHLD-ah
- Variations: Clotilde, Clothilde
- Popularity: Clotilda is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Tanzania.
Colette
Colette is the French form of Nicole. It’s taken from the medieval Colle, a short form of Nicolette. The most famous medieval Collette was a 15th-century French nun known for her generosity to the poor.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: People of victory
- Pronunciation: Kow-LEHT
- Variations: Collette, Colete, Colett
- Namesakes: Colette Bryce, an Irish poet, and editor of Poetry London from 2009 to 2013. Colette Langlade, a member of the National Assembly of France from 2008 to 2017.
- Popularity: Colette is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in France, and ranked 608th for girls in the U.S. in 2022.
Crispin
Crispin was once the Roman family name Crispinus, which came from the Latin “crispus.” Crispinus and Crispinianus were the patron saints of shoemakers well-known in the Middle Ages.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Curly-haired
- Pronunciation: KRIHS-Pihn
- Variations: Cryspan
- Namesakes: Crispin Glover, an American actor best known for Back to the Future (1985). Crispin Conroy, an Australian Permanent Observer of the International Chamber of Commerce to the UN since 2019.
- Popularity: Crispin is rare worldwide and mainly used in DR Congo.
Cyprian
Cyprian came from the Latin Cyprianus and was the name of a Carthage Bishop. Ciprianus was used in the early 13th-century. Cyprian was also a famous Christian writer.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Man of Cyprus
- Pronunciation: SIP-riy-Ahn
- Variations: Ciprian
- Namesakes: Cyprian Tansi, an Igbo Nigerian Catholic priest beatified by Pope John Paul II. Cyprian Bhekuzulu, the king of the Zulu nation from 1948 to 1968.
- Popularity: Cyprian is rare worldwide, primarily used in Nigeria, and ranked 417th in Poland in 2014.
Dante
Dante is a diminutive of the Italian Durante. It came into being because of Dante Alighieri, who wrote the Divine Comedy. Though ranked since 1910, Dante entered the top 200 in 1997 with its allusion to good and evil.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: Enduring
- Pronunciation: DAAN-Tey
- Variations: Daunte
- Namesakes: Dante Brown, an American football player with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mos Def (born Dante Smith), an American rapper/actor listed 14th on About.com’s 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time.
- Popularity: Dante is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines, and ranked 328th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Derek
Derek is the simpler version of Diederick. It’s based on the Old German Theodoric and was used in 15th-century England. Derek also means “power of the tribe” and was brought to England by the Flemish during the Middle Ages.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: People-ruler
- Pronunciation: DEH-Rehk
- Variations: Derick, Derreck, Derrick
- Namesakes: Derek Soutar, a Scottish footballer for Dundee. Derek Jacobi, an English actor knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1994.
- Popularity: Derek is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 301st for boys in 2021.
Diamond
Diamond is also an Anglo-spelled occupational surname for a diamond worker. It emerged from the Greek “adamas,” meaning “inflexible.” Diamond ranked in the top 1,000 U.S. girls’ names between 1986 and 2014.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Unbreakable
- Pronunciation: DAY-Mahnd
- Variations: Diamonde, Dimond
- Namesakes: Diamond DeShields, an American basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury of the Women’s National Basketball Association. Diamond White, an American actress on the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful since 2020.
- Popularity: Diamond is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 363rd for girls in 2023.
Dominic
Dominic derives from the Latin Dominicus, meaning “lordly.” It also means “belonging to God” or “of the Master.” Dominic was used for babies born on Sunday and has ranked in the top 100 U.S. boys’ names since 2002.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Of the lord
- Pronunciation: DAAM-ah-Nayk
- Variations: Dominik, Dominick
- Namesakes: Dominic A. LeBlanc, the Canadian minister of intergovernmental affairs since 2020. Dominic Howard, an English musician and drummer for the rock band Muse.
- Popularity: Dominic is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Kenya, and ranked 63rd for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Drew
Drew is one of many names from the Middle Ages that came to England with the Norman conquest. It may also be associated with the Irish Ó Draoi, meaning “descendant of the Druid.” Drew has become a more popular nickname for boys named Andrew than Andy.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Strong and manly
- Pronunciation: DRUW
- Variations: Drue, Dru
- Namesakes: Drew Scott, a Canadian co-host on the HGTV series Property Brothers. Drew Barrymore, an American actress with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.
- Popularity: Drew is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 190th for boys in 2023 and 1,750th for girls in 2022.
Drustan
Drustan is a more obscure version of Tristan. It belonged to a 7th-century Scottish saint and may refer to the Celtic “drest,” meaning “tumult.” Tristan, one of the Knights of the round table, ultimately won out… until now.
- Origin: Celtic, Welsh
- Meaning: Riot
- Pronunciation: DRUHST-ahn
- Variations: Drystan
- Popularity: Drustan is extremely rare worldwide, with only six known occurrences in 2014, primarily in England.
Edith
Edith is composed of the Old English “ēad,” meaning “riches.” It first appeared as Eadgyth, because of the 10th-century Saint Eadgyth.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Rich, happy
- Pronunciation: IY-Dihth
- Variations: Edithe, Edythe
- Namesakes: Edith Wharton, an American writer and the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Fiction in 1921. Edith “Edie” Sedgwick, an American actress known as one of Andy Warhol’s superstars.
- Popularity: Edith ranked 473rd worldwide, is mostly used in Germany, and ranked 492nd for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Edme
Edme is a short form of Edmund and an alternative to Esme. It also means “protector of prosperity.” Edme can be “one who defends his heritage” for the simplest of medieval names.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rich protector
- Pronunciation: EHD-meh
- Variations: Esme
- Namesakes: Edme Mongin, a French bishop who performed the funeral oration of Louis XIV in 1715. Edme-Jean Leclaire, a French economist who developed an employee profit-sharing system.
- Popularity: Edme is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 1,371st in Suriname in 2014.
Edmund
Edmund originated as the Old English Eadmund and was the name of two English kings. It peaked in the U.S. in 1914 at 130th but hasn’t ranked among medieval boy names since 1997.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rich protector
- Pronunciation: EHD-Mahnd
- Variations: Eadmund, Edmond
- Namesakes: Edmund Tsaturyan, a member of the National Assembly of Armenia from 1999 to 2003. Edmund Spenser, an English poet best known for The Faerie Queene.
- Popularity: Edmund is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 160th in Ghana in 2014.
Eithne
Eithne also means “ardent” and “graceful.” In Irish mythology, Eithne was the daughter of the leader Balor and the name of many Irish saints. It also means “little fire” for your warrior princess.
- Origin: Irish, Gaelic
- Meaning: Kernel, grain
- Pronunciation: EHTH-Niy
- Variations: Ethene, Ethne
- Namesakes: Eithne Farry, an Irish literary editor of Elle. Eithne FitzGerald, an Irish politician and a Teachta Dála for the Dublin South constituency from 1992 to 1997.
- Popularity: Eithne is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Ireland, ranking 273rd in 2014.
Ellis
Ellis was first the Welsh personal name Elisedd, meaning “kind” and “benevolent.” It’s also a nickname for Elijah and was used in the 17th-century as a short form of Alice. Ellis has consistently ranked in the top 1,000 U.S. boys’ names.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Yahweh is my God
- Pronunciation: EHL-ihs
- Variations: Elis, Elliss
- Namesakes: Ellis Jenkins, a Welsh rugby union player for the Wales national team. Ellis Hollins, an English actor appearing in the Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks.
- Popularity: Ellis is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 322nd in 2022.
Emmeline
Emmeline was one of many medieval boys’ names brought to Britain by the Normans. It’s a diminutive of German names beginning with “amal-,” meaning “vigorous” and “brave.”
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: EHM-ah-Liyn
- Variations: Emmilene, Emmaline
- Namesakes: Emmeline Ndongue, a French basketball player for the women’s French national basketball team. Emmeline Lott, a British travel writer who wrote about Egypt.
- Popularity: Emmeline is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 885th for girls in 2021.
Euphemia
Euphemia also means “auspicious speech” in Greek. It means “’to use words of good omen,” made up of the Greek “eu,”’ meaning “good,” and “phēmí,” meaning “speak.” You can call your Euphemia Effie or Phemie for short.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Well-spoken
- Pronunciation: Yuw-FEHM-iy-Ah
- Variations: Eufemia
- Namesakes: Euphemia Vale Blake, a British-American critic for the North American Review. Euphemia Wilson Pitblado, a Scottish-American delegate to the National Woman Suffrage Association Convention.
- Popularity: Euphemia is rare worldwide, mostly used in Nigeria, and ranked 331st in Scotland in 2014.
Eydis
Eydis is composed of the Old Norse “ey,” meaning “good fortune,” and “dís,” meaning “goddess.” It’s quite common in Iceland today, meaning “goddess of good luck.”
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Island goddess
- Pronunciation: AY-Diyz
- Namesakes: Eydis Konráðsdóttir, an Icelandic swimmer who competed at the 2000 Olympic Games. Árelía Eydís Guðmundsdóttir, an Acelandic author and a Reykjavík City Council Member.
- Popularity: Eydis is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Colombia, and ranked 1,788th in Iceland in 2014.
Faust
Faust was first a surname using the Middle German “fūst,” meaning “fist.” It may have been a nickname for a hardy person or someone with a hand deformity. Faust peaked in the U.S. in 1917 with nine known occurrences.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Fist
- Pronunciation: FAUWST
- Variations: Fausto
- Namesakes: Faust Shkaravsky, a Soviet physician who presided over Adolf Hitler’s autopsy during World War II. Bård “Faust” Eithun, a Norwegian drummer for the band Emperor.
- Popularity: Faust is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Florian
Florian originated with the Latin “florianus,” meaning “‘blooming.” The Latin “flōrus” first meant “yellow” and “blond,” but your flower girl can have any hair color as Florian.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Flowering
- Pronunciation: FLOW-riy-Ahn
- Variations: Florien, Florrian
- Namesakes: Florian Guay, a Canadian politician and a Member of the National Assembly of Quebec. Florian Rousseau, a French track cyclist and gold medalist at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Florian is rare worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 129th in Austria in 2014.
Frida
Frida derives from the Old Norse Fríða and is used for female names ending in “fríðr.” In Slavic languages, Frida is also used for names with “fried,” meaning “peace.”
- Origin: German, Norse
- Meaning: Beloved
- Pronunciation: FRIY-Dah
- Variations: Frieda, Freda
- Namesakes: Frida Hyvönen, a Swedish singer-songwriter and winner of the 2005 Stockholm Prize. Frida Westman, a Swedish ski jumper who competed at the 2022 Winter Olympics.
- Popularity: Frida is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Tanzania, and ranked 351st for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Gandalf
Galdalf is most famous as a character fighting evil in the Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien created Gandalf from the Old Norse “Catalog of Dwarves” and was given new life on film. Gandalf may be almost fictional, but it is the most Dark Age-sounding of names from medieval times.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Wand elf
- Pronunciation: Gaan-DOWLF
- Variations: Gandolfo
- Popularity: Gandalf is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Genevieve
Genevieve also means “white wave.” Saint Genevieve was a 5th-century nun and the patron saint of Paris. Genevieve peaked in the U.S. at 76th in 1916 as the most European of medieval girl names.
- Origin: French, Celtic
- Meaning: Woman of the race
- Pronunciation: JIN-ah-Veev
- Variations: Genivieve, Genevive
- Namesakes: Genevieve Beacom, an Australian baseball player and the first woman to pitch in the Australian Baseball League. Genevieve Schatz, an American singer/songwriter and member of the band Company of Thieves.
- Popularity: Genevieve is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in France, and ranked 392nd for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Gilbert
Gilbert is based on the Germanic “gīsil,” meaning “shaft of an arrow,” and “behrt,” meaning “bright” or “famous.” It’s more common as a surname but has many rich meanings for proper little boys.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Shining, pledge
- Pronunciation: GIHL-Bahrt
- Variations: Guilbert, Gilburt, Gillbert
- Namesakes: Gilbert Khunwane, a Botswana boxer, and bronze medalist at the 2002 Commonwealth Games. Gilbert de Chambrun, a French politician in the National Assembly and a member of the French Resistance.
- Popularity: Gilbert ranked 738th worldwide, is mainly used in the Philippines, and ranked 1,209th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Gillian
Gillian is an Anglo spelling of the Latin Juliana, meaning “Jove’s child.” It was popular in the Middle Ages as a nickname for girls called Gill. The story of Gillian goes back to the Roman Julius, originally meaning “downy bearded.”
- Origin: Scottish, Latin
- Meaning: Youthful
- Pronunciation: JHIHL-iy-Ahn
- Variations: Gillean
- Namesakes: Gillian Welch, an American singer-songwriter and winner of the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Folk Album. Gillian Anderson, an American actress known for the series The X-Files.
- Popularity: Gillan is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in England, and ranked 58th in Scotland in 2014.
Godiva
Godiva derives from the Old English Godgifu, using “gifu,” meaning “gift.” It was in the 11th-century that Lady Godiva rode into Coventry naked, except for her very long hair.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: God’s gift
- Pronunciation: Gah-DAEY-vah
- Variations: Godivah, Godyva
- Popularity: Godiva is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Brazil.
Godwin
Godwin was taken from the Old English first name Godwine. It’s made up of “God” and “wine,” meaning “friend.” Godwin was then a surname, which still works as the noblest of Middle Ages names with W.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Friend of God
- Pronunciation: GAAD-Wihn
- Variations: Goodwin
- Namesakes: Godwin of Stavelot, a 17th-century Benedictine abbot in Belgium whose feast day is October 28. Godwin of Wessex, an English nobleman under the Danish king Cnut the Great.
- Popularity: Godwin ranked 1,855th worldwide and is mainly used in Nigeria, ranking 66th in 2014.
Gratiana
Gratiana is a very old name taken from the Roman Gratian. “Gratia” means “favor” and “thanks” in Latin. It also means “winsome” and “charming,” as a more exotic variation of Grace.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: Grace
- Pronunciation: Grae-shih-AEN-Ah
- Variations: Gracianna, Graziana
- Popularity: Gratiana is very rare worldwide and primarily used in DR Congo.
Grimwald
Grimwald comes from the Old German “grimo,” meaning “mask,” and “walt,” meaning “power.” As a surname, it was a close cousin to Grunwald.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Prevail
- Pronunciation: GRIM-Waold
- Variations: Grimoald, Grimald
- Popularity: Grimwald is extremely rare worldwide, with only four known occurrences in 2014, mostly in Belgium.
Guy
Guy is the French equivalent of the Italian Guido. It may be associated with the Hebrew Gai, meaning “ravine.” Guy was at its most popular in the 1950s but is still quite common in France.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Guide, leader
- Pronunciation: GAEY
- Variations: Gye
- Namesakes: Guy Pearce, an English-Australian known for Memento (2000). Guy Lombardo, an Italian-Canadian-American bandleader of the Royal Canadians.
- Popularity: Guy ranked 821st worldwide and is mainly used in France, ranking 41st in 2014.
Hamlin
Hamlin was originally the Norman given name Hamon. As a surname, it means “the son of Hamo,” but it works for your charming baby boy too.
- Origin: German, French
- Meaning: Little home lover
- Pronunciation: HHAEM-Lihn
- Variations: Hamelin, Hamlyn
- Namesakes: Hamlin Garland, an American writer who focused on Midwestern farmers. Hamlin Harding, the Mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts, from 1870 to 1872.
- Popularity: Hamlin is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Hayden
Hayden also means “dweller on the hedged hill.” It’s inspired by the German Heiden, meaning “heathen.” Whether a medieval peasant or nobleman, anyone named Hayden is sure to stand out.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Heathen
- Pronunciation: HHEY-Dehn
- Variations: Haydn, Haeden
- Namesakes: Hayden Roulston, a New Zealand racing cyclist and silver medalist at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Hayden Christensen, a Canadian actor appearing in the Star Wars films.
- Popularity: Hayden is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 176th for boys in 2021.
Hildegund
Hildegund was first spelled as the Old German Hildigund. It’s made up of “hildiz,” meaning “battle,” and “guntho,” meaning “fight.”
- Origin: German, Norse
- Meaning: Battle, war
- Pronunciation: HHIHLD-ih-Gund
- Variations: Hildegunde
- Popularity: Hildegund is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Germany, and ranked 755th in Austria in 2014.
Honora
Honora is based on the Latin “honor,” meaning “reputation.” Saint Honorée made the name popular from the 12th- to 14th-centuries, especially in France.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Woman of honor
- Pronunciation: Ah-NNAOR-ah
- Variations: Honore, Honorie
- Namesakes: Honora Burke, an Irish aristocrat who introduced country dance to the French court. Honora Enfield, a British co-operative activist with the National Federation of Women Workers.
- Popularity: Honora is very rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 1,025th in Slovakia in 2014.
Hubert
Hubert was first the Old German Hugubert. It’s composed of “hugu,” meaning “heart,” and “berhta,” meaning “bright.” Hubert was massively popular among medieval names due to Saint Hubert, the patron saint of huntsmen.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Bright mind
- Pronunciation: HHYUW-Bahrt
- Variations: Hubbert, Huberte, Huburt, Huebert
- Namesakes: Hubert Pierlot, the Prime Minister of Belgium from 1939 to 1945. Hubert Gallant, a Canadian wrestler for Stampede Wrestling.
- Popularity: Hubert ranked 1,544th worldwide, is mostly used in Germany and ranked 61st in the Central African Republic in 2014.
Humphrey
Humphrey originated with the Old English Hunfrith. It combined the surname Hunt with the German “frith,” meaning “peace.” St. Humphrey was a 9th-century bishop among Norman settlers in England.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Peaceful warrior
- Pronunciation: HHAHM-Friy
- Variations: Humfrey, Humfry, Humphry
- Namesakes: Humphrey Wells, the Governor of Georgia from February 16th to February 18th, 1780. Humphrey Bogart, an American film actor best known for Casablanca.
- Popularity: Humphrey is rare worldwide and mainly used in Zambia
Isabeau
Isabeau is a medieval French version of Elizabeth. It also means “God is abundance” and is the equivalent of the Hebrew Elisheva and Greek Elisabet.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Pledged to God
- Pronunciation: Iy-zaa-BOW
- Variations: Izebee
- Namesakes: Isabeau of Bavaria, the Queen of France from 1385 to 1422. Isabeau Levito, an American figure skater and the 2023 Grand Prix Final silver medalist.
- Popularity: Isabeau is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the Netherlands.
Ivar
Ivar also means “bow warrior.” It’s associated with the yew tree in Old Norse, which was used to make bows for archers. Ivar also brings to mind Freyr, a Norse god of peace, rain, and even sunshine.
- Origin: English, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Archer
- Pronunciation: IY-Vaar
- Variations: Ivarr, Iver
- Namesakes: Ivar Smilga, a Latvian Bolshevik leader and member of the Left Opposition in the Soviet Union. Ivar Haglund, a Seattle folk singer and founder of Ivar’s seafood restaurant.
- Popularity: Ivar is rare worldwide, primarily used in Norway, and ranked 1,730th for boys in the U.S. in 2014.
Jehane
Jehanne is the most French of medieval girl names used for Jean and sometimes Joan. It stems back to the Hebrew origins of John and was used by Joan of Arc in her letters.
- Origin: Hebrew, French
- Meaning: God is merciful
- Pronunciation: ZJHIY-Ahn
- Variations: Jeanne
- Namesakes: Jehane Noujaim, an American documentary film director known for Control Room (2004).
- Popularity: Jehane is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Egypt.
Lancaster
The Middle English version of Lancaster is Loncastre, a Roman fort on the River Lune. Lancaster is also a place name in Northern England that’s a well-known surname today.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Fort on the Lune river
- Pronunciation: LAEN-kaes-Ter
- Namesakes: Lancaster Gordon, an American basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers.
- Popularity: Lancaster is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Lavinia
Lavinia is the feminine version of Latinus, derived from Latium, an area around ancient Rome. In Roman mythology, Lavinia was the wife of Aeneas. As the mother to Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, Lavinia is the best of medieval baby names with V.
- Origin: Latin,
- Meaning: Mother of the Roman people
- Pronunciation: Laa-VIHN-iy-Ah
- Variations: Livinia, Lavenia
- Namesakes: Lavinia Șandru, a Romanian vice president of the National Union for the Progress of Romania. Lavinia Miloșovici, a Romanian artistic gymnast inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 2011.
- Popularity: Lavinia is rare worldwide and mostly used in Romania, ranking 91st in 2014.
Leoric
Leoric is an alternate spelling for Leofric. It’s made up of the Old English “leof,” meaning “beloved,” and “ric,” meaning “ruler.” Leoric doesn’t exist much today but is a popular character name in a few video games.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Like a lion
- Pronunciation: Liy-AW-rihk
- Popularity: Leoric is extremely rare worldwide, with only 69 known occurrences, mainly in the Philippines.
Llewellyn
Llewellyn also means “leader’s image” and first appeared as Llywelin. Members of Celtic royalty used Llewellyn until it became Leolin and Leoline.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Like a lion
- Pronunciation: Luw-WELL-ihn
- Variations: Lewellen, Lewellyn
- Namesakes: Llewellyn Thompson, an American advisor to President John F. Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Llewellyn Herbert, a South African hurdler and bronze medalist at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Llewellyn is rare worldwide, primarily used in South Africa, and ranked 540th in Barbados in 2014.
Lothar
Lothar comes from the Old German Hlothar, meaning “famous army.” It’s also associated with Clotaire, used by many medieval Frankish European rulers.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Famous warrior
- Pronunciation: LOW-Taar
- Variations: Lother, Lothair
- Namesakes: Lothar Späth, a German politician and the 36th President of the Bundesrat in 1984 to 1985. Lothar-Günther Buchheim, a German author known for the 1973 novel Das Boot.
- Popularity: Lothar is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Germany, ranking 111th in 2014.
Lucan
Lucan is the Italian form of Lucius. It derives from the Latin Lucianus, a surname meaning “from Lucania.”
- Origin: Italian, Roman
- Meaning: From Lucania, Italy
- Pronunciation: LUW-Kaen
- Variations: Lachunn
- Namesakes: Marcus Lucanus (known as Lucan), a Roman poet known for his epic Pharsalia.
- Popularity: Lucan is very rare worldwide and mainly used in South Africa.
Lucia
Lucia uses the Latin root “lux,” meaning “light.” It’s the feminine form of Lucius, best known for Saint Lucia, the patron saint of eye diseases.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Light
- Pronunciation: Luw-SIY-ah
- Variations: Lucija
- Namesakes: Lucia Bronze, an English footballer for the England women’s national team. Lucía Hiriart, the First Lady of Chile between 1974 and 1990.
- Popularity: Lucia ranked 248th worldwide, is primarily used in Italy and ranked 189th for girls in the U.S. in 2022.
Martine
Martine comes from the Latin Martinus. It’s associated with the Roman god of war, Mars. Though technically gender-neutral and meaning “dedicated to Mars,” Martine is mostly a girl’s name.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: War-like
- Pronunciation: Maar-TIYN
- Variations: Marteen, Martina
- Namesakes: Martine Carol (born Marie-Louise Mourer), a French film actress called the French Marilyn Monroe. Martine Taelman, a Belgian member of the Belgian Senate in 2007.
- Popularity: Martine ranked 878th worldwide, is mainly used in France and ranked 15th in Belgium in 2014.
Maude
Maude derives from the Old German Mahthildis. It’s made up of “mahti,” meaning “strength,” and “hildi,” meaning “battle.” Maude became beloved in the 12th- and 13th-centuries and was popular in the U.S. during the 19th-century.
- Origin: German, French
- Meaning: Powerful battler
- Pronunciation: MAWD
- Variations: Maud
- Namesakes: Maude Nugent, an American who wrote the lyrics to “Sweet Rosie O’Grady” in 1896. Maude Andrews Ohl, an American journalist, and The Atlanta Constitution’s first woman reporter.
- Popularity: Maude is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 1,164th in France in 2014.
Melanie
Melanie is a more French variation of the Latin Melania. There were two Saint Melanias, both dedicated to St. Jerome. Melanie arrived in England because of Huguenot immigrants and kept it going.
- Origin: French, Greek
- Meaning: Black, dark
- Pronunciation: MEHL-ah-Niy
- Variations: Melannie, Melonie
- Namesakes: Melanie Griffith, an American actress appearing in 1988’s Working Girl. Melanie Jans, a Canadian squash player inducted into the Canadian Squash Hall of Fame in 2022.
- Popularity: Melanie ranked 752nd worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., ranking 129th for girls in 2021.
Merlin
Merlin is based on the Welsh Myrddin. It also means “hawk.” The medieval Myrddin was a famous bard, but we all know Merlin best as a magician in Arthurian Legend.
- Origin: English, Welsh
- Meaning: Sea fortress
- Pronunciation: MEHR-Lihn
- Variations: Merlinn, Merlun
- Namesakes: Merlin Olsen, an American football player with the Los Angeles Rams. Merlin Bartz, an American member of the Iowa State Senate from 2009 to 2013.
- Popularity: Merlin is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it’s slightly uncommon.
Millicent
Millicent comes from the Old French Melisende, but it’s also German. Millicent is composed of “amal,” meaning “work” and “swintha,” meaning “strong.” In medieval times, the Lombard and Burgundian tribes were big fans of Millicent.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Strong in work
- Pronunciation: MIY-liy-Sahnt
- Variations: Milicent
- Namesakes: Millicent Selsam, an American children’s author who won the 1965 Thomas Alva Edison Mass Media Award. Millicent Simmonds, a deaf American actress known for the 2018 horror film A Quiet Place.
- Popularity: Millicent is rare worldwide, mainly used in Kenya, and ranked 130th in Jamaica in 2014.
Milo
Milo is based on the German “mild,” meaning “calm.” The Latin “miles,” meaning “soldier,” and Greek “milos,” meaning “yew-flower,” may also have had influence.
- Origin: German, Slavic
- Meaning: Merciful
- Pronunciation: MAEY-Low
- Variations: Mylo
- Namesakes: Milo Cipra, a Croatian composer and member of the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Milo Ventimiglia, an American actor appearing on Gilmore Girls (2001 to 2007).
- Popularity: MIlo is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 54th for boys in 2023.
Minerva
Minerva uses the Latin root “mens,” meaning “thought” and “intellect.” It’s also the name of the Roman goddess of wisdom, who functions like the Greek goddess Athena.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: The mind
- Pronunciation: Mih-NEHR-Vah
- Variations: Minervah
- Namesakes: Minerva Urecal (born Minerva Dunnuck), an American on the Sunday Night Hi-Jinks radio program from 1932 to 1937. Minerva Hamilton Hoyt, an American activist who helped establish Joshua Tree National Park.
- Popularity: Minerva is rare worldwide, mostly used in Mexico, and ranked 100th in Puerto Rico in 2014.
Mirabel
Mirabel also means “of wondrous beauty.” It’s been in use since the 12th-century as a unisex name but is typically used more for girls now.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Wonderful
- Pronunciation: MIY-raa-Behl
- Variations: Mirabelle
- Namesakes: Mirabel Osler, an English writer, and winner of the Sinclair Consumer Press Garden Writer of the Year Award in 1988.
- Popularity: Mirabel is rare worldwide and mainly used in Cameroon, where it ranked 393rd in 2014.
Neville
Neville also means “settlement” and was a noble Norman surname from the time of the conquest. It was inspired by the town of Neuville in Normandy, France, and is the poshest sounding for today’s boys.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: New town
- Pronunciation: NEYV-ihl
- Variations: Nevill, Nevile
- Namesakes: Neville Chamberlain, the Prime Minister of the UK from 1937 to 1940. Neville Livingston (known as Bunny Wailer), a Jamaican member of The Wailers with Bob Marley.
- Popularity: Neville is rare worldwide, primarily used in England, and ranked 46th in Jamaica in 2014.
Noel
Noel is based on the Old French “nael,” meaning “of or born on Christmas.” It also means “day of birth” and is one of the more accessible Middle Ages names still around.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Day of birth
- Pronunciation: NOWEL
- Variations: Noell, Noelle
- Namesakes: Noel Coward, an English playwright who won an Academy Honorary Award in 1943. Noel Gallagher, an English musician, and co-founder of the rock band Oasis.
- Popularity: Noel ranked 980th worldwide, is mostly used in the Philippines and ranked 397th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Osgar
Osgar also means “gentle friend” and “friend of deer” in Ireland. This medieval version of Oscar was the warrior son of Osin in Irish mythology.
- Origin: Irish, Norse
- Meaning: God-spear
- Pronunciation: AASK-er
- Variations: Oscar, Oskar
- Popularity: Osgar is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in DR Congo.
Osric
Osric is made up of the Old English “ōs,” meaning “heathen god,” and “rīċe,” meaning “powerful.” It also means “the power and strength of God” and was a character in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Divine ruler
- Pronunciation: AAZ-Rihk
- Variations: Osryc, Osryck
- Namesakes: Osric Chau, a Canadian actor appearing in the CW series Supernatural.
- Popularity: Osric is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Otto
Otto began as the Old German Audo and is also associated with Otho. It’s a nickname used for various German names that begin with “aud-,” meaning “prosperity.”
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Wealthy
- Pronunciation: Ah-Tow
- Variations: Oto. Otho
- Namesakes: Otto L. Lietchen, an American member of the Missouri Senate from 1941 until 1949. Otto Hindrich, a Romanian footballer for Kisvárda.
- Popularity: Otto is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 332nd for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Pascal
Pascal is a French version of the Greek Pascha, meaning “the Passion of Christ.” It was given to a child born on Easter. Pascha is the Greek and Latin term for both Easter and Passover.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Relating to Easter
- Pronunciation: Paes-KAEL
- Variations: Pascale, Pascual
- Namesakes: Pascal Köpke, a German footballer for 1. FC Nürnberg. Pascal Rogé, a French pianist specializing in Beethoven.
- Popularity: Pascal ranked 615th worldwide, is mainly used in France and ranked 10th in Burundi in 2014.
Peregrine
Peregrine derives from the Latin “peregrinus,” meaning “stranger.” Saint Peregrinus was the patron of Modena and Lucca, in Italy. Peregrine also refers to the Peregrine falcon, so it’s one of the coolest medieval boy names around.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Traveler, pilgrim
- Pronunciation: Peh-reh-GRIHN
- Namesakes: Peregrine Pelham, a 17th-century English Member of Parliament under King Charles I. Peregrine Honig, an American artist appearing on Bravo’s Work of Art: The Next Great Artist.
- Popularity: Peregrine is very rare worldwide, primarily used in England, and ranked 1,073rd in Jersey in 2014.
Ricard
Ricard is built from the German “rīk,” meaning “ruler,” and “hardu,” meaning “strong.” It’s a very flowery example of names from medieval times based on the famous Richard.
- Origin: Spanish, German
- Meaning: Dominant ruler
- Pronunciation: Rih-KAARD
- Variations: Rickard
- Popularity: Ricard is rare worldwide and mostly used in Spain, ranking 547th in 2014.
Roger
Roger derives from the Old English Hrothgar, itself borrowed from the French during the Norman conquest. When appearing as Hrōðgār, it’s a character from the epic poem Beowulf.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Famous spearman
- Pronunciation: RAA-Jahr
- Variations: Rogers
- Namesakes: Roger Moore, an English actor famous for playing James Bond between 1973 and 1985. Roger Taylor, an English musician and drummer for the rock band Queen.
- Popularity: Roger ranked 243rd worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 367th for boys in 2022.
Roland
Roland also means “fame of the land.” It’s associated with the German Hrodland and was very common during the Middle Ages. Roland peaked at 98th for U.S. boy’s names in 1924 and 1925.
- Origin: German, French
- Meaning: Famous land
- Pronunciation: ROW-Lahnd
- Variations: Rolande, Rolland, Rowland
- Namesakes: Roland Wlodyka, an American stock car racing driver in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series in the 1970s. Roland Dumas, a French Foreign Minister from 1988 to 1993.
- Popularity: Roland ranked 842nd worldwide, is primarily used in Germany and ranked 867th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sebastian
Sebastian comes from the Latin Sebastianus. It originally referred to a “man of Sebastia,” now a city in modern-day Turkey. Saint Sebastian was a Roman martyr and a favorite subject of medieval art.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Renowned
- Pronunciation: Sah-BAES-chahn
- Variations: Sebastion, Sebastyn
- Namesakes: Sebastian Faulks, a British novelist known for Charlotte Gray. Sebastian Stan, a Romanian-American actor in the miniseries The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021).
- Popularity: Sebastian ranked 889th worldwide, is mostly used in Poland and ranked 19th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Sibyl
Sibyl emerged from the Greek “sibylla,” meaning “prophetess.” It refers to the women who read ancient oracles. The Latin “sibylla” means “divine counsel” as one of the more magical medieval names.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Seer, oracle
- Pronunciation: SIHB-ahl
- Variations: Sybil, Sibel
- Namesakes: Zabel Asadour (pen name Sibil), an Ottoman-Armenian poet and one of the founders of the Society of Nation-Dedicated Armenian Women. Sybil Mulcahy, an Irish journalist and co-host of The Morning Show with Sybil & Martin since 2009.
- Popularity: Sibyl is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,748th for girls in 2022.
Stace
Stace was first an unusual male nickname for Eustace, meaning “fruitful.” The Latin Eustatius started it all until Stace became the cutest female nickname for Stacey.
- Origin: Greek, French
- Meaning: Productive
- Pronunciation: STAHS
- Variations: Stacy
- Namesakes: Stace Victor Clube, an English astrophysicist who inspired the name of the 6523 Clube asteroid. Stacey “Stace” Nelson, an American member of the South Dakota Senate from 2016 to 2020.
- Popularity: Stace is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Thomasina
Thomasina is a female diminutive for Thomas, first found in the 14th-century. It joined Thomasia and Thomasin as names for girls who were “daughters of Thomas.” Thomasina uses the root “teoma,” meaning “twin,” and is related to the Arabic Tasmin.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Twin
- Pronunciation: Taam-aa-SIY-Naa
- Variations: Thomasine
- Namesakes: Thomasina Miers, an English cook and co-founder of the Wahaca Mexican restaurant chain in the UK. Thomasina Pidgeon, a Canadian rock climber once called the strongest female Canadian boulderer.
- Popularity: Thomasina is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 589th in Scotland in 2014.
Torsten
Torsten takes inspiration from the powerful Norse thunder God Thor. It combines Thor with “steinn,” meaning “stone,” for the most Scandinavian-powered lad.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Thor’s stone
- Pronunciation: TAOR-Sten
- Variations: Thorsten
- Namesakes: Torsten Gowitzke, a German footballer with SFC Stern 1900. Torsten Andersson, a member of the Swedish parliament from 1953 to 1968.
- Popularity: Torsten is rare worldwide and mainly used in Germany, ranking 193rd in 2014.
Tristan
Tristan was first the Welsh Drystan. It ranked in the top 100 U.S. boy’s names in the 1990s and early 2000s. In Arthurian legend, Tristan was a Knight of the Round Table and the tragic hero of Tristan and Isolde.
- Origin: Welsh, French
- Meaning: Sad, sorrowful
- Pronunciation: TRIHS-Tahn
- Variations: Tristen, Tristam
- Namesakes: Tristan Robbins, a British road racing cyclist for SwiftCarbon Pro Cycling. Tristan MacManus, an Irish dancer appearing on Dancing with the Stars.
- Popularity: Tristan is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 243rd for boys in 2020.
Walter
Walter was first the Old German Walthari. It’s made up of “walt,” meaning “ruler” and “hari,” meaning “army.” It was used often by the Normans and is still a top 500 name for boys in the U.S. today.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Army commander
- Pronunciation: WAOL-Tahr
- Variations: Waltar, Waltyr
- Namesakes: Walter Matthau, an American actor appearing in the comedy The Bad News Bears (1976). Walter Cronkite, an American broadcast journalist with CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981.
- Popularity: Walter ranked 221st worldwide, is mostly used in Germany and ranked 349th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Wilkin
Wilkin was a uniquely medieval nickname for William that arrived in the UK during the Norman Conquest. Wilkin is a fun way to name your baby boy something more unique than William.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Resolute protector
- Pronunciation: WIHL-Kihn
- Popularity: Wilkin is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the Dominican Republic, ranking 433rd in 2014.
Winifred
Winifred also means “holy reconciliation.” It’s based on the Welsh Gwenfrewi, meaning “white wave.” Saint Gwenfrewi was a Welsh princess whose name became Winifred for English-speakers.
- Origin: Welsh, English
- Meaning: Blessed
- Pronunciation: WIHN-ih-Frehd
- Variations: Winefrid, Winnifrid, Wynnifrid
- Namesakes: Winifred Lawson, an English opera singer and a member of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company (1922 to 1932). Winnie Mandela (born Winifred Madikizela), a South African anti-apartheid activist and the second wife of Nelson Mandela.
- Popularity: Winifred is rare worldwide, primarily used in England, and ranked 193rd in Northern Ireland in 2014.
Wymond
Wymond comes from the German “Wigmund.” It also means “shining fighter” and found its alternate spelling during the Middle Ages.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Bright warrior
- Pronunciation: WAEY-Mahnd
- Variations: Wimonde, Wymonde
- Popularity: Wymond is extremely rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
