Royal names are always in fashion, no matter what trends come and go. Whether you want to find the most popular Victorian moniker or the rarest of royalty names, there are tons of choices.
Our list of regal names for baby boys and girls will keep you entertained and informed from start to finish. From the history of the name to its popularity and who wore it best, you’ll find it all here.
100 Fancy Royalty Names for Boys and Girls
Get ready to delve into blue-blooded history and unearth the top royal names for noble babies.
Adrian
Adrian is based on the Latin “hadrianus,” first given to a person from Hadria in northern Italy. The ancient Roman emperor Hadrian was responsible for building “Hadrian’s Wall,” separating England and Scotland.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Son of Adria
- Pronunciation: EY-driy-Ahn
- Variations: Adrean, Adriane
- Namesakes: Adrian Rurawhe, the New Zealand House of Representatives speaker since 2022. Adrian Moorhouse, an English swimmer and gold medalist at the 1988 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Adrian ranked 482nd worldwide, is mostly used in Romania and ranked 61st for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Agnes
Agnes comes from the Greek Hagnḗ, meaning “holy.” The related Greek “hagnos” means “chaste,” likely based on the medieval St. Agnes and many holy women that followed.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: AEG-Nahs
- Variations: Agness
- Namesakes: Agnes of the Palatinate, a 13th-century Duchess of Bavaria, married to Otto II Wittelsbach, Duke of Bavaria. Agnes Moorehead, an American actress known for the series Bewitched.
- Popularity: Agnes ranked 332nd worldwide, is primarily used in Uganda and ranked 1,147th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Albert
Albert comes from the Germanic Adelbert. It’s made up of “adal,” meaning “noble” and “beraht,” meaning “bright.” Prince Albert was the most famous name bearer, consort to Queen Victoria.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Noble, bright
- Pronunciation: AEL-Behrt
- Variations: Abert
- Namesakes: Albert II, King of the Belgians from 1993 to 2013. Albert Brooks (born Albert Einstein), an American actor known for 1987’s Broadcast News.
- Popularity: Albert ranked 226th worldwide, is mainly used in DR Congo and ranked 564th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Alexandra
Alexandra is a female form of Alexander. It was another name for the Greek goddess Hera. It’s also the name of a Danish princess who married King Edward VII in 1863 in England.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Defending man
- Pronunciation: Ah-leg-ZAEN-Drah
- Variations: Alessandra
- Namesakes: Alexandra of Yugoslavia, the last Queen of Yugoslavia as the wife of King Peter II from 1944 to 1945. Alexandra Brooks, an English footballer for Blackburn Rovers.
- Popularity: Alexandra ranked 464th worldwide, is mostly used in Romania and ranked 165th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Alfonso
Alfonso was a personal name given to many Spanish and Portuguese kings. It’s composed of “hathu,” meaning “war,” and “funs,” meaning “ready,” ideal for boy kings ready to rule.
- Origin: Spanish, Italian
- Meaning: Noble
- Pronunciation: AL-FAON-sow
- Variations: Alphonso, Afonso, Alphonse
- Namesakes: Alfonso XIII, the King of Spain from 1886 to 1931, called “The African.” Alfonso Lizarazo, a Colombian TV host of Campeones de la risa.
- Popularity: Alfonso ranked 1,083rd worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 87th in Colombia in 2014.
Alice
Alice is an English variation of the Old French Adelais and German Adelheidis, meaning “light.” Prince Philip’s mother was Princess Alice of Battenberg.
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Noble
- Pronunciation: AEL-ihs
- Variations: Allice, Alyce
- Namesakes: Princess Alice, the wife of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester and the mother of Prince William of Gloucester. Alice Mahon, an English Member of Parliament from 1987 until 2005.
- Popularity: Alice ranked 227th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 72nd for girls in 2023.
Amina
Amina also means “safe one” and “protected.” It even refers to someone who is “faithful” and “obedient of Iman.” Amina was a 16th-century Nigerian princess known to be brave and tough.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Faithful
- Pronunciation: Ah-MIYN-ah
- Variations: Aminah, Ameenah, Amineh
- Namesakes: Amina Wali, a Pakistani alpine skier and the first woman to win an international medal in skiing for Pakistan. Amina Benkhadra, a Moroccan minister of Energy and Mines from 2007 to 2012.
- Popularity: Amina ranked 140th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 786th for girls in 2020.
Anastasia
Anastasia derives from the Greek “anástasis,” meaning “resurrection.” As royal names go, Anastasia is best known as the daughter of Nicholas II of Russia, the last Tsar of Russia.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Resurrection
- Pronunciation: Ah-nah-STAES-Yah
- Variations: Anastascia, Anastassya, Anastasya
- Namesakes: Anastasia Melnychenko, a Ukrainian activist responsible for the #IAmNotAfraidToSayIt social media campaign. Anastasia Avramidou, a Greek chess player and FIDE Woman International Master.
- Popularity: Anastasia ranked 723rd worldwide, is mainly used in Russia and ranked 181st for girls in 2021.
Andrew
Andrew comes from the Greek Andreas, meaning “masculine.” It uses the root “aner,” meaning “man,” “brave,” and “warrior.” Prince Andrew is the second son of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Strong, manly
- Pronunciation: AEN-Druw
- Variations: Andrewes
- Namesakes: Prince Andrew Romanoff, a Russian-American grand-nephew of Russia’s last Tsar, Nicholas II. Andrew Lloyd Webber, an English composer who received a knighthood in 1992.
- Popularity: Andrew ranked 145th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 113th for boys in 2023.
Ann
Ann represents the Latin spelling for Anna. Princess Anne is the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, making Ann the most unexpected of royal girl names.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: Favored
- Pronunciation: AEN
- Variations: Anne, Anna
- Namesakes: Ann Bancroft, an American adventurer inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1995. Ann M. Martin, an American children’s fiction writer known for The Baby-Sitters Club series.
- Popularity: Ann ranked 435th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,069th for girls in 2022.
Archie
Archie is a quintessentially English nickname for Archibald, meaning “bold.” Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is sixth in the line to the British throne.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: AARCH-iy
- Variations: Archee, Archey, Archi, Archy
- Namesakes: Archie Thompson, an Australian club ambassador for Melbourne Victory FC. Archie Macpherson, a Scottish football commentator for the BBC.
- Popularity: Archie is rare worldwide, mainly used in the Philippines, and ranked 9th for boys in the UK in 2021.
Arthur
Arthur may be the most famous of royal boy names, originating with King Arthur. It may be associated with the Celtic “artos,” meaning “bear.”
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Renowned warrior
- Pronunciation: AAR-Thahr
- Variations: Arther, Artur
- Namesakes: Arthur Ashe, an American tennis player and winner of three Grand Slam singles titles. Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, the third son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
- Popularity: Arthur ranked 664th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 155th for boys in 2021.
Astrid
Astrid comes from the Old Norse Ástríðr. It’s made up of “áss,” meaning God and “fríðr,” meaning “beautiful.” It’s as old as the 10th-century and was used many times by members of the Scandinavian royal family.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Divine beauty
- Pronunciation: Aah-strahd
- Variations: Astred, Astryd
- Namesakes: Princess Astrid, the daughter of King Olav V and his wife, Princess Märtha of Sweden. Astrid Sandvik, a Norwegian Alpine skier and one of eleven non-Nordic skiers to win the Holmenkollen medal.
- Popularity: Astrid is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 34th in Norway in 2014.
Augusta
Augusta is based on the Latin “augere,” meaning “to increase.” It’s the female variation of Augustus, meaning “venerable.” Augusta was typically used for female relatives of Roman emperors.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Great, magnificent
- Pronunciation: Ah-GUHS-Tah
- Variations: Agusta
- Namesakes: Augusta Viktoria of Schleswig-Holstein, the last German Empress and Queen of Prussia. Isabella Augusta, Lady Gregory, an Irish dramatist who co-founded the Abbey Theatre in Dublin.
- Popularity: Augusta is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 148th in Angola in 2014.
Beatrice
Beatrice derives from the French Béatrice and the Latin Beatrix, meaning “blessed one.” A modern royal with this loveliest of regal names is Princess Beatrice, daughter of Prince Andrew.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Bringer of joy
- Pronunciation: BIY-ah-Trihs
- Variations: Beatriz, Beatris
- Namesakes: Beatrice Borromeo, an Italian journalist and host on the Radio 105 Network. Beatrice Wishart, a member of the Scottish Parliament since 2019.
- Popularity: Beatrice ranked 407th worldwide, is primarily used in DR Congo and ranked 19th in Zambia in 2014.
Blanche
Blanche comes from the Latin “blancus.” It was used among French royals until it arrived in England in the 12th-century with the wife of Henry I.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: White
- Pronunciation: BLAENCH
- Variations: Blanshe, Blanch
- Namesakes: Blanche d’Alpuget, the second wife of Australia’s longest-serving Labor Prime Minister. Blanche Calloway, an American jazz singer, and sister of Cab Calloway.
- Popularity: Blanche is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Camilla
Camilla was an ancient Roman term for a “young ceremonial attendant.” We recognize the modern royal connection with Camilla Parker-Bowles, the Queen Consort and wife of King Charles III.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Free-born servant
- Pronunciation: Kah-MIHL-ah
- Variations: Cammilla
- Namesakes: Camilla Martelli, the second wife of Cosimo I de’ Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany in the 16th-century. Camilla Long, a British columnist with The Sunday Times.
- Popularity: Camilla is rare worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 311th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Carl
Carl is based on the German “karl,” meaning “free man.” It’s one of the blue-blood noble names used for multiple Kings of Sweden, like Carl XVI Gustaf.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: KAARL
- Variations: Carl, Karl
- Namesakes: Carl Hancock Rux, an American poet with the poetry collection Pagan Operetta. Carl Weathers, an American actor appearing in the first four Rocky films.
- Popularity: Carl ranked 1,060th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 827th for boys in 2022.
Caroline
Caroline is the most obvious female equivalent of Charles. It also means “strong” and “song of happiness.” Caroline is still prevalent today for Princess Caroline of Monaco.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: KAER-ah-Layn
- Variations: Carolyn, Carolyne, Carolynn, Carolynne, Carrolyn
- Namesakes: Caroline Burckle, an American swimmer and gold medalist at the 2007 Pan American Games. Caroline Kennedy, an American diplomat, and daughter of former U.S. president John F. Kennedy.
- Popularity: Caroline ranked 400th worldwide, is mostly used in France, and ranked 81st for girls in 2021.
Cecily
Cecily originated with the Roman family name Caelius. It derives from the Latin “caelum,” meaning “heaven.” St Cecilia is the most famous saintly namesake.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Blind
- Pronunciation: SEH-sih-Liy
- Variations: Cecelie, Cecile
- Namesakes: Cecily Strong, an American actress and cast member on Saturday Night Live from 2012 to 2022. Cecily Tynan, an American meteorologist with WPVI-TV in Philadelphia since 1995.
- Popularity: Cecily is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,641st for girls in 2021.
Charlene
Charlene is a lesser-known female form of Charles and a diminutive of Charlotte. The Old English “ceorl” means “free man.”
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: Shaar-LIYN
- Variations: Charleen, Charlyne
- Namesakes: Charlene Dallas, an American beauty contestant, and Miss California in 1966. Charlene Rink, an American bodybuilder, and winner at the 1999 National Physique Committee Fitness USA Championships.
- Popularity: Charlene is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,777th for girls in 2021.
Charles
Charles derives from the Old English “ceorl,” meaning “free man.” It’s an extremely popular name for kings that began with Emperor Charles the Great, or Charlemagne. The soon-to-be-crowned King of England is also a Charles.
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: CHAARHLZ
- Variations: Charle
- Namesakes: Charles Dickens, an English writer called the greatest novelist of the Victorian era. Charles Durning, an American actor known for Dog Day Afternoon (1975).
- Popularity: Charles ranked 71st worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 182nd for boys in 2023.
Charlotte
Charlotte is the most popular feminine form of Charles, which also means “petite.” It’s maintained its popularity among European royals, which keeps it on the list of royalty names.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: SHAAR-Laht
- Variations: Charlott
- Namesakes: Princess Charlotte of Wales, the daughter of William, Prince of Wales, and third in the line of succession to the British throne. Charlotte Gainsbourg, a French actress who won the Cannes Film Festival Best Actress Award.
- Popularity: Charlotte ranked 732nd worldwide, is mainly used in DR Congo, and ranked 3rd for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Christian
Christian comes from the Latin “Christianus,” meaning “a follower of Christ.” In the 17th- and 18th-centuries, Christian was even a female given name used in Scotland.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Follower of Christ
- Pronunciation: KRIHS-Chahn
- Variations: Chriztian
- Namesakes: Prince Christian of Denmark, the eldest child of Crown Prince Frederik and second in the line of succession to the Danish throne. Christian Pulisic, an American soccer player for the U.S. national team.
- Popularity: Christian ranked 153rd worldwide, is primarily used in France, and ranked 72nd for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Christopher
Christopher derives from the Greek Christophoros. It’s made up of “Christ,” meaning “anointed,” and “phérein,” meaning “to bear.” Christopher remains a princely choice for little boys who wish to rule.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Bearing Christ
- Pronunciation: KRIHS-taa-Fer
- Variations: Christoher, Christoffer, Cristopher
- Namesakes: Prince Christopher of Greece and Denmark, the youngest son of King George I of Greece. Christopher Lloyd, an American actor known for the Back to the Future films.
- Popularity: Christian ranked 163rd worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 69th for boys in 2023.
Conor
Connor derives from the Gaelic Conchobhar, meaning “lover of wolves.” Conchobhar was the prestigious king of Ulster, but your little king can enjoy a similar, less-long name.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Hunter
- Pronunciation: KAAN-ahr
- Variations: Connor, Conner
- Namesakes: Conor McGregor, an Irish mixed martial artist, and UFC lightweight double-champion. Conor Brady, an Irish journalist, and editor of The Irish Times between 1986 and 2002.
- Popularity: Conor is rare worldwide, mainly used in Ireland, and ranked 97th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Cordelia
Cordelia may be associated with the Welsh Creiddylad, meaning “jewel of the sea.” In Shakespeare’s King Lear, Cordelia was inspired by Queen Cordelia, daughter of Leir and early queen of the Britons.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Heart
- Pronunciation: Kaor-DIY-liy-Ah
- Variations: Cordellia, Cordilia
- Namesakes: Cordelia Bugeja, a British actress appearing in EastEnders. Cordelia Throop Cole, an American social reformer in the temperance crusade.
- Popularity: Cordelia is rare worldwide, primarily used in Nigeria, and ranked 1,009th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Cosima
Cosima is the female form of Cosimo. It comes from the Greek Kosmâs, meaning “’decency.” Cosima was inspired by the 14th-century Saint Cosmo, the patron saint of doctors.
- Origin: Italian, Greek
- Meaning: Order, beauty
- Pronunciation: Kow-SIY-maa
- Variations: Cosyma, Cozima
- Namesakes: Lady Cosima Windsor, daughter of the Countess and Earl of Ulster. Cosima Wagner, the Hungarian daughter of pianist Franz Liszt and wife of the German composer Richard Wagner.
- Popularity: Cosima is rare worldwide and mostly used in Italy, ranking 314th in 2014.
Diana
Diana comes from the Latin “divus,” meaning “divine,” belonging to the Roman goddess of the hunt. Diana is one of the most royal and noble names because of Diana, the Princess of Wales.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Divine
- Pronunciation: Daey-AEN-ah
- Variations: Diannah, Dianna, Dyana, Dyanna
- Namesakes: Diana Russell, Duchess of Bedford, an 18th-century member of the Spencer family known as “dear little Di.” Diana Matheson, a Canadian soccer player for the Canada national team from 2003 to 2020.
- Popularity: Diana ranked 118th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 165th for girls in 2023.
Edgar
Edgar is based on the Anglo-Saxon Eadgar. It also means “fortunate” and “powerful,” which perfectly suited the 10th-century English king, Edgar the Peaceful.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Wealthy spear
- Pronunciation: EHD-Gahr
- Variations: Eadgyr, Edgur
- Namesakes: Edgar Allan Poe, an American writer considered the inventor of the modern detective story. Edgar Lungu, the sixth president of Zambia from 2015 to 2021.
- Popularity: Edgar ranked 371st worldwide, is primarily in the U.S., and ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Edmund
Edmund derives from the Old English Eadmund, also meaning “rich guardian.” Edmund belonged to two English kings, Edmund the Magnificent and Edmund Ironside.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rich protector
- Pronunciation: EHD-Mahnd
- Variations: Eadmund, Edmond
- Namesakes: Edmund, Prince of Schwarzenberg, the last created Austrian field marshal of the 19th-century. Edmund P. Murray, an American novelist who wrote The Peregrine Spy.
- Popularity: Edmund is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,581st for boys in 2022.
Edward
Edward was first the Old English Eadweard. It’s composed of “ead,” meaning “rich” and “weard,” meaning “guardian.” In addition to being an old example of royal names, Edward is made famous by England’s Edward, the Elder.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rich guardian
- Pronunciation: EHD-Wahrd
- Variations: Eadweard
- Namesakes: Edward, Lord Downpatrick, an English fashion designer and second-in-line to the Dukedom of Kent. Edward Hopper, an American realist painter whose boyhood home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.
- Popularity: Edward ranked 204th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 217th for boys in 2021.
Egbert
Egbert is one of the many regal names that sounds royal, combining Old English and Old German words. Though sometimes sounding funny, Egbert was the first King of England in the 9th-century.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Bright edge of a sword
- Pronunciation: EHG-Bert
- Variations: Ecgbert
- Namesakes: Egbert White, an American journalist with the Stars and Stripes newspaper during World War I. Egbert Streuer, a Dutch sidecar driver called the most successful Dutch motorcycle racer of all time.
- Popularity: Egbert is rare worldwide, primarily used in Germany, and ranked 107th in Jamaica in 2014.
Eleanor
Eleanor also means “light-hearted” and may be associated with the German Adenorde, meaning “ancient north.”
- Origin: German, Greek
- Meaning: Shining light
- Pronunciation: EHL-leh-Naor
- Variations: Eleanore, Elenor, Elenore
- Namesakes: Eleanor Roosevelt, the first lady of the U.S. from 1933 to 1945. Eleanor Marx, an English activist, and daughter of Karl Marx.
- Popularity: Eleanor is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 47th for girls in 2023.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth is quintessential of royalty names, yet derives from the Hebrew Elisheba. The most famous is England’s Queen Elizabeth, who passed away in 2022 after reigning for 70 years.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my oath
- Pronunciation: Ih-LIHZ-ah-Behth
- Variations: Elisabeth, Elisabethe, Elizebeth
- Namesakes: Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, the mother of Queen Elizabeth, and wife of King George VI. Elizabeth Taylor, a British-American actress and the highest-paid movie star in the 1960s.
- Popularity: Elizabeth ranked 56th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 57th for girls in 2023.
Ernest
Ernest comes from the Old German “eornost,” literally meaning “earnest.” Ernest II was the 19th-century brother of Prince Albert, maybe why Ernest ranked highest from 1880 to 1926.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Serious
- Pronunciation: EHR-Nahst
- Variations: Erneste, Earnest
- Namesakes: Ernest Augustus, Crown Prince of Hanover, the only son of George V of Hanover who sided with Germany in World War I. Ernest Hemingway, an American novelist awarded the 1954 Nobel Prize in Literature.
- Popularity: Ernest ranked 909th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,695th for boys in 2022.
Eugenie
Eugenie is a French female version of Eugene. It originated with the Greek Eugenios, meaning “well-born.” The famous Princess Victoria Eugenie of Battenberg inspired another Princess Eugenie to take the same name.
- Origin: French, Greek
- Meaning: Noble
- Pronunciation: Yuw-JHIY-niy
- Variations: Eugeny, Eugynie
- Namesakes: Eugénie de Montijo, Empress of the French and wife of Emperor Napoleon III. Eugenia Charles, the Prime Minister of Dominica from 1980 until 1995.
- Popularity: Eugenie is rare worldwide, mostly used in DR Congo, and ranked 51st in Benin in 2014.
Ferdinand
Ferdinand is made up of the German “frith,” meaning “protection,” and “frið,” meaning “peace.” It also means “brave in peace.” Even though Ferdinand has German origins, it’s been a traditional name for royal families of Spain.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Bold voyager
- Pronunciation: FEHR-dih-Naend
- Variations: Ferdinando
- Namesakes: Ferdinand I, Holy Roman Emperor from 1556, King of Bohemia, Hungary, and Croatia from 1526, and Archduke of Austria from 1521 to 1564. Ferdinand Zylka, a German basketball player for Circus Brussels of the BNXT League.
- Popularity: Ferdinand is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in the Philippines, and ranked 280th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Frederick
Frederick is composed of “frithu,” meaning “peace,” and “ricja,” meaning “rule.” It’s been used by Frederick II, the King of Prussia, also called “Frederick the Great.”
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Peaceful ruler
- Pronunciation: FREHD-eh-Rihk
- Variations: Fredderick, Freddrick
- Namesakes: Frederick IX, King of Denmark from 1947 to 1972. Frederick North, the 12th Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1770 to 1782.
- Popularity: Frederick ranked 1,798th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Fumihito
Fumihito also means “benevolence.” It’s taken from the Japanese “fumi,” meaning “writing,” and “hito,” meaning “compassionate.” There is a Japanese crown prince, Fumihito, who is the brother of Emperor Naruhito.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Aromatic
- Pronunciation: Fuw-miy-HHiy-tow
- Popularity: Fumihito is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Japan.
George
George comes from the Greek Georgios, meaning “earthworker.” It peaked at number three for American boys during the 1920s and 1930s. George is still ranked 5th in the UK for boys since it was the name of six English kings.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Farmer
- Pronunciation: JHOWRJH
- Variations: Goerge
- Namesakes: Prince George of Wales, the son of William, Prince of Wales, and second in line to the British throne. George Soros (born György Schwartz), a Hungarian-American philanthropist with a net worth of US$8.6 billion.
- Popularity: George ranked 98th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 69th for boys in 2023.
Grace
Grace derives from the Latin “gratia,” also meaning “blessing.” Actress Grace Kelly, the most famous bearer, became Princess Grace of Monaco.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Blessing
- Pronunciation: GRAYSE
- Variations: Grayce
- Namesakes: Grace Glowicki, a Canadian actress known for the 2019 film Tito. Grace E. Madden, an American pair skater, and the 1934 U.S. national champion.
- Popularity: Grace ranked 148th worldwide, is primarily used in Nigeria and ranked 24th for girls in 2018.
Haakan
Haakan is a Turkish term for “supreme ruler.” It’s also the Norwegian first name Hákon, meaning “high son.” Haakan often appears as Haakon, represented by Haakon Haraldsson, the king of Norway from 934 to 961.
- Origin: Turkish, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Ruler
- Pronunciation: HHAA-Kaen
- Variations: Håkan, Hákon, Haakon
- Popularity: Haakan is extremely rare worldwide, with 78 known occurrences in 2014, mostly in Thailand.
Hadrian
Hadrian dates back to ancient Rome with the family name Hadrianus. It originally meant “from Hadria” in Latin. There are few Hadrians as well-known as Roman Emperor Hadrian, who built Hadrian’s wall in England.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Dark-haired
- Pronunciation: HHEY-driy-Ahn
- Variations: Adrian
- Popularity: Hadrian is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Brazil.
Harry
Harry is a medieval nickname for Henry, taken from the German Heimerich. The son of King Charles, Prince Harry, is the most recent example of a royal boy name that continues to thrive.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Pronunciation: HHAA-riy
- Variations: Harri, Harrie
- Namesakes: Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the U.S., serving from 1945 to 1953. Harry Belafonte, an American singer, and the most successful Jamaican-American pop star.
- Popularity: Harry ranked 1,149th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Haya
In Arabic, Haya means “shyness” and “modesty.” It’s also a feminine variation of the Hebrew Hyam, meaning “life.” Haya isn’t a stereotypical royal name but is best associated with Princess Haya bint Hussein, the daughter of King Hussein of Jordan.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Good looking
- Pronunciation: HHAA-Yaa
- Variations: Haia, Hayah
- Namesakes: Haya bint Saad Al Sudairi, the wife of Ibn Saud, founder of Saudi Arabia in 1932. Haya Kaspi, an Israeli mathematician who shared the 2011 Itô Prize for Mathematical Statistics and Probability.
- Popularity: Haya is rare worldwide, mostly used in Saudi Arabia, and ranked 415th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Helene
Helene is a unique version of Helen, meaning “torch” or “light.” It peaked in the U.S. at 228th for girls in 1916. Princess Helene of Mecklenburg-Schwerin was made the Princess Royal of France in her lifetime.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Bright, shining
- Pronunciation: HHeh-LEENE
- Variations: Helen, Helena
- Namesakes: Helene Liliendahl Brydensholt, a Danish politician and member of the Folketing. Helene Michelson, an Estonian figure skater who competed in the 1936 Winter Olympics.
- Popularity: Helene ranked 1,005th worldwide and is mainly used in DR Congo, ranking 14th in 2014.
Henrietta
Henrietta is the elegant female equivalent of Henry, that reached England because of Henriette Marie, the wife of Charles I. Since then, Henrietta has been less known than the English Harriet.
- Origin: Latin, German
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Pronunciation: Hehn-riy-EH-Taa
- Variations: Hennrietta
- Namesakes: Henrietta Barnett, an English social reformer who founded the first “University Settlement” at Toynbee Hall in London. Henrietta A. Bingham, a 19th-century American writer and editor of the Ladies’ Repository.
- Popularity: Henrietta is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it’s uncommon.
Henry
Henry also means “estate ruler,” inspired by the Old German Haimirich, meaning “home-ruler.” Henry eclipses George as the name given to eight kings of England and is the birth name of Prince Harry.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Pronunciation: HHEHN-Riy
- Variations: Henrie
- Namesakes: Henry V, the King of England from 1413 to 1422, known for the Hundred Years’ War with France. Henry Miller, an American novelist known for the Tropic of Cancer.
- Popularity: Henry ranked 296th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 35th for boys in 2023.
Humphrey
Humphrey may be the most British-sounding of aristocratic names. It’s taken from the English Hunfrith, a combination of Humbert and “frith,” meaning “peace.”
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Peaceful warrior
- Pronunciation: HUM-Friy
- Variations: Humfrey, Humphrey
- Namesakes: Humphrey of Lancaster, a 15th-century English prince and son of Henry IV of England. Humphrey Mwanza, a Zambian member of the National Assembly since 2006.
- Popularity: Humphrey is rare worldwide and mainly used in Zambia, where it ranked 192nd in 2014.
Indira
Indira also means “beauty” and is inspired by the River Indus. Indira Devi was the Maharani of Cooch Behar in British India. Indira is another name for the goddess Lakshmi, which is both mythologically and royalty based.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
- Meaning: Splendid
- Pronunciation: Ahn-DIY-raa
- Variations: Indeera, Indyra
- Namesakes: Indira Gandhi, India’s third prime minister from 1966 to 1977 and 1980 to1984. Indira Naidoo, an Australian journalist with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
- Popularity: Indira is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 143rd in Kazakhstan in 2014.
Indulfo
Indulfo may be associated with the Irish “Ildulb,” based on the Norse Hildulfr. While its meaning is unknown, it’s forever linked to Ildulb mac Causantín. He was the King of Alba (now Scotland) from 954 to 962 and was called “the Aggressor.”
- Origin: Irish, Scottish
- Meaning: Unknown
- Pronunciation: Ihn-DULF-oh
- Variations: Indulf
- Namesakes: Indulf (known as Gundulf), a Byzantine mercenary who defected to the Ostrogoths during the Gothic War of 535 to 554.
- Popularity: Indulf is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Colombia.
Isabella
Isabella is a Spanish version of Isobel, taken from Elizabeth. As the Hebrew Elisheba, it also means “God is my oath.” Isabella sounds very fancy – perfect for a little princess in the making, and is the most popular name for Spanish female royals around.
- Origin: Latin, Spanish
- Meaning: Devoted to God
- Pronunciation: Ihz-ah-BEHL-ah
- Variations: Isebella, Isobella
- Namesakes: Isabella Rossellini, an Italian-American actress known for Blue Velvet (1986). Isabella Hurtado, a Colombian swimmer who, competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Isabella is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Brazil, and ranked 6th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Isla
Isla derives from Islay, an island in the Scottish Hebrides. It’s also associated with the Latin “insula.” Isla Phillips is the 10-year-old granddaughter of the British Princess Anne.
- Origin: Scottish, Spanish
- Meaning: Island
- Pronunciation: AY-Laa
- Variations: Islah, Islay
- Namesakes: Isla Blair Glover, a British actress appearing in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum in 1963. Isla Traquair, a Scottish TV host with ITN.
- Popularity: Isla is rare worldwide, primarily used in Brazil, and ranked 33rd for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
James
James is an English variation of the Hebrew Jacob, meaning “supplanter.” It’s ranked in the top 20 U.S. boy’s names for over 100 years and is the name of six American presidents.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Pronunciation: JHEYMZ
- Variations: Jaemes, Jaimes, Jamyes
- Namesakes: James Caan, an American actor best known for The Godfather (1972). James Joyce, an Irish novelist known for Ulysses (1922).
- Popularity: James ranked 27th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 6th for boys in 2023.
Jane
Jane comes from the Old French Jehanne. It was originally the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning “Yahweh is merciful.” Jane has been around since it came to replace Joan in the 16th-century.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHEYN
- Variations: Jayne
- Namesakes: Lady Jane Grey, a 16th-century English queen known as the “Nine Days” Queen. Jane Fonda, an American actress, and winner of the Cecil B. DeMille Award.
- Popularity: Jane ranked 269th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 187th for girls in 2023.
John
John is based on the Hebrew Johanan and is famous for John the Baptist from the Bible. King John was considered the unluckiest king of late 12th-century England, as he lost the Duchy of Normandy to King Philip II of France.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHAAN
- Variations: Jon, Jonn
- Namesakes: John Glenn, the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth in 1962. John Lennon, an English singer, and member of the Beatles.
- Popularity: John ranked 12th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 6th for boys in 2023.
Judith
Judith derives from the Hebrew Yehudit, meaning “woman from Judea.” It’s also the feminine form of Judah. Several medieval queens were named Judith, especially in Bavaria, Bohemia, and Hungary.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: A woman from Judea
- Pronunciation: JHUW-Dihth
- Variations: Judithe, Judyth
- Namesakes: Judith Liberman, a French storyteller of Anatolian fairy tales in Turkey. Judith Light, an American actress appearing in Who’s the Boss? from 1984 to 1992.
- Popularity: Judith ranked 281st worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 994th for girls in 2022.
Keoua
Keōua is one of the rarest royal names and one of the few that start with K. It’s only a name because of Keōua the Great, as his subjects named him because he used “heavenly rains” to warn of danger.
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Meaning: Rain cloud
- Pronunciation: Kiy-OW-ah
- Namesakes: Keōua (called Keōua the Great), an Ancient Hawaiian noble and father of the first King of Hawaii.
- Popularity: Keōua is extremely rare worldwide, with 61 occurrences in 2014, mainly in Ivory Coast.
Leonore
Leonore is a slightly unique version of Eleonore. It also means “God is my light” and “torch” in Arabic. An early version occurred with Leonor Teles, a 14th-century Portuguese queen consort married to King Ferdinand I.
- Origin: German, Greek
- Meaning: Shining light
- Pronunciation: Liyah-NAOR
- Variations: Leonor, Lenore
- Namesakes: Leonore Kirschstein, a German opera singer at the Bavarian State Opera in Munich. Countess Leonore of Orange-Nassau, a member of the Dutch royal family and seventh in line to the Dutch throne.
- Popularity: Leonore is rare worldwide, primarily used in Germany, and ranked 843rd in Israel in 2014.
Leopold
Leopold was first the German Luitbald. It’s made up of “liut,” meaning “people,” and “bald,” meaning “brave.” Leopold II was a famous king of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Brave people
- Pronunciation: LIY-ah-Powld
- Variations: Leopolde, Leopoldo, Leupolde
- Namesakes: Léopold Bihumugani, the prime minister of Burundi from 1965 to 1966. Leopold B. Felsen, a German physicist known for studies of Electromagnetism.
- Popularity: Leopold is rare worldwide, mostly used in Austria, and ranked 1,644th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Lilibet
Lilibet is a very English nickname for Elizabeth. Lilibet was Queen Elizabeth II’s nickname and was used for her granddaughter, born in 2021.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my oath
- Pronunciation: Lih-liy-BEHT
- Variations: Lillibet
- Namesakes: Lilibet Windsor, the daughter of Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex. Lilibet Foster, an American director and winner of the 1997 Independent Spirit: Truer Than Fiction Award.
- Popularity: Lilibet is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Venezuela.
Liliʻuokalani
Liliʻuokalani has one of the best (and most entertaining) meanings among aristocratic names. It arrived with the only queen of the Kingdom of Hawaii named Liliʻuokalani. She had an eye infection at birth, so she was christened Liliʻuokalani by the people.
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Meaning: Smarting pain of the eyes
- Pronunciation: Lee-lee-Ooh-oh-kah-LAH-ni
- Namesakes: Liliʻuokalani (born Lydia Liliʻu Loloku Walania Kamakaʻeha), the last sovereign monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom from 1891 to 1893.
Lionel
Lionel is composed of the Latin “lion” and the French diminutive suffix “-el,” giving us “little lion.” Lionel was one of the knights of King Arthur’s Round Table in medieval folklore.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Young lion
- Pronunciation: LAEY-ow-Nehl
- Variations: Lionell, Lionnel, Lyonel
- Namesakes: Lionel of Antwerp, the 14th-century son of English king Edward III and Philippa of Hainault. Lionel Messi, an Argentine footballer who captains the Argentina national team.
- Popularity: Lionel is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in France, and ranked 280th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Louis
Louis is a much simpler version of the Old German Chlodovech. It’s the French version of Ludwig and was the name of 14 kings of France. Frankish King Chlodowig I was also called Clovis.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Famed warrior
- Pronunciation: LUW-ee
- Variations: Louis, Lewis
- Namesakes: Louis XVI, the last King of France before the French Revolution. Louis Armstrong, an American jazz trumpeter awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1972.
- Popularity: Louis ranked 469th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 522nd in 2023.
Louisa
Louisa is the female equivalent of Louis. It’s composed of the Old German “hlūt,” meaning “famous,” and ”wīg,” meaning “battle.” Princess Louisa of Great Britain was also the grandchild of King George II.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Famous warrior
- Pronunciation: Luw-IY-Zaa
- Variations: Loisa, Louiza
- Namesakes: Louisa May Alcott, an American novelist famous for Little Women (1868). Louisa Chafee, an American sailor who competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Louisa is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in South Africa, and ranked 688th for girls in the U.S. in 2021.
Madeleine
Madeleine also means “woman from Magdala” when associated with Mary Magdalene. Princess Madeleine of Sweden is the daughter of King Carl XVI Gustaf and is eighth in line to the Swedish throne.
- Origin: French, Hebrew
- Meaning: High tower
- Pronunciation: MAED-ah-Layn
- Variations: Madaline, Madeline, Madalyne
- Namesakes: Madeleine Worrall, a Scottish actress appearing in Jane Eyre at the Royal National Theatre in 2014. Madeleine Kunin, the 77th governor of Vermont from 1985 to 1991.
- Popularity: Madeleine ranked 1,218th worldwide, is primarily used in DR Congo and ranked 577th for girls in the U.S. in 2022.
Makeda
Makedah is the Ethiopian name of the Queen of Sheba, referred to in the Bible. It also means “the beautiful.” Makeda has potential with royal girl names and has been used for Ethiopian queens from Meroe or Seba.
- Origin: Ethiopian
- Meaning: Greatness
- Pronunciation: Maa-KIY-dah
- Variations: Makedah
- Namesakes: Makeda Cheatom, an African-American entrepreneur and founder of the WorldBeat Cultural Center.
- Popularity: Makeda is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Ethiopia, and ranked 920th in Trinidad and Tobago in 2014.
Margaret
Margaret derives from the French Marguerite and Greek Margarita, meaning “pearl.” St. Margaret of Antioch was a 3rd-century martyr who adds religious significance to this most classic of regal names.
- Origin: French, Greek
- Meaning: Pearl
- Pronunciation: MAAR-gaa-Reht
- Variations: Margarett, Margeret
- Namesakes: Margaret Thatcher, the prime minister of the UK from 1979 to 1990. Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Popularity: Margaret ranked 214th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 577th for girls in 2022.
Marjorie
Marjorie comes from Margaret, a medieval version of Margery. Marjorie Bruce was an early name bearer, the daughter of Robert the Bruce, the King of Scots.
- Origin: Scottish, Greek
- Meaning: Pearl
- Pronunciation: MAAR-jhao-Riy
- Variations: Margery
- Namesakes: Marjorie Gross, a Canadian comedian, and writer for Seinfeld. Marjorie Clapprood, a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1985 to 1991.
- Popularity: Marjorie ranked 1,966th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 519th for girls in 2023.
Mary
Mary is one of the oldest names, with multiple meanings like “bitter,” “rebelliousness,” and “wished-for child.” Mary is based on the Hebrew Miriam and was the most popular name for American girls from the 1880s to 1946.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Drop of the sea
- Pronunciation: MAER-iy
- Variations: Maire
- Namesakes: Mary, Princess Royal, the only daughter of King George V and Queen Mary. Mary Berry, an English food chef and host of the Great British Baking Show.
- Popularity: Mary ranked 21st worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 298th for girls in 2023.
Maud
Maud is a short form of Matilda. It appears as Mawd in Welsh and has been used for many members of the British royal family.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Powerful battler
- Pronunciation: MAWD
- Variations: Maude
- Namesakes: Maud of Wales, Queen of Norway, and the daughter of King Edward VII. Maud Gonne, an English-Irish revolutionary for the 1916 Republic.
- Popularity: Maud is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in France, where it ranked 146th in 2014.
Michael
Michael is one of the biblical archangels, which is why it also means “who is like unto the Lord?” Prince Michael of Kent is currently 51st in line to the British throne.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Gift from God
- Pronunciation: MAEY-Kahl
- Variations: Mical, Mykal
- Namesakes: Michael Hutchence, an Australian musician who co-founded the rock band INXS. Michael Jordan, an American basketball player with the Chicago Bulls.
- Popularity: Michael ranked 18th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., ranking 17th in 2014.
Muhammad
Muhammad is based on the Arabic “ḥammada,” meaning “to praise,” and is often called the most popular name in the world. Muhammed is best known as the Arab founder of Islam but has been used by both nobles and everyday people.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Praised
- Pronunciation: Muw-HHAA-Mehd
- Variations: Muhammed, Muhamad
- Namesakes: Muḥammad ibn Marwān, an Umayyad prince known for the 7th-century Arab conquest of Armenia. Muhammad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia from 1964 to 1965.
- Popularity: Muhammad ranked 5th worldwide, is mostly used in Pakistan and ranked 35th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Nefertiti
There are few Nefertitis in the world, but none are as famous as the original. Nefertiti was a powerful Egyptian queen, wife to the pharaoh Akhenaton, and a very cool example of the name.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: A beautiful woman has come
- Pronunciation: Neh-fahr-TIY-Tiy
- Variations: Neferteti, Nefertity
- Popularity: Nefertiti is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Nicholas
Nicholas comes from the Greek Nikolaos. It’s made up of “nikē,” meaning “victory,” and “laos,” meaning “people.” The 4th-century Bishop of Myra was the patron saint of children, otherwise known as Santa Claus today.
- Origin: Greek, Russian
- Meaning: Victory of the people
- Pronunciation: NIHK-ah-Lahs
- Variations: Niccolas, Nichalas
- Namesakes: Nicholas II, the last Emperor of Russia from 1894 to 1917. Nicholas Cannon, an American TV host of The Nick Cannon Show.
- Popularity: Nicholas ranked 882nd worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., ranking 92nd for boys in 2021.
Noor
Noor also means “divine light.” In Norse mythology, Nór was the founder king of Norway, but it’s utilized more as a royal female name today.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Light
- Pronunciation: NOWR
- Variations: Nor, Nour, Nur
- Namesakes: Noor Al-Hussein, the Queen of Jordan from 1978 to 1999. Noor Hassanali, the second president of Trinidad and Tobago (1987 to 1997).
- Popularity: Noor ranked 109th worldwide and is mostly used in Pakistan, where it ranked 6th in 2014.
Octavius
Octavius derives from the Latin “octavo,” meaning “eighth.” It was a familial clan name in ancient Rome and used for Caesar Augustus, known as Octavian. He was the first Roman emperor from 27 BC to AD 14.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Eighth
- Pronunciation: AhK-TEY-viy-Ahs
- Variations: Octavus
- Popularity: Octavius is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking at 1,701st for boys in 2021.
Olga
Olga is the Russian version of Helga and is based on the Scandinavian Helge, meaning “blessed.” The Grand Duchess Olga was the daughter of the last Tsar of the Russian Empire, Emperor Nicholas II.
- Origin: Russian, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Holy
- Pronunciation: AOL-Gaa
- Namesakes: Princess Olga, the daughter of author Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark. Olga Markova, a Russian long-distance runner who won the Boston Marathon in 1992 and 1993.
- Popularity: Olga ranked 48th worldwide, is primarily used in Russia and ranked 1st in Belarus in 2014.
Philip
Philip is the English variation of the Greek Phillippos, composed of the Greek “philos,” meaning “friend” and “hippos,” meaning “horse.” The most famous is Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Lover of horses
- Pronunciation: FIHL-ihp
- Variations: Phillipp, Phillip
- Namesakes: Philip Glass, an American composer, and founder of the Philip Glass Ensemble. Philip Seymour Hoffman, an American actor named one of the 50 Greatest Actors Of All Time by Empire Magazine.
- Popularity: Philip ranked 550th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 194th for boys in 2023.
Philippa
Philippa is the super sophisticated form of Philip, meaning “horse’s friend.” Philippa of Lancaster was the Queen of Portugal from 1387 until 1415.
- Origin: Greek, English
- Meaning: Lover of horses
- Pronunciation: FIH-lihp-ah
- Variations: Philipa, Phillipa, Phillippa
- Namesakes: Philippa of England, and Queen of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden from 1406 to 1430. Philippa Forrester, a British presenter for CBBC.
- Popularity: Philippa is rare worldwide, mainly used in England, and ranked 372nd in New Zealand in 2014.
Rania
Rania has multiple meanings, including odd ones like “glittering object” or “eye-catching” in Arabic. Rania is one of the noble names with the longest meaning possible. It means “as long as looking at the person with a stillness of a blink or wink.”
- Origin: Sanskrit, Norse
- Meaning: Queen
- Pronunciation: RAEN-Yaa
- Variations: Raniah
- Namesakes: Rania Elwani, an Egyptian swimmer who competed in the 2000 Olympics. Rania Mamoun, a Sudanese editor for the journal al-Thaqafi.
- Popularity: Rania ranked 1,513th worldwide, is primarily used in Egypt, and ranked 38th in Sudan in 2014.
Richard
Richard is made up of the German “rīk,” meaning “’ruler,” and “hardu,” meaning “brave.” The most legendary was Richard I, the 12th-century king of England, also called Richard the Lionheart.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Powerful, hardy
- Pronunciation: RIHCH-ahrd
- Variations: Richerd, Ritchard
- Namesakes: Richard Nixon, the 37th president of the U.S. from 1969 to 1974. Richard Ashcroft, an English musician and member of the rock band The Verve.
- Popularity: Richard ranked 42nd worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 262nd for boys in 2023.
Rupert
Rupert is composed of the Old German “hrothi,” meaning “glory,” and “berht,” meaning “bright.” Rupert Cambridge, Viscount Trematon, was the great-grandson of Queen Victoria.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Bright fame
- Pronunciation: RUW-Pahrt
- Variations: Ruppert
- Namesakes: Rupert Wainwright, an English filmmaker known for Stigmata (1999). Rupert Keegan, an English race car driver and the 1976 British Formula 3 Champion.
- Popularity: Rupert is rare worldwide, mainly used in Germany, and ranked 157th in Austria in 2014.
Savannah
Savannah also means “large, grassy plain.” It uses the Spanish root “sabana,” which also refers to a “treeless plain” like Savannah, Georgia.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Treeless plain
- Pronunciation: Saa-VAA-naa
- Variations: Sahvannah, Savanah
- Namesakes: Savannah Marshall, a British boxer and the WBO female middleweight champion between 2020 and 2022. Savannah Stehlin, an American actress known for the film Spork.
- Popularity: Savannah is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 47th for girls in 2023.
Sibylla
Sibylla comes from the Latin Sibylla, meaning a “fortune teller.” The sibyls were Greek women who read the ancient oracles. Sibylla was also the 12th-century queen of Jerusalem while using this most beautiful of royalty names.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Prophetess
- Pronunciation: Zih-BIH-laa
- Variations: Sibyl, Sybilla
- Namesakes: Princess Sibylla of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, mother of the current king of Sweden, Carl XVI Gustaf. Sibylla Budd, an Australian actress known for the series The Secret Life of Us.
- Popularity: Sibylla is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Germany, ranking 1,774th in 2014.
Sophie
Sophie is the French equivalent of the Greek Sophia, for which it’s often used as a nickname. Sophies are scattered throughout European royal history, including Catherine the Great, who was born Sophie of Anhalt-Zerbst.
- Origin: French, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom
- Pronunciation: SOW-Fiy
- Variations: Sophy, Sofi, Sofie
- Namesakes: Sophie de Boer, a Dutch racing cyclist for Parkhotel Valkenburg. Sophie Turner, an English actress appearing on Game of Thrones (2011 to 2019).
- Popularity: Sophie ranked 830th worldwide, is mainly used in France and ranked 180th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Stephanie
Stephanie is based on the Greek “stephanos,” meaning “garland.” Princess Stephanie of Monaco is the youngest child of the Prince of Monaco and American actress Grace Kelly.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Crown
- Pronunciation: STEHF-ah-Niy
- Variations: Stefanie, Steffanie
- Namesakes: Stephanie Wilson, an American NASA astronaut and the second African American woman to enter space. Stephanie Kwolek, a Polish-American chemist known for inventing Kevlar.
- Popularity: Stephanie ranked 368th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 455th for girls in 2021.
Stephen
Stephen derives from the Greek “stephanos,” meaning “crown” and “wreath.” It also means “honor” and “fame.”
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Garland
- Pronunciation: STIYV-ahn
- Variations: Stephan, Steven
- Namesakes: Stephen Benson, the second president of Liberia from 1856 to 1864. Stephen Gyllenhaal, an American film director and father of Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal.
- Popularity: Stephan ranked 142nd worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 280th for boys in 2023.
Teimei
Little is known about Teimei other than it’s one of the royal girl names mostly used in Japan. It exists because of Empress Teimei, the wife of Japanese Emperor Taishō.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Enlightened constancy
- Pronunciation: TIY-meh
- Popularity: Teimei is extremely rare worldwide, with only 18 known occurrences in 2014, mainly in Japan.
Thyra
Thyra also means “follower of Thor” and “Thor’s battle.” It’s made possible by Thor, the Norse god of thunder. Thyra was a Danish queen and wife of the first King of Denmark.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Thunder warrior
- Pronunciation: DHAEY-Raa
- Variations: Tyra
- Namesakes: Thyra Thomson, the Wyoming Secretary of State from 1963 to 1987. Thyra Samter Winslow, an American short story writer for The New Yorker.
- Popularity: Thyra is very rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 1,061st in Denmark in 2014.
Umberto
Umberto is an Italian variant of the Old German Humbert. It also means “famous.” Royal boy names like Umberto couldn’t help Umberto II, the last King of Italy in 1946.
- Origin: Italian, German
- Meaning: Renowned warrior
- Pronunciation: Uwn-BEHR-tow
- Namesakes: Umberto Eco, an Italian writer known for the 1980 novel The Name of the Rose. Umberto Tozzi, an Italian pop singer who sold over 70 million records globally.
- Popularity: Umberto is rare worldwide and mostly used in Italy, ranking 109th in 2014.
Victor
Victor also means “winner” and is one of the earliest Christian names, originally Vittorio. It was most popular during the early 1900s and peaked in 1915. Victor Amadeus, I was the 17th-century Italian Duke of Savoy, called the Lion of Susa.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Conqueror
- Pronunciation: VIHK-Tahr
- Variations: Viktor, Vycter
- Namesakes: Victor Borge, a Danish-American comedian and pianist named “The Clown Prince of Denmark.” Victor Buono, an American actor appearing in the Batman series (1966 to 1968).
- Popularity: Victor ranked 63rd worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico and ranked 567th for boys in the U.S. in 2020.
Victoria
Victoria is the literal Latin word for “victory” and is the female version of Victor. Victoria was Queen of Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 to 1901, which is why it’s called the Victorian Era.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Victory
- Pronunciation: Vihk-TOW-riy-Ah
- Variations: Victoriah, Viktoria, Vicktoria
- Namesakes: Victoria Jackson, an American comedian on Saturday Night Live from 1986 to 1992. Victoria Nyame, a Ghanaian politician in the Parliament of Ghana from 1965 until 1966.
- Popularity: Victoria ranked 206th worldwide, is primarily used in Nigeria and ranked 19th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Wanda
Wanda came into being because of the European Vandal tribe. It also means “wanderer.” The famous Princess Wanda was the daughter of Krakus, the founder of Kraków.
- Origin: Polish
- Meaning: Shepherdess
- Pronunciation: WAAN-Dah
- Variations: Wandah
- Namesakes: Wanda Vázquez Garced, the Governor of Puerto Rico from 2019 to 2021. Wanda Sykes, an American stand-up comedian, and writer on The Chris Rock Show.
- Popularity: Wanda ranked 1,969th worldwide, is primarily used in the U.S. and ranked 55th in Puerto Rico in 2014.
William
William also means “strong-willed warrior,” based on the German Wilhelm. William is the son of King Charles III and Diana, Princess of Wales, and is heir to the British throne.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Resolute protector
- Pronunciation: WIHL-Yahm
- Variations: Wiliam
- Namesakes: William III, known as William of Orange, the King of England, Ireland, and Scotland from 1689 to 1702.
- Popularity: William ranked 51st worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 6th for boys in 2021.
Xenia
Xenia means everything from “outlander” and “welcomed guest” to “hospitality.” The Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna of Russia was the sister of Russian Tsar Nicholas II.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Foreigner
- Pronunciation: ZIY-niy-Ah
- Variations: Xeenia, Xeniah
- Namesakes: Xenia Goodwin, an Australian actress, and dancer in the series Dance Academy. Xenia Stad-de Jong, a Dutch track and field athlete, and gold medalist at the 1948 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Xenia is rare worldwide, primarily used in China, and ranked 100th in Cyprus in 2014.
Yasmin
Yasmin comes from the Persian “yâsamin,” meaning “God’s gift.” It’s also one of the aristocratic names inspired by flowers. Princess Yasmin Aga Khan is the daughter of Rita Hayworth and Prince Aly Khan.
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Jasmine flower
- Pronunciation: YAEZ-Mihn
- Variations: Yasmine, Yazmin, Yasmeen
- Namesakes: Yasmin Brunet, a Brazilian model appearing in the 2008 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Yasmin K., a German pop singer in the second season of Popstars.
- Popularity: Yasmin ranked 527th worldwide and is mostly used in Pakistan, ranking 32nd in 2014.
Zara
Zara is associated with the Arabic Zahrah, meaning “blooming flower.” Zara Yaqob was the 15th-century Emperor of Ethiopia whose name continues to grow in popularity.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Radiance
- Pronunciation: ZAH-Raa
- Variations: Zarah, Zarra, Zarrah
- Namesakes: Zara Tindall, the daughter of Princess Anne and granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth I. Zara Leghissa, a Swedish member of the Riksdag since 2022.
- Popularity: Zara is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Chad, and ranked 187th for girls in the U.S. in 2023.
Zetian
In Mandarin Chinese, Zetian also means “to the day” and “obey the will of heaven.” Wu Zetian was a legendary female ruler of the Tang dynasty from 665 to 705. In 1995, a Chinese TV series was made about her life called Wu Zetian.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Empress of China
- Pronunciation: ZEH-tiy-Ahn
- Variations: Zethan, Zetan
- Popularity: Zetian is rare worldwide and primarily used in China.
Regal Names FAQs
What Are Unique Royal Names?
Some unique female royal names include Thyra, the queen of Denmark, and Rania, the Queen of Jordan. A late 7th-century Chinese empress was named Wu Zetian, and there was Xenia, the Grand Duchess of Russia. An ancient king of the Scots was named Indulf, while Sverre Magnus is currently the third in line to the Norwegian throne.
What is the Best Royal Name?
Albert tops the list as the most well-known royal name. Twelve members of the British royal family have been named Albert. The most famous Albert was Queen Victoria’s husband, whose title was Prince Consort. Victoria is the most popular female choice for regal names, with nine members of the British royal family named Victoria.
