Modern parents are always on the lookout for unique and meaningful baby names for their little ones. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of choosing old English names for babies, which not only have a charming and vintage appeal but also hold historical significance. These names, rooted in the rich history and culture of England, have stood the test of time and are still popular today.
If you’re considering a baby name with an old English flair, here are 34 options to inspire you:
1. Alfred – Meaning “wise counselor,” this name has been borne by many notable figures in English history, including King Alfred the Great.
2. Beatrix – A feminine variation of the name Beatrice, meaning “voyager through life.”
3. Cedric – This name has Celtic origins and means “chief” or “bounty.”
4. Darcy – Originally a surname, this name became popular after Jane Austen’s iconic character Mr. Darcy in her novel Pride and Prejudice.
5. Edmund – This name means “prosperous protector” and has been used by several literary characters, including Edmund Pevensie in C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia.
6. Freya – In Norse mythology, Freya was the goddess of love, fertility, and war. This name means “lady” or “mistress” and has become popular in recent years.
7. Geoffrey – Meaning “peaceful traveler,” this name has been borne by many English kings and literary characters, including Geoffrey Chaucer.
8. Gwendolyn – A combination of two Welsh elements, “gwen” meaning “white, fair” and “dolen” meaning “ring, bow.” This name means “white ring” or “blessed ring.”
9. Harold – Derived from the Old English name “Hereweald,” meaning “army ruler,” this name was borne by many English kings, including King Harold II.
10. Isadora – A variation of the name Isidore, meaning “gift of Isis,” the Egyptian goddess of fertility and motherhood.
11. Jasper – This name has a rich history and means “treasurer” or “bringer of treasure.”
12. Lillian – Derived from the Latin name “Lilium,” meaning “lily,” this name has been popular since the 19th century.
13. Nathaniel – This name has biblical origins and means “gift of God.”
14. Octavia – Derived from the Latin name “Octavius,” meaning “eighth,” this name was used by the Roman emperors and has a regal feel to it.
15. Percival – Meaning “pierced valley,” this name has Arthurian roots and was borne by one of King Arthur’s knights.
16. Rosalind – Derived from the Germanic name “Roslinde,” meaning “gentle horse,” this name has a lovely and feminine sound to it.
17. Silas – A name with biblical origins, meaning “forest” or “wood,” this name has gained popularity in recent years.
A Modern Take on Old English Baby Names: 34 Options to Consider
18. Tabitha – From the Aramaic name “Tabbitha,” meaning “gazelle,” this name has a sweet and gentle feel to it.
19. Ulysses – This name has Greek origins and means “wrathful.” It was borne by the legendary hero in Homer’s Odyssey.
20. Winifred – Meaning “blessed peacemaking,” this name has a charming and vintage feel to it.
21. Alistair – A variation of the name Alexander, meaning “defender of the people,” this name has Scottish roots.
22. Blanche – Derived from the Old French word “blanc,” meaning “white,” this name has a delicate and elegant feel to it.
23. Caspian – This name has Persian origins and means “white, brilliant.” It gained popularity after C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia.
24. Delilah – This name has Hebrew origins and means “delicate, weak.” In the Bible, Delilah was the temptress who betrayed Samson.
25. Eliza – A variation of the name Elizabeth, meaning “God is my oath,” this name has a classic and timeless appeal.
26. Felix – This name has Latin origins and means “happy, fortunate.” It has been used by many notable figures in history, including Roman emperors.
27. Genevieve – Derived from the Celtic name “Genovefa,” meaning “white wave,” this name has a graceful and romantic feel to it.
28. Hector – A name with Greek origins, meaning “holding fast,” this name was borne by the Trojan prince who fought in the Trojan War.
29. Imogen – This name has Celtic origins and means “maiden” or “innocent.” It has been used by many literary characters, including Shakespeare’s Imogen in Cymbeline.
30. Julius – This name has Latin origins and means “youthful, downy-bearded.” It has been used by many Roman emperors and is still popular today.
31. Lucinda – A combination of two Latin elements, “lux” meaning “light” and “cinda” meaning “shining,” this name means “light of the moon.”
32. Maximilian – Derived from the Latin name “Maximus,” meaning “greatest,” this name has a strong and powerful feel to it.
33. Ophelia – This name has Greek origins and means “help,” but it gained popularity after Shakespeare’s tragic character in Hamlet.
34. Rupert – Meaning “bright fame,” this name has Germanic roots and has been used by many notable figures, including Prince Rupert of the Rhine.
These are just a few examples of old English names that are still popular today. With their charming and vintage appeal, these names are a perfect choice for modern parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their little ones.
In summary, old English names have a rich history and cultural significance, making them a popular choice among modern parents. From Arthurian legends to literary characters, these names have stood the test of time and continue to be used today. So if you’re looking for a unique and meaningful name for your baby, consider these 34 options that have a modern take on old English names.