Though Shakespeare famously wrote, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet," the truth is that having a unique baby name does matter to parents when they're naming their little one. We have Shakespeare to thank for all sorts of popular names we hear today. From Jessica to Juliet, the Elizabethan author's influence extends far and wide. But some of the poet's most beautiful names fell into disuse without hope of resurrection — until recently!
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From Ophelia to Desdemona, these Shakespearean baby names are sure to impress both literary diehards and their future English teachers. They evoke a sense of intelligence, old world sophistication, and drama — as Shakespeare's work was always meant for the stage. A child with a Shakespearean name is sure to get lots of interested name-admirers.
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These elegant choices have been approved by the Bard, and are starting to gain fans for their unique and beautiful sounds. Check out these Shakespearean names — along with info from BabyNameWizard.com — to inspire visions of literary heroines and turn-of-the-century stars.
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Ophelia
This beautiful name jumped back into the top 1,000 US baby names in 2015 — perhaps it's time to revive Ophelia! Though it has long been associated with the tragic heroine, parents today love the sound of this elegant and unique name. Why not reclaim it for a passionate and strong daughter?
Patience
Virtue names ending in Y rank among current favorites — Serenity, Trinity, Destiny — but returning to Puritan roots can offer more vintage choices. Pretty Patience appeared in Henry VIII, and more recently it's been reclaimed by geek-chic trendsetter and Hollywood director Joss Whedon for his films and series.
Rosalind
Cordelia
With so many positive associatons, it's a wonder that Cordelia hasn't become as ubiquitous as Elizabeth or Victoria! There's the kindly character in King Lear, the endorsement from Anne in Anne of Green Gables, and a plethora of namesakes, from artists to activists, just to name a few.
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Lavinia
Though it nearly disappeared from birth certificates in the 1990s, Lavinia's sophisticated sound and scholarly connections have kept it from obscurity. Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus includes the iconic line "She is Lavinia, therefore must be lov'd" — and indeed, luminous Lavinia has been loved by authors Shaw, Dickens, Thackeray, Eliot, and Lovecraft.
Beatrice
From the Latin for "she who brings happiness," Beatrice is a literary and cultural powerhouse. Already ranking at #559 on the American top baby names list, Beatrice has roots in Shakespeare and Dante, support from celebrity parents (including Paul McCartney), and a retro, friendly sound without parallel. Nicknames Bea or Trixie stand out, but the long form is absolutely gorgeous as well.
Viola
While Violet and Olivia rank in the top 100 girls names in the US, Viola has yet to catch up in popularity. But this stunning, resolute choice shares sound qualities with both fashionable picks, while maintaining its own attractive personality. Modern actress Viola Davis is another great connection as well.
Phoebe
Many current fans will connect this name to the quirky character in Friends, but Phoebe's roots go much deeper: from Greek mythology to the New Testament to As You Like It, Phoebe has cemented its style and substance in history. Beyond that, the name is simply appealing and amicable in form.
Helena
Quite popular at the end of the nineteenth century, Helena deserves another look. Graceful and refined, Helena has adorned royalty, athletes, and musicians; though its aura is vintage and feminine, it can work for all kinds of tastes and personalities.
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Gertrude
For many, Gertrude has been deemed "permanently out," but its history has helped it stay in the game. Namesakes from all sorts of realms — religious, literary, and political — have given this name an uncommon kind of gravitas and appeal. Perhaps nicknames Gertie or Gigi could keep it viable for the contemporary era?
Imogen
Despite its origins — Imogen was the result of a printer's misspelling of Innogen — Imogen has become a classic in the United Kingdom, already in the top 50 girls' names in England. Americans took to the similar Imogene for a while, but the (semi-) original has more function and flair in today's world.
Paulina
A Spanish feminine diminutive of Paul, Paulina is an attractive option that's never gotten too popular. It's not far from the melody of Alina or the sounds of Penelope, and could also work as an honor name for a familial Paul or Paula. In The Winter's Tale, Paulina appears as a virtuous and courageous friend — not a bad connection at that!
Octavia
Refined and sophisticated, Octavia is a gorgeous choice that was popular in the late nineteenth century. After a brief revival in the 1980s, Octavia has once again become an uncommon name. Could contemporary actress Octavia Spencer push this name back into play?
Charmian
Portia
Arguably one of Shakespeare's strongest leading women, Portia impersonated a lawyer in The Merchant of Venice — and won her case. Mature and elegant, this name is perfect for any brave little girl and will wear well into adulthood.
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Lucetta
Nerissa
Cressida
Titania
Hermione
In just a few years, the Harry Potter sheen is likely to fade from this remarkable and attractive name, leaving it open for increased use. Could pretty Hermione find favor once its most popular namesake has left pop culture? Derived from the Greek for "messenger," this name is a friendly choice that's sure to work for all kinds of personalities.
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Desdemona
Thaisa
