Strong And Steadfast: 10 Medieval Baby Names We Want To Hear More Often

Trying to choose the perfect baby name for your newest addition is a big job, and the choices can often feel endless and overwhelming. It can be useful to turn toward meaningful sources of inspiration, but looking to history can also be an excellent way to find names you may not have otherwise considered. Medieval names, in particular, are often beautiful, unique, and whimsical, as well as linked to fascinating historical figures that make wonderful and worthy namesakes.

Plus, using this expansive time period certainly won't leave you short of potential names. Also known as the Middle Ages, the medieval era covers a huge period of time — stretching over a thousand years, from the fall of Rome in the late 5th century to the Renaissance in the 15th century. With everyone from knights and kings to martyrs and maidens, there are so many stunning names to be pulled from this pivotal time in history, but below, we've rounded up 10 options for your baby boy or girl.

As a name that means happiness and good fortune, Felicity is linked to two different saints — St. Felicity of Carthage, the patron saint of motherhood and expectant mothers, and St. Felicitas of Rome, the patron saint of martyrdom and parents who have lost a child. The name saw a spike in popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in England, where it was often used in literature. Common and cute nicknames for Felicity include Flick, Fee, and Lissy.

The name Hugo is German in origin and boasts a few charming meanings, including mind and intellect, as well as heart and soul. Much like many names of the era, it rose in popularity during the Middle Ages thanks to a saint — in this case, St. Hugo of Lincoln, a beloved 12th-century bishop known for his piety. As St. Hugo was also known as St. Hugh, this name could be considered a similar option with medieval ties.

If you're looking to name your baby girl after a powerful medieval figure, there's Queen Gwendolyn (or Gwendolen, depending on the historical source). As a ruler beginning her reign after a particularly tumultuous time, the queen is often credited with healing a fragmented Britain. The name itself means fair bow and blessed ring, and is most commonly shortened to Gwen.

For a strong Irish name with medieval Gaelic roots, look to Finnian, which means "little fair one" or "little blessed one." The name can be linked to St. Finnian of Clonard, known for his ongoing passion for education and pivotal role as a tutor of saints. The name is also linked to the mythical Finn McCool, the giant credited with creating the iconic Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.

The name Aveline is of French medieval origin and is linked to both "desired" and "hazelnut" in meaning. Hazelnuts are linked to wisdom and inspiration, as well as strength and resilience, which makes this a worthy name for a strong and beautiful baby girl. For a potential namesake, look to Aveline de Forz, a medieval British noble and eventual land heiress who is memorialized in London's Westminster Abbey.

If you'd prefer a medieval name with Norse roots, Leif is a solid boys' name, meaning "heir" or "descendent." Most notably linked to explorer Leif Erikson, Leif carries with it the weight of an adventurous and legendary figure. With its classic sound that's also evocative of the natural world, Leif makes either an excellent first or middle name, while still feeling original — especially as it hasn't yet tipped into overuse in the United States. 

This Old English name that means "blessed peace" or "joyful reconciliation" has seen a sudden resurgence in recent years, but still manages to be both classic and unique. Its medieval origins are traced back to a Welsh princess turned saint who was brutally decapitated but miraculously brought back to life.

Quillon itself wasn't a name during medieval times. Instead, it's often associated with medieval weaponry, referring to the crossguard on a dagger or sword. As a baby boy's name, it means "crossing swords" and "strong," and could be a great alternative to Killian, given its similar pronunciation and slightly more whimsical spelling. Quillon also has yet to break into the U.S. baby name rankings, so it could be the perfect choice if you want something truly unique. 

Known as the beautiful mistress of King Henry II, fair Rosamund is an enduring legend of the medieval era. Though Lady Rosamund Clifford's story is complicated, she's lived on through history as a muse and symbol of timeless beauty. German in origin, the name isn't exclusively linked to soft-petaled rosebuds — though that's one interpretation. Another translation is "horse protector," giving your baby the gift of multitudes from her earliest start. 

For something that skews more unisex, Emery could be easily applied to either a baby boy or a baby girl. The name is linked to St. Emeric, the patron saint of youth, and was a medieval prince and heir to the Hungarian throne. The name itself means brave and powerful ruler, but despite its masculine origins, it's seen among both girls and boys in the United States.