Middle English, a period in the history of the English language, roughly spans from 1150 to 1500 CE. During this time, many changes occurred in the language and culture of England, leading to the development of a rich and diverse range of names for girls. This article will explore some of the most popular and unique Middle English girl names, their meanings, and their historical significance.

During the Middle English period, names were often derived from various sources, such as Old English, Old Norse, Latin, and even French. This amalgamation of influences is evident in the variety of names that were popular during this time. The following list provides an overview of some of the most popular Middle English girl names:

  1. Agnes: Derived from the Greek name Hagne, meaning "pure" or "holy". Saint Agnes was a popular Christian saint during the Middle Ages, which contributed to the popularity of this name.
  2. Amabilia: A Latin name meaning "loveable" or "worthy of love". This name was popular among medieval noblewomen, particularly in England and France.
  3. Beatrice: Originating from the Latin name Beatrix, meaning "bringer of joy" or "blessed". The name was popularized by the Italian poet Dante Alighieri in his masterpiece "The Divine Comedy" through the character of Beatrice, who served as Dante's guide through Paradise.
  4. Cecily: Derived from the Roman name Caecilia, meaning "blind". Saint Cecilia was the patron saint of musicians and her feast day was widely celebrated during the Middle Ages.
  5. Eleanor: Of uncertain origin, but possibly derived from the Old French name Aliénor. Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful and influential women in medieval Europe, helped to popularize this name.
  6. Isabel: A variant of the Hebrew name Elizabeth, meaning "God is my oath". This name was introduced to England by the Normans and was very popular among English royalty and nobility.
  7. Juliana: Derived from the Roman name Julianus, meaning "youthful" or "Jove's child". This name was popular among medieval English noblewomen, as well as in other parts of Europe.
  8. Margery: A variant of Margaret, which comes from the Greek name Margarites, meaning "pearl". Margery Kempe, an English mystic and author, was one of the most well-known women with this name during the Middle English period.
  9. Matilda: Derived from the Germanic name Mahthildis, meaning "strength in battle". This name was popular among English royalty, including Empress Matilda, the daughter of King Henry I.
  10. Philippa: The feminine form of the name Philip, which comes from the Greek name Philippos, meaning "lover of horses". This name was especially popular among English royalty, such as Philippa of Hainault, the wife of King Edward III.

In addition to the popular names listed above, there were also many unique and unusual names that were used during the Middle English period. Some examples of these names include:

  1. Avelina: A diminutive form of the name Ava, which may be of Germanic origin, meaning "desired" or "strength".
  2. Clarimond: A name of French origin, meaning "bright protector". This name was relatively rare during the Middle English period but was used among some noble families.
  3. Ellyn: A variant of the name Ellen, which is derived from the Greek name Helen, meaning "torch" or "light".
  4. Frideswide: An Old English name meaning "peace" and "wide", which was the name of a 7th-century saint and the patron saint of Oxford.
  5. Griselda: Of uncertain origin, but possibly derived from the Germanic elements gris, meaning "gray", and hild, meaning "battle". This name was popularized by the medieval poet Geoffrey Chaucer in his "Canterbury Tales".

In conclusion, the Middle English period was a time of great linguistic and cultural change, which is reflected in the diverse range of girl names that were popular at the time. These names were often derived from a variety of sources, such as Old English, Old Norse, Latin, and French, and were influenced by the religious and political landscape of the time. Today, many of these names continue to be popular and are a testament to the rich history of the English language.






NameOriginsGenderCelebrity Name?Celebrity Baby Name?
AwstinLatin, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlondelFrench, Old French, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlyssMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BodkinMiddle English, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BogeyMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
CherrishEnglish, Middle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
ChittyEnglish, Old English, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
CollierMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
DridenEnglish, Old English, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
FalconnerMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
FayMiddle EnglishunisexYNShortlist
FayannMiddle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
ForesterMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
GaylinaAmerican, Old English, Middle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
HarkenMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
JacklynnMiddle English, Hebrew, WelshunisexNNShortlist
JewelleeMiddle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
LarkynEnglish, Middle English, Old FrenchunisexNNShortlist
MoorMiddle English, African, Middle EasternunisexNNShortlist
PearleighEnglish, Middle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
RosebudEnglish, Middle EnglishgirlNNShortlist
SatinMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SeynEnglish, Middle EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ZealMiddle EnglishunisexNNShortlist

Middle-english girls names FAQs

What are some common characteristics of Middle English girl names?

Middle English girl names often have Germanic or Norman origins. These names may reflect the linguistic and cultural influences of the period from the 12th to the 15th century. They frequently include elements that mean strength, beauty, or nobility.

How did religion influence Middle English girl names?

Religion, particularly Christianity, had a significant influence on Middle English girl names. Many names were derived from saints or biblical figures, reflecting the piety of the era. Names like Mary, Elizabeth, and Agnes were popular due to their religious connotations.

What is the origin of the Middle English name 'Margery'?

The name 'Margery' is of French origin, introduced to England by the Normans. It is derived from the Old French name 'Marguerite', which in turn comes from the Latin 'Margarita', meaning pearl. The name became popular in England during the Middle Ages.

Are Middle English girl names still used today?

Some Middle English girl names are still in use today, often in modernized forms. Names like Emma, Alice, and Matilda have seen a resurgence in popularity. These names have stood the test of time and are considered classic choices.

What role did nobility play in Middle English girl names?

Nobility had a considerable impact on the naming practices of Middle English girl names. Names of noble or royal lineage were often adopted by the lower classes. This led to the widespread use of names like Eleanor, Isabella, and Joan.

How were nature and virtues reflected in Middle English girl names?

Nature and virtues were commonly reflected in Middle English girl names. Names such as Rose (a flower) and Felicity (meaning happiness) were inspired by the natural world and desirable qualities. These names were often symbolic of the traits that parents wished for their daughters.

What is the significance of the name 'Cecily' in Middle English?

The name 'Cecily' was significant in Middle English as it was borne by nobility and commoners alike. It originates from the Latin name 'Caecilia', which is the feminine form of 'Caecilius', meaning blind. The name was popularized by Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music.

Did Middle English girl names have diminutive forms?

Yes, Middle English girl names often had diminutive forms. For example, 'Margery' could become 'Meg' or 'Peggy', and 'Elizabeth' could be shortened to 'Bess' or 'Betty'. These diminutives were affectionate and informal versions of the original names.

How did the Norman Conquest affect Middle English girl names?

The Norman Conquest in 1066 had a profound effect on Middle English girl names. It introduced a variety of French names to England, which then became anglicized over time. Names like 'Adelaide' (becoming 'Alice') and 'Mathilde' (becoming 'Matilda') are examples of this influence.

Were occupational surnames ever used as Middle English girl names?

Occupational surnames were not typically used as first names for girls in Middle English. However, some names may have been derived from occupations associated with the father or family. It was more common for boys to be given occupational names than for girls during this period.