She’s feminine, nature-inspired, and versatile...in today’s “If you liked” post, we will be reviewing a few tiers of name lists based on the name Aurora, a well-loved name that serves as a middle ground between the two lists below. So, without further ado, let's get into it.
Aurora herself:
A stunning name that conjures up nostalgic images of Disney princesses and magnificent views of the majestic northern lights, there’s no denying that Aurora has earned her place in the elite top 50. But when you add spunky unisex nickname Rory and uplifting meaning “dawn” into the equation? It’s a wonder she hasn’t already become the #1 name. Except she has...in Alaska, where the top three are composed of feminine beauties Aurora, Amelia, and Charlotte. *Swoon*
Whether parents are searching for a name equipped with short forms for any personality, or a subtle nature name that doesn’t scream “tree hugger”, Aurora nicknamed Rory delivers. But at #44 in the US and #3 in Italy, Aurora may feel a bit too tarnished for parents who try to steer clear of the top 100. So, taking inspiration from the strengths of Aurora, I’ve listed five subtle nature names that connotate beauty and grace. And I’ve made sure to offer five full names fit for a princess with unisex nicknames that are packed with spunk and sass.
Aurora’s roots in the natural world are her best aspect!
If you desire a name connected to the natural world that isn’t tacky or obvious, Aurora seems like a gorgeous solution. But if popularity is causing you to hesitate, here are five more subtle nature names that still have a feminine and sweet sound.
Flora
Not only is Flora very similar in sound to Aurora, she also means “flower,” presenting a gentle tie to the outdoors. Despite not appearing on US popularity charts whatsoever, she’s easy to spell and pronounce, because of her similarity to not only Aurora, but also Cora, Dora, and Florence. Flora matches the fluidity and ambiance of Aurora, making her an ideal alternative.
Delphine
Although I may be biased, I think that Delphine is an elegant substitute for Aurora. Meaning “dolphin” with ties to the genus of flowers delphinium, Delphine is a nature name through and through, without being painfully obvious. Another truly obscure choice, Delphine doesn’t make an appearance on a single chart around the world, a true contrast to Aurora’s worldwide popularity.
Elara
A Greek mythological moniker that has the potential to grow thanks to names Ella and Clara, Elara also has a faint connection to nature. The name of one of Jupiter's many moons, Elara follows in the footsteps of celestial superstars Luna and Nova, as well. With nicknames such as Ellie and Ari, Elara is an excellent option for parents who love Aurora’s feminine sound as well as her astrological ties.
Eira
Pronounced like the male Ira or Ay-ra, this beautiful appellation meaning “snow” feels very in tune with the sound and style trends at the moment. Because of her similarities to Isla, Eira has the potential to climb the charts in the future. With the same -ra ending as Aurora and a seasonal meaning for a winter baby, Eira has lots of potential.
Laurel
A tree name that recycles the sounds of Aurora but still sounds graceful and feminine, Laurel fits into a crowd of Willows and Junipers. An update on the more dated Laura, Laurel is not only a tree name, but also a plant name as well. Laurel could be due for a revival sometime soon, and her origins as a tree name could definitely aid her in that.
Aurora’s versatility is what appeals to us. We love how she comes with a unisex nickname!
The feminine and frilly Aurora with the short form of the spunky and energetic Rory ensures that your daughter will have multiple options as she forms her own personality. But if Aurora is too popular for your liking, here are five other feminine monikers with unisex nicknames that I’ve deemed fitting replacements.
Cordelia
In the words of Anne Shirley, the main character of Anne of Green Gables, “I would love to be called Cordelia. It’s such a perfectly elegant name.” I couldn’t agree more. Elegant, dramatic, and decidedly feminine, Cordelia with the nickname Corey hits the same chords as Aurora nicknamed Rory.
Andromeda
Another lengthy A- name with a spunky R- nickname, Andromeda shortened to unisex Andy/i or Romy/i provides several choices for a daughter. Andromeda’s only downfall is possible spelling confusion, but other than that, this astrological moniker seems like a solid alternative to Aurora.
Aurelia
Aurelia pronounced a-RAY-lee-uh promotes the gender ambiguous nickname Rey, a short form worn by female Star Wars heroine Rey Palpatine. Although Aurelia is just slightly different from Aurora, she still doesn’t match her popularity, placing at #653 in the most recent Social Security data.
Abilene
An Adeline-Abigail combo, Abilene with the nickname Billie seems particularly stylish today. Billie for a girl has been promoted by young singer Billie Eilish as well as American actress Billie Catherine Lourd, and with Millie coming back into style, Billie is sure to follow. Abby is also a possible nickname for Abilene, but not quite as in vogue.
Evangeline
Although Evangeline isn’t necessarily a popularity-proof option either, she does rank at #277, making her much less popular than Aurora. Frilly and fabulous, Evangeline nicknamed the more masculine Evan as opposed to Evie or Eva is an exceptional take on Aurora nicknamed Rory.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you found the lists above appealing or appalling, Aurora and her many sister names are viable options for a child today to wear proudly. With many nickname options and striking meanings, it’s only a matter of time before all of these stunners are rocketing up the top 1000.
Sincerely,
~Delphina Moon
What do you think of Aurora and co.? Do you think sound outweighs popularity when it comes to choosing a baby name?