Are you searching for the perfect name for your little one? If you love the name Hillary, but want to explore other options, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into names like Hillary for both boys and girls, as well as unisex names, unique names, long names and short names. We’ll also explore the etymology and meaning of the name Hillary, and its equivalents in other languages. Let’s get started!
Boy Names Like Hillary
While Hillary is more commonly associated with girls, it can also make a unique and interesting name for a boy. Some similar-sounding boy names to consider include:
- Hiller
- Hilario
- Hildor
- Hilbert
- Hilmar
Each of these names has its own unique charm, and could make a great alternative for parents looking for a gender-neutral or boy’s name inspired by Hillary.
It’s worth noting that the name Hillary has a rich history and meaning behind it. It is derived from the Latin name Hilarius, which means “cheerful” or “happy”. This positive connotation could be a great inspiration for parents looking for a name that embodies joy and positivity.
Another option for parents considering the name Hillary for a boy is to use it as a middle name. This allows for a more traditional first name, while still incorporating the unique and meaningful name of Hillary into their child’s full name.
Girl Names Like Hillary
If you love the name but are having a girl, here are some similar-sounding girl names to consider:
- Hilary
- Hildie
- Hildreth
- Ilaria
- Illyria
Each of these names has its own cultural and historical significance, as well as a unique sound. For example, Hildie is an Old Norse name, while Illyria has roots in Greek mythology. Consider these options as a way to honor Hillary while still finding the perfect name for your little girl.
Unisex Names Like Hillary
Unisex names are becoming increasingly popular, and there are many great options that sound like Hillary. Here are a few to consider:
- Hilary/Hillary
- Hadley
- Harley
- Hollis
These names are excellent for parents who want a name that can work well for boys or girls. While Hadley and Harley lean a bit more towards the masculine side, Hollis can easily be used for either gender.
Another great unisex name that sounds like Hillary is Avery. This name has been rising in popularity in recent years and can work well for both boys and girls. Another option is Jordan, which has been a popular unisex name for decades.
When choosing a unisex name, it’s important to consider the spelling and pronunciation. Some names, like Hilary/Hillary, have multiple spellings and can be pronounced differently. It’s also important to consider how the name will be perceived by others and if it will be a good fit for your child’s personality.
Unique Names Like Hillary
Whether you simply love unique names or want to find something more unusual than Hillary, these unique names are worth considering:
- Hillevi – A Swedish name meaning “holy war”
- Hildegard – A German name meaning “battle guard”
- Elara – A Greek name meaning “sparkling”
- Avalon – A Welsh name meaning “island of apples”
- Hallam – An English name meaning “at the rocks”
Choose one of these off-beat names and your little one is sure to stand out from the crowd. These names are ideal for parents who want to give their child a unique and meaningful name.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that unique names can sometimes be difficult to pronounce or spell. This may lead to your child having to constantly correct others or feeling frustrated with their name. It’s important to consider the potential challenges that may come with a unique name before making a final decision.
Another thing to consider is cultural appropriation. Some unique names may have cultural significance or be tied to a specific community. It’s important to do your research and make sure that you are not appropriating a name or culture that is not your own.
Long Names Like Hillary
If you’re a fan of the length of the name Hillary, there are plenty of other long names to consider. Here are a few favorites:
- Philomena
- Camellia
- Cordelia
- Tallulah
- Alexandria
These names have an elegant and regal sound to them, and could be the perfect fit for a baby girl with a long last name. They’re also a great option for parents who like to use nicknames, as they have plenty of letters to work with.
It’s important to keep in mind that while long names can be beautiful, they may also be difficult for young children to pronounce or spell. It’s a good idea to consider the practicality of a long name before choosing it for your child. Additionally, some people may prefer shorter names for their simplicity and ease of use. Ultimately, the decision of what name to give your child is a personal one, and should be based on what feels right for your family.
Short Names Like Hillary
On the other hand, if you prefer short and sweet names, there are plenty of options out there too. Here are a few to consider:
- Hil
- Lara
- Harley
- Holly
- Hal
These names are easy to remember and spell, and are perfect for parents who want a name that’s simple, yet still unique. Use them as a first name or a middle name to create a name that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Short names have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are easy to pronounce and remember. They are also great for children who may struggle with longer names. Some other short names to consider include:
- Max
- Leo
- Sam
- Ben
- Lucy
These names are not only short and sweet, but they also have strong meanings behind them. For example, Max means “greatest” and Leo means “lion”.
When choosing a short name, it’s important to consider how it will sound with your last name. You want to make sure the name flows well and doesn’t sound awkward or choppy. It’s also a good idea to think about any potential nicknames that may come from the name, as some short names can easily be turned into nicknames.
Hillary in Other Languages
The name Hillary may be largely associated with English, but it has equivalents in many other languages as well. Here’s a brief overview:
- Latin – Hilaria
- Italian – Ilaria
- Spanish – Hilario
- French – Hilaire
- German – Hilar
If you have a cultural connection or simply appreciate the sound of these other languages, consider one of these alternatives to the name Hillary.
Interestingly, the name Hillary has different meanings in different languages. In Latin, Hilaria means “cheerful” or “happy,” while in Italian, Ilaria means “joyful” or “merry.” In Spanish, Hilario means “happy” or “merry,” and in French, Hilaire means “cheerful” or “jovial.” In German, Hilar means “hilarious” or “funny.”
It’s also worth noting that the name Hillary has been used by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most well-known is Hillary Clinton, the former First Lady of the United States and Secretary of State. Other notable Hillarys include Hillary Rodham, the wife of former President Bill Clinton, and Hillary Mantel, the award-winning British author.
Where did the Name Hillary Come From?
The name Hillary has roots in both Latin and Old German. It is derived from the Latin word hilaris, meaning “cheerful” or “merry,” and the Germanic name Hilaria, which means “joyful.” The name became popular in the English-speaking world in the 20th century, and was famously used by Hillary Rodham Clinton, the first female presidential candidate of a major political party in the United States.
Now that you have an overview of names like Hillary, you can explore your options and find just the right name for your little bundle of joy. Whether you prefer long or short, traditional or unique, masculine or feminine, there’s a name out there that’s perfect for your child. Happy naming!
Interestingly, the name Hillary has also been used as a surname. In fact, it was the surname of Sir Edmund Hillary, the New Zealand mountaineer who, along with Tenzing Norgay, was the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The use of the name as a surname can be traced back to medieval times, when it was common for people to take on the name of their birthplace or occupation as their surname.
In addition to Hillary Clinton and Sir Edmund Hillary, there have been many other notable people with the name Hillary, including actress Hilary Swank, musician Hillary Scott of the band Lady Antebellum, and author Hillary Jordan. The name continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a cheerful and joyful name for their child.