Unusual Girl Names

Kalindi is a lovely, rhythmic name refers to one of the seven sacred rivers of India.

Iseabail is the Scottish Gaelic form of Isabel, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Elizabeth (Elisheva), meaning "God is my oath" or "God's promise." This melodic name has been used in Scotland since medieval times, particularly in the Highlands and Western Isles where Gaelic culture remained strong. While less common than its anglicized counterpart Isabel, Iseabail offers a distinctive cultural connection to Scottish heritage. Pronunciation can vary slightly by region, but it typically sounds like "EES-uh-bel" or "EE-sha-byl." Though relatively rare globally, the name has seen occasional use among families seeking to honor Scottish roots or those looking for a unique variation of the more familiar Isabel.

Jacquelyn is a feminine name of French origin, a variant spelling of Jacqueline, which is the feminine form of Jacques (the French equivalent of James). Ultimately, these names derive from the Hebrew name Jacob, meaning 'supplanter.' Jacquelyn gained significant popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, influenced by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The name offers a blend of classic elegance and femininity with its flowing sound and distinctive 'yn' ending, which differentiates it from the more common Jacqueline. While its usage has declined since its peak, Jacquelyn maintains appeal as a sophisticated name with vintage charm. Common nicknames include Jackie, Jack, Jacqui, and Lynn.

Sympathetic new twist on a Puritan virtue name.

Variant of Hannelore

Just like Flora is for botanicals, Jewel is the generic gemstone name, not used much since the early twentieth century, when it was seen as a symbol of how precious a daughter could be. The French version, Bijou, feels more modern, as do Pearl and Ruby.

Sleek, woodsy European choice.

For tree huggers.

This kind of plainspoken nature name (think River and Sunshine) may still carry a whiff of the hippie, but this one has a nice, airy feel. It's slight similarity to Claude and Clyde helps to ground it.

Ethelyn is a vintage feminine name with Anglo-Saxon roots, derived from the Old English elements 'æðel' meaning 'noble' or 'royal' and 'lyn,' a diminutive suffix implying 'little' or 'beloved.' This charming combination creates the meaning 'little noble one' or 'beloved princess.' Popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ethelyn has that classic, dignified quality reminiscent of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Though it declined in usage mid-century, it's seeing renewed interest among parents drawn to vintage revivals. The name offers several nickname possibilities, including Ethel, Etty, or Lynn. Ethelyn balances formal elegance with a gentle, approachable quality in its full form.

Alsie and Alcie feel more baby-ready now that names such as Elsie, Elsa, and Isla are becoming popular again. Mother name Alcina was an operatic sorceress who turned men into animals and trees.

Heavily perfumed word name that peaked a few years ago.

We've seen Haven take off as a nouveau girls' name; Harbor could follow in its wake.

A star system in Sagittarius, so one of the most appropriate names for December babies.

Upbeat name that cheers you as soon as you hear it. One famous bearer is Maori feminist Meri Te Tai Mangakāhia.

This geographic name has lots of Gallic elan. France Nuyen is a French-Vietnamese actress who starred in the Broadway hit The World of Suzie Wong.

Spicy.

Like Verity and Amity, this inclusive virtue name used by the colorful British literary Mitford family is ready to join its more popular peers Hope, Faith, and Grace.

A word that's been used, very infrequently, as a name for hundreds of years. Interesting sound and meaning.