Collection Babynames Part I

  1. Rosalee
    • Origin:

      Variation of Rosalie, French
    • Meaning:

      "rose"
    • Description:

      With sweet, sparky Rosalie revived and ranking in the US Top 200, this variant is also catching on. While some may consider it a modern, creative spelling, it has long been used in the US. In fact, it was in the Top 1000 from 1902, right up until 1951, and had appeared sporadically in the popularity charts before that too.
  2. Delainey
    • Description:

      Delainey is a feminine name that evolved as a modern variant of Delaney, which itself originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Dubhshláine,' meaning 'descendant of Dubhshláine.' The personal name element 'dubh' means 'dark' or 'black,' while 'sláine' relates to 'health' or 'defiance.' This spelling with the added 'i' emerged as surnames began transitioning to first names, giving it a more feminine appearance. Delainey gained modest popularity in the 1990s and 2000s, riding the wave of interest in Irish-derived names and surnames-as-first-names. The name carries a contemporary yet substantial quality, blending traditional Irish heritage with modern styling. Its melodic three-syllable rhythm and soft ending sound contribute to its appeal. Parents might choose Delainey for its distinctive quality while still maintaining connections to Irish heritage and familiar naming patterns.

  3. Maylee
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Description:

      Debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2016, only to immediately dip back under the radar. While Maylee is an invented name, it can also be considered a compound name made up of May and Lee. May is a month name that's a diminutive of Mary and Lee commonly means meadow.
  4. Saydee
    • Description:

      Saydee is a contemporary feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a modern variant spelling of Sadie, which originated as a diminutive of Sarah (meaning 'princess' in Hebrew). The unique spelling with 'y' and double 'e' gives the traditional name a fresh, modern twist. Alternatively, it could be derived from the surname Say or Sayid with the diminutive suffix '-dee' added. The name has a sweet, playful sound while maintaining simplicity. Saydee has gained some popularity in recent decades as parents seek creative spellings of familiar names to give their children distinctive identities. The name carries a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and familiar ring despite its unconventional spelling.
  5. Maxi
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "greatest"
    • Description:

      Diminutive of Maxine, Maxima or Maximiliane
  6. Marylou
    • Origin:

      English, combination of Mary and Lou
    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + famous battle"
    • Description:

      Truncated form of Marylouise.
  7. Pearlie
    • Description:

      Pearlie is a charming feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Pearl. The name Pearl itself comes from the precious gem, symbolizing purity, wisdom, and something rare and valuable. The addition of the diminutive suffix "-ie" gives Pearlie an affectionate, vintage quality. The name was most popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in Southern communities. Pearlie has the nostalgic charm associated with names from this era, invoking images of simpler times. While no longer common, it has seen occasional modest revivals as parents rediscover vintage names. Pearlie maintains a sweet, unpretentious quality that balances its precious gemstone origins with a friendly, approachable sound.

  8. Malaika
    • Description:

      Malaika is a feminine name of Swahili and Arabic origins, meaning 'angel' or 'good spirit.' In Swahili-speaking regions of East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, it's a commonly used name that carries spiritual significance. The name gained international recognition partly through the popular Swahili love song 'Malaika,' which has been covered by numerous international artists since the 1960s. While not widely used in Western countries, Malaika has seen some growth in multicultural communities. Parents are drawn to its melodic sound, meaningful etymology, and exotic yet accessible quality. The name combines spiritual depth with a gentle pronunciation that works well across linguistic boundaries.
  9. Seleste
    • Description:

      Seleste is an elegant feminine name, representing an alternative spelling of Celeste. Derived from the Latin word 'caelestis' meaning 'heavenly' or 'of the sky,' it carries connotations of divinity and ethereal beauty. The 'S' spelling gives the classic name a fresh, slightly more distinctive appearance while maintaining its melodious pronunciation. This variation might appeal to parents who appreciate the name's celestial meaning and romantic sound but desire something slightly less common than the traditional spelling. Seleste evokes images of stars, sky, and cosmic wonder, aligning it with other celestial-themed names that have gained popularity. Though less frequently used than Celeste, Seleste shares its sophisticated European charm and timeless elegance.
  10. Maribella
    • Origin:

      English, combination of Mary and Bella
    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + beautiful"
    • Description:

      Frilly but undeniably beautiful. The meaning of Mary is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).
  11. Celesta
    • Origin:

      English from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "heavenly"
    • Description:

      The shimmery Celeste has been solidly in the Top 1000 for as long as data has been recorded. The dainty variation Celesta certainly feels useable as well. Other intriguing variations include Celestia and Celestine.
  12. Merryl
    • Description:

      Merryl is a charming feminine name that evolved as a variant spelling of Meryl, itself a diminutive form of Meriel or a feminine version of Merrill. With Celtic origins, the name carries meanings connected to "bright sea," "famous," or "shining." The distinctive double-r spelling gives Merryl a unique character while maintaining its melodic pronunciation. Though never reaching widespread popularity, the name saw modest usage in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. Actress Meryl Streep's fame has influenced perceptions of all variations of the name, associating it with talent and sophistication. Merryl blends vintage appeal with a light, cheerful quality suggested by its similarity to "merry." The name's brevity and pleasant sound make it an understated yet distinctive choice for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon.
  13. Marilynn
    • Origin:

      English combination of Mary and Lynn
    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + lake"
    • Description:

      Variant of Marilyn
  14. Royce
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "son of the king"
    • Description:

      Royce is a grandpa name with an upscale link to Rolls Royce, and a surprising rise for girls since the early noughties. Rebel Wilson has a daughter named Royce Lillian.
  15. Mariabella
    • Origin:

      English combination of Maria and Bella
    • Meaning:

      "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + beautiful"
    • Description:

      Variant of Maribella
  16. Shadia
    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Shadi, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "singer"
    • Description:

      A tuneful Arabic name, Shadia is a variant of Shadi, with the musical meaning of "singer". With an appealing international sound, it may also be spelled as Shadya and Shadiah, while the Turkish form is Sadiye. A notable bearer is Egyptian model and actress Shadia (born as Fatma Ahmad Kamal Shaker).
  17. Desaray
    • Description:

      Desaray is a contemporary feminine name that appears to be a creative spelling variation of Desiree, which comes from the French 'désirée' meaning 'desired' or 'longed for.' This alternative spelling emerged in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, when phonetic and unique spellings of traditional names became fashionable. The name has a melodic quality with its three syllables and soft ending. While never extremely common, Desaray appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with a romantic meaning and elegant sound. The spelling gives the classic name a modern twist while maintaining its graceful essence and positive connotations of being cherished and wanted.

  18. Merilyn
    • Origin:

      English, combination of Merry and Lynn
    • Description:

      All the names ending in-lyn seem sadly dated.
  19. Saydie
    • Description:

      Saydie is a modern spelling variation of Sadie, which originated as a diminutive form of Sarah. The name Sarah comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'princess.' This creative spelling with a 'y' gives the traditional name a contemporary twist while maintaining its classic sound. The original name Sadie gained popularity in the Victorian era when diminutive forms of names were fashionable. After decades of lower usage, Sadie—and by extension, variants like Saydie—has experienced a revival in the 21st century as part of the trend toward vintage names. Saydie offers the charm and accessibility of the traditional name with a distinctive spelling that sets it apart.
  20. Rozalie
    • Description:

      Rozalie is a Polish and Czech spelling variant of Rosalie, a feminine name derived from Latin "rosa" meaning "rose." This Eastern European version maintains the floral association while offering a distinctive spelling with the 'z' replacing the more common 's.' The name combines natural beauty with historical depth, having been used since medieval times across Europe. Though less common than Rosalie internationally, Rozalie has maintained steady usage in Poland, the Czech Republic, and among diaspora communities. The name carries a romantic, classic quality while its less common spelling gives it a touch of uniqueness. With floral names continuing to be popular, Rozalie offers parents a familiar sound with a less conventional spelling.