Iridescent Siren

Nerina is a feminine name of Italian origin derived from Nereus, the ancient Greek sea god known as the "Old Man of the Sea." The name literally means "from the sea" or "sea nymph," evoking images of water, mystery, and natural beauty. In Italian poetry, particularly works by Jacopo Sannazaro, Nerina appeared as a poetic name for a shepherdess, adding literary and pastoral associations. The name has maintained steady popularity in Italy and has gained modest international recognition. Nerina features a melodious sound pattern typical of Italian names, with its flowing rhythm and soft ending. The aquatic meaning appeals to parents drawn to nature-themed names, while its Italian roots give it a touch of Mediterranean elegance and sophistication.

Sybilla and its near-identical twin Sibylla are dainty and demure names with a powerful namesake that also happen to be extremely rare -- no baby girls were given either name in the US last year.

The name of a nymph in Greek mythology, one of the prophetic Thriai, who divined the future by throwing pebbles. She was a lover of the sea god Poseidon.

Anatolian city visited by Paul in the Bible, though risks sounding a tad antiseptic.

Amphitrite is a mysterious Greek mythological figure, most often cited as a sea goddess who was the wife of Poseidon. She was said to be the personification of the sea water itself and was said to be present at the birth of Apollo.

A character name that makes an appearance in Shakespeare's King Lear, Nerilla has hardly been heard in modern times. Fewer than five baby girls received the name in the US last year, which places it among the rarest of the rare.

Aristella is a rare feminine name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'aristos' meaning 'best' or 'excellent,' combined with the suffix '-ella,' creating a name that essentially means 'little excellent one' or 'little noble one.' This elegant name carries connotations of nobility, excellence, and celestial beauty, particularly due to its similarity to the word 'stellar.' Though uncommon in most Western countries, Aristella appeals to parents seeking a distinctive classical-sounding name with positive associations. The name has an inherent musical quality and sophistication that gives it a timeless appeal, despite its relative obscurity in popular name rankings.

Yveline is a feminine French name derived from the Germanic name element 'iv' meaning 'yew tree,' which symbolized eternity in ancient cultures. It's also connected to the male name Yves and shares roots with names like Yvonne and Yvette. The name has a distinctly French elegance with its flowing sound and feminine ending. Yveline is also the name of a department (administrative region) in northern France, giving it geographical significance. While never extremely common, the name has maintained consistent usage in French-speaking regions. Outside of France, Yveline remains relatively rare, offering an opportunity for distinction. The name carries a sophisticated, cultured quality that appeals to parents seeking a name with European flair and classical feminine attributes.

From the botanical name for common heather, Calluna vulgaris, which ultimately derives from the Greek kallos "beauty". A unique, nature-inspired route to the fashionable nicknames Callie and Luna.

This elongated form of Sibyl is dainty and delicate -- dare we even say demure? It's got deep history, a powerful namesake, and it's extremely rare -- zero baby girls were named Sibylla or Sybilla in the US last year.

Niloufar is a gorgeous Persian name used in Iran, Turkey (as Nilüfer), and Azerbaijan. It has many alternate spellings including Nilofar, which is used by Urdu speakers.

Anthea would be simpler and prettier, though Panthea has possibilities.

Asterope is an undiscovered name that has three wonderful nature connotations: 1) (from its meaning) lighting; 2) it is a type of butterfly 3) it is the name of an asteroid. Asterope is a great name for those looking for something similar to Penelope or Aster, but even more unusual.

In Slavic mythology, Rusalka is the equivalent of the Little Mermaid — she's a water nymph who falls in love with a land-dwelling man and eventually dies of a broken heart. Her tale was made into an opera of the same name by Dvorak. A good alternative for those who are turned off by the popularity of other fairy tale names like Aurora and Ariel.

A new favorite of the bohemian set, brought to light by actress Monet Mazur, daughter of the artist who designed the Rolling Stones' mouth logo.

The lovely sound and image of the French river and lush valley would make this a most distinctive and captivating choice. Pronunciation: low-ahr.

Possibility for a girl born under one of the water signs -- Cancer, Pisces, or Scorpio.

This name of a beautiful Moorish woman character in Don Quixote is rarely heard.

Ursula, while beautiful, still carries a whiff of the Disney sea witch. Perhaps Ursuline smells a bit sweeter?