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Unusual / Interesting names

  1. Kaija

    • Description:

      Kaija is a feminine Finnish name with Scandinavian roots, derived from the name Katja, which itself is a variant of Katherine. Its ultimate origin traces back to the Greek name Aikaterine, possibly meaning 'pure.' In Finnish culture, Kaija has been used since the early 20th century and maintains a classic yet distinctive quality. The name is characterized by its melodic pronunciation (KAI-ya) and distinctive northern European heritage. While common in Finland, Kaija remains relatively rare internationally, giving it an exotic appeal outside Scandinavia. For parents seeking a name with Nordic roots that's both unusual and accessible, Kaija offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and ease of pronunciation. The name conveys a sense of clarity and natural beauty associated with Finnish culture.
  2. Pola

    • Origin:

      Short form of Amapola, Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "poppy"

    • Description:

      Pola is an international name that still bears the femme fatalish air of Polish-born silent screen vamp Pola Negri, whole birth name was Apolonia. Rarely used, she could join sisters Lola and Nola.
  3. Damiane

    • Origin:

      Brazilian Portuguese and German feminization of Damian, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "to tame, subdue"

    • Description:

      A name with an ancient pedigree which might prove confusing to the modern ear.
  4. Amidala

    • Origin:

      Italian

    • Meaning:

      "beautiful flower"

    • Description:

      An attractive enough name, but for die-hard Star Wars fans only.
  5. Joska

    • Description:

      Joska is a feminine name with Eastern European origins, primarily used in Hungary and neighboring countries. It evolved as a diminutive form of Josephine or József (Joseph), carrying the meaning "God will add" from its Hebrew roots. The name has a warm, familiar quality while maintaining its distinctive character. Joska combines the traditional foundation of Joseph/Josephine with a softer, more melodic ending that gives it a gentle yet substantial presence. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, it represents a cultural bridge that appeals to families with Hungarian or Slavic heritage. The name's relatively uncommon status makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something both authentic and unusual.

  6. Alaïa

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "sublime"

    • Description:

      Fashion designer surname that could make a dynamic first.
  7. Nydia

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "home"

    • Description:

      Very rarely used, could provide a distinctive alternative to Lydia.
  8. Hieronymus

    • Origin:

      German variation of Jerome

    • Meaning:

      "sacred name"

    • Description:

      This cognate of Jerome (of all things), familiar via the Dutch painter of fantastical scenes, H. Bosch, would appeal only to the most audacious, intrepid, attention-seeking baby namer. It is, however, still used in Germany, especially in Catholic Bavaria and in the north German Rhineland.
  9. Pavana

    • Origin:

      Sanskrit

    • Meaning:

      "peacock"

    • Description:

      If there are too many Savannahs in your neighborhood, you might consider this. Pavana is a Hindu goddess of the wind.
  10. Kimiko

    • Description:

      Kimiko is a feminine Japanese name composed of elements that can have various meanings depending on the kanji characters used. Common interpretations include 'noble child' (貴美子), 'empress child' (后美子), or combinations using 'ki' (希 - hope, 喜 - joy), 'mi' (美 - beauty, 実 - truth), and 'ko' (子 - child). This traditional name gained some recognition outside Japan through cultural exchange and immigration. Kimiko balances being authentically Japanese while remaining relatively easy for non-Japanese speakers to pronounce. The name carries associations with elegance and cultural heritage. While never among the most common names in Western countries, Kimiko has maintained steady usage, particularly in multicultural communities and among families with Japanese connections.
  11. Yaiza

    • Origin:

      Spanish place name

    • Description:

      Not strictly Spanish but Guanche, the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands, this place name became popular as a first in Spain via a trilogy by Alberto Vazquez Figueroa. The Guanche meaning of the place name is "one who shares equally."
  12. Kimora

    • Origin:

      Modern name, meaning unknown

    • Description:

      Afro-Asian model, designer, and entrepreneur Kimora Lee Simmons brought this name into the public eye and it enjoyed more than a decade in the Top 1000 during the 2000s and early 2010s. It peaked in 2008 when it reached the Top 300, but it has since been in decline, becoming an on-off visitor to the US charts.

      The exact meaning of Kimora is unknown, though one possibility is that it's a nod the Japanese surname, Kimura, meaning "woods + village". Back in the US Top 1000 for 2023, Kimora could also feel like an updated form of Kim or Maura, and a spin on more popular Kora.
  13. Pascale

    • Origin:

      French from Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "Passover"

    • Description:

      Sophisticated, stylish feminine form of Pascal especially appropriate for girls born around Easter or Passover.
  14. Neza

    • Description:

      Neza is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly found in Slovenia where it's a diminutive form of Agnes. The name Agnes itself derives from the Greek word 'hagnos' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Neza has a soft, melodic quality that makes it appealing in contemporary naming trends. While not widely used outside of Slavic countries, it offers a distinctive alternative to more common Agnes derivatives. The name carries connotations of purity, innocence, and gentleness. In Slovenia, it's appreciated for its cultural heritage and simple, feminine sound pattern.
  15. Oluchi

    • Origin:

      Igbo

    • Meaning:

      "work of God"

    • Description:

      Nigerian-born supermodel Oluchi Orlandi brought this little-known (to non-Nigerians), lovely choice into the lexicon.
  16. Mirja

    • Origin:

      Finnish form of Miriam

    • Description:

      If you are looking for an unusual way to honor an ancestral Mary or Miriam, Mirja might make a good choice. Zero baby girls were given this name in the US in 2014. The rising popularity of Anja has schooled English speakers that the j is pronounced like a y.
  17. Evathia

    • Description:

      Evathia is an uncommon feminine name with Greek origins. It likely derives from 'Evanthia,' meaning 'blooming flower' or 'beautiful flower,' combining elements of 'ev' (good) and 'anthos' (flower). This elegant name carries connotations of beauty, growth, and natural vitality. Though rare in mainstream usage, Evathia appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with classical roots and feminine qualities. The name has a rhythmic, melodious quality with its three syllables and soft sounds. Those who choose Evathia may appreciate its connection to Greek heritage while offering their daughter a name that stands out while maintaining traditional feminine elegance.

  18. Hypatia

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "highest, supreme"

    • Description:

      Hypatia, an ancient Greek name, has a distinguished namesake: Hypatia of Alexandria was an early philosopher and scholar of mathematics and astronomy--as well as inventor of several scientific instruments.
  19. Socorra

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "one who helps"

    • Description:

      Popular Spanish choice that refers to the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help -- or Perpetuo Socorro.
  20. Allaire

    • Origin:

      French surname, possibly meaning "cheerful"

    • Meaning:

      "cheerful"

    • Description:

      Allaire, a last name in France. could make a first, with its light and airy feel.