Exotic Baby Names - Girls and Boys

Adira is one of those names that feels familiar without being overused. Simple but with subtle flair, Adira crosses different languages easily and could provide an alternative option tor the likes of Ava, Ariana, Adeline, and Anna.

Lush and unusual.

Another strong Arabic name, related to Iman. Imani one is popular throughout the Muslim world but especially East Africa. It was chosen for her daughter by actress Jasmine Guy.

Verona is a scenic place-name with the added attraction of a Shakespearean connection, as in Two Gentlemen of....

This beautiful girl name is a popular choice in India. It is connected to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of luck and prosperity. Lakshmi is composed of the elements sā, referring to Lakshmi, and anvi, meaning "follow."

Ayat is a Quranic name for girls that literally translates to "sign" or "clue" but in the context of the name, it refers to signs of God, manifestations of the divine, or verses from the Quran. In Islamic tradition, Ayat al-Kursi, or "The Throne Verse", is considered the greatest in the Quran and is often displayed and memorised, giving this name a powerful feel.

This shortened variation of Aaron—it was Elvis's middle name—is now a widely used choice.

Imane is a feminine name with multicultural roots, most prominently used in Arabic-speaking countries and parts of North Africa, particularly Morocco. In Arabic, Imane (إيمان) means 'faith' or 'belief,' carrying spiritual significance across different religions. The name is pronounced roughly as 'ee-MAN' or 'ee-MAHN,' depending on regional variations. While maintaining strong connections to its Arabic origins, Imane has gained some international recognition for its pleasing sound and meaningful associations. The name has a modern feel despite its traditional roots, making it appealing across cultural contexts. Imane remains relatively uncommon in Western countries but is increasingly recognized due to global connectivity and multicultural awareness. Its simplicity, positive meaning, and elegant sound make it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural depth and spiritual significance.

Cerelia is a melodic and unusual choice, perfect for a child born in April or May. Another version is Cerella.

Evocative of tranquil island escapes. One of several Hawaiian (and pseudo-Hawaiian) names ending in "-ani" that's soaring in popularity, Nalani made its debut on the US Top 1000 in 2016.

Nakoa is a Top 100 name for boys in Hawaii. It became more widely known after actors Lisa Bonet and Jason Mamoa chose it for their son.

A sleek yet friendly name of Finnish and Estonian origin, Talvi is familiar in Finland, Estonia, and Sweden, but rare in English speaking countries. It comes from the Finnish talvi or Estonian talv, meaning "winter", making this an unexpected name to celebrate the colder seasons, to honor someone born in the winter months, or to give to a Christmas baby.

Fina is a feminine name with multiple origins, functioning both as a standalone name and as a diminutive form of names ending in '-fina' such as Serafina or Josefina. In Italian and Spanish contexts, it's often short for Josefina (Joseph's feminine form) or Serafina (meaning 'burning one'). In Catalan culture, it honors Santa Fina (Serafina), a 13th-century Italian saint. The name carries a delicate simplicity with its brief two-syllable structure while still connecting to deeper historical and cultural traditions. Its concise nature makes it appealing in modern naming trends that favor shorter names. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Fina has an international appeal with its easy pronunciation across languages and its sweet, feminine quality.

Kiana (or more appropriately, Quiana) is the original polyester name, coming into favor in the 1970s but then drifting downward for years before taking a surprise turn back up the charts, perhaps thanks to its resemblance to the popular Keanu.

One of the few K names that sounds middle-aged.

Montserrat is a Catalan name meaning ‘serrated mountain’. That may not be the most appealing meaning, but the exceptional beauty of the Montserrat mountain range near Barcelona, Spain might change your mind. Montserrat is, unsurprisingly, most common among the Spanish community.

Veit is a masculine German name derived from the Latin name Vitus, which means 'lively' or 'full of life.' With ancient roots, this name has been used since medieval times, particularly in German-speaking regions including Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland. The name is associated with Saint Vitus, a Christian martyr from the early 4th century who became one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers venerated in Roman Catholicism. Veit experienced periods of popularity throughout German history but remains relatively uncommon in the modern era, especially outside German-speaking countries. The name's brevity gives it a strong, clear quality, while its historical depth provides cultural richness and connection to European heritage.

Ellia is one of the newer entries in the extremely popular El group of names for girls, which includes Ella, Ellie, Elle and so on, as well as L-starting names such as Lillia. Nearly 100 baby girls were named Ellia last year, but we're afraid that the name will not sound as distinctive as it should due to so many other girls with similar names.

A Near Eastern favorite, with an agreeable, evocative sound.