By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 139 pages
of 139
Breton variation of Jacques/Jack
This charming Breton name runs the risk of being poorly pronounced outside of France. If you're looking for an alternative take on Jack, the standard French version Jacques or the Cornish version…
Swedish variation of Earl
"nobleman"
Just as in English, the name Jarl is a noble title. Jarl was also the name of a figure in Norse mythology who, along with his wife Erna, raised a brood of eleven sons, who all became warriors.
Polish and Croation variation of Jason
Unless you come from Polish or Croation stock, we're not sure the pronunciation confusion is worth it - we'd just stick with Jason.
Welsh variation of Patrick/Padraig
Very similar to the Celtic form, the Welsh variation of Patrick might freshen up this lovely, but familiar, boys' name.
Cornish variation of Paul
Pawly has catapulted into the lexicon with the advent of Pawly the pet dog robot. It's a cute version of the more serious Paul.
Russian variation of Saul
This is an unusual name that fits well with other Russian names beginning to make it over to English-speaking countries.
Romanian variation of Simon
This cute as a button variation of Simon could easily blend with other fresh vowel-ending boys names , such as Arlo, Milo, Keanu and Elihu.
Manx variation of William, German
"resolute protection"
Wilmot has the sort of old-school bookish charm of other surname-sounding names like Beckett, Everett, Griffith and Weston. This could be a good choice for families wanting to honor that special…
Italian variation of Zachary
Zacheo is an Italian last name that is occasionally seen as a first name. Also used in Brazil (where it can be pronounced Za-shey-o), it could prove a little-known (to English speakers) alternative…
Breton variation of Cecilia
This spunky variation of the placid Cecilia might be a winner for those looking for a rare international version of a traditional name.
Swedish variation of Barbara
Even in Sweden, Barbara is preferred. If you're looking for a variation to spice up Barbara, you may want to instead consider Varvara or Barabal.
Welsh variation of Gladys
Although it gives of a somewhat Spanish vibe (a la Beatriz), Gladez is in fact a Welsh variation of the more familiar English name Gladys. That being said, while around 5 girls are named Gladys each…
Hawaiian variation of Carol
Kalola certainly cutes up the somewhat dowdy 50s image of the name Carol. Plus it lends itself to the trendy "Lola" as a nickname.
Hawaiian variation of Cecilia
This Hawaiian name breathes new (warm) life into the traditional Cecilia and offers the added attraction of the spunky "Kiki" as an obvious nickname option.
Hungarian variation of Louisa
Very similar to the more familiar Louisa.
Dutch variation of Ina
Ina is a name that is used on its own but that originated as a short form of any name that ends in -ina, so Ineke is kind of a pet form of a diminutive. A rare name in the US, Ineke is not really…
Armenian, variation of Perchuhi "elegant lady"
"elegant lady"
This unusual name with a lovely meaning works surprisingly well outside its Armenia.
Hungarian
"my god is oath"
A sparky diminutive of Erszébet, the Hungarian form of Elizabeth.
French variation of Naomi
Particularly pretty French version of the biblical standard.
Feminine variation of Slavic "Ruslan," from the Turkic/Persian word for "Lion"
"Lion"
Singer Ruslana Stepanivna Lyzhychko, who goes by her first name, won the Eurovision contest in 2004 and remains a popular artist in Ukraine.
