Updated November 2023
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Place name, Kikuyu
"mountain of white"
Kenya, a name borrowed from the East African nation and theoretically unisex, is now used mostly for girls. While it's had its ups and downs since entering the US Top 1000 in 1968, it currently ranks…
Variation of Susanna
Part Susanna, part Suzanne, Suzanna is a smidge less attractive than either of those classic options but still carries some appeal. But you (and your child) WILL be spelling it forever.
Melisa is a feminine name with roots in Greek mythology, derived from 'melissa' meaning 'honey bee' or 'honeysuckle.' This sweet and melodious name carries connotations of industriousness, community,…
Greek
"truth"
Alethea, the name of the Greek goddess of truth, came into fashion in England in the 16th century, in tandem with the virtue names. Alethea may find new favor now, thanks to its similarity to Athena,…
Stacey is a feminine name (though also used for boys) with Greek origins, derived from Eustace, meaning 'fruitful' or 'productive.' Initially a diminutive of Anastasia, meaning 'resurrection,' Stacey…
German, diminutive of Margarethe
"pearl"
Like Greta, Gretchen is a German Margaret diminutive that has become an American quasi-classic, though not much used today, having dropped off the list in 2009. She was at her high point in the…
Cornish variant of George, or diminutive of Jordan
A rarely-used name even in its native Cornwall, Jory nevertheless feels very wearable, thanks to its similarity to familiar picks like Rory, Corey and Joey. Jory Cassel is a minor character in the…
Jasen is a modern variant spelling of Jason, a name with ancient Greek origins meaning 'healer.' In Greek mythology, Jason led the Argonauts in the quest for the Golden Fleece, giving the name heroic…
Scottish habitational surname
"from the hillocks"
Terrence feels stuck in the 20th century, but Torrance could easily be worn by a child born in the 2020s.
Bryon is a masculine name that originated as a variant spelling of Byron. The name Byron itself derives from an Old English surname originally referring to someone from the cottage or barn area. It…
English from Maori
"flaxen"
Anglicized form of Ngaire, this name is sometimes heard in New Zealand and very occasionally in England.
Spelling variation Torrance is split fairly evenly between girls and boys, while Torrence is almost entirely male.
Teutonic
"mighty warrior"
A rarely used last-name-first-name, never as popular as cousins Garrett or Derek.
Jenifer is a feminine name, representing an alternative spelling of the more common Jennifer. Both derive from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, meaning 'white wave' or 'fair spirit.' This variation with a…
Bridgett is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Bridget, originating from the Irish name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'strength.' Associated with the Celtic goddess Brighid and…
Catrina is a feminine name with Spanish and Latin roots. It's a variation of Katherine, which derives from the Greek name 'Aikaterine,' meaning 'pure.' Catrina has special cultural significance in…
Variation of Tanya
This common variation of Tanya makes it less international and more ordinary.
Melonie is a feminine name that represents a spelling variation of Melanie, which has Greek origins meaning "dark" or "black." This alternative spelling maintains the melodic sound and sweet…
Jermain is a variant spelling of Jermaine, which itself derives from the French name Germain, ultimately from Latin germanus meaning 'brother' or 'related'. The name gained popularity in…
Vashon is an uncommon name with several possible origins. It may derive from Vashon Island in Washington state, which was named after British naval officer James Vashon in the 1790s. As a personal…