Cherelle is a feminine given name that appears to be a variant of Cherell or possibly derived from 'Cherie,' a French word meaning 'darling' or 'beloved.' The name has been in use since at least the mid-20th century but gained more visibility in the 1980s, partly due to American R&B singer Cherelle who had several hit songs during this period. Linguistically, the name follows French-influenced naming patterns with the '-elle' suffix, which typically creates a feminine form and has a softening effect on the name's sound. This suffix appears in many French-derived names and words, indicating 'little one' or serving as a feminine marker. Cherelle has a melodious quality with its two-syllable structure and soft consonants. While never extremely common, the name saw periods of increased usage in the United States during the 1970s through 1990s, and continues to be used today, though less frequently than during its peak periods.

Kyrie elieson is one of the oldest religious refrains, meaning Lord, have mercy. As a first name, though, Kyrie is less a name of God and more a nickname-name that might be short for Kyra or a diminutive that stands on its own, a la Kylie. The best-known Kyrie is the male basketball player Kyrie Irving, who pronounces the first syllable to rhyme with my rather than fear. He has inspired more than 1000 baby boys to be given this name one recent year in the US, while it was given to 178 baby girls. Impressive numbers.

Martell is a masculine name that originated as a surname, derived from the French word 'martel,' meaning 'hammer.' The name gained historical significance through Charles Martel, the 8th-century Frankish military leader whose surname referred to his fighting prowess ('The Hammer'). As a given name, Martell emerged primarily in the United States during the 20th century, offering a strong, distinctive alternative to more common names like Martin. It carries connotations of strength and determination, enhanced by its percussive sound. In recent years, the name gained additional recognition through its use in George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series for House Martell. Though uncommon, it provides a masculine option with historical depth and contemporary appeal.

A rarely used play on Amber, making it more feminine and both more modern and old-fashioned at the same time.

Not to be confused with shea butter, this name is a common surname in Ireland, combining spirit, substance, and gentleness. The traditional Irish form is Séaghdha (SHEH), though it could also be used as a short form of Séamus, connecting it to James.

One of the most familiar — if not stereotypical — Gallic names. Pierre was a Top 5 name in France from the 19th century through 1940 and is now on a steady decline in its native land. In the US, Pierre was most common in the 1980s but it has never cracked the Top 300.

The original Hebrew form of Jacob is resurfacing in the US charts after a several-decade-long hiatus. The Old Testament figure is considered the founding father of the Jewish nation, whose twelve sons descended into the twelve tribes of Israel.

Yesterday's sensation that rose with the popularity of Whitney Houston. Whitney may have lost some of its style value, but it still sounds like one of the quintessential English names for girls. Today, you might want to shorten it to cool nickname Whit.

Fading since the 1970s -- but still a lovely name.

Shatara is a feminine given name that emerged in the United States primarily in the 1970s and 1980s. The name may be a creative coinage that follows phonetic patterns popular during that era, particularly the melodic 'sh' beginning and the three-syllable rhythm. Some sources suggest possible connections to Arabic origins, where 'shatara' relates to concepts of cleverness or skill, though this etymology is not definitively established. The name may also represent a creative variation of names like Tara or Tamara, with the added 'Sha-' prefix that became popular in American naming practices during the late 20th century. Shatara exemplifies the trend toward distinctive, sonorous names with a modern feel. While never among the most common names, Shatara has maintained consistent usage across diverse communities in the United States.

A lacy, lucky name very popular in the Hispanic community a decade ago, less so now.