Israeli-born singer Keren Ann introduced this traditional Hebrew name to the US, where it could well be mistaken for Karen. Nevertheless, 100 girls were given the name in a recent year.

Multicultural name often heard in the Near East. Also spelled Neema and Nimah.

Yes, it's a word name, but Busy is also a rare pet form of Elizabeth. And yes, actress Busy Philipps was christened Elizabeth--she was given the nickname because she was such an active child. She must have been happy with the name, because she also gave her daughters adorable unique baby names, Birdie and Cricket.

We all know that Chaka really means disco.

This name is masculine in the Old Testament, as Zerah, a son of Judah and the twin of Perez. Now it is also been used for girls, perhaps inspired by its similarity to Sara and Zara.

This name of the final service on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is sometimes given symbolically to girls born on that day.

Yadira is a popular choice in Mexico, Venezuela, and Colombia, and has also been a favorite among Latin American families in the US. Popularized by actress Yadira Jiménez in the mid-20th century, its exact etymology is unknown, but a likely possibility is that it comes from the Arabic Jadira, usually interpreted as meaning "worthy", though "bloom" is also suggested.

Short form occasionally used on its own, with an open and friendly androgynous quality.

Feminine spin on Moses and European river name that's also the name of a wine.

This biblical place-name for the region now known as Yemen started to feel fresh again as the name of the heroine of Zoe Heller's Notes on a Scandal, played on screen by Cate Blanchett.

Pretty and unusual, Livana may find a lot more fans as parents look for alternatives to Number 1 Olivia. Livana was used for only seven baby girls in the US last year.

A traditional name still used in Orthodox families. Rivka is the original form of Rebekah or Rebecca, today used far more widely than the original. Rifka is a variation.

A name with a double animal connection via two distinct origins, one Native American and the other Hebrew and Biblical. Yona is rare in the US but not unknown: It was given to a dozen baby girls in 2021.

An appealing name almost unknown in our culture but with roots in several others; worldlier than cousins Celia and Delia.

Keturah, the Old Testament name of Abraham's second wife, is a possibility for anyone seeking a truly unusual and interesting biblical name; certainly a lot more distinctive than that of Abraham's first wife, Sarah.

Nonbiblical Hebrew name used as an affectionate nickname since the Middle Ages.

Term for a native-born Israeli, first brought to notice in Edna Ferber's 1929 novel Cimarron. Prickly pear has been interpreted to mean tough on the outside, soft and sweet within.

Raphia is a feminine name with botanical origins, referring to a genus of palm trees native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing sounds. While uncommon as a given name, Raphia carries natural associations with strength and resilience, as raphia palms are known for their sturdy fibers used in traditional crafts and construction. The name may also relate to 'Rapha,' a Hebrew word meaning 'healing,' giving it potential spiritual significance. Raphia has cross-cultural appeal with its natural imagery and pleasant phonetics. The name remains rare, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking a unique botanical name with an exotic feel and natural symbolism.

Tzophiah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, believed to be a variant of Sophia or Tzofia, meaning "watchful" or "one who observes." The initial "Tz" sound reflects the Hebrew letter צ (tzadi), giving the name an authentic Hebrew pronunciation. This name carries spiritual significance in Jewish tradition, potentially connecting to wisdom and watchfulness. Tzophiah is extremely rare outside of Jewish communities, making it a distinctive choice that still maintains cultural authenticity. The name has a sophisticated, lyrical quality with its three syllables (tzo-PHI-ah). Parents might choose this name to honor Jewish heritage or for its unique combination of exotic sound and meaningful etymology. Its rarity ensures individuality while its connection to the popular Sophia provides some familiarity.

Elisheva was the original name of Aaron's wife in the Book of Exodus; Elisheva gains strength and distinction via the v sound.