Seen as both a first name and surname in Turkey.

With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.

A common Turkish word name for boys signaling valiance and bravery.

Geraud, as with many French variations of familiar names, makes the somewhat old-fashioned Gerard sound fresh and dashing. It's pronounced as if it ended with o, another trendy factor, though many English speakers may not get that.

Maoz is a symbolic name given to boys born at Hannukah because of the song "Maoz Tzur," "Rock of Ages," which is sung at that time.

On trend for boys but with plenty of unisex appeal too, the place name Cairo was put on the map for girls when model Beverly Peele chose it for her daughter. Given to around 50 girls each year, it hasn't caught on just yet but with its similar sounds to Kaia and Skyler, it might do in the future.

Another hidden gem of a feminist name! Valasca was a warrior-queen. When Queen Libussa died, Valasca took control and created a women-centred state in what is now the Czech Republic. Among Valasca's decrees were that only women and girls would be trained for the military. Her nation lasted for only 7 years, when she was slain in battle. All in all, one of the most inspiratiional Czech names for girls.

A fresh take on the fashionable Audrey and Aubrey, or another novel surname name which seems fitting for either sex.

Gabrina is a name sometimes heard in the Latino community, could make a distinctive alternative to Gabriela.

Clunky Gertrude is heading towards obscurity in the US, but here's a variation that might intrigue - Gesine, also spelled Gesina.

Technically a pet form of Brigid and very commonly heard in Ireland, but pronunciation problems complicate Bride as a name choice in America.

Uncommon choice too reminiscent of "bidet". Try Bridie instead.

This name was used by the royal House of Luxembourg in the Middle Ages, as a diminutive of Irmentrude. We definitely think this spunky shortening improves upon the heavy German original.

Harv and Marv are out, and this difficult Dutch choice doesn't fare any better.

Leads to sweeter short forms Pirjo and Pirkko.