175 Rare but Recognizable Names

Poetic and whimsical but with touch of valor about it, Roselotte is a rare compound name, blending two classics together. It would likely be pronounced with four syllables ("RO-zuh-law-tuh") in German, three in Dutch ("ROZ-law-tuh") and two or three in English ("ROZ-loht" or ROZ-uh-loht").

Acacius is a Latinized form of the Ancient Greek Akakios and can be interpreted to relate to the same root as the name Acacia, for the thorn bush, or Akakios which means "not evil." With the modern taste for ancient names that end in "us," this obscure but attractive choice may have a chance of new life. Acacius is the name of three early saints.

Calix is once-obscure name that is starting to see some use in the US, where 62 baby boys were named Calix in 2024. An indirect influence is the actress Calista Flockhart, who introduced Americans to the female version of this attractive Greek name to prominence.

Sable is often associated with the Dynsaty soap opera, but it is actually a type of animal historically hunted for its fur. Sable is also used as a word for a warm, rich black color. Both associations carry hints of luxury.

The name of this pretty Mediterranean shrub is reminiscent of popular classic Oliver, and interestingly its etymology appears to overlap too: oleander most likely derives from Greek rhododendron "rose tree", with its form successively influenced by laurea "laurel" and olea "olive tree".

Endellion is the name of an early saint who was a daughter of King Brychan and goddaughter of King Arthur whose life is commemorated by the Cornish village of St. Endellion. This intriguing ancient name was brought into modern usage by British Prime Minister David Cameron, who used it as one of the middle names for his fourth child, a baby girl.

Could be a novel way for a boy's name to honor an ancestral Claire.

Rugged but gentle, Sholto is a traditional Scottish first name, especially within the Douglas clan, with Sholto Douglas being its mythical ancestor. It is an Anglicized form of Sìoltach, meaning "sower".

Although it is sometimes cited as the Gaelic equivalent of English Margery or Marjorie ("pearl"), Marsaili in fact derives from the name of the Roman god of war, Mars, via the related name Marcella. It has been used in Scotland since at least the early 15th century, and is encountered in a number of variant spellings, including Marsali, Mharsaili and Marsailidh. The Marsali spelling was used by American author Diana Gabaldon for a minor character in her "Outlander" series of historical novels, set in 18th century Scotland. One of the most unique and authentic Scottish names for girls.

Cerelia is a melodic and unusual choice, perfect for a child born in April or May. Another version is Cerella.

Gilda, although related to the words gold and gilded, has definitely tarnished. It once shimmered with the seductive image of Rita Hayworth in the film Gilda, then was associated with the beloved early Saturday Night Live star Gilda Radner. In opera, Gilda lives on as the name of the daughter of Rigoletto.

Actor Farley Granger set it in motion, now could be a gentler alternative to Harley.

This masculine floral name literally means "burning bush", and is the Bulgarian word for the dittany plant. The name derives from the highly volatile oils produced by the plant, which can actually catch fire in hot weather. A notable bearer of the Bulgarian-form of the name is Rosen Plevneliev, a former President of Bulgaria.

Name of the Phoenician deity who was the patron of Carthage, goddess of the moon, and a fertility figure. Variations include Tanit, Tanis, and Tanitha. The name is frequently misinterpreted to be an Irish name meaning "estate." Despite this august heritage, the original form of the name is a bit lispy for use in modern English-speaking lands.

This fragrant, almond-scented name has hardly been heard in this country, which is a pity--we've loved it since John Malkovich used it for his now grown daughter.

Properly spelled Luã, this is a light and bright alternative to mega-popular Luna, with the same celestial meaning. Lua is also an attractive choice for tech-heads, with Lua being a popular programming language.

This lovely name from Spenser's The Faerie Queene is borne by a character who represents married love. A related unusual-yet-usable choice: Amabel.

Dignified first name of poet W. H. Auden, less exposed than his currently stylish surname.

With its harmonious meaning and gentle sound, Truce has joined the wave of virtuous word names that have risen up the charts in the 21st century. Reflecting a wish for peace during turbulent times, Truce moved an impressive 11118 places up the US rankings in 2024, when it was chosen for nearly 230 babies. A year prior, it was given to just six babies.

A sweet little name with one of the most poetic meanings around: it means "warmth from the sun" in Welsh. Though it's among the undiscovered Welsh names, it's one that deserves wider use.