Laniya is a feminine given name that appears to be a modern coinage combining popular phonetic elements. The prefix 'La-' has been common in American naming practices (as in names like Latoya or Layla), while the '-niya' ending evokes names like Aniya or Saniya, which may have connections to Arabic origins meaning 'caring' or 'concerned.' Alternatively, it could be viewed as a variant of names like Alania or Lania. Laniya gained noticeable popularity in the United States primarily in the early 2000s and has continued to be used in the following decades. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds and three-syllable structure. Laniya exemplifies contemporary naming trends that favor distinctive, euphonic names with rhythmic sound patterns and a modern aesthetic appeal.

Tuff, a corruption of "tough," has been given to approximately 50 baby boys each year for the past few years. Tough, on the other hand, has never charted as a baby name.

Up-and-coming actress Beanie Feldstein is attracting attention toward her unusual — but rather cute — nickname. She was born Elizabeth Greer Feldstein but nicknamed "Elizabeanie" by her childhood nanny. It was later simplified to Beanie by her older brothers.

Though it sounds like it should be an old Hebrew name -- like Adriel and Jorah -- it seems to have been invented in recent times. It was one of the fastest-rising boys' names of 2017.

This attempt to masculinize Jules has made its way into the Top 1000. We recommend using the more traditional spelling, as this one will likely appear dated in a few years' time.

Sohan is a modern French invention. It may be related to Jean or a variation of the similar name Yohan.

Arizbeth is a compound name particularly popular in Mexico and among Hispanic parents in the US. Created by blending Ariel or Ariana with classic Elizabeth, it is one of the hottest unique names currently around.

The name Jiraiya was created in 1806 for yomi-hon — a type of book from the Edo Period — called Jiraiya Monogatari. The character was revived later in the century for a folk tale series Jiraiya Gōketsu Monogatari, in which Jiraiya, a ninja, shapeshifts into a giant toad.

Invented in 1939 as the name of Marvel Comics character Namor the Sub-Mariner. Bill Everett, the creator, decided on Namor after writing noble, dignified names in reverse—Namor is Roman spelled backwards.

Maylin is following in the footsteps of Maelynn and Maelyn — two modern invented Mae and Lynn compounds that are on the rise.

A widespread name in Italy and Romania, the lovely Loredana is often claimed to have been invented by French author George Sand for a character in her 1833 novel Mattea. However, it also belonged to a 16th century Italian botanist, Loredana Marcello, known for developing treatments for various ailments. It probably derives from the Venetian surname Loredan, from the place name Loreo "laurel grove".

Heard in Spain more as a last name, but would work here as an alluring first.

Ayven is a modern masculine name with a distinctive sound that combines elements of popular names like Aiden and Evan. While its exact origins are unclear, it likely emerged as a contemporary variation of similar-sounding names. The name has gained modest popularity in recent years as parents seek unique alternatives to common names. With its blend of familiar sounds and unconventional spelling, Ayven appeals to parents looking for a name that feels both accessible and distinctive. The name carries a contemporary vibe and works well in multicultural contexts. Its rising usage reflects broader trends toward creative spellings and modern-sounding names for boys.

A character name in the Shadow and Bone book series, invented by author Leigh Bardugo. It is intended as a Ravkan form of Malcolm, meaning "disciple of St Columba".

A trendy choice that takes a little from Riley and a little from Kayleigh, to create the rather appealing meaning, "beam of light in the meadow".

Kordian was created by Polish playwright Juliusz Słowacki for his eponymous romantic hero, based on Latin cor, cordis "heart". Cordian is the Anglicized form.

Classically, the De- prefix indicates "son of," so any variation of this name could work for the child of a dad named Shawn or Sean.

Jaycee is a modern invented name, likely inspired by the similar sounding Casey and Macy. While these names peaked in the 1990s and 2000s, their energetic and contemporary vibe has kept them relevant today, and a recent year saw more than 300 girls given the name Jaycee in the US.

The kind of hybrid name -- it sounds like a blend of the popular Caleb and Colton -- that could catch on despite its lack of pedigree.

Todrick, an invented name that combines Todd with -rick ending names such as Frederick, is heavily associated with performer Todrick Hall. Hall initially became recognized for his success on American Idol, and since then has become a YouTube star and judge on RuPaul's Drag Race.