This feminine name — simply "angel" imported into Māori phonology — is fresher than Angela and less Hollywood than Angelina.

Bell-like and original.

If you're seeking a biblical name somewhat similar to the popular Samuel but way more distinctive, this could be the one.

If you want to move beyond Maya, you might consider this distinctive last name of poet Maya Angelou. Born Marguerite Annie Johnson, Angelou was given the nickname Maya by her brother and adopted Angelou from her first husband, whose last name was Angelos.

The popular Dutch name Lieke is one of those diminutives, like Lena, that can be short for a range of names ending in its sound -- which, by the way, is the two-syllable LEE-ka. Despite its versatility, we don't see Lieke's popularity translating to English-speaking cultures.

Vanina is a name that is, at first glance, miles apart from its origin. But once you say it aloud and look for it, you can see the direct line from Evangelina to Vanina. Vanina could also be a good alternative for people who like the sound of Vanille or Vanilla, but can't bring themselves to use a flavor as a name.

Remiel is a form of Ramiel, an archangel of thunder and divine visions named in the bible. Remiel is actually more popular in the US than the original, perhaps because of its connection to stylish name Remi.

Murielle emerged as a distinctively French elaboration, adding the feminine '-elle' suffix to create a more melodious version of the classic name. Though less common in English-speaking countries, Murielle has maintained steady popularity in France and French-speaking regions. The name carries an air of sophistication and Old World charm.

An unusual route to nickname Zach, Zachariel is one of the seven archangels in The Book of Enoch who lead souls to the afterlife. Also known as Sarakiel, Zerachiel, and Saraqael, the name does not appear in the Bible, but is listed in the ancient Jewish apocalyptic text, that explores the fall of several angels, the origins of demons, and a prophetic future reign of the Messiah.

Also known as Zerachiel, Zachariel, Zakhariel, or Saraqael, this is name of one of the seven archangels who guide souls to the afterlife. He appears in The Book of Enoch, an ancient Jewish apocalyptic text, which includes information of demons, the fall of certain angels, and a vision of the Messiah.

A common unisex name in Israel, more properly written as Ya'el, Yael rose more than 200 places in 2023 to become one of the fastest-rising boys' names of the year in the US.

This name obviously has the prefix De- that denotes "son of"—in this form it can mean either "son of Angelo" or "from the angel."

One of the rarest Bert names, Engelbert has been used at least since the time of Charlemagne and is the name of several saints. But mostly, it's impossible not to associate it with Engelbert Humperdinck, both the German composer and the British pop singer (born Arnold Dorsey) who borrowed his name.

Malak is an Arabic and Turkish name high on the popularity list in several European countries on the girls' side.

Like the Maori name, Anahera, Atchara is a good option for parents looking for the perfect name for their little angel, but wanting to avoid Angela and Angelina.

The great pre-Renaissance painter known as Fra Angelico was actually born Guido di Pietro, but his nom d'art might work for your little angel.

A son of Noah in the Bible who is also thought to be an ancestor of the Greek people and the guardian angel of Greece. An alternative to Jason or Jayden, perhaps.

Heavenly name from the Cree language.