Traveling Lite Baby Names

Botanical Hebrew choice that leads to the sweet vintage nickname Nettie.

Occasionally used as an independent name, but why.

A popular name for both sexes in Israel, in the Top 10 for boys and Top 100 for girls.

The Spanish and Portuguese form of popular Ruby is another addition to the list of attractive gem names for girls, that might sometimes be used by English speaking parents who want their child's name to stand out when written down. Rubi is also of Japanese origin, and associated with another gemstone: the lapis lazuli.

This Dana-Donna variation has started to carve out its own place on popularity lists; an interesting alternative to Daniella as a namesake for a relative named Daniel.

Myron still has ways to go before sounding stylish again, but this Eastern European variation has a more contemporary look.

O-ending short forms are almost invariably appealing, though this might seem slight as the child grows up.

Esha is a lovely Indian name that would work well outside the Indian sub-continent, perhaps as a substitute to the more unisex Asher.

Adem is a masculine name with rich historical and cultural significance. It is the Turkish, Albanian, and Bosnian form of Adam, which comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'man' or 'earth.' In Islamic tradition, Adem refers to the first prophet and man created by God, equivalent to Adam in Judeo-Christian traditions. The name carries connotations of primordial humanity and connection to the earth. While common in Turkey, Bosnia, Albania, and other parts of the Balkans and Middle East, Adem is less frequently used in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible across cultures, while maintaining its strong cultural identity and religious significance.

This Hebrew name deserves consideration by parents looking for a traditional by underused girls name with a gorgeous meaning.

Short for Indiana or Indio... or just use it on its own. Indi makes a cool and punchy option for either sex.

Friendly and charming international variation of Matthew, common in Estonia.

A Top 10 name in Turkey, seen again in the Top 100 in the double-barreled combination Kerem Ali.

The Polish form of Ruth has mostly been lost outside of Poland, but though rare, it can still be heard in Polish and Eastern European communities. Ruta has only ever appeared on Illinois' state data, due to Chicago's large Polish population. With Ruth now on the ascent, Ruta may be worth rediscovering.

A wintery name of Turkish origin that would suit a baby born during the colder months. Notably borne by the slave and later companion of an 11th century sultan, it is a popular choice in Turkey with actor Ayaz Khan being a more contemporary bearer.

Short form of Oliver or Olivier.

A possibility for parents seeking a Hebrew name with an English-language sound.

Simple and worldly, popular and carrying two positive meanings in two diverse cultures. A winner prime for wider use.

A symbolic name for boys born during a period between Passover and Shavuot.

Stylish and sweet, Noura is a strictly feminine form of the Arabic Nur. A name that could work well in various cultures and languages, Noura means "light" and is derived from one of 99 Names of Allah in Islamic tradition, al-Nūr.