Unusual, Rare, and Unique Baby Names

Baby Names Sure to Shock Grandma

The unusual and unique baby names on your list are likely to shock Grandma, especially since she probably thinks you should name the baby Helen, after her. But even if she's more open-minded than that, the following rare baby names will probably render her speechless -- which may be the effect you're after.

Badass Princess Names

Badass princess is an image that appeals not only to contemporary little girls but to their parents when choosing a name. These unusual girls' names are attractive not so much because of their sound or their style but because of the complicated image they convey. These are rare baby girl names that are both decidedly feminine and rooted in tradition, but are not at all conventional or conservative. They’re creative and edgy, but not invented or unorthodox like Blue or Bellamy.

Best Cool Unusual Boys' Names

Cool names and unusual names often go hand in hand, with unique names usually among the coolest choices. These cool and unusual baby names for boys are the ones we believe have the most potential. These cool boys' names have genuine roots, are attractive, and work in the modern world. Best of all, the cool names here are still widely underused! If you're looking for boy names that are uncommon and cool, browse the choices here. For more rare names for boys, you can also skip directly to our full menu of boys' names or unusual baby names.

Best One-of-a-Kind Names for Boys

Unique names that nobody (yes, really!) is using for their baby boys in America include the following, which all ranked below the five-baby cutoff to make the Social Security tally in 2016. Included here are many unusual yet classic boys' names as well as fresh, creative choices. If you are looking for truly unique names for your baby boy, any of these would be excellent choices.

Best One-of-a-Kind Names for Girls

Unique names that nobody (yes, really!) is using for baby girls in the US include the following, all ranking below the five-baby cutoff necessary to make the Social Security extended list in 2016. Among these truly unique girl names are many classic choices as well as new and unusual name ideas. If you want a truly unique name for your baby girl, any of these are excellent suggestions.

Biblical Place Names

Biblical place names relate not to the people in the Bible but the physical places. Can these ancient place names work as contemporary baby names? We say yes.

Bird Baby Names

Bird names for babies are one of the hottest of the hot nature categories, all the way from Birdie to Wren. Bird names can work as unique first names or meaningful middle names, and are appropriate for both girls and boys. While many bird names come straight out and announce themselves, as Robin or Hawk, others are more subtle, carrying bird meanings: Paloma, for instance, means dove. If you love nature names and animal names, you may want to search more deeply into the new genre of bird names for babies.

Boy Names from Africa

African baby names for boys from a range of cultures and tribes include the choices here. For our full list of African baby names, click here.

Boy Names Uncommon in the US

There are many thousand boy names uncommon in the US that are nevertheless widely used in their native lands. Does that mean they're ripe for import? Perhaps. Many unusual names for boys and girls here are anything but rare in their cultures of origin. The international boy names uncommon in the US but popular in their own countries include the following.

Celebrity Surnames as Firsts

Inspired by a fascinating discussion thread started by our own creative berries, here are some celebrity surnames that work well as first names. Some, like Winslet and Jolie, inherently linked to the celebrity whose surname it is. Others, such as Conrad, Jordan, and Murray, don’t immediately call a celebrity to mind because of the surname’s commonness as a first name or last name. Because surnames lie outside historical gender identifications, this is another fresh source of unisex baby names.

Celestial Baby Names

Celestial baby names include those of planets and their satellites, constellations and single stars. That adds up to a whole galaxy of celestial baby names to choose from. For even more ideas, read our blog on celestial names.

Colonial Names for Boys

Many of the baby names that were widely used during colonial times have fallen out of favor for long enough now to sound fresh and even cool again. If you like historic baby names but want to move beyond the Victorian and biblical choices we've heard so much of in recent years, consider these names culled from Revolutionary War rolls and eighteenth-century town histories. The only caveat: The choices are much wider and more appealing for boys than for girls.

Colonial Names for Girls

Many colonial names have fallen out of favor for long enough now to sound fresh and even cool again. If you like historic baby names but want to move beyond the Victorian and biblical baby names we've heard so much of in recent years, consider these names culled from Revolutionary War rolls and eighteenth-century town histories. The only caveat: The choices are much wider and more appealing for boys than for girls.

Color Names for Babies

Using color names for babies started with Amber, then Rose drove the point home. While many of the original color names were female, today there are mostly-male color names as well as unisex baby names derived from colors. Today's name hues range from the obvious -- Violet and Scarlett -- to the most exotic, from Azure to Zinc. The full spectrum of color names for babies:

Cool Baby Names That Start With U

U may be the most underused first initial of the baby naming alphabet. But yes, there are some cool baby names that start with U. Namely:

Cool Baby Names That Start With Z

Z may be the zippiest, zestiest first initial for baby names around. Here, the wide selection of cool baby names that begin with Z.

Cool Bible Baby Names

Cool Bible Baby Names are those that move beyond the biblical baby names that have been popular for several decades now. Such previously off-limits Bible names as Moses and Noah are now completely baby-worthy and ever-more-obscure baby names from the Bible are being revived all the time. For more popular Bible names, check the Biblical Baby Names: Most Popular list. Here are the top cool baby names from the Bible.

Cool Boy Names From Ancient Cultures

Cool boy names are the order of the day, yet why invent a unique name when there are so many ancient names -- from Rome and Byzantium, from Olde England and Germany -- that deserve to be unearthed in the interest of cool? Here's a selection of worthy ancient choices, from a range of eras and places, that make cool unique baby names for boys.

Cool Boy Names From Around the World

Cool boy names from Italy and Ireland, Scandinavia to the Middle East and beyond include a wide variety of choices. You may want to choose a boys' name that reflects your family's ethnic heritage or represents a culture you love. Or you may simply be looking for unique boys' names and want to consider international names as one source. Here, a selection of cool boy names from around the world.

Cool Boys’ Names—Rare, Unique and Unusual

Cool boys’ names can have deep roots or be modern inventions but work best when they relate to other stylish names while remaining relatively undiscovered. To make this list, these cool names for boys had to be used for 25 or fewer baby boys, guaranteeing they are considered unique baby names across the US. This list of cool boys’ names features some of our favorite possibilities. For more, take a look at our collections of boys’ names and unusual names.

Cool Classic Boys’ Names — 100+ below the Top 1000

These classic boys’ names include choices from ancient cultures and the Bible, names sailing out of style along with those heading in. How can a name be cool and classic at the same time? It's deeply rooted in history, but it's also unusual, and these boys' names qualify on both counts. Our list of uncommon classic boys’ names includes such treasures as Amias, Rockwell, and Edmund. If you're looking for cool classic names for a baby boy, check out these 100+ options.

Cool Classic Girls’ Names — 100+ below the Top 1000

Classic baby names are not always popular names. These classic classic girls' names are also unusual, hiding below the Top 1000. For a name to be cool and classic, it has to be both out-of-the-ordinary and used over centuries, and the 100+ girls' names here qualify on both counts. Our list of uncommon classic girls’ names includes gems like Echo, Delphine, and Sybil. If you'd like to give your baby girl a name with deep roots that also stands out from the crowd, one of these classic-but-distinctive names for girls could be the right choice for you.

Cool Girl Names from Ancient Cultures

There are so many ancient names for girls -- from Rome and Byzantium, from Olde England and Germany -- that deserve to be unearthed in the interest of cool. Here's a selection of worthy ancient names, from a range of eras and places, that make unique baby names for girls.

Cool Girl Names From Around the World

Cool names for girls from a range of cultures and countries are ripe for the picking no matter where you live. As the world becomes a smaller place, baby names become more international. And if you're looking for a cool unusual name for your baby girl, choosing one from another country can be a way to combine tradition with innovation. Consider these cool girl names from around the world.

Cool Girls' Names—Rare, Unique and Unusual

Cool girls' names come in many varieties, from ancient to modern, traditional to invented. The best cool names for girls are those that have deep roots, are attractive, and can fit into contemporary life, yet are not on the brink of widespread discovery. Cool names are a matter of opinion, but by rare, unusual and unique baby names, we mean those used for 25 or fewer baby girls, which means these names are uncommon no matter where you live. The cool names for girls listed here are some top picks to get you started. To see thousands more, here is our full menu of girls' names and unusual names.

Cool, Unique Unisex Names

Unisex baby names are both popular and stylish, true, but there are also hundreds of cool names that work equally well for boys and girls. Here, some of our favorite unique baby names that are gender neutral.

Coolest Baby Names That Aren't Really Names

The coolest baby names sometimes aren't names at all, as the mostly unisex baby names on this list attest. There are an uncountable number of words turned cool baby names, beyond the scope of any one source. The only limits are your reference books, your imagination, and your taste. Here are some of the coolest and most evocative of the group.

Cornish Baby Names

Cornish baby names -- names with Celtic roots connected to the gorgeous southwest corner of England -- are an evocative group. Some Cornish baby names you might want to consider for your child include:

Crazy Celebrity Baby Names

Crazy celebrity baby nameshave been around for a long time, since the Dweezil and Moon Unit Zappa era. But now there's a whole new generation of crazy celebrity baby names. It might seem like there’s a new wacky celebrity birth announcement every other week, but in reality, most stars are giving their children (somewhat) mainstream names. That being said, some celebrities go big, choosing names that have rarely been heard as names before. These are some of the most outrageous, but celebrity parents are coming up with new crazy names for their children every day.

Creative Baby Names: Inspired by Artists

Creative baby names can be found by looking at the names of artists (and architects and designers). These baby names capture the artists' creative spirit, give your child an international role model, and are cool all at the same time. The following list encompasses both first (JASPER Johns) and last (Alexander CALDER) names, which have been drawn from all over the aesthetic map.

Designer Baby Names

Designer kids' clothes these days often have adorable brand names—names that would be equally stylish baby names on your own little boy or girl. Baby names inspired by children’s clothing companies fall into a variety of styles, from old-fashioned revivals like Gus and Bonnie, to modern favorites such as Kingsley and Hudson. Here's a selection of some of the best designer baby names from Agatha to Zella.

Disney Baby Names

Baby names from Disney films can summon up positive memories. For some of us, watching The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Lady and the Tramp shaped our childhoods. If you were inspired by Disney movies growing up, you might consider the name of a Disney character for your child. These Disney character baby names come from classic films as well as more recent movies. Some names, like Mowgli or Vanellope, have strong ties to their Disney character, while others are less likely to have an immediate association.

For more Disney-related baby names, check out our lists of Pixar baby names and Disney Channel baby names.

Early African-American Names

Early American slave rolls are filled with classical and biblical names designed to show off the slave-owners' education and not normally used for whites; variations of African day names and place-names; along with other unusual names more closely identified over the years with black than white American culture. Some of the most notable early African-American names:

Fictional Princess Names

Fictional princess names -- from fairy tales to modern cartoons -- are well-known to little girls, most of whom would be delighted to have one for her very own. Here, the wide range of fictional princess names.

Film Noir Baby Names

Baby names drawn from film noir or "black film," the genre of Hollywood crime dramas that capture the suspenseful happenings of private eyes in distinct black and white form, tend to be dramatic and rooted in an earlier era. Here, our collection of film noir baby names.

Finnish Baby Names

Finnish names may look simple, but those double vowels are undeniably exotic to native English speakers. Some prime Finnish baby name examples:

French Word Names

The parent in search of truly distinctive baby names has to move farther than ever away from the established roster. One new direction -- or is it two? -- for the intrepid baby namer is toward international word names, which combine two of today's coolest trends. We combed our own diccionarios for French, Italian, and Spanish words that could make perfectly appropriate, attractive baby names, and here are some French choices. But no reason to stop here--consider words from the language of your own ethnic background, be it Czech or Chinese, and add them to the list of your personal possibilities.

Here, some French baby names fashioned from French words for your consideration:

Fruit Baby Names

Fruit baby names have come to the fore as a new species of nature names thanks to Gwyneth Paltrow's little Apple Martin. Exploring further, here are some of today's possible fruit baby names.

Geezer Names for Girls

Blame it on Sidney. This name, which conjures up images of thick glasses, a snowfall of dandruff on shoulders, and plaid polyester pants pulled up to the sternum, sounds (strangely enough) nothing less than charming, nothing short of cool when applied to a little girl. And so too can the other geezer names here. Caution: Most of these names should not be bestowed on a boy. The world is not yet ready for another generation of male Seymours and Sheldons, although keep in mind that among the hottest boys' names in the UK now are Harvey and Leon.

Girl Names Ending with A

About a third of baby girl names end with the letter A. A is also the most widely-used starting letter for girl names today, and there are lots of stylish girl names starting and ending with A. From top choices Isabella and Sophia and Olivia to more obscure names, the letter A has feminine appeal. Here, some out-of-the-box ideas for girl names ending with A.

Girl Names from Africa

African names for baby girls hail from all around the continent and offer an exotic yet usable complement of choices. While these are some of our favorites, for even more African baby girl names, go to Supersearch and search by origin.

Girl Names Uncommon in the US

There are thousands upon thousands of girl names uncommon in the US that are well-liked and widely-used in other countries around the world. Restricting our search to the Top 100 of European countries, one the theory that almost every name from Asian and African cultures will be rare in the US, these are the girl names uncommon in the United States but heard on every street corner from Manchester to Minsk.

Goddess Names for Babies

Goddess names, the names of mythological figures from all over the world, seem more baby appropriate now that ever, with the rise of ancient Roman names and the discovery of many antique choices. The list includes Greek and Roman goddess names, Celtic and Irish goddess names, as well as the names of Norse goddesses and Hindu goddesses. Our overall top picks are on this list, but for even more goddess names, please see our lists on Greek goddess names and Roman goddess names. For even more unusual choices, check out this list created by @gondolin of Mythological Goddess Names for Girls. The most diverse and usable mythological baby names for your own little goddess might include the following.

Gothic Baby Names

Gothic baby names relate to the culture that combines horror with romanticism. Gothic can refer to the medieval or the modern; Gothic style encompasses music and architecture, literature and fashion. Names inspired by goth culture are a little shadowy and a lot mysterious. Names for a goth baby can include those related to goth icons, goth styles, or goth imagery. Here are some names that, for a range of reasons, might be considered Gothic. Baby appropriate? In a dark sort of way...

Hawaiian Baby Names

Hawaiian names are becoming more widely-used in the US in recent years, especially for girls. As the world gets smaller, parents in the mainland US and beyond become more familiar with Hawaiian names. Two important influences: the presidency of Barack Obama, who was born and raised in Hawaii and whose oldest daughter Malia bore a Hawaiian name, and the Disney animated film Moana. If you're looking for a Hawaiian name for your baby, consider these choices for both girls and boys.

Hipster British Baby Names for Boys

Hipster British baby names for boys feel fresher and funkier than the classic royal names most often associated with the British Isles. These quirky British boy names are popular — though, naturally, not *too* popular! — with hipster parents from London to Liverpool. There are some clear trends to be seen here: lively -o and -ee ending sounds are big with the Brits, old man chic is most definitely in, and nicknames as given names are everywhere. If you're looking for a great British baby boy name beyond James or George, you'll find a wealth of wonderful options in this list — no matter whether your taste leans more toward Milo or Marmaduke!

Hipster British Baby Names for Girls

Hipster British baby names for girls are an exotic and eclectic bunch! From sweet vintage nicknames like Peggy and Posy, to elaborate choices like Pandora and Pollyanna, the Brits are renowned for bestowing quirky baby girl names on their daughters. All of these beautiful British girl names have serious style cred in London right now, but they hit the hipster sweet spot in terms of popularity — none rank in the Top 100 baby girl names in England & Wales, and most sit much lower down the list. If you're looking for a cool British girl name beyond Emma or Elizabeth, here are some of our favorite hipster picks!

Hunger Games Baby Names

The Hunger Games trilogy has inspired a post-Harry Potter generation of original baby names. These characters' names, which include elements from ancient history and sci fi, might be right for your literary baby.

Invented Baby Names

Some parents attempt to come up with a cool name by inventing one of their own. They may alter a too-ordinary name, vary a spelling or a pronunciation, or cobble together several euphonic but previously unrelated syllables. This quest to be unique can sometimes backfire—create too cool of a made-up baby name and it might catch on (we’re talking to you, Miley, Meilani, and Maxon). The following invented baby names that hold appeal, but fair warning—some of these made-up names have already become mainstream.

Italian Baby Girl Names Beyond Rosa & Rosetta

Looking for Italian baby names for a daughter? Here are some fresh choices for your little signorina.

Jazz Baby Names

The list of jazz baby names, a special subset of musician baby names for both girls and boys, is full of old-school cool.

Literary Baby Names Inspired by Authors

Literary baby names can be inspired the characters in books or, in the case of the baby names on this list, by the first and last names of authors ranging from Edgar Allan Poe to Zadie Smith. In this category, as always, feel free to look to your personal favorite writers for your baby names inspiration.

Literary Names for Boys

These literary baby names for boys are derived from characters in books from all genres and periods. Here, a selection of the most distinctive baby names from books. In the literary names category, as always, feel free to think about your own personal favorites.

Literary Names for Girls

These literary baby names for girls are derived from characters in books from all genres and periods. Here, a list of the most distinctive literary baby names for girls. In the literary baby names category, as always, feel free to think about your own personal favorites.

Mineral & Metal Baby Boy Names

Mineral and metal baby boy names are hard-edged choices that impart a new brand of masculinity.

Movie Character Names

Movie character names may be the only names cooler than the names of the stars that play them. In fact, with the exception of Jack, which has long seemed to be the name of the male character in every other movie and TV adventure show, characters' names veer from the unusual to the outlandish. A few, such as Trinity from The Matrix, jumped right onto the popularity charts. These notable names from movies are perfect for the film buffs among us. If you’re a fan of all things cinematic, one of these names inspired by movies could be just right for your baby.

For more ideas, check out our lists of TV Character Names and Celebrity-Inspired Baby Names.

Mystical Names

Mystical names summon figures of mythology and legend, of magic and mystery. The mystical names here hail from a range of different cultures and stories. Click on individual names for more information on what makes them mystical!

Mythology Baby Names for Boys

Baby names inspired by myth and legend are on the rise, inspired by the use of mythological names for boys in the Hunger Games series. The pantheon of Greek and Roman deities and other figures from Irish, Norse, African, Hindu, and other myths and legends can provide an abundant source of audacious baby names, all combining deep history with not-heard-in-a-long-time freshness. Mythology names that might sound right for modern baby boys include the following. You might also want to consult our specialized lists of Roman God Names or Mythology Names for Girls .

Boy Names from Mythology

Mythology Baby Names for Girls

Mythology baby names for girls can impart both tradition and strength to a child. The pantheon of Greek and Roman deities along with figures from Celtic, Irish, Norse, Hindu and other classic myths and legends can provide an abundant source of audacious options, all combining deep history with not-heard-in-a-long-time freshness. If you'd like to browse even more mythology names for girls, have a look at our lists of Roman Goddess Names and Greek Goddess Names.

Girl Names from Mythology

Names for City Babies

City names are a special breed among place names used for babies: hip, sophisticated, street smart. Of course, city-bred kids can be named anything at all, but we collected these downtown-related names -- some of them the names of actual cities -- to provide inspiration for urban parents in search of names with a city theme. Of course, many city names -- Orlando, Charlotte, Adelaide -- started out as person names, so it all gets a bit meta. But the connection is what makes the names of towns and neighborhoods work so well for babies.

Names from Harry Potter

The names from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling are among the most inventive and inspired in literature since Charles Dickens created Pip and Oliver Twist. From Draco Malfoy to Severus Snape, from Hermione to Harry himself, Harry Potter names often hail from history and might inspire names for your modern baby.

Names Tied to a Single Celebrity

There are some celebrity names so singular that the celebrity in question barely needs a last name—and often doesn't even use one. While a handful of these unique celebrity names start out as one-of-a-kind only to spawn a legion of little namesakes (case in point: Elvis), others remain indelibly linked to the personages who inspired them. After all, there’s only one Oprah! Our picks for this distinctive group include the following.

New York Neighborhood Names

Brooklyn is, of course, the most widely used of these choices, but Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz recently added baby name Bronx to the mix and there are lots of other intriguing New York-themed baby names here.

Offbeat Baby Names

Offbeat baby names are those that are just a little bit quirky, a tiny bit unusual, off the beaten track. Here are some offbeat baby names you might want to consider today.

Operatic Baby Names

You don’t have to be an opera buff to appreciate the rich variety of baby names found in the classic repertoire. It’s an especially appealing category because it contains such an interesting mix of languages: there are frilly French female names, unusual Italian mens’ names, as well as some usable German and Russian character names. These range from leads such as Aida and Tristan, to featured players to those with minor roles. So, omitting common names like Amelia, Norma and Susanna, and the more uber-the-top names like Brunhilde, here are some lyrical opera baby names:

Patriotic Baby Names

Baby names with a patriotic flavor honor the land of the free and the home of the brave. Whether you're having a fourth of July baby, or you're just a proud American, here is a list of patriotic baby names sure to pay tribute to America.

Pixar Baby Names

Pixar has a knack for developing characters you can't help but love, Mike Wazowski anyone? Not only does Pixar create some unforgettable characters, but Pixar names can be lovable as baby names too! Here's a list of some of the more interesting character names from Pixar films:

Place Names Off The Map

The coolest place names are those that are undiscovered. Some place names can be used for boys, but most of the cool place names work best for baby girls. Here are some choices on (and off) the map, including unique city names, country names, island names, and the names of mythical lands, all of which can be used for babies.

Poet Baby Names

The great poets can provide naming inspiration for both girl and boy babies. Here, some poet baby names to consider.

Rocker and Rapper Kids' Names

If you call yourself Ludacris or Slash or Flea, chances are you're not gonna name your kid Matthew or Martha or Mike. In fact, rock-and-roll and hip-hop musicians are probably the most imaginative (or outrageous, depending on your point of view) baby namers around, honoring their musical heroes (Thelonious, Lennon, Hendrix), using words as names (Million, Dream, Zeppelin), or just letting their fantasies fly. Like many celebrity baby names, the names of Rockstar children are truly imaginative, although there are some more mainstream choices sprinkled about. To wit:

Roman Names for Boys

Names from Ancient Rome are enjoying a major style revival. Among the Roman choices for boys are the following, all at home in the modern world.

Roman Names for Girls

Names from Ancient Rome are enjoying a major style revival. Among the Roman choices for girls are the following, all at home in the modern world.

Russian Baby Boy Names

Russian baby names for boys from the Nameberry database include the choices here. Russian baby names are becoming more international, especially favored in Italy. From the point of view of the US, politics have a strong influence on the taste for Russian names for either gender. Russian names for girls may be more familiar than those for boys thanks to the international stardom of many Russian models. Here, a curated collection of Russian names for baby boys.

Saints' Names For Boys

It is tradition, though no longer a requirement, in the Roman Catholic Church for a child receiving baptism to be given a saint's name. However, even parents who don't find themselves particularly religious have begun to take interest in the rare, uplifting, and sometimes unheard-of names of saints for their sons and daughters. This list includes a wide range of appealing saints' names for boys.

Saints' Names for Girls

Saints' names may no longer be required for a Roman Catholic baptism, but many parents choose to honor saints with their children's names anyway. Beyond religious strictures, you might be interested in saints as inspirational namesakes or as a source of unusual ancient names. This list includes a range of saints' names for girls, from the classic to the cool to the rarely-heard.

Sci-Fi Baby Names

Sci-fi baby names come from the most popular Science Fiction movies, books and television shows. From Star Wars to Blade Runner, here's a list of unique sci-fi baby names.

Scottish Names for Boys

Scottish names for boys are a handsome group, including choices that have traveled far beyond Scotland's shores, such as Douglas and Malcolm and the nouveau Knox, along with many names that are still most at home in the Highlands, from Hamish to Kelso to Baird. While boys' names from Scotland have not travelled as widely as Irish names for boys, they certainly have the same potential. The Scottish boys' names in the Nameberry database include the choices here.

Scottish Names for Girls

Scottish baby names for girls found in the Nameberry database include the choices here. These are names of Scottish derivation vs. the girls' names popular in Scotland, though there is some overlap. Whether you want to honor your Scottish heritage or simply love the culture, consider these lovely Scottish names for girls.

Shakespearean Names

Shakespearean names were drawn by the Bard from a range of ancient and modern cultures. Many have survived through the ages and are ripe for modern play. Among the Shakespearean names we recommend are the following.

Soap Opera Baby Names

Baby names from soap operas, inspired by melodramatic characters, often appear on the popularity charts. If you're expecting a dramatic little one, a "soap" name may be right up your alley. Soap opera writers tend to choose names some may consider a bit over the top, ranging from long and romantic choices like Deveraux and Maximiliana to quirky and offbeat names such as Buzz and Cricket. For more names inspired by television, check out our list of TV character names.

Spanish Word Names

The parent in search of truly distinctiveSpanish baby names has to move farther than ever away from the established roster. One new direction -- or is it two? -- for the intrepid baby namer is toward foreign-word names, which combine two of today's coolest trends. We combed our own diccionarios for French, Italian, and Spanish words that could make perfectly appropriate, attractive baby names, and here are some Spanish ideas. But no reason to stop here--consider words from the language of your own ethnic background, be it Czech or Chinese, and add them to the list of your personal possibilities.

Spice (& Other Food) Baby Names

Apple launched the trend toward food-oriented baby names, with lots of tasty names joining the menu.

Spiritual Baby Names

Spiritual baby names suggest qualities we'd all like our children to aspire to and fit our new definition of cool. While they seem as if they can work for both genders, most spiritual baby names have been veering toward the feminine side. A few, such as Trinity, Destiny, Sky, and Genesis, are already staples on the girls' popularity lists. Spiritual names deriving from a range of religions and beliefs are, for many parents, a modern substitute for biblical or saints' names. Here, some spiritual names that might be right for your baby.

State Capital Baby Names

Baby names that reference state capitals might make your little girl or boy feel extra important and one-of-a-kind. The state capital baby names include:

Steampunk Baby Names

The steampunk movement has been inspired by literature and cinema, blending futuristic themes with 19th century Victorian style. Think alternate history meets science fiction entwined with elements of steam power and clockwork. Here is a list of baby names incorporating this unique style.

Supermodel Baby Names

It's not enough that supermodels are skinny, gorgeous, world-revered millionaires. They've got babies, too, and not just ordinary babies, but babies with incredibly cool names. The baby names of supermodels are a fashionable bunch with a variety of origins. Alastair and Clementine, Lyra and Ugo, Cosima and more join the list of names vetted by the style experts themselves. Here is the recent crop of supermodel baby names:

Supermodel Names

Supermodels provide a real international smorgasbord (excuse the expression, girls) of beautiful baby girl names. Names inspired by supermodels are as culturally diverse as the models themselves, spanning from Israel to India and Nigeria to Norway. The names of supermodels can have strong associations with the model herself, like Doutzen, Behati, and Solange, or subtler ties, like Naomi, Claudia, and Elle. If you envision your daughter walking down the runway, a supermodel name might be right up your alley.

Tree Baby Names

Tree baby names are just one branch of the nature names growing in popularity, with many original choices, especially for boys.

Unique Baby Names Ending In I

Today's unique baby names ending in the letter i are a far cry from the Teri and Lori generation of the 60s and 70s. Biblical and Hawaiian I-ending baby names now reign supreme, with Levi and Eli the most popular boys' names ending in I and Naomi and Leilani leading the charge for the girls. But there are literally hundreds of intriguing international I-ending names out there, just waiting to be discovered. From sweet Scandinavian Astri to handsome Hebrew Zimri, here's a selection of our very favorite unique baby boy and girl names ending in I.

Unique Baby Names Ending In O

Unique baby names ending in O (and the "o" sound) are among the very hottest right now, with the likes of Leo and Theo, Harlow and Margot rocketing up the popularity charts. But there are still oodles of obscure O-ending names out there, just waiting to be discovered. We've polled our members to bring you 100+ of Nameberry's very favorite unique O-ending baby names, from Amparo and Benno to Yarrow and Zeno. If quirky baby names ending in O are your thing, find our full list of rare, uncommon, and unique names ending in o here.

Unique Baby Names for Girls and Boys

Unique baby names are literally one-of-a-kind, but a unique name may also mean one that is unusual and cool, with individual flair. In fact, when people refer to unique baby names today, they usually mean a name that stands out from the crowd, that departs from tradition and that may have a unique spelling or pronunciation. But unique names for babies can also be place names, word names, surname names, international names, nature names, or traditional names that come from other cultures or that have been buried in the attic for decades or even centuries. Nameberry offers thousands of unique names: Here are some of the best to get you started.

Want more more more unique names for your baby? See all the lists of unique baby names.

Unique Boy Names

Unique names for boys are more widely used now than ever before. Fifty years ago, the Top 20 boys' names represented 41% of all male children; by contrast in 2015, the Top 20 boys' names represented only 14% of all baby boys. Ironically, the greater variety of names being used today means that unique boy names are more likely to be accepted at school or in the workplace. There are lots of ways for names to be unique, from spelling to new creations, but here at Nameberry we're often most inspired by those names which are at once unusual and yet filled with history and meaning. Here is a selection of our current favorite unique names for boys, from A to Z. For even more choices, see our full list of unique baby names.

Unique Celebrity Baby Middle Names

When we talk about unique celebrity baby names, we’re most often referring to the unusual first names of celebrity children a la Chicago and Rocket. However, a number of stars have opted to give their children more obscure middle names rather than (or sometimes along with) an unusual first name. The middle position is safer territory when it comes to using unconventional baby names—middle names are rarely used day-to-day and are scarcely known outside inner circles. While the latter isn’t true for these celebrity children, we are still supportive of the unexpected middle name trend. For more ideas, check out our list of middle names.

Unique Celebrity Baby Names

Unique celebrity baby names might seem like a redundancy: Aren't most celebrity baby names unique? Not really. Celebrities are just like us: they usually name their babies Jack and Emilia and Max and Mia. But sometimes they break the mold. We are bringing you the most notable, rare, attractive, and striking, trying to stay on the near side of crazy but the far side of popular. Unique names given to celebrity babies over the past few years include the following notable choices.

Unique Irish Baby Names

Unique baby names and Irish baby names are two groups with plenty of style power, so what happens when you mix the two? Although Irish baby names have become much more popular in the US in recent years, there are still plenty of unique Irish names waiting to be discovered. We nominate these choices for parents looking for baby names that are both Irish and unique, especially in the US.

Unique Middle Names for Boys

Unique middle names may be a way to add character and distinction to a son's name, especially if his first name is a more traditional name or a conservative family choice. Unique middle names can include word names, place names, surname names, names of heroes from history or the arts. A select group of unique baby names that work in the middle for boys is here, or you can search further with our master list of more than 900 middle names for boys and girls.

Unique Middle Names for Girls

Unique middle names for girls appeal to even more conservative parents, who may look for an unusual middle name to set their little Emma or Elizabeth apart. Unique middle names may be unusual first names or can also be nature, word, or surname-names. When sifting through unique name choices for the middle, try to find one with personal meaning. If you want even more to choose from, see our full list of unique baby names or our master list of middle names.

Unique Names from History

Unique baby names aren't only the new and the invented; there are also many highly unusual names with deep historic roots. Read more about this topic in our overview on unique names of every kind. Here's a selection of the most intriguing, but you'll find many more in our lists of mythological names, biblical names, and names from ancient cultures.

Unique Nature Names for Babies

Some nature names for babies are mainstream, like Lily and River, but if you're willing to explore nature a bit more adventurously, there are many more wonderful nature names for girls and boys that lie off the beaten track. Unique nature names can come from flowers and trees, birds and animals, the sea and the earth and even the skies. Here, browse some of the most unusual baby names drawn from nature.

Unique Unisex Middle Names

Gender neutral baby names are red-hot right now, and the middle spot is the perfect place to venture beyond popular unisex picks like Aubrey and Avery to more unique names. This trend is all about thinking outside the box! From novel nature names like Auburn and Zephyr, to intriguing international gems like Adair and Zennor, here are 50 of the freshest gender neutral middle names right now. Or expand your horizons with our master list of more than 900 prime middle names.

Unique Vintage Names for Girls

unique baby names don't have to be new and invented: They can also be vintage names revived from either the near or distant past. These unique vintage baby names for girls all lie outside the Top 1000 but have deep roots and rich histories. In case you're wondering how unique is unique, these names were given to 250 or fewer girls in the US in 2017. Check current statistics to make sure the name you like hasn't hopped back on the list.

Unusual Antique Baby Names

If you're looking for somewhat unusual vintage baby names, rare names with a solid history and vintage charm, these classic names are just that. Dating back to Great-Grandma's day, these historic names been retired long enough to feel young and fresh again.

Unusual Baby Names

Unusual baby names come from a range of categories, from ethnic names to place names to word names to surnames used as first names. The best unusual names are distinctive without being strange, seem unique yet are also easy to understand. Of the thousands of unusual baby names on nameberry, here are some of our favorites.

Unusual Biblical Baby Names

The Bible is full of names, and many that were once considered unusual -- Moses, for example, and Delilah -- are now familiar on playgrounds throughout the land. So if you're looking for unique bible baby names, you have to look a lot harder, but they're still there. Here are hundreds of unique biblical baby names for boys and girls from both the Old and New Testaments.

Unusual International Baby Girl Names

There are hundreds of unusual international baby girl names throughout this site. Here's a handful of the most appealing.

Vampire Baby Names

Vampire baby names from the world of books, television, and movies are hot right now. Whether you're a vampire fan or just looking to have some fun, here are some vampire baby names you might find inspirational.

Werewolf Baby Names

Interested in a werewolf name for your little, um, monster? Check out our blog on werewolf baby names or consult the list here.

Wonderful Word Names

Word names -- basically, words used as names -- are a growing class as parents rush to find truly unique baby names for their children. While you'll find word names among nature names and day names and occupational names and color names and spiritual names, most of those collected on this list don't fit neatly into any category. You'll find even more word names in our lists of Nature Names, Place Names, and many other lists in the category Nature, Place, and Word Names. Finally, a word on gender: English words are not gendered and so most of these word names can work for both boys and girls, even if we have only one gender noted here.

Unusual, Rare, and Unique Baby Names

Boy Names from Mythology

Girl Names from Mythology

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