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Favorite Names

Barryl
By Barryl
Updated Mon May 22 2023
  1. Abbott

    • Origin:

      Hebrew, Aramaic

    • Meaning:

      "father"

    • Description:

      Abbott is a neglected masculine surname with religious overtones as the head of a monastery. Though the feminine nickname Abby could be a slight drawback, Abbott is still an attractive offbeat possibility.
  2. Belden

    • Origin:

      English from French

    • Meaning:

      "pretty valley"

    • Description:

      Belden is a little-used surname-name that might work in this age of Belles.
  3. Chesley

    • Description:

      Chesley is a masculine name of Old English origin meaning 'camp clearing' or 'meadow settlement.' With roots as an English surname, it transitioned to occasional first-name use in the 19th century. The name gained modern recognition through Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, the pilot who heroically landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009. This association has given the name connotations of heroism and competence. While never extremely popular, Chesley maintains steady if uncommon usage, particularly in North America. The name has a dignified, somewhat traditional quality that balances uniqueness with familiarity, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet established name.
  4. Ciprien

    • Description:

      Ciprien is a masculine name derived from the Latin Cyprianus, meaning "from Cyprus" or "man from Cyprus," the Mediterranean island. This uncommon variation of the more familiar Cyprian connects to Saint Cyprian, a 3rd-century bishop and important early Christian writer. The name carries both classical and religious significance, though it remains extremely rare in contemporary usage. With its distinctive sound and historical depth, Ciprien appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical roots. The name has a sophisticated European quality while being relatively straightforward to pronounce. Its rarity makes it an intriguing option for those wanting to honor religious heritage while choosing something distinctive.

  5. Coltrane

    • Origin:

      Irish surname

    • Meaning:

      "descendant of Coltarán"

    • Description:

      The great sax player John Coltrane could be a cool naming inspiration for a jazz fan.
  6. Cretien

    • Description:

      Cretien is a masculine name with French and Dutch origins, representing a variation of Christian. Derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'follower of Christ,' this name has deep religious significance in Christianity. The spelling 'Cretien' reflects Old French influence and is related to Chrétien, a name known historically through the medieval French poet Chrétien de Troyes. Unlike the more common Christian or Christiaan, Cretien remains relatively rare, giving it a distinctive quality while maintaining its religious connotations. The name carries an air of medieval sophistication and literary connection, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and European character.
  7. Eberhardt

    • Description:

      Eberhardt is a strong masculine name of German origin, combining the Old German elements 'eber' meaning 'wild boar' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong.' The wild boar was a symbol of courage and fierceness in Germanic cultures, making this name representative of bravery and strength. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Eberhardt has a long history of use in German-speaking regions. It reached its peak popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become less common. The name carries a distinguished, somewhat formal quality with its Germanic roots clearly evident. Parents might choose Eberhardt to honor German heritage or for its powerful meaning and distinctive character.
  8. Everhart

    • Description:

      Everhart is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning both as a surname and given name. Combining the elements 'ever' (meaning 'boar' or sometimes interpreted as 'strong') and 'hart' (meaning 'brave' or 'hardy'), the name essentially conveys strength and courage. As a first name, Everhart is quite rare, appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with historical roots and strong meanings. The name has a dignified, somewhat formal quality that suggests resilience and determination. Its connections to nature through the 'hart' element (which can also reference a male deer) give it additional depth, potentially appealing to those drawn to names with woodland or natural associations.
  9. Felicien

    • Description:

      Felicien is a refined masculine name with Latin roots, derived from 'felix' meaning 'happy,' 'fortunate,' or 'successful.' Most common in French-speaking regions and countries with French cultural influence, Felicien represents the French form of the Roman name Felicianus. The name carries an elegant, somewhat literary quality with its soft sounds and classical origins. Though never widely popular in English-speaking countries, it has maintained consistent usage in Francophone areas and among families with French heritage. Felicien possesses a sophisticated European charm while conveying positive connotations of joy and good fortune. The name's ending gives it a distinctive quality compared to the more common Felix, while still maintaining the connection to its uplifting etymological roots.
  10. Flainn

    • Description:

      Flainn is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, derived from the word 'flann,' meaning 'red' or 'ruddy.' Historically, it would have often been given to someone with reddish hair or a ruddy complexion. This ancient name was borne by several kings and notable figures in early Irish history, including Flainn Sinna, a High King of Ireland who ruled during the 9th century. The name carries strong Celtic heritage and evokes images of Ireland's legendary past. Flainn remains exceptionally rare in modern usage, even within Ireland, making it a distinctive choice that strongly connects to Gaelic roots while avoiding commonality. Its pronunciation (roughly 'flin') may create some challenges outside of Ireland.
  11. Folant

    • Description:

      Folant is a rare masculine name with possible Germanic or Eastern European origins. The name may be related to archaic terms meaning "wanderer" or "traveler," though its exact etymology remains somewhat obscure. With its strong consonants and distinctive sound, Folant projects a sense of uniqueness and character. The name has never achieved widespread popularity, remaining a truly uncommon choice across most regions. Folant has a certain medieval quality that might appeal to those drawn to historical or fantasy-inspired names. Its rarity offers the advantage of distinctiveness while its straightforward pronunciation prevents it from seeming overly complicated. Folant stands as a bold, uncommon choice with an air of historical mystery.

  12. Hartwell

    • Origin:

      English surname

    • Meaning:

      "stag stream"

    • Description:

      Lovers of Maxwell might like this more unusual – but no less distinguished – surname name, with its adorable nickname of Hart.
  13. Jove

    • Origin:

      Mythological name

    • Description:

      Another name for Jupiter, king of the Roman gods, this jovial name is eminently ready for modern use. Feminine variations include Jovita and Jovie.
  14. Junot

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Junius

    • Description:

      Junot, which sounds like the goddess and indie movie name "Juno" and the Alaskan place name Juneau, is actually someting completely different. The literati will recognize the unusual name of writer Junot Diaz.
  15. Odale

    • Description:

      Odale is an uncommon masculine name with potential roots in several linguistic traditions. It may relate to Germanic elements where 'odal' referred to ancestral property or heritage, connecting it to names like Odell. Alternatively, it could have African origins, particularly from West African naming traditions, though specific meaning varies by cultural context. The name has a melodic three-syllable rhythm (oh-DAH-lay or OH-dale) that gives it a distinctive flow. Odale has remained extremely rare in mainstream Western usage, rarely appearing on popular name charts or records. This rarity gives it a unique quality for families seeking an uncommon name with a warm, open sound. The name's relatively simple spelling compared to its uncommon status makes it accessible despite its rarity.
  16. Orelia

    • Description:

      Orelia is a melodious feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'aurum' meaning 'gold.' It's closely related to Aurelia and can be considered a variant form. The name evokes a sense of preciousness, warmth, and radiance—qualities associated with gold. Orelia has a romantic, slightly antique feel with its flowing syllables and soft ending. While never extremely common, the name has seen occasional usage throughout Southern Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, and among Hispanic communities. In recent years, Orelia has gained some attention from parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with classical origins. Its similarity to more familiar names like Olivia and Amelia makes it approachable, while its relative rarity offers uniqueness.

  17. Peregrine

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "traveler, pilgrim"

    • Description:

      Peregrine is considered to be an elegantly aristocratic name in England, but has never made it to the U.S., where it has been seen as extravagantly eccentric. In the new naming climate, though, it's not beyond consideration — in fact it's already been chosen by at least one Berry.
  18. Perrin

    • Origin:

      Variation of Perry or Peter, English or Greek

    • Meaning:

      "dweller near the pear tree or rock, stone"

    • Description:

      Perrin has been in long use as a surname, derived from Peter, and is now used quietly as a first name. It may rise higher now that it's a character name in the popular TV adaptation of Robert Jordan's fantasy novel series The Wheel of Time. Twenty-six baby boys were named Perrin in the US last year, along with six baby girls.
  19. Peverell

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "piper"

    • Description:

      Peverell is the surname of a Harry Potter family.
  20. Phelan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "wolf"

    • Description:

      Phelan, pronounced FAY-lan or FEE-lan, is an appealing Irish surname name, with a rich history in Irish myth and religious and secular life. One bearer was a fiercely loyal follower of the legendary warrior Finn MacCool, another was a missionary saint.