Rare Names

Though Jules hasn't been on the US popularity list in fifty years, it is a current hit in its native France—where it's currently in the Top 10—and we can definitely see it making a comeback here, being far more romantic than, say, Jim.

We've seen Ray regain his cool, but could this country/cowboy name epitomized by Roy Rogers (born Leonard Slye), Acuff, and Clark, do the same?

Most parents today would prefer the softer-sell Stella. But Star has symbolic power related to Christmas, so this could make one of the perfect names for December babies.

This name of the first recorded dynasty of ancient China is short and simple enough to make a possible Asian-American alternative to Mia and Tia. British-Filipino child star Xia Vigor has invigorated the name in the Philippines.

This striking name has a lot going for it: it's a self-confident Spanish surname, it identifies one of the most brilliant stars in the sky, and it has a musical reference to singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega.

A twist on Alina or Alena, this name popped into the Top 500 for the first time in 2014. Also an Arabic name, meaning "soft, pliable, delicate".

A glowing and evocative word name that might be best saved for the middle spot, Starlight was nevertheless given to five girls in 2024.

A popular spelling variation of Adriana.

Alyx is a modern, gender-neutral name that is more commonly used for girls. It represents a creative spelling variant of Alex, which itself is short for Alexander (masculine) or Alexandra (feminine), derived from Greek elements meaning 'defender' or 'protector of mankind.' The distinctive 'y' spelling gives the name a contemporary, edgy feel while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Alyx began gaining modest popularity in the late 20th century as parents sought unique spellings of traditional names. It appeals to those desiring a name with the familiar sound of Alex but with a more distinctive appearance. The name received additional recognition through characters in various video games and media. Alyx projects a strong, independent image while maintaining versatility across different contexts.

Actress Gena Rowlands publicized this name, which she pronounces with a soft e.