This unusual and alluring choice was used by David Mamet for his daughter, who is now grown and an actress on the hit show Girls.

A short form of Izabela, popular as a stand-alone name in Slovenia where it ranks in the Top 50. It might also be used in Poland, Czechia, Georgia, Hungary, and elsewhere as a form of Izabela/lla, Izidora, Izolda, Elizabeth, Adeliza, and similar.

Ania is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Poland and other Eastern European countries. It functions as a diminutive form of Anna, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The name features a straightforward pronunciation (AHN-yah or AHN-ee-ah, depending on regional accents) that travels well across language boundaries despite its specific cultural roots. Ania has a delicate, feminine quality while maintaining simplicity and brevity. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, it has gained some recognition with increased global cultural awareness. The name carries the warmth and timeless quality of its root name Anna while offering a fresh, slightly exotic alternative that's still easy to pronounce and spell.

Ula is among the unusual U names that may have a range of origins and meanings, from the Celtic one given here to its possibilities as a short form of Eulalia or Ursula. Ulla is a Scandinavian name usually an abbreviation of Ursula or Ulrika.

Kuba is the attractive short form of Jakub, the spelling of Jacob commonly used in Poland. Much more distinctive than Jake!

An attractive and intriguing choice with an appealing blend of gentle and sharper sounds, Kasia is a diminutive of Katarzyna, the Polish form of Katherine. Ultimately from Greek, it is generally interpreted to mean "pure".

Danka is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly common in Poland, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries. It often functions as a diminutive form of Daniela or Danuta, which derive from the Hebrew name Daniel, meaning "God is my judge." In Polish culture, Danka carries a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining its own distinct identity. The name has a melodic sound and friendly approachability, blending simplicity with cultural richness. Though not widely used outside Slavic countries, Danka represents a connection to Eastern European heritage. The name peaked in popularity in Poland during the mid-20th century but has become less common among younger generations, giving it a slightly vintage charm today.

Monia is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Italian, it developed as a diminutive of names like Simona or Ramona, while in Polish, it's associated with Monica. Some sources also connect it to Arabic origins meaning 'wish' or 'desire.' The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and melodic ending. Monia has never achieved widespread popularity in English-speaking countries but maintains consistent usage in Eastern European and Mediterranean regions. The name's cross-cultural versatility and pleasant sound make it appealing to parents seeking something uncommon yet accessible. With its balance of familiarity and distinctiveness, Monia offers a subtle alternative to more common names like Monica or Sonia.

Diminutive for all the Slavic names that start with Jar-. If for family or cultural reasons you're seeking such a name, then this is a reasonable short form.

A sweet, simple mini-name that fits into many cultures. The only drawback is the potential for confusion with Ella, Ayla, and other similar names.

This still attractive place name was one of the first to gain popularity, though it now probably owes some of its favor to the similar Aisha. Asia ranked as high as Number 195 on the US baby names popularity list in 1997.

Unlike Pamela and Melanie, Mela feels fresh and unusual.

For such a short, simple name, Pela has many possible derivations and meanings. It's most commonly cited as a short form of Penelope, but can also be a nickname for Pelagia, a name related to the sea.

Jasia is a feminine name with Polish origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Joanna or Janina (Polish variants of Jane or Joan). The name ultimately derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God is gracious.' While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jasia has maintained modest usage within Polish communities both in Poland and among the diaspora. The name features a distinctive pronunciation (YAH-shah or YAH-see-ah) that maintains its Polish character. Its short length and melodic quality give it a modern feel despite its traditional roots. Jasia combines the appeal of an authentic cultural name with enough simplicity to work well internationally, making it approachable yet distinctive.

Tymek is a masculine name of Polish origin, functioning as a diminutive of Tymoteusz, the Polish form of Timothy. The name derives from the Greek 'Timotheos,' meaning 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' In Poland, Tymek serves as both a nickname and standalone name, appreciated for its friendly, approachable quality. The name has grown in popularity within Poland in recent decades as part of a trend toward traditional names with modern-feeling diminutive forms. Outside Poland, Tymek remains distinctive and uncommon. The name's combination of cultural authenticity and contemporary sound appeals to parents seeking Polish heritage connections or simply a unique name with established roots and clear pronunciation.

Renia is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may function as a shortened form of longer names like Renata (meaning 'reborn') or serve as a variant of Raina (meaning 'queen' in Slavic languages). The name also appears in Polish and Lithuanian naming traditions. With its flowing sound and accessible pronunciation, Renia offers a melodic quality that feels both familiar and distinctive. Despite its relative rarity in English-speaking countries, the name has a timeless quality that allows it to fit comfortably in contemporary naming landscapes. Renia carries a subtle elegance with its balanced syllables and gentle sound. The name's international character makes it appealing for families with European heritage or those seeking a name that travels well across cultural boundaries while remaining relatively uncommon.

Fela is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Yoruba (Nigerian) culture, it means 'luck' or 'success' and gained recognition through Nigerian musician Fela Kuti. In Spanish-speaking regions, it often serves as a diminutive for names like Felicia or Rafaela, connecting to Latin 'felix' meaning 'happy' or 'fortunate.' In Polish, Fela can be a nickname for Felicja. The name's simplicity, positive meanings, and cross-cultural presence make it appealing for diverse families. Despite its rich heritage, Fela remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, offering a concise, melodic option with meaningful cultural connections and uplifting associations of happiness and good fortune.

This very unusual name, also related to Hannah, was chosen for his daughter by Vin Diesel.

Amelcia is an uncommon feminine name that appears to be a variant or elaboration of Amelia, which derives from Germanic roots meaning 'work' or 'industrious.' This distinctive spelling adds a unique twist to the classic name while maintaining its elegant sound. The unusual 'lc' combination creates a sophisticated feel while potentially nodding to Romance language influences. Extremely rare in English-speaking countries, Amelcia might be found occasionally in Latin American or European contexts. The name carries the same warmth and vintage charm as Amelia but with an exclusive quality due to its scarcity. Possible nicknames include Mel, Melci, or Amy. Its distinctiveness makes it appealing for parents seeking a recognizable yet unique feminine name.