an elegant articulation

Natalia was derived from the Latin word natalis, meaning "birthday." It refers to the birthday of Jesus Christ, and thus originated as a name for girls born on Christmas Day. Related forms include the French Natalie, Portuguese Natalina, and Russian diminutive Natasha.

Liana is a pretty, graceful and simple name that doesn't fall flat. The name of a flowering tropical vine that grows in forests, it's an international gem that works well in multiple languages.

A bright and warm possibility for a summertime girl, Solana feels both soulful and fresh, distinctive and familiar. Originally adapted from the Spanish surname and Saint name, Solano, it entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2023.

Widely used across Europe as a common baptismal name symbolizing spiritual rebirth, Renata, in this country it has an operatic image via Italian-born divas Renata Tebadi and Renata Scotti.

Tiana gained a lot of popularity after Disney bestowed this pretty name upon its first African-American princess. Although it has declined in usage over recent years, Tiana’s connections to dainty Tatiana, Christiana and Bastiana should see it in continued usage for a while to come. Read more about Tiana and other Disney Princess Names in our featured blog.

Atalanta was a beautiful mythological maiden who refused to marry any man who couldn't beat her in a footrace -- quite a role model. This myth is found in Ovid's Metamorphoses and later in Swinburne's Atalantis in Calydon.

This makes Milan sound like less of a place, more of a name.

Santana is a saintly name...or Latin rock band. While traditionally masculine, character Santana Lopez on the show Glee showed the name's potential for a girl as well. Sound-wise, it feels like Savannah with a twist.

Finally, an attractive, undiscovered Old Testament choice for girls.

Atalia or Athalia is a biblical name with a gory history. But it's an attractive name in step with the current fashion for A-starting and -ending names that are both distinctive and deeply rooted.

Anatolia is a feminine name derived from the ancient Greek word "anatolē," meaning "sunrise" or "east." It refers to the geographic region now comprising most of modern Turkey, historically called Asia Minor. The name carries rich historical and geographical significance, evoking images of ancient civilizations and the meeting point between East and West. As a personal name, Anatolia remains quite rare, giving it an exotic and distinctive quality. Its melodious sound with alternating consonants and vowels creates a rhythmic, flowing pronunciation. The name's connection to sunrise symbolically represents new beginnings, hope, and illumination. For families with Turkish heritage, it might also serve as a meaningful cultural connection.

Melana is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Melina, which has Greek roots meaning 'honey' or 'gentle,' or it could relate to Milana, with Slavic origins. Some may see it as a blend of the popular names Melanie and Ana/Anna. Melana has never been widely used but saw modest usage in the United States during the late 20th century. The name has a flowing, melodic quality with its soft consonants and alternating vowel sounds. It carries a subtle exotic flair while remaining relatively easy to pronounce in English-speaking countries. Melana offers the appeal of being recognizable without being common, giving its bearers a sense of individuality with a name that still feels accessible and feminine.

Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual.

Amaranta is the unusual and intriguing Latinate form of the Greek botanical name Amarantha, which connects to an eternal mythical figure. An excellent choice for the parent who wants an A name but wishes to move beyond the usual complement of names from Amelia to Annabel.

Name that's virtually unknown here but has a lovely meaning and a simple sound and spelling.

Zetana is an exotic feminine name with unclear etymological origins. It may have connections to Greek roots, possibly relating to the letter "zeta," or it could be a modern creation inspired by names with similar sounds. The name has a distinctly mystical quality, enhanced by the unusual initial "Z" and the rhythmic flow of its three syllables. While extremely rare in usage, Zetana appeals to parents seeking a name with an otherworldly, magical feel that remains feminine and pronounceable. The name's rarity means most bearers would have a truly unique identity, though they might need to explain pronunciation or spelling occasionally. Zetana has a contemporary feel while evoking ancient, possibly celestial associations.

Anacita is a variation of the ancient feminization Aniceta that's largely unknown in the English-speaking world. But with the rise of so many A names, the pretty Anacita may have her day in the sun.

Catalia is a feminine name with multicultural origins, potentially derived from Greek 'katalios' meaning 'pure' or as a variation of Catalina, the Spanish form of Catherine. This mellifluous name blends European elegance with a distinctive flair that sets it apart from more common variants. While relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Catalia has gained modest recognition in Spanish-speaking communities and among parents seeking names with international appeal. The rhythmic flow of its syllables creates a musical quality, while its historical connections provide substance and depth. Its similarity to place names like Catalonia gives it geographic resonance while maintaining its identity as a personal name with classical roots.

Zorana is a feminine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Serbia, Croatia, and other Balkan countries. It derives from 'zora' meaning 'dawn' or 'aurora' in Slavic languages, with the feminine suffix '-ana' added. The name symbolizes new beginnings, brightness, and the beauty of daybreak. Zorana carries connotations of hope, light, and renewal. While not widely used in Western countries, it remains a meaningful choice in Eastern European communities, appreciated for its melodic sound and positive associations with the first light of day. The name's connection to natural phenomena gives it a timeless quality that resonates across cultures.