26/2016

This jazzy old name could make a comeback, the way Josephine and Ella have. In England the name was popularized by Queen Victoria's daughter Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, after whom her governor general of Canada husband named the North American province. Jazz singer Alberta Hunter was a noted bearer.

If you love both unique baby names and flower names for girls, Amaryllis might be a perfect choice for you.

Emily gets a Bohemian spin and a French accent when it becomes Amelie. This favorite among French girl names has been gaining notice here thanks to the charming 2001 French film Amelie; it entered the American popularity list in 2002 and is now solidly established in the Top 1000.

Annik is a pleasing combination of unusual and familiar. As first Ann and now Anna become overused, you might want to explore its wilder variations such as this Eastern European short form.

Cultured and cultivated in an old-style, Old World way, Anton is popular across Europe. It may be associated with the classic Russian playwright Anton Chekhov and also with ballroom dancer Anton Du Beke.

Arda is a simple gender-neutral name with several possible origins and meanings. As a Turkish name, it's usually used for males and means scepter. There is also a river in Turkey called the Arda. The Hebrew name Arda means bronze. And Arda may also be a variation of the English Arden, the name of a magical Shakespearean forest.

There's something particularly attractive about names with an interior "j" and Arjan is a prime example. The Punjabi version is pronounced with a conventional j as in jar; the Dutch Arjan, which is a variation of Adrien, pronounces the 'j' like a 'y', while the Albanian pronunciation has three syllables and is a variant of Arian. A multicultural choice, Arjan is in the Top 1000 in England and Wales.

This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).

Ben, the diminutive of Benjamin or Benedict, can easily stand on its own as a simple, strong, nice-guy choice, though it's somewhat attenuated. Ben is this generation's Bob or Bill.

This no-nonsense German variation of Charles is strong and sturdy. A top choice throughout the 20th century, Carl is now verging on falling off the charts.

Catharina is a feminine name with deep European roots, particularly common in Germanic, Scandinavian, and Dutch-speaking regions. It derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, later Latinized to Catharina, meaning 'pure.' This elegant, classical variation of Catherine carries a regal quality, having been borne by numerous European queens and noblewomen throughout history. While Catherine and Katherine are more common in English-speaking countries, Catharina maintains popularity in continental Europe. The name offers a formal, sophisticated alternative with international appeal. Its rich historical connections and melodious pronunciation give it an air of timeless elegance. Though less common in contemporary America and Britain, Catharina represents a distinguished heritage choice with cross-cultural versatility.

Ceris is a feminine name with Welsh origins, often associated with the cherry tree or cherry fruit. This concise, two-syllable name (pronounced either as KEH-ris or SEH-ris) carries natural symbolism and beauty. In Welsh tradition, Ceris connects to sweetness, fertility, and the renewal of spring. Though relatively uncommon even in Wales, it represents a distinctive alternative to more popular nature-inspired names. Ceris has remained somewhat under the radar internationally but appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage that's both recognizable and unique. Its brevity and soft sound give it a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots. The name's connection to cherries also links it to qualities of sweetness, vitality, and natural beauty.

Charlott is a feminine given name that represents a variation of Charlotte, which itself derives from the French feminine form of Charles. The name ultimately comes from Germanic origins, meaning 'free man' or 'strong'. While less common than Charlotte, Charlott maintains the same sophisticated and classic appeal but with a slightly more distinctive spelling. Popular throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavian countries, Charlott offers parents a way to honor traditional naming while incorporating a subtle twist. The name has never reached the heights of popularity that Charlotte has enjoyed, but it maintains a steady presence, appealing to those seeking a name with historical roots and elegant character.

Chiara is a lovely and romantic Italian name that's familiar but not widely used here: a real winner. You might consider Chiara instead of Claire, Clara, Cara, or even Keira.

More likely to be spelled Constantine, this was the name of the first Christian emperor of the Roman empire, as well as three Scottish kings. Previously thought of as too bulky and unwieldy a name for a modern child, these days it would be perfectly acceptable.

Cornelius, the New Testament name of a third century Pope and saint, is one of those venerable Latin names on the edge of consideration, despite the corny nickname alert.

David is an enduring worldwide classic, used from ancient times to the present day.

Lost in limbo for decades and decades, Elsa now stands a good chance of following along in the progression from Emma to Ella to Etta, thanks to the ice queen heroine who "Let It Go" in the wildly popular Disney movie Frozen. The name shot all the up to Number 286 (its highest ranking since the 1890s) in the year after the release of the movie, though it's now dropped back down the list in the US.

Emilia is the feminine form of the Roman clan name Aemilius, which derived from the Latin aemulus, meaning "rival." In Shakespeare’s Othello, Emilia is the wife of Iago and confidante of Desdemona. Amelia, although homonymous, has a different root and meaning.

Emma has now been among the top girl names in the United States for several years, claiming the Number 1 crown in 2008 and again from 2015 to 2018 before dropping back to second place.