Whimsical Winsome Names

Though Isabel is a smash hit, Christabel still hasn't been fully embraced. It was originally popularized in England via the Coleridge poem Christabel ("whom her father loves so well") and was given to the poet's granddaughter. Christabel Pankhurst was a famous U.K. suffragist.

We've seen Haven take off as a nouveau girls' name; Harbor could follow in its wake.

If you like names that are not really names -- some say, the wave of the future -- Harbor has an attractive sound as well as an appealing meaning and image.

Penrose – an ancient place-name and surname derived from several villages in Cornwall, Wales, and the Welsh border country of England – would make for an even more unexpected alternative to quirky nature name Primrose. Intuitive nicknames Penny or Rosie make it feel more wearable.

Oceane (oh-see-EN) has been one of the chicest names in France for several years, ranking in the French Top 50. This is a sophisticated name that could easily cross the ocean, and is much more stylish than the English Ocean or Oceana.

A variation of the popular Caden, Kayden, Kaden, and so on, Caiden is in the US Top 500 and the UK Top 1000. When you combine all the spelling variations however, Caiden begins to feel and sound like a Top 20 choice in the States.

Noreen's in limbo, especially now that Nora has made a comeback.

Lydie is a feminine name with French origins, representing the French form of Lydia. The name traces back to ancient times, derived from the historic region of Lydia in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The name means 'from Lydia' and has connections to the ancient Greek culture. In France and French-speaking regions, Lydie has maintained steady usage, appreciated for its elegant simplicity and classical roots. The name has a delicate, refined quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce. While less common in English-speaking countries than the form Lydia, Lydie offers a subtle French twist that appeals to parents seeking names with European flair. The name carries associations with culture and refinement, reflecting its ancient heritage and continued use in sophisticated naming traditions.

The name of a type of nautical knot and the surname of an English soccer star feels very at home in a world of Kendricks and Merricks.

Charming Dickensian route to Nick.

Dominie is an uncommon masculine name with Scottish and Dutch connections. Historically, it was used as a title for schoolmasters or ministers in Scotland, derived from the Latin 'dominus' meaning 'master' or 'lord.' In Dutch communities, 'dominee' similarly referred to a minister or preacher. As a personal name, Dominie has literary connections, appearing in works by Scottish authors like Sir Walter Scott. The name carries connotations of education, leadership, and spiritual guidance. While rare in contemporary use, it offers an intellectual and distinguished quality. The name might appeal to parents with Scottish or Dutch heritage or those seeking a name with historical depth and scholarly associations. Its uncommon nature makes it a distinctive choice.

Fara is a feminine name with multiple potential origins, giving it a rich cross-cultural significance. In Arabic, Fara can mean "joy" or "happiness," while in Persian it may relate to "glory" or "splendor." Some sources also connect it to the Latin word for "traveler." The name appears in various cultures including Middle Eastern, North African, and European traditions, though with different etymological roots. Fara offers a simple yet melodious sound with its two open syllables and flowing vowels. While never extremely common in the United States, the name has seen intermittent usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Its brevity, pleasant sound, and positive meanings make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name with international appeal.

Fresh, evocative choice.