Kat's Faves

  1. Lillie
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Lily or short form of Lillian, flower name
    • Description:

      This charming spelling of Lillie had its heyday in the late 1800s and ranked in the Top 100 until the end of the 1920s. It dropped off the Top 1000 completely in the 1980s and 1990s but is now back in play.
  2. Elly
    • Description:

      Elly is a charming feminine name that functions both as a standalone name and as a diminutive for several longer names including Eleanor, Elizabeth, Ellen, Eloise, and Eliana. With English and Greek origins, its root meaning connects to 'light' or 'shining one' through its connection to these longer forms. Elly has a friendly, approachable quality with its cheerful sound and simple spelling. While not typically ranking among the most popular names, it has maintained steady usage throughout the decades. The name strikes a perfect balance between feeling familiar and yet not overly common. Its brevity makes it practical and unpretentious, while still carrying the elegant heritage of its longer counterparts.

  3. Ansley
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "clearing with a hermitage"
    • Description:

      Part Ashley, part Ainsley, part Annie, Ansley featured in the US Top 1000 from the late '90s until 2020. It peaked in 2011 when it nearly reached the Top 600, but has declined in recent years.
  4. Enora
    • Origin:

      Breton
    • Meaning:

      "honor"
    • Description:

      Unusual Honor or Nora alternative, but we prefer the originals.
  5. Gelsey
    • Origin:

      Persian
    • Meaning:

      "flower"
    • Description:

      This name was given a lithe and graceful image by ballerina Gelsey Kirkland, but was later far surpassed by Kelsey and Chelsea.
  6. Lilis
    • Description:

      Lilis is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be connected to Lilith from Hebrew mythology or function as a variation of the flower name Lily. In Indonesian and Malay traditions, Lilis can relate to words meaning "soft" or "gentle." The name carries a delicate, feminine quality with its soft sounds and floral associations. Though rare in Western countries, it has seen some usage in Southeast Asian nations. The brevity and melodic quality of Lilis make it accessible yet distinctive. The name might appeal to parents seeking something uncommon with cross-cultural appeal and a naturally sweet, gentle impression.
  7. Rayner
    • Description:

      Rayner is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from the Old Germanic elements 'ragin' (counsel) and 'heri' (army), thus meaning 'wise warrior' or 'strong counselor.' It was introduced to England by the Normans after the Conquest and has historical significance in medieval Europe. Though uncommon in modern usage, Rayner has seen occasional revivals as parents seek distinctive yet historically grounded names. The name has a strong, commanding sound while maintaining sophistication. It shares similarities with the more common name Raymond but offers a unique alternative. Rayner also exists as a surname in English-speaking countries, adding to its versatility and appeal as a given name with heritage connections.
  8. Liliann
    • Description:

      Liliann is a feminine name that serves as a variation of Lillian or Lilian, which themselves derived from the flower name Lily, symbolizing purity and innocence. The additional 'n' in Liliann creates a slight distinction in spelling while maintaining the name's elegant sound. This name combines the delicate beauty associated with the lily flower and the classic sophistication of traditional feminine names. Though less common than Lillian, Liliann offers the same melodious quality with a unique written form. The name has a gentle, flowing sound that conveys femininity and grace. It appeals to parents who appreciate traditional flower-inspired names but desire a subtle twist on spelling to create individuality without sacrificing the name's recognized charm and timeless appeal.

  9. Braylyn
    • Description:

      Braylyn is a modern feminine name with American origins, though it may occasionally be used for boys as well. Created as part of the contemporary trend of combining popular name elements, it blends the popular 'Bray-' sound (as in Braylon or Brayden) with the feminine '-lyn' ending seen in names like Brooklyn and Madelyn. The name emerged in the early 2000s amid the popularity of creative, unique-sounding names. While not carrying traditional historical meaning, Braylyn conveys a sense of modernity and individuality. Its popularity remains modest but has grown in diverse American communities, especially among parents seeking distinctive yet melodic names with contemporary appeal.
  10. Lieselotte
    • Origin:

      Combination of Liese and Charlotte
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God + free man"
    • Description:

      Also spelled Liselotte, this is a clunky-but-cute compound name of German, Danish, Swedish, and Dutch origin. It combines elements of popular Elizabeth with popular Charlotte to create a name with a very different feel: sweet and oldy-worldy.
  11. Dhimitrios
    • Description:

      Dhimitrios is a distinctive masculine name with Greek origins, representing a variant spelling of Dimitrios or Demetrios. The name derives from Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility, ultimately meaning "follower of Demeter." This variation with the added 'h' is less common than the standard Dimitrios spelling but preserves the same cultural heritage. The name remains primarily used in Greek and Cypriot communities, though it has spread somewhat through diaspora populations. While not as internationally recognized as the shortened form Dimitri, Dhimitrios carries a sense of classical dignity and historical continuity with ancient Greek civilization. It offers the friendly nicknames Dhimi or Mitros.
  12. Doritt
    • Description:

      Doritt is a feminine name that appears to be a variation of Dorothea or Dorothy, which derive from the Greek elements "doron" meaning "gift" and "theos" meaning "god"—essentially "gift of God." This particular spelling might also be influenced by literary connections, possibly reminiscent of characters like Dickens' Little Dorrit (though with different spelling). The name has a vintage, somewhat Scandinavian or Germanic feel with its ending consonants. Doritt remains quite uncommon in contemporary usage, maintaining an air of distinction and old-world charm. The name might appeal to parents seeking something traditional in essence but uncommon in form, offering familiar sounds wrapped in a less conventional package.