29/2016

  1. Elina
    • Origin:

      Spanish, Italian, German, Greek, and English variation of Helen
    • Meaning:

      "bright, shining light"
    • Description:

      Elina is one of the many variations of mother name Helen to make the US Top 1000 list, and is given to around 300 girls each year. While it might blend in among the Helenas, Elenas, and Alinas, it might be a good way to go if you want the eh-lee-nuh pronunciation or the potential for nicknames Elle, Ellie, or Ella.
  2. Tina
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Christina et al
    • Description:

      Tina, despite its petite and tinkly image, is apt these days to be replaced by the more elegant originals, Christina and Martina.It does have some strong namesakes, though, in Tina Turner (born Anna Mae), Tina Brown (born Christina), Tina Fey (born Elizabeth), and photographer Tina Barney (born Tina).
  3. Selina
    • Origin:

      Variation of Selena or Celine, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "moon; heaven"
    • Description:

      The Selina spelling swims below the Top 1000, which it fell off more than 15 years ago. Still, more than 160 baby girls were named Selina in 2023, compared with over 1300 named Selena and more than 1000 called the fashion-friendly Celine.
  4. Hayley
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "hay field"
    • Description:

      It all started in 1946, when Hayley Mills was given her mother's maiden name. Now that spelling is in third place, after Hailey and Haley, with all three adding up to one of the most popular names in the country. Hayley is the most used spelling in Australia.
  5. Tom
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Thomas
    • Meaning:

      "twin"
    • Description:

      Just like Sam and Ben, Tom could be revived as a simple, well liked name on its own. Tom, just Tom, is one of the Top 100 Boy Names in France
  6. Frieda
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "peace"
    • Description:

      This traditional Germanic name hasn't been on the U.S. list since 1958, but perhaps due to the mythic power of painter Frida Kahlo, parents are beginning to show some interest in it.
  7. Rasmus
    • Origin:

      Finnish and Scandinavian variation of Erasmus
    • Meaning:

      "beloved, desired"
    • Description:

      A form of ancient name newly popular in Eastern Europe, Rasmus is rugged and distinctive - and on trend in Estonia and Finland. Virtually unknown in the U.S. but with its philosophical roots and uplifting meaning, Rasmus seems prime for use. The Rasmus is a Finnish rock band.
  8. Leonor
    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese variation of Eleanor, from English, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      This streamlined variation of Eleanor is common in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Portugal itself, where it has ranked among the Top 3 baby girl names for over a decade.
  9. Kim
    • Origin:

      English diminutive of Kimberly; Vietnamese; Scandinavian diminutive of Joachima; Soviet name
    • Description:

      Kim was the coolest name... of the 1960s. Kim was popularized by actress Kim Novak, and its energy is still maintained by rapper Lil' Kim, but it holds lil' or no appeal for new babies. Parents who like Kim's short, sweet sound might look to a choice such as Sam, Lou, or Belle.
  10. Pierre
    • Origin:

      French variation of Peter
    • Meaning:

      "rock, stone"
    • Description:

      One of the most familiar — if not stereotypical — Gallic names. Pierre was a Top 5 name in France from the 19th century through 1940 and is now on a steady decline in its native land. In the US, Pierre was most common in the 1980s but it has never cracked the Top 300.
  11. Samira
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "companion in evening conversation"
    • Description:

      Shiny cousin of Samara with an intriguing meaning. Increasingly associated with the charming Samira Wiley, a perennial scene-stealer on "Orange is the New Black" and "The Handmaid's Tale."
  12. Camilo
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "young ceremonial attendant"
    • Description:

      The increasing popularity of Camila may have pushed this underrated Spanish name into the Top 1000 — though it remains far less popular than its feminine counterpart. A perfect familiar-but-rare choice.
  13. Nathanael
    • Origin:

      Variation of Nathaniel
    • Description:

      Nathaniel is a wonderful classic name and Nathanael, which may be an ancient Greek or Hebrew form, is appealing and has gravitas but may prove needlessly confusing in the modern world.
  14. July
    • Origin:

      English word name
    • Meaning:

      "month name"
    • Description:

      Most things Jul-related – from the month of July to popular modern names Julia and Julian – originate with Roman emperor Julius Caesar, and the month name July is no exception. Fifteen girls and seven boys were named July in 2013, putting this month name into the class of gender neutral names.
  15. Shirin
    • Origin:

      Persian
    • Meaning:

      "charming, sweet"
    • Description:

      An attractive unisex choice heard in several countries, including Armenia. Can be pronounced sheer-IN or sheer-EEN.
  16. Franziska
    • Description:

      Franziska is a feminine name of German origin, serving as the female form of Franz (Francis). The name ultimately derives from Latin "Franciscus," meaning "Frenchman" or "free one." Franziska has been consistently popular in German-speaking countries, particularly Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland, where it's appreciated for its classic elegance and cultural roots. The name gained recognition through figures like Franziska von Hohenheim, a German noblewoman of the 18th century. While less common in English-speaking countries, Franziska offers an international alternative to Frances or Francesca. The name carries a sophisticated European flair with its distinctive consonant blend and melodic three-syllable structure. It provides the charming nickname options Franzi or Ziska, adding versatility to this culturally rich name.
  17. Mateus
    • Origin:

      Portuguese variation of Matthew, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"
    • Description:

      Portuguese variation of Matthew.
  18. Hagen
    • Description:

      Hagen is a masculine name with Germanic roots, derived from the Old German word 'hag' meaning 'enclosure' or 'hedge'. In Norse mythology, Hagen (or Högni) appears as a character in the Nibelungenlied, where he is portrayed as a loyal but ultimately tragic figure. The name has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but enjoys more popularity in Germany and Scandinavian countries. Hagen carries connotations of strength, loyalty and protection, reflecting its historical associations with warriors and guardians. In modern usage, it appeals to parents seeking a strong, distinctive name with historical depth and European heritage.
  19. Shayan
    • Description:

      Shayan is a feminine name with rich multicultural origins, primarily Persian and Arabic. In Persian, it means 'worthy' or 'deserving,' while some sources suggest it can also mean 'follower of Shah.' The name is used for both genders in its cultures of origin, though this entry focuses on its feminine usage. With its melodious sound and positive meaning, Shayan has gained some international recognition while remaining relatively uncommon in Western countries. The name balances exotic appeal with straightforward pronunciation, making it accessible across cultural boundaries. Shayan's connection to ancient Persian culture gives it historical depth, while its modern sound allows it to feel contemporary and elegant for today's naming preferences.
  20. Sayra
    • Description:

      Sayra is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots. In Arabic contexts, it may be related to 'Saira,' meaning 'traveler' or 'journey by night.' In Spanish-speaking countries, it sometimes appears as a variant of Sara/Sarah (meaning 'princess'). The name has a modern feel despite its traditional origins, with its balanced two-syllable structure and melodic sound. Sayra has gained modest popularity in Latino communities in the United States and maintains presence in various Middle Eastern countries. Its cross-cultural appeal makes it attractive to parents seeking names that work well in multiple languages. The name carries connotations of movement, adventure, and nobility depending on which etymological tradition is emphasized.