names i like

Iris has so much going for it. It's a fashionable flower name. It's a mythological name, from the Greek goddess of the rainbow. And it's a classic name, always ranking in the girls' Top 1000 but now at its highest point ever.

Made famous by the iconic and macabre character Wednesday Addams, this name has the spooky and Halloween-inspired feel that some parents might be looking for. The character has appeared in various adaptations of The Addams Family over the years, but the 2022 television series starring Jenna Ortega has given the name an unexpected boost in popularity.

Thora, related to Thor, is the ancient Norse thunder goddess name that's much softer and gentler than its meaning suggests. A noted bearer is actress Thora Birch.

Once a common boy name in Ireland, the dynamic Darby now has a definite unisex feel. A bit like a mash up between Darcy and Ruby, it appeared in the US Top 1000 in the 90s, peaking in 1995 when it reached #499. It's likely this sudden interest in Darby was owing to the 90s book and film, The Pelican Brief, starring Julia Roberts as a law student called Darby.

Darbi is a feminine name with modern origins, typically considered a creative spelling variant of Darby. The traditional Darby comes from an English surname and place name meaning 'deer settlement' or 'from the deer estate.' The modified spelling with an 'i' ending gives the name a more distinctly feminine appearance while maintaining its contemporary feel. Darbi emerged in popularity during the late 20th century when unisex names and surname-as-first-name trends gained traction. The name carries a spirited, energetic quality with its short, punchy sound. While not among the most common names, Darbi appeals to parents seeking something recognizable yet distinctive. Its sporty, approachable character makes it versatile across different stages of life, from childhood through adulthood.