Really Unusual Names That I Love!

  1. Adalius
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas brought his Latinate name into the spotlight, and he has an equally unusual middle name--DONQUAIL.
  2. Adelicia
    • Description:

      Adelicia is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning 'noble' and 'kind' or 'of the nobility.' It represents an elaborate variant of Adelaide or Adela. Historically, the name gained recognition through Adelicia of Louvain, the second wife of King Henry I of England in the 12th century. Despite its royal historical connections, Adelicia has remained quite rare throughout modern naming records. The name carries an elegant, aristocratic quality with its flowing syllables and classical structure. For parents drawn to vintage names with historical depth, Adelicia offers the appeal of ancient nobility combined with a feminine, melodic sound pattern not commonly encountered.

  3. Adhara
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "virgins"
    • Description:

      Adhara is the name of one of the brightest stars in the sky. Also known as Adara, this name is perfectly suitable for a child.
  4. Adira
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "strong"
    • Description:

      Adira is one of those names that feels familiar without being overused. Simple but with subtle flair, Adira crosses different languages easily and could provide an alternative option tor the likes of Ava, Ariana, Adeline, and Anna.
  5. Adwoa
    • Origin:

      Akan, Ghanaian
    • Meaning:

      "born on Monday"
    • Description:

      Adwoa is a given name used for women born on Monday in Western Africa, particularly Ghana and some parts of Togo and Ivory Coast. The male equivalent is Kwadwo.
  6. Aer
    • Description:

      Aer is an uncommon feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Latin word for 'air' or 'atmosphere,' suggesting qualities of freedom, lightness, and invisibility yet essential presence. Alternatively, it could be connected to Irish mythology, where Aer was associated with air and the sky. As a modern name, Aer appeals to parents seeking ultra-short, elemental names with a contemporary feel. Its simplicity—just three letters and typically one syllable—makes it distinctive while easy to pronounce across languages. Though exceedingly rare in usage statistics, Aer aligns with the growing trend toward unique nature-inspired names and minimalist naming patterns.
  7. Aeronwy
    • Description:

      Aeronwy is a feminine Welsh name pronounced roughly as "air-ON-wee." It gained recognition as the name of Dylan Thomas's daughter, Aeronwy Thomas-Ellis, who became a poet and writer herself. The name has roots in Welsh geography, as Afon Rhonwy is a river in Wales, with "afon" meaning "river" in Welsh. Aeronwy embodies the lyrical quality characteristic of Welsh names, with its flowing sounds and unique letter combinations. Though rare outside Wales, it represents an authentic piece of Welsh heritage and carries poetic associations through its connection to the Thomas literary legacy. The name may appeal to parents with Welsh ancestry or those drawn to names with authentic Celtic origins. Despite its unfamiliarity to many English speakers, Aeronwy has a musical quality that can transcend cultural boundaries.
  8. Aesop
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Description:

      There once was a moralizing fabulist who tried to make it as a baby name...and failed.
  9. Airin
    • Description:

      Airin is a gentle feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Erin (meaning "peace" or "Ireland" in Gaelic), a feminine form of Aaron (meaning "high mountain" or "exalted" in Hebrew), or a variation of Airi (a Japanese name meaning "love jasmine"). With its soft, airy quality, Airin evokes a sense of lightness and grace. The name has a contemporary feel while maintaining crosscultural appeal. Though not commonly used in mainstream Western naming, Airin offers a modern alternative to more traditional names while remaining simple to pronounce and spell. The name's delicate sound pattern creates a gentle impression while its multiple cultural connections give it versatility. For parents seeking something uncommon yet accessible, Airin provides a distinctive choice with a feminine, ethereal quality.
  10. Alberik
    • Description:

      Alberik is a masculine name with deep Germanic roots, derived from elements meaning "elf" or "supernatural being" and "ruler" or "power." This ancient name was borne by several historical figures in medieval Europe, including nobles in Germanic regions. In Wagner's Ring Cycle, Alberich (a variant spelling) appears as the king of the dwarves, adding literary significance to the name. Though rare in modern English-speaking countries, Alberik maintains popularity in some European regions, particularly those with Germanic heritage. The name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and a touch of mystical heritage. For parents seeking a distinctive yet historically grounded name with royal associations, Alberik offers an uncommon choice with substantial character.
  11. Alisa
    • Origin:

      Variation of Alice, or Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "noble; great happiness"
    • Description:

      Alisa is variation of Alice with a touch of international flair. Used in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Estonia and Poland, it is also familiar in English speaking countries too. As a Hebrew name, Alisa has a bright, cheerful meaning, that adds another layer to the name.
  12. Ambrosia
    • Origin:

      Latin, feminine form of Ambrose
    • Meaning:

      "Immortal"
    • Description:

      Ambrosia combines some of the more whimsical qualities of more popular Aurora and Isabella, with a heavenly meaning.
  13. Amethyst
    • Origin:

      Gem and Color name
    • Description:

      As flower names become more unique, so can gem names move beyond Ruby and Pearl to names like Topaz, Sapphire, and Peridot. Amethyst, the purple birthstone for February, has never been in the Top 1000, but could have some appeal, joining similarly-hued Violet and Lilac, all of which make great names for Aquarius babies or names for February babies.
  14. Amilia
    • Description:

      Amilia is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Amelia, which derives from the Germanic word 'amal' meaning 'work' or 'industrious.' This alternate spelling maintains the melodic quality of the original while offering a slightly different visual presentation. Amilia shares the rich history of Amelia, which has been used since medieval times and was popularized by figures like aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. The name has a gentle, flowing sound that contributes to its romantic appeal. While less common than the standard spelling, Amilia appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a subtle twist to make it more distinctive.

  15. Amoret
    • Origin:

      Literary name
    • Description:

      This lovely name from Spenser's The Faerie Queene is borne by a character who represents married love. A related unusual-yet-usable choice: Amabel.
  16. Amphion
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Description:

      Son of Zeus known for musical abilities, an edgy choice for music-minded families.
  17. Andone
    • Description:

      Andone is a masculine name with Basque origins, found primarily in the Basque region spanning northern Spain and southwestern France. In Basque tradition, the name may be related to 'andi' meaning 'great' or 'big.' It's a relatively uncommon name even within Basque communities, giving it a distinctive quality. Andone has a melodic sound with its three syllables and ending vowel, characteristic of many Basque names which often differ significantly from other European naming traditions. While not widely used internationally, it offers a unique cultural connection to Basque heritage. Some bearers of this name may be found in diaspora communities where Basque culture has been preserved.
  18. Andromeda
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Meaning:

      "advising like a man"
    • Description:

      One of the stellar unique baby names from mythology, Andromeda was the beautiful daughter of Cassiopeia who, like her mother, literally became a star--the constellation that bears her name.The Bohemian Andromeda makes a dramatic and adventurous choice in a time when four-syllable mythological names are gradually making their way into the mainstream.
  19. Angaros
    • Origin:

      Persian, courier
    • Description:

      Angaros is a rarely used unisex name related to Angel.
  20. Annunciata
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "annunciation"
    • Description:

      A religious name, referring to the announcement by the Virgin Mary that she was with child.