Over The Top

Cadmus is the name of the serpent-slaying hero of Greek mythology who also founded the city of Thebes and is credited with inventing the alphabet. Its ancient feel might appeal to modern parents — especially since Cadmus Peverell is a human Harry Potter character, one of the three original owners of the Deathly Hallows.

Cassiane, also spelled Kassiani or Kasiani, is an ancient Greek name best known as the name of a saint famous as a hymnographer. The Hymn of Cassiane, traditionally sung on Tuesday of Easter Week in the Greek Orthodox Church, is associated with fallen women. The 9th century saint Cassiane was supposed to be in love with the Emperor Theophilos, who rejected her when she proved to be more intelligent than he.

Castiel, which vaulted into the Top 1000 on the wings of the angel hero of the television show Supernatural, is the name of the Angel of the day Thursday. It may also derive some appeal from the newly-fashionable "Cas" syllable, as in Cassian and Cassius.

With a long and noble history -- Cyprian was one of the great Christian Latin writers -- this could make a highly unusual but meaningful choice.

A name with an ancient pedigree which might prove confusing to the modern ear.

Sad tinge to the name of the beautiful German city firebombed during World War II. Its name derives from Sorbian drezga, meaning "forest".

A modern Welsh name that will be misunderstood as Irene.

Endellion is the name of an early saint who was a daughter of King Brychan and goddaughter of King Arthur whose life is commemorated by the Cornish village of St. Endellion. This intriguing ancient name was brought into modern usage by British Prime Minister David Cameron, who used it as one of the middle names for his fourth child, a baby girl.

The name of a mythically handsome youth – loved by Selene, the moon, who bore him fifty daughters. If you're looking for a mythological name for your son, this might make an excellent choice both rare and appealing.

A literary name created by J. R. R. Tolkien for a Lord of the Rings noblewoman of Rohan. Properly spelled with an accent over the first E – Éowyn – it would make an interesting choice for literature lovers or fans of names like Elowen and Evelyn.

Bright and vibrant but elegant too, Estrella is a rising star among Hispanic families that would make a good cross-cultural choice too. A Spanish word name that literally means "star", it is similar to other popular names with the same stellar meaning such as Esther and Stella.

Esylt is a feminine name of Welsh origin, being a variant spelling of Essyllt or Esyllt, which is the Welsh form of Isolde (or Iseult). The name is prominently featured in Arthurian legend and Celtic mythology as the Irish princess in the tragic love story of Tristan and Isolde. The Welsh pronunciation typically emphasizes the first syllable (ES-ilt). While maintaining deep connections to Celtic heritage and medieval romance, this particular spelling remains extremely rare even in Wales. The name carries associations with tragic beauty, forbidden love, and ancient Celtic traditions. Its unusual spelling and mythological connections make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with strong cultural roots and literary significance while remaining distinctly uncommon.

Gamaliel is a biblical masculine name of Hebrew origin meaning 'reward of God' or 'God is my rewarder'. In the New Testament, Gamaliel was a respected Pharisee and teacher of law under whom the apostle Paul studied. He was known for his wisdom and moderation. Throughout history, the name has been used in Jewish, Christian, and particularly Protestant communities, though it has never been widely popular. In the United States, Gamaliel saw limited use in the 19th century, particularly among Puritan families and religious communities. Today, it remains uncommon but might appeal to parents seeking a rare biblical name with historical significance and a distinctive sound.

An unusual Gwyn name with a lovely meaning, this compound name pairs Gwyn with the name Eira, meaning "snow". A relatively modern creation, it remains very rare.