Randomness

Alcina is an operatic name, best-known as the name of the beautiful sorceress of the eponymous Handel opera drawn from the Orlando poems. Alcina and her sister Morgana live on an island where Alcina seduces every passing sailor but once their novelty wears off, changes them into plants, rocks, or animals. Alcina comes with modern-sounding short forms Alcie or Alsie, which feel more baby-ready now that names such as Elsie, Elsa, and Isla are becoming popular again.

Alizala is an uncommon feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may represent an elaborated form of Aliza (a Hebrew name meaning 'joy') with a decorative suffix, or could blend elements of popular names like Aliza and Layla. Another possibility is derivation from Arabic linguistic roots related to beauty or precious qualities. The name has a melodic, flowing quality with its alternating 'a' and 'l' sounds creating a rhythmic pattern. Alizala remains extremely rare in English-speaking countries and does not appear on popularity charts. Its exotic sound and multicultural possibilities make it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with international flair and feminine musicality.

Ancel is a distinguished masculine name with French origins, derived from 'Anselm', which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'god' (ans) and 'helmet' or 'protection' (helm). The name carries connotations of divine protection and noble character. Historically, Ancel has maintained modest usage in France and among French-speaking populations. It gained some recognition through notable bearers like Ancel Keys, the American physiologist who studied the Mediterranean diet. While never achieving widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Ancel has persisted as a distinctive alternative to more common names, appealing to parents seeking a name with French elegance and historical depth without being overly familiar.

Aphra would make an interesting choice-- especially since it's the name of the first professional female writer in English, the seventeenth century's Aphra Behn. Born in 1640, she was a prolific dramatist of the English Restoration, and a spy.

Unusual name with stylish, silky feel.

Though most parents would shy away from Ebenezer, short form Eben is affable and creative and perfectly able to stand alone; nothing Scroogish about it. This also makes a fresh new spin on the very popular Ethan or Evan.

Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual.

Hilary may feel too connected to a single personality, but this version offers a fresh and interesting alternative.

Perhaps to honor an ancestral Abraham, but presents a confusing image.

Attractive, rhythmic choice with roots in several languages and cultures. It's a lesser-known a celestial name, meaning "star" in Basque and referring to a star in the constellation Boötes in Arabic.

Hungarian form of Katherine.

New twist to the Maur- names, a bit cosmetic sounding.