Names of imaginary childhood friends

An international variation of classic Alexander, this form has slightly softer sounds, yet feels just as strong. Popular in Poland, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia, but familiar in the UK too, short forms include Aleks, Sander, Sandi, and Sašo (Sasho).

Aleksandra is the preferred spelling in many Eastern European languages and cultures, but for English-speakers it's ironically more confusing if also perfectly phonetically clear.

One of the most evenly divided unisex names these days; strong and energetic, if overused, for both genders.

Anna has become the dominant form of the Ann family, offering a touch of the international to English speakers and a bit more style than the oversimplified Ann or Anne.

Barbara is back! Among the fastest-rising names of 2023, Barbara came back from oblivion at the very bottom of the Top 1000, gaining nearly 100 places on the popularity list.

Most Bills today are dads...or grandpas. The younger Williams are usually nicknamed Will, or called by their full names.

A light and pretty pan-cultural name which can be considered a variant of either the Greek name Selene or Selena, meaning "moon", or of the French Celine, meaning "heavenly". An attractive choice that is surprisingly rare in the US: out of the Top 1000 since 2006.

Cindy as a name in its own right made it into the Top 20 in 1957 and remained a Top 200 girls' name until the end of the 20th century. Although it's fallen precipitously since then and left the Top 1000 completely in 2015, Cindy remains a name commonly heard in the US. Today, though, it would more likely be attached to moms or grandmas than to babies.

Like Sky and Sunshine, this fluffy name from the hippie 1970s has floated back onto the naming radar. It's similarity of Clyde and Claude help to ground it.

The K makes this slightly more modern than its more traditional original

Dominika is the feminine form of Dominic, with Slavic origins particularly popular in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries. The name derives from the Latin "dominicus," meaning "of the Lord" or "belonging to God," reflecting its religious roots. Traditionally associated with Sunday (the Lord's day) or children born on Sunday, Dominika carries spiritual significance. The name gained popularity in Eastern Europe after Saint Dominic founded the Dominican Order in the 13th century. In the United States, Dominika remains uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being relatively easy to pronounce. Its four syllables create a rhythmic, musical quality. The name conveys strength and femininity simultaneously, with nickname options including Nika, Mika, or Domi, offering versatility for different stages of life.

Ewa is a feminine name primarily used in Polish culture as a variant of Eve or Eva. Its origins trace back to the Hebrew name Chavah, meaning 'life' or 'living one.' In Biblical tradition, Eve was the first woman created by God. This short, two-syllable name has a simple elegance with its clear vowel sounds. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ewa is well-established in Poland and some other Eastern European nations. The name combines ancient religious heritage with a clean, modern sound. Its brevity makes it practical across language barriers, though English speakers might mispronounce it as 'EE-wah' rather than the correct 'EH-vah.' Ewa offers a subtle international flair while maintaining connections to one of the most recognizable female names in Western tradition.

A lacy, lucky name very popular in the Hispanic community a decade ago, less so now.

Felicjan is a masculine name of Polish origin, derived from the Latin name Felicianus, which comes from the root word "felix" meaning "happy" or "fortunate." This distinguished name has been present in Polish culture for centuries, often associated with Saint Felician, a Christian martyr. While Felicjan remains relatively uncommon outside of Poland and Polish communities, it carries a dignified air and positive meaning that transcends cultural boundaries. The name combines strength with an optimistic meaning, making it appealing for parents seeking a name with historical depth and positive connotations. Traditional Polish diminutives include Felek or Felko.

Genowefa is a feminine name of Polish origin, derived from the Germanic name Genovefa (Geneviève in French). The name combines elements meaning 'tribe' or 'race' (gene) and 'woman' (wefa). Genowefa was particularly popular in Poland during the early to mid-20th century but has declined significantly in usage in recent decades, now considered somewhat old-fashioned. The name carries connections to Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris, who lived in the 5th century. Traditional Polish families may still use this name to honor family heritage or religious devotion. While rare among younger generations, Genowefa represents a strong connection to Polish cultural traditions and naming practices, embodying the blend of Germanic influence with distinctly Polish phonology.

Iconoclasts though we may be, we like Fred, we like Frank, and we like George, which was among the Top 10 from 1830 to 1950, when the number of little Georges started to decline. Solid, strong, royal and saintly, yet friendly and unpretentious, we think that George is in prime position for a comeback, especially since it was chosen by Britain's royal couple.

Helena is one of those classic names that just misses making the US Top 1000 girl names for its entire history, falling off for a single year in 1992. Since then it's been drifting lazily up the charts, and makes a perfect choice if you want a name that both fits in and stands out.

This form of Irene feels fresher and gives the classic name a chic, international flair. It's most commonly used in Eastern Europe.

Julia was an ancient Roman imperial name given to females in the house of a Julius, as in Caesar. Its origin is shrouded in history, but possible roots include Latin iuvenis, meaning "youthfu"; Greek ioulos, meaning "downy-bearded"; or Jovis, a form of Jupiter, which means "sky father".