Not gender neutral... Yet
- Antimony
Origin:
Element nameDescription:
Antimony is a lustrous grey metal. Beware though - antimony is very poisonous and harmful to the environment, so a bit of a harsh name to give to a child.
- Arbor
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Arbor is an original unisex tree-related choice we're sure to hear more of. Highly unusual now, Arbor takes its place alongside other new arborial names ranging from the mighty Oak (or Oakley) to the more delicate Birch to the more flowery Juniper, Acacia, and Hazel.
- Ardis
Origin:
Scottish-IrishMeaning:
"fervent"Description:
The name of a character in the once scandalous novel Valley of the Dolls now sounds a little more dated than the similar Arden.
- Arely
Origin:
Spanish feminization of Areli, HebrewMeaning:
"the voice of God"Description:
Likely a feminised form of Areli (one of Gad’s sons according to Genesis), Arely is a Spanish girls’ name with Hebrew roots meaning "the voice of God." Most common among Spanish-speakers (and a fairly popular name in Spain), Arely might be a great choice for parents looking for a name with Biblical roots that still sounds trendy and feminine and wears well across cultures.
- Aristen
Description:
Aristen is a rare feminine name with subtle classical undertones, possibly derived from Greek elements or as a feminine variation of Aristotle or Ariston. The name has an intellectual, elegant quality that suggests wisdom and refinement. 'Ariste' in Greek means 'best' or 'excellent,' which may contribute to the name's distinguished feel. While not commonly found in historical records, Aristen emerged in contemporary naming as parents sought distinctive names with classical resonance. The name's sound combines strength and femininity, with the soft ending balancing the strong initial syllables. Though uncommon in popularity charts, Aristen appeals to parents looking for a name that's sophisticated and uncommon without being difficult to pronounce.
- Arvel
Description:
Arvel is a masculine name with varied origins. Some sources connect it to Old Norse elements, possibly derived from 'arr' meaning 'eagle' combined with 'valdr' meaning 'ruler.' Others suggest it may be a variant of Arvid, meaning 'eagle tree' or 'eagle wood.' In some regions, Arvel is considered a diminutive form of Arvell or a variant of Orville. The name has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, experiencing brief periods of minor usage in the United States during the early 20th century. Arvel carries a rustic, somewhat old-fashioned charm while maintaining distinctive character. Its rarity makes it an uncommon choice for modern parents, though it appeals to those seeking a name with historical depth and unique quality.
- Asahel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"created by God"Description:
A biblical character who was one of David's most valiant warriors and was known for being fast. But in the modern English-speaking world, this name may be too close to an insulting anatomical word.
- Ashien
Description:
Ashien is a feminine name with uncertain etymology, possibly a modern invented name drawing inspiration from popular 'Ash-' beginning names like Ashley or Ashlyn. It might also incorporate elements from various cultural naming traditions, perhaps with Asian or Middle Eastern influences. The name has an ethereal, delicate quality with its soft consonants and flowing sound. Extremely rare in usage, Ashien offers parents seeking distinctiveness a name that feels both contemporary and mystical. The name's uniqueness means it carries little historical or cultural baggage, allowing a child to define its meaning through their own identity. Its melodic quality and unusual character make it stand out while remaining relatively straightforward to pronounce.
- Aster
Origin:
English; AmharicMeaning:
"star"Description:
This is a fresh new addition to the botanical list; comedian Gilbert Gottfried made it a real bouquet when he named his daughter Lily Aster. And the name of the little girl on television's Dexter sounds like Aster, but is actually spelled Astor, which brings it more high society name. Aster relates to the Greek word for star. In Ethiopia, Aster is pronounced "ah-STAIR", and is the Amharic variation of Biblical Esther.
- Atlantis
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Mythical wonderland makes strong, evocative first name.
- Audrey
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"noble strength"Description:
Audrey is one of the girls' names that have been rising due to their connection to Old Hollywood glamour—in this case the eternally chic and radiant Audrey Hepburn. Audrey has another very different appeal as one of the elite group of girl names that mean strong, brave, or powerful.
- Avdel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"servant of God"Description:
Avdel is an obscure Old Testament name with a straightforward feel and sound and the fashionable A initial. One to consider if you want a highly unusual yet not difficult Hebrew or Biblical name.
- Aveen
Description:
Aveen is a delicate feminine name with Irish Gaelic origins, derived from 'Áibhinn' meaning 'pleasant' or 'beautiful form'. In Irish tradition, it has connections to joy and radiance. The simplified spelling makes it more accessible internationally while maintaining its Celtic essence. Aveen shares sound patterns with popular contemporary names like Ava and Evelyn, giving it familiar elements despite its rarity. The name remains uncommon even in Ireland, making it a distinctive choice worldwide. With its soft consonants and flowing vowels, Aveen creates a gentle, melodic impression. The name offers a connection to Irish heritage without the pronunciation challenges of many traditional Irish names, appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with authentic cultural roots.
- Avis
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"bird"Description:
Avis is a bird name that's been in hibernation for awhile, possibly due to the car rental association, but it could make a return on the wings of Ava. Baldwin brother Daniel chose it for his daughter.
- Axel
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of AbsalomMeaning:
"father of peace"Description:
A classic in its native Scandinavia, Axel has a cool rock 'n' roll flavor in the US, thanks to Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose (born William). With its distinctive letter 'x', it has an effortlessly cool vibe about it, and is currently growing in popularity.
- Bee
Origin:
Animal name or diminutive of BeatriceMeaning:
"she who brings happiness"Description:
We've seen Beatrice and Beatrix climb in popularity, along with traditional nickname Bea. And now there's Bee, giving it a buzzy nature world spin, plus a tie to popular late night TV''s Samantha Bee, not to mention Aunt Bee on the old The Andy Griffith Show TV show. Bee can theoretically be short for any girl names starting with B.
- Belen
Origin:
Spanish place name and form of Bethlehem, HebrewMeaning:
"house of bread"Description:
Actually the Spanish name for Bethlehem, which means "house of bread," this name is high on Spain's popularity list and is rising in the US as well. Though this is one of the Spanish names for girls that has not for the most part crossed over to the English-speaking population, that could change thanks to its similarity to the popular Belle or Bella.
- Beloved
Origin:
Literary word nameDescription:
Toni Morrison, the modern master of literary names, made this one famous as the title character of a novel. But things didn't work out so well for that Beloved.
- Benay
Description:
Benay is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variation of Benita (Spanish for 'blessed') or a feminine form of Benjamin (Hebrew for 'son of the right hand' or 'son of the south'). Another theory suggests French origins as a phonetic spelling of 'bené,' meaning 'blessed.' The name carries a melodic, graceful quality with its simple two-syllable structure. Benay has never achieved widespread popularity, remaining a distinctive choice that feels both familiar and unusual. Its rarity appeals to parents seeking something unique without being difficult to pronounce or spell. The name's cross-cultural derivations give it versatility, while its soft ending sound provides a gentle femininity. This elegant yet unpretentious name offers a subtle alternative to more common variations.
- Bess
Origin:
Diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Although she declared her independence as far back as the reign of Elizabeth I--Good Queen Bess, Bess now sounds less passé than Beth or Betsy.