Usable baby names not in the top 1000
- Icarus
Origin:
Greek mythology nameDescription:
Icarus, the mythological figure famous for flying too close to the sun, has a couple of negatives: his rash reputation, and those "icky" nicknames.
- Wynn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fair, blessed"Description:
Wynn is an attractive Welsh name, originally male but now also used for girls outside of Wales. The authentic feminine version would be Gwen, which derives from the same very productive gwyn element, making it a relative of all Welsh names ending -wyn or -wen, as well as the Irish Fin- names.
- Pascal
Origin:
French; EnglishMeaning:
"of the Passover; Easter"Description:
The French-accented Pascal was historically used for sons born at Easter, and can make an interesting choice for a boy with Gallic roots arriving around that holiday.
- Baxter
Origin:
English occupational nameMeaning:
"baker"Description:
An x makes any name cooler, so that Baxter has a bit more pizzazz than the original Baker. Baxter had some currency as a first name a century ago--it was on the popularity lists sporadically from 1880 till the 1920s, peaking at Number 515 in 1886-- which means it's just about due for a comeback. And we can see Bax as a worthy follow-up to Max and Jax.
- Rigby
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"ridge farm"Description:
Rigby is a rather stiff British surname, which might call to mind the Beatles "Eleanor Rigby" or, from the recent past, Cathy Rigby, the first American woman to win a medal in World Gymnastics competition. The problem with Rigby may be its similarity to the word "rigid."
- Electra
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"amber, shining, bright"Description:
Though the plays by Sophocles and Eugene O'Neill and via the "Electra Complex" proposed by psychoanalyst Carl Jung, this name has, unfortunately, become associated with incest and murder.
- Copper
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"a reddish brown mineral"Description:
More unique than Cooper, and a favorite among pet parents. Copper was the loveable bloodhound from Disney's Fox and the Hound. Keep in mind that Copper is also slang for a policeman.
- Vivica
Origin:
Spelling variation of VivecaDescription:
The attractive actress Vivica A. Fox has done a lot to add this version of the name into the mix.
- Prue
Origin:
Short form of Prudence, English virtue nameMeaning:
"caution"Description:
After a long time in limbo, Prudence is now so clunky it'a cool, and it's starting to make a comeback, along with other Puritan virtue names like Mercy, Patience, and Constance.
- Niles
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"son of Neil"Description:
Perfect name for TV Frasier's effete brother. In the 2020 film Palm Springs, Andy Samberg plays a character with the updated spelling Nyles.
- Langdon
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"long hill"Description:
Classy-sounding surname name usually bypassed in favor of the simpler Landon.
- Aja
Origin:
Spelling variation of Aya or HindiMeaning:
"goat"Description:
Sounds like and is often confused with Asia, though it has an air of retro cool via the seminal Steely Dan album. Or, pronounced eye-ah, it can be an alternate spelling of the international favorite Aya.
- Ramsey
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"low-lying land"Description:
A surname with potential as a first — Ramsey was given to a little over 100 baby boys in 2022.
- Zanthe
Description:
Zanthe is a feminine name primarily considered a variant spelling of Xanthe, which derives from the Greek word 'xanthos' meaning 'yellow' or 'blonde.' In Greek mythology, Xanthe was a sea nymph, one of the Oceanids. The Z spelling gives the name a more contemporary and distinctive appearance while maintaining the classical roots. Zanthe has an exotic, lyrical quality that combines ancient heritage with modern appeal. While uncommon in most English-speaking countries, it appeals to parents seeking names with classical origins and unusual initial letters. The name's connection to the color yellow also gives it subtle associations with sunshine and brightness.
- Seaton
Origin:
Scottish and EnglishMeaning:
"town by the sea"Description:
A perfectly fine Anglo surname, though we'd prefer Keaton. Oscar-winning writer-director George Seaton (Miracle on 34th Street, The Country Girl) was actually born George Stenius.
- Cayenne
Origin:
Word name, English from TupiMeaning:
"pepper"Description:
Spicy.
- Ianna
Description:
Ianna is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Iana, which derives from the Roman god Janus, or it could be related to names like Diana or Anna. In some cultures, it connects to the Slavic name Yana, meaning 'God is gracious.' With its melodic flow and vowel-rich pronunciation, Ianna has a gentle, lyrical quality that crosses cultural boundaries. While not among the most common names, it has maintained steady usage in various parts of the world. The name's open vowel sounds and simple structure make it easily pronounceable in many languages, contributing to its international appeal. Ianna offers a balance of uniqueness and accessibility.
- Auron
- Welles