Glenys, like Glynis, is a Welsh name that has never caught on outside Wales.

She's the bff of Blair, Blake, and Brooke who shop at Bergdorf's, Bonwits and Bendel's.

Also spelled Bethia and Bithiah, this Old Testament name could wear well today. Bethea might make an original way to honor an ancestral Elizabeth or get to the nickname Beth.

Celes is a concise, gender-neutral name with multiple potential origins. It most likely derives from the Latin 'caelestis,' meaning 'heavenly' or 'celestial,' giving it an ethereal quality. The name may function as a shortened form of Celeste or Celestine, or could connect to the Spanish 'cielo' (heaven). Video game enthusiasts might recognize it from the character Celes Chere in Final Fantasy VI. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Celes has attracted interest for its brevity, memorable sound, and cosmic associations. The name's simplicity allows it to work well across cultural boundaries, and its connection to celestial concepts gives it a naturally elevated, somewhat mystical character. Its gender-neutrality makes it versatile for modern naming preferences.

Cyrille is a unisex French name, and its association with the suddenly suave Cyril has turned from a liability into an advantage.

If you're looking for an Irish last name that moves beyond Casey and Cassidy, this one is pleasant sounding and worth considering. Kavanaugh, which can also be spelled Cavanagh, Cavenagh, Kavanagh, and Cavanaugh, is one of the few traditional Irish surnames not to start with Mc or O'. Kavanagh relates to the name first Kevin or Caomhan. Early kings of Leinster bore the name Kavanaugh.

This evocative Arabic name is often heard in India.

First century queen who led her Brittonic Iceni tribe in revolution against the Romans occupying England. Also found as Boudica, Boadicea (as in bodacious) and in Welsh as Buddug, the historic namesake was defeated and committed suicide, but is still celebrated in England as intelligent and brave. One ancient name that, while unheard these days, could be revived along with such choices as Atticus and Cassius.

Isam is a masculine name of Arabic origin, carrying multiple meanings depending on precise etymology. Most commonly, it derives from Arabic roots meaning 'protection' or 'guardian,' reflecting qualities of strength and reliability. In some interpretations, it may also connect to concepts of 'determination' or 'resolution.' The name is pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable (EE-sam) and appears in various Muslim communities across the Middle East, North Africa, and among Muslim diaspora populations worldwide. Though not among the most frequently used Arabic names internationally, Isam has the advantage of being relatively easy to pronounce in multiple languages while maintaining its authentic cultural character. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a distinctive, memorable quality.

Cute but slight mix of stylish sounds Cam and Bree, chosen by Rick Schroder for his daughter.

Underused literary name (as in the poet John) with a -den ending that's very much in style.

An adolescent boy might have problems with the first syllable.

A name that seems to be a combination of Isabel and Susannah, used in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries, most notably for a daughter of Paul Revere. Isannah was also a character in the 1943 Revolutionary War novel Johnny Tremain. An unusual old choice with modern possibilities.

Kareem is the more popular form in the US, thanks to basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but Karim is right on his heels after being among the fastest-rising names of 2022. French soccer player Karim Benzema's recent success on the elite team Real Madrid may play in a part in the name's upswing.

Mattheo is another way to say Matteo, one that gets you to either Matt or Theo

Cyran is a distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the name of Saint Cyran (originally Sigerannus), a 7th-century French abbot. Alternatively, it could be connected to the Greek name Kyriakos, meaning 'of the lord,' or represent a modern variation of Kieran, the Anglicized form of the Irish name Ciarán meaning 'little dark one.' The name has a crisp, modern sound while maintaining historical connections. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Cyran appeals to parents seeking a name with cross-cultural resonance and a contemporary feel. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a masculine edge, while its potential sacred associations lend it depth and spiritual significance.

A solid, if somewhat serious Greek name. Theoni and Theona are variants. This might be a possibility if you're looking for an unusual route to Thea.

Ereni is a feminine name with Greek origins, likely derived from Eirene (or Irene), which means 'peace' in Greek. The name has connections to Greek mythology, where Eirene was the goddess of peace and springtime. This variant spelling with the '-i' ending gives the traditional name a fresh, melodic quality while maintaining its classical roots. Ereni is uncommon in most Western countries but may be found in Greek communities and throughout the Mediterranean region. The name carries beautiful symbolic meaning with its association with peace and harmony. Its flowing sound and meaningful heritage make it appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural significance and a distinctive yet accessible quality for their daughter.

Petrik is a masculine name with Slavic origins, primarily used in Slovak, Czech, and other Eastern European cultures. It functions as a diminutive form of Peter, which derives from the Greek 'Petros' meaning 'stone' or 'rock.' The suffix '-ik' in Slavic languages typically indicates affection or smallness. Petrik carries the strength and historical significance of Peter while adding a distinctive cultural flair. Though not widely used internationally, the name maintains consistent usage within its regions of origin. Petrik has a pleasantly rhythmic sound with its two-syllable structure. The name bridges traditional naming practices with a slightly less common alternative to the more universal Peter, offering families a way to honor heritage while giving their child a somewhat unique identity.