Noelle may be literally 15 times as popular, but Noella was given to more than 100 baby girls in the US last year, a not insignificant number. The growing popularity of Nola may increase the attraction to the rare variation on a classic Christmas name.

Cordelie is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Cordelia, which has literary and Celtic origins. The name derives from Latin 'cordis' meaning 'heart' or possibly from Welsh 'Creirddylad,' a figure in Arthurian legend. Cordelie gained literary significance through Shakespeare's tragic character in 'King Lear,' representing honesty and loyalty. This spelling variation maintains the elegant, classical feel of Cordelia while offering a slightly more distinctive French-influenced appearance. Relatively uncommon in any spelling, Cordelie appeals to parents drawn to names with literary connections, vintage charm, and romantic qualities. The name suggests warmth, sincerity, and emotional depth.

This feminine form of Jean was most popular in the 1930s in its home country, and in the 1960s in the US. It's fallen off the Top 1000 list since, but perhaps cute retro nickname Jeannie could tempt some vintage-loving parents back.

This lively and appealing name originated as a short form of Cornelia, but is well able to stand on its own. Nelia is also often in the Hispanic culture, where it can be a short form of Manuela. It did have some American usage in the late nineteenth century, and with Cornelia having a comeback, Nelia could follow.

Anastasie is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from 'anastasis' meaning 'resurrection.' It's the French form of Anastasia, a name with deep historical and religious significance in Orthodox Christianity. The name was popularized by Saint Anastasia, a 4th-century Christian martyr. Anastasie carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with its French styling and historical depth. While more common in French-speaking regions than in English-speaking countries, it provides a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Anastasia. The name evokes images of European refinement and classical beauty, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical resonance and a touch of international flair.

Together with the more common (in France) Jeannine spelling, this feminine form of Jean was most popular in the 1930s in its home country, and in the 1960s in the US. It's fallen off the Top 1000 list since, but perhaps cute retro nickname Jeannie could tempt some vintage-loving parents back.

Like twins Helene and Elaine, a relic of the 1930s to 40s French Renaissance of names.

Lydie is a feminine name with French origins, representing the French form of Lydia. The name traces back to ancient times, derived from the historic region of Lydia in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The name means 'from Lydia' and has connections to the ancient Greek culture. In France and French-speaking regions, Lydie has maintained steady usage, appreciated for its elegant simplicity and classical roots. The name has a delicate, refined quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce. While less common in English-speaking countries than the form Lydia, Lydie offers a subtle French twist that appeals to parents seeking names with European flair. The name carries associations with culture and refinement, reflecting its ancient heritage and continued use in sophisticated naming traditions.

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

As dated as the old Pat Boone song.

Zoelle is a modern-sounding name combining the stylish Zoe, which means life, with the trendy Elle, French for "she". Could make for a zippier spin on sweet Noelle.

Melaina is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from 'melania' meaning 'black' or 'dark.' In Greek mythology, Melaina was an epithet of Demeter, connecting the name to themes of earth, fertility, and the changing seasons. The name carries an elegant, flowing quality with its three melodious syllables (meh-LAY-nah). While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Melaina offers a more distinctive alternative to the popular Melanie, which shares the same linguistic roots. The name has a sophisticated, classical feel that appeals to parents drawn to names with mythological connections and Greek heritage. Its uncommon status combined with relatively straightforward pronunciation gives Melaina a balance of uniqueness and accessibility.

Ysabel is the original spelling of this ever-more-popular name, though to English-speakers, the initial Y may confuse pronunciation. Only 14 baby girls were given the Ysabel spelling in the US last year, while Isabel and Isabelle were each given to about 1800 babies.

Charming Gallic name uncommon in France, and unknown in this country, with literary credibility as the title of a Charlotte Brontë novel.

A French botanical word name, Marjolaine translates to "marjoram". A minty herb that can be used in cooking, it has also been considered medicinal and was used as an antiseptic by the Greek physician, Hippocrates. The Romans considered it the herb of happiness and believed in could increase someone's lifespan, while others believe that it is a herb that helps with encountering and dealing with the unknown.

Charlaine is a feminine name of French derivation, created as an elaboration of Charlotte, which itself is the feminine form of Charles, meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' The addition of the '-aine' suffix gives the name an elegant, sophisticated quality. Charlaine emerged primarily in the 20th century as parents sought more distinctive variations of classic names. The name gained some recognition through author Charlaine Harris, known for the Sookie Stackhouse novels that inspired the TV series 'True Blood.' Despite this connection, Charlaine remains uncommon, appealing to those seeking a name with classic roots but distinctive character. With its French-inspired sound and familiar foundation, Charlaine balances traditional substance with unique style.

Narcisse is a refined feminine name with French origins, derived from the Greek word 'narkissos,' referring to the narcissus flower. In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a hunter known for his beauty who fell in love with his own reflection. While the masculine version has historical usage, particularly in France and French-speaking regions, the feminine form Narcisse is considerably rarer. The name carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with literary and botanical associations. Despite potential connections to narcissism, the name primarily evokes the delicate beauty of the narcissus flower rather than vanity. Narcisse has never achieved widespread popularity in English-speaking countries but maintains a certain appeal for parents seeking a distinctive French-inspired name with classical roots. Its uncommon nature makes it an intriguing choice for those who appreciate names with rich historical and mythological connections.

Reinette was the childhood nickname of Madame La Pompadour, perhaps a cute short form for Regina or Reina but hardly worthy of the full name on the birth certificate today.

Y is a very rare initial, and this feisty mini-name packs a double punch with its spiky final Z. Inez or Inez are the more familiar spellings of this chic name, which is related to Agnes and could be an interesting way to honor a relative with that name.