Unique Names Ive Met
- Riannon
Description:
Riannon is a feminine name with Celtic origins, likely derived from Rhiannon, a figure in Welsh mythology associated with horses and birds. In the Mabinogion, Rhiannon was a beautiful, magical woman who rode a swift white horse. The spelling variant Riannon maintains the melodic flow and mythological connections while offering a slightly different visual presentation. This name carries connotations of strength, independence and mystical qualities from its legendary namesake. While relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Riannon appeals to those drawn to Celtic heritage and mythology. The name gained some recognition after Fleetwood Mac's 1975 hit song 'Rhiannon,' which helped introduce this name family to wider audiences. Riannon combines ancient roots with a contemporary sound.
- Masha
Origin:
Russian variation of Maria, Hebrew or EgyptianMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
Looking to honor Grandma Mary (or Maria) with something original? This Russian short form bears an unfortunate resemblance to the English word "mash", but if you can look past that, Masha has possibilities.
- Aleksia
Description:
Aleksia is a feminine name representing an Eastern European or Slavic variation of Alexia, ultimately derived from the Greek name Alexios meaning 'defender' or 'helper.' The spelling with 'k' instead of 'x' reflects the phonetic rendering common in languages like Polish, Russian, or Albanian. This variation maintains the melodic quality of Alexia while adding a touch of international flair. Aleksia has gained modest popularity as parents seek names with cross-cultural appeal and distinctive spellings. The name projects both strength (through its meaning) and femininity (through its soft ending). While less common than Alexia or Alexandra in English-speaking countries, Aleksia offers a recognizable yet fresh alternative that honors Eastern European heritage while remaining accessible to a wider audience.
- Velda
Origin:
Variation of ValdaDescription:
See VALDA.
- Eman
Origin:
Variation of Iman, ArabicMeaning:
"faith"Description:
Eman is a spelling variation popular in some European countries of this gender-neutral Arabic name, made most famous by Mrs. David Bowie. In the US, there were about 60 baby girls named Eman last year to 18 boys. The gender balance is more even for Iman.
- Taylee
Description:
Taylee is a modern feminine name that emerged in the early 21st century, exemplifying contemporary naming trends that favor distinctive sounds and creative spellings. It may have developed as a combination of popular elements like 'Tay' (as in Taylor) and 'lee,' a common name suffix meaning 'meadow' or 'clearing.' Alternatively, it could be inspired by the name Taylor with a unique spelling. Taylee has a bright, cheerful sound that appeals to parents seeking modern names. Though not among the most common names, it has gained modest popularity in the United States, particularly in the 2010s, as part of the trend toward names with the '-lee' or '-leigh' ending.
- Cache
Origin:
French word nameMeaning:
"hiding place"Description:
A rising unisex word name, along with other money-related choices such as Million, Currency, and Cashlyn.
- Tennille
Description:
Toni Tennille was one half of the musical group Captain & Tennille, which produced a number of huge hits in the 1970s, including "Love Will Keep Us Together."
- Treyson
Description:
Treyson is a modern masculine name that exemplifies contemporary American naming trends. Created as a variation of the popular name Trey (which means 'three' or is sometimes used for a third-generation namesake), it incorporates the fashionable '-son' suffix that became increasingly popular in the early 2000s. The name has a strong, current sound that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. Treyson began appearing on naming records in the early 2000s and has seen modest but growing usage, particularly in the United States. It represents the trend of blending established name elements to create something that sounds familiar yet unique, offering the benefit of individuality without straying too far from conventional naming patterns.
- Shalin
Description:
Shalin is a versatile name used for girls in various cultures, though it can also be unisex in some contexts. With Indian origins, it derives from Sanskrit where it means 'modest,' 'dignified,' or 'decorous,' embodying admirable personal qualities. In Hebrew interpretations, it may be connected to 'tranquil' or 'peaceful.' The name has gained modest international usage due to its relatively straightforward pronunciation across languages and its modern, flowing sound. Shalin offers a beautiful balance of uniqueness and accessibility, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that stands out without being difficult to pronounce or spell. Its cross-cultural presence means it works well in diverse communities while still maintaining specific cultural roots and meaning.
- Heber
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"partner, togetherness"Description:
Biblical name -- he was an ancestor of Abraham's -- rarely used today but registered on the U.S. popularity list at the end of the 19th century. With the rise of other obscure Old Testament names, just might have a shot at revival.
- Camry
Description:
Camry is a feminine name that gained recognition primarily through the popular Toyota car model introduced in the 1980s. The car's name was derived from the Japanese word "kanmuri," meaning "crown." As a personal name, Camry emerged in the United States following the car's popularity, representing a trend of brand-inspired names. It has a modern, sleek sound that appeals to parents seeking contemporary names. While never reaching high popularity rankings, Camry has maintained steady though limited usage since the 1990s. The name has a pleasant rhythm and ends with the trendy "-ry" sound found in names like Avery and Emery.
- Stockton
Description:
Stockton is a masculine name derived from an English surname and place name, originally denoting someone from a settlement built around a tree stump or log (from Old English 'stocc' meaning 'tree trunk' and 'tun' meaning 'enclosure or settlement'). As a first name, Stockton carries a distinguished, preppy quality typical of surname-to-first-name transitions. It gained modest popularity in the United States particularly in the late 20th century, partly due to the trend of using geographic names and surnames as given names. The name has athletic associations through basketball player John Stockton. With its strong consonant sounds and traditional English roots, Stockton projects confidence and stability. It appeals to parents seeking a masculine name with historical substance that remains relatively uncommon.
- Garett
Description:
Garett is a masculine name representing a spelling variation of Garrett or Gareth. Garrett traces back to Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning "spear strength" or "brave with the spear," while Gareth has Welsh roots from Arthurian legend. This alternate spelling maintains the strong, classic feel of the traditional forms while offering a slightly unique presentation. Garett peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s in America but remains a steady choice for parents seeking a name with both traditional substance and contemporary style. The name evokes qualities of strength, courage, and dependability, and works well across various age groups. The single 'r' and 't' spelling gives it a streamlined appearance.
- Éamonn
Description:
Éamonn is a masculine Irish name, the Gaelic equivalent of Edmund, which has Germanic origins meaning 'wealthy protector' (from 'ead' meaning wealth and 'mund' meaning protection). The distinctive Irish spelling features an accent mark (fada) over the 'E', indicating a long vowel sound. Pronounced approximately as 'AY-mun' or 'AY-mon,' this name has deep roots in Irish history and culture. While common in Ireland, Éamonn remains relatively rare in other English-speaking countries. Notable bearers include several Irish politicians, sports figures, and media personalities. The name carries associations with Irish heritage and cultural pride, making it particularly meaningful for families with Irish connections seeking an authentic Gaelic name.
- Tevis
Description:
Tevis is a masculine name with Scottish and Hebrew origins. Derived either from the Scottish surname Tevis, a variant of Davis (meaning 'beloved'), or potentially from a Hebrew root meaning 'twin,' the name carries a distinctive sound with rich cultural connections. In American usage, Tevis gained limited recognition during the mid-20th century but has always remained uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name received occasional boosts in recognition through literary connections, most notably author Walter Tevis, author of 'The Queen's Gambit' and 'The Hustler.' With its short, strong sound and uncommon status, Tevis appeals to parents seeking a masculine name that sounds established yet rarely encountered.
- Kanyon
Description:
Kanyon is a modern masculine name inspired by the natural formation 'canyon.' This contemporary nature-based name represents a creative spelling variation that adds uniqueness while maintaining the recognizable pronunciation. Emerging in popularity during the early 21st century, Kanyon exemplifies the trend toward distinctive outdoor-inspired names and innovative spellings. The name evokes images of impressive geological formations, suggesting strength, depth, and natural majesty. Kanyon appeals particularly to parents drawn to rugged, adventurous names with American Western associations. Though less common than traditional choices, this name has gained steady recognition among families seeking modern alternatives that connect to the natural world while maintaining masculine qualities and a contemporary edge.
- Verl
Description:
Verl is a masculine name with Germanic origins, likely a shortened form of names containing the element 'ver-' meaning 'true' or 'faithful.' It may also be related to the German word 'Perle' meaning 'pearl.' Verl gained modest popularity in the United States during the early to mid-20th century, particularly in rural communities and Midwestern states. The name has a straightforward, no-nonsense quality that appealed to families seeking traditional masculine names. Today, Verl is considered vintage or rare, having declined in usage since the 1950s. Its short, strong sound and simplicity might appeal to parents looking for uncommon traditional names with historical roots but without elaborate spelling or pronunciation.
- Virgie
Origin:
Diminutive of Virginia, LatinMeaning:
"virginal, pure"Description:
Virginia is a hundred years past its peak of the 1920s, but according to Nameberry's own Hundred Year Rule, that means it's due for a comeback. Indeed, Virginia's long downward slide leveled off and reversed over the past 15 years, which means we'll be hearing more little girls called Virgie -- not the easiest nickname to bear, but still a cute old-fashioned choice.
- Sharla
Description:
Sharla is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a feminine variant of Charles, ultimately derived from Germanic roots meaning 'free man,' or it could be an Americanized form of the Hebrew name Sarah, meaning 'princess.' The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, but has remained relatively uncommon. Sharla has a distinctive sound with its 'sh' beginning and flowing 'la' ending, giving it a soft yet modern feel. The name carries connotations of strength and individuality, perhaps reflecting its connection to either Charles (strength) or Sarah (nobility). Its relative rarity makes it stand out while still being recognizable and easy to pronounce.