New Names - fluctuating opinions

A Spanish TV show made this one popular, along with single-named Mexican singer, Alondra.

Anneth was derived from the Cornish word annedh, meaning "home," but it may also be viewed as a variation of the French name Annette.

Ethereal combination of Arden and Edith, with a sweet naturey meaning.

Arlette is a French form of the Germanic name Herleva, which was the name of the mother of William the Conqueror. It peaked in France in the mid-1930s, but you might be surprised to learn that in the US, it's only just beginning to catch on now. It entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2018, and has dipped in and out in the years since then.

Avra is a feminine name with multiple cultural roots. In Hebrew, it relates to Abraham, meaning "father of many," while in Greek it can mean "breeze" or connect to the word "avrio" meaning "tomorrow." This cross-cultural name carries a sense of freshness and possibility with its airy sound and positive associations. Relatively uncommon in most Western countries, Avra offers a distinctive alternative to more popular names like Ava or Eva while maintaining a similar melodic quality. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds give it a contemporary feel despite its ancient origins. Avra projects gentle strength and optimism, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that is both unique and accessible.

Avram is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, serving as a variation of Abraham. Meaning 'exalted father' or 'father of many,' it carries significant religious and historical weight in Jewish tradition. While Abraham is the anglicized form commonly used in English-speaking countries, Avram remains closer to the original Hebrew אַבְרָהָם (Avraham). The name appears in the Torah/Bible as God's chosen name for the patriarch originally called Abram. Popular in Jewish communities worldwide, especially in Israel and among Ashkenazi Jews, Avram also has usage in Eastern European countries. The name combines historical gravitas with a distinctive sound that feels both ancient and accessible. Its biblical significance makes it meaningful for many religious families.

This evocative name of one of the Three Wise Men of the Orient, also spelled Balthasar, may finally be ready for prime time. Balthazar, Melchior and Caspar were the Magi who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus, though their names were not mentioned in the Bible.

Cedric was invented by Sir Walter Scott for the noble character of the hero's father in Ivanhoe, presumed to be an altered form of the Saxon name Cerdic. The name was later also given to Little Lord Fauntleroy, the long-haired, velvet-suited, and lace-collared boy hero of the Frances Hodgson Burnett book, who became an unwitting symbol of the pampered mama's boy.

An Israeli place-name as well as being the Hebrew form of Gabriel.

Biblical name long associated with the fallen-yet-redeemed Mary Magdalen, now rising improbably into the ranks of the fashionable among parents hungry for classic yet distinctive girls' names. The Magdalene and Magdalena versions are perhaps even more stylish. Can be shortened to Maggie or Magda but the full version is prettiest. One of our new favorites!

Maika is a versatile feminine name with multicultural origins. In Japanese, it combines 'mai' (dance) and 'ka' (fragrance or song), while in Māori it relates to strength and capability. The name also appears in Eastern European contexts as a diminutive of Maria. Maika gained modest popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly in Japan, Pacific Island cultures, and among parents seeking international names with melodic qualities. Its appeal lies in its brevity, soft sound, and cross-cultural adaptability. The name travels well across language boundaries due to its relatively simple pronunciation while still maintaining a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more common names.

A place name with plenty of history, Memphis is associated with the place in Ancient Egypt where many of the pyramids were built, and with the bluesy US city that was named after it. With its lovely meaning and cool, musical vibe, it is currently in the US Top 500 names for boys.

Deriving from the Greek form of the Egyptian name Men-nefer, Memphis has been notably borne by rapper Memphis Bleek and by Dutch footballer, known mononymously as Memphis (who likely inspired its brief appearance in The Netherlands Top 1000 in 2015). In the US, it is a unisex name, however, it is used three times more often for boys, with 610 receiving the name in 2023.

The rarer long form of Priscilla, which comes from the Roman name Priscus, meaning "ancient".

Tyas is an unusual Indonesian name that's simple and straightforward and could make an distinctive choice in the Western World.