Cool Unusual Names That Start With Vowels
- Aquilla
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"eagle"Description:
Aquilla appears in the New Testament. The name carries powerful symbolism through its association with eagles, conveying qualities of strength, vision, and nobility. Despite its classical origins, Aquilla remains quite rare as a given name, offering distinction while still having historical precedent. The name has a commanding presence with its unusual letter combination and strong sound. For parents seeking a name with both gravitas and uncommon status, Aquilla provides a meaningful option with rich symbolic connections to one of the most majestic birds in cultural traditions.
- Adan
Origin:
Spanish, Somalian, and Haitian variation of Adam, English variation of Aiden, Arabic variation of EdenMeaning:
"son of the red earth; little fiery one; place of pleasure, delight"Description:
Adan is one of those names that feels familiar because it is in fact a variation of several other names. Used in Hispanic cultures, it is a form of Adam, more conventionally spelled with an accent as Adán. In English, it can be seen as a spelling variant of the uber-popular Aidan, Aiden, Aden, etc., while in Arabic, it is a unisex choice, and alternative form of Eden.
- Aella
Origin:
GreekDescription:
A name with a weather-related meaning, a tie to mythology, and an airy, bright sound, Aella is a quietly rising choice, with 51 American babies receiving the name in a recent year.
- Allura
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"to entice, attract"Description:
Sounds like a princess -- or an enticingly evil witch -- in a fairy tale.
- Isannah
Origin:
Origin and meaning unknownDescription:
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.
- Amedeo
Origin:
Italian form of AmadeusMeaning:
"lover of God"Description:
This euphonious Italian Italian name for boys, often associated with the painter Modigliani, makes a recommended creative choice. The Spanish tend to spell it Amadeo.
- Ido
Origin:
Hebrew and ArabicMeaning:
"to evaporate and to be mighty"Description:
Ido is a multicultural name seldom heard in modern America but popular in the Middle East. As transliterations, Ido and its other form Iddo are equally correct.
- Atalanta
Origin:
Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"equal in weight"Description:
Atalanta was a beautiful mythological maiden who refused to marry any man who couldn't beat her in a footrace -- quite a role model. This myth is found in Ovid's Metamorphoses and later in Swinburne's Atalantis in Calydon.
- Atlee
Description:
Atlee is a feminine name of English origin, derived from an Old English surname meaning 'at the clearing' or 'at the meadow.' It was traditionally used as a place name and surname before transitioning to a given name. With its connection to nature and pleasant meadow imagery, Atlee evokes a sense of openness and tranquility. The name has experienced periodic usage throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon, giving it distinctive appeal. It gained some recognition through association with British Prime Minister Clement Attlee (though with a different spelling). As a first name, Atlee fits well with contemporary trends toward short, nature-inspired names with historical roots. Its simplicity and gentle sound make it accessible, while its rarity offers individuality for those seeking a name that stands apart from popular choices.
- Ashira
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"I will sing"Description:
Unusual name with stylish, silky feel.
- Arcelia
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"treasure chest"Description:
Arcelia is an undiscovered Spanish treasure worth considering.
- Imperia
Origin:
Latin "imperial"Meaning:
"imperial"Description:
Rather imperious as a baby name, but has an interesting history. Imperia is the name of an obscure French saint, also known as Impère and Impérie, also borne by the famous Italian courtesan Imperia Cognati. Honoré de Balzac later used it in his short story La belle Impéria (1832), where it belongs to a fictional courtesan. A similar name, Bel-imperia, was used by Elizabethan dramatist Thomas Kyd for a character in his play The Spanish Tragedy.
- Aabriella
Description:
Aabriella is a feminine name that appears to be a modern elaboration of names like Abriella or Gabriella. Beginning with a double 'aa' gives it a distinctive appearance that makes it stand out alphabetically. The name likely combines elements of Abri (possibly from Hebrew 'Abraham' meaning 'father of multitudes') and the popular feminine suffix 'ella,' creating a melodic, flowing sound. While quite rare, Aabriella fits with contemporary naming trends favoring ornate, multi-syllabic girls' names with romantic endings. The unique spelling may appeal to parents seeking an uncommon name with a familiar sound. Despite its modern feel, the name carries echoes of traditional names while offering the distinctiveness many parents seek for their daughters.
- Odele
Origin:
English from GreekMeaning:
"song"Description:
Sounds a lot like the recently revived Adele.
- Ontario
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
This geographical name with Iroquois roots has a lot going for it: a strong sound, a vigorous o ending, and -- a quality prized today -- rarity.
- Odell
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"of the valley"Description:
Bland compared to the Irish-sounding O-starting names, but fans of football star Odell Beckham Jr. may like the name for other reasons.
- Aeriana
Description:
Aeriana is a modern feminine name with ethereal qualities, likely derived from combining the elements 'aer' (air) with the feminine suffix '-iana.' This inventive name evokes images of lightness, freedom, and sky-bound beauty. Emerging in the late 20th century, Aeriana gained modest recognition in the 2000s as parents increasingly sought unique names with melodious sounds. It shares phonetic elements with popular names like Ariana and Arianna while offering a distinctive spelling that suggests airiness and elevation. The addition of the 'e' gives it a contemporary flair while maintaining its feminine elegance. Though relatively uncommon, Aeriana appeals to parents seeking a name with both grace and originality. Its airy associations connect it conceptually to names like Breeze, Celeste, and Skye.
- Eoghan
Origin:
Irish GaelicMeaning:
"born of the yew tree"Description:
Pronounced like Owen, this was the name of several early Irish kings and saints, as well as a celebrated Ulster hero. Often spelled with two 'n's in Scotland, it has been Anglicized as Ewan, Ewen, Euan, Owen, Hugh, or Eugene.
- Elnora
Origin:
English variation of Eleanora, meaning unknownDescription:
Elnora is best known as the name of the heroine of the early 20th century novel A Girl of the Limberlost. While Elnora might plausibly have many derivations, the most logical is that isn't a contracted form of Eleanora, the Latinate variation of Eleanor.
- Andressa
Description:
Andressa is a feminine name primarily used in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil. It developed as a feminine form of André (Andrew), ultimately deriving from the Greek word 'andreios,' meaning 'manly,' 'brave,' or 'strong.' Despite its masculine roots, Andressa has evolved into a distinctly feminine name with a soft, melodic quality. The name gained popularity in Brazil during the late 20th century and remains moderately common there. Andressa combines traditional roots with a contemporary feel, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that sounds modern while having historical depth. Outside of Portuguese-speaking regions, Andressa remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal. The name often conveys an impression of strength wrapped in feminine elegance.
