Cool Unusual Names That Start With Vowels

  1. Auriel
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "gold"
    • Description:

      Auriel is a Roman name that was revived during the nineteenth-century craze for unique names. Could make an interesting substitution for the popular Aurora or Ariel.
  2. Ontario
    • Origin:

      Place-name
    • Description:

      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.
  3. 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.

  4. Allura
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "to entice, attract"
    • Description:

      Sounds like a princess -- or an enticingly evil witch -- in a fairy tale.
  5. Aeliana
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "sun"
    • Description:

      This female form of the ancient Latin Aelian has an appealing sound, though kids might have a hard time handling that initial "ae" spelling. Just remember that the "ae" is pronounced "ee" (think Aesop's fables).The Annals of Aeliana is a children's fantasy series by Ryan Watters. The meaning is uncertain but is thought to derive from the Greek helios, which means sun.
  6. Ido
    • Origin:

      Hebrew and Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Ashira
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "I will sing"
    • Description:

      Unusual name with stylish, silky feel.
  8. Alethia
    • Description:

      Alethia is a feminine name derived from the Greek word 'aletheia,' meaning 'truth' or 'disclosure.' In ancient Greek philosophy, particularly in the works of Plato and Heidegger, aletheia represents the concept of unconcealedness or the revealing of reality. The name carries profound philosophical undertones about honesty and authentic existence. Pronounced ah-LEE-thee-ah or ah-leh-THEE-ah, this melodic name has a timeless quality with its classical roots. While never ranking among the most popular names in Western countries, Alethia maintains steady usage, particularly among families valuing its meaningful etymology. The variant spelling Alethea is also seen. The name appeals to parents drawn to classical Greek names or those seeking a name with intellectual depth and positive moral associations.

  9. Adrianna
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Adrian
    • Meaning:

      "man of Adria"
    • Description:

      A popular spelling variation of Adriana.
  10. Elsia
    • Description:

      Elsia is a feminine name with roots possibly connected to names like Elsa, Elsie, or Elisabeth. It might have Germanic origins, where 'Els-' elements often relate to 'noble' or 'kind.' The name has a delicate, vintage quality reminiscent of early 20th century naming patterns while feeling fresh to modern ears. Elsia combines the popular 'El-' beginning with a gentle ending, creating a melodic two-syllable name that's both distinctive and accessible. While never reaching widespread popularity, the name has maintained a quiet presence throughout history. Today, Elsia might appeal to parents drawn to vintage-inspired names with a touch of uniqueness, fitting within contemporary trends for slightly uncommon names with familiar sounds.
  11. Ondina
    • Origin:

      Italian; Portuguese; Spanish, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "little wave"
    • Description:

      A romantic Latinate form of Ondine, Ondina is an undiscovered gem that shares similar sounds with the trendy Olivia and Ophelia.
  12. Arcelia
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "treasure chest"
    • Description:

      Arcelia is an undiscovered Spanish treasure worth considering.
  13. Adalia
    • Origin:

      Hebrew, German, "God is my refuge; noble one"
    • Meaning:

      "God is my refuge; noble one"
    • Description:

      Distinctive, elegant, and luxurious, Adalia can be a variation of Adele, or a Hebrew name with a Biblical background. Although it is given exclusively to girls in the US, in the Bible it is masculine. The similar Adlai might be easier to wear for boys in English speaking countries, while Adalia fits in with Adeline, Amelia, and Dahlia.
  14. Isannah
    • Origin:

      Origin and meaning unknown
    • Description:

      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.
  15. Odele
    • Origin:

      English from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "song"
    • Description:

      Sounds a lot like the recently revived Adele.
  16. Abriana
    • Origin:

      Italian feminine variation of Abraham
    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"
    • Description:

      This lovely name is all but unknown outside Italy but fits perfectly in with the fashions for vowel-starting names that are elaborately feminine. Might make a distinctive alternative to Angelina or Arianna. Downside: People will inevitably mistake it for Adriana.
  17. Ailana
    • Origin:

      Kazakh
    • Meaning:

      "moonlight"
    • Description:

      A pretty Kazakh name derived from Turkish ayla, meaning "moonlight". The Hawaiian name 'Ailana (with the 'okina mark) means "loving".
  18. Alessa
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "defender of men"
    • Description:

      Italian form of Alexa, sometimes short for Alessandra, which sidesteps the Amazon Alexa issue.
  19. Iku
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "nourishing"
    • Description:

      Iku is an easily assimilated Japanese name.
  20. Eldin
    • Description:

      Eldin is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic traditions, it means 'nobility of faith' or 'of the religion,' often appearing as part of longer names. In Germanic contexts, it may relate to 'old friend' or derive from elements meaning 'elder tree.' The name has historical usage throughout the Balkans, Middle East, and Northern Europe, giving it cross-cultural appeal. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Eldin has maintained a steady presence, particularly in multicultural communities. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible, while its relative rarity offers distinctiveness. Eldin has seen modest increases in usage in recent decades as parents seek names with international resonance and historical depth. Its combination of strength and gentleness in sound makes it versatile for various personalities.

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