Early European import, well known in the 1940s via Norwegian skating movie star Sonja Henie, that has sailed back across the Atlantic, despite the rising popularity of other Russian names.

Kim Basinger and Alec Baldwin put Ireland on the map when they chose it as a first for their daughter, saying that geographic names were a family tradition. And it seems they were a bit ahead of the curve (or trendsetting)—Ireland has been among the fastest-rising names of recent years. Other Irish place names include Shannon, Kerry, Galway, and Dublin.

Used primarily in Scotland, and represented here by singer Audra McDonald, the girls' name Audra has been overshadowed by the return of the classic Audrey. Audra may be to Audrey what Jenna is to Jennifer and Jessa is to Jessica: A variation that will rise as the original falls from favor.

Alternatively, however, Audra is a separate Lithuanian name, derived from the Lithuanian word for "storm". In this case, it would be pronounced OW-dru (OW to rhyme with cow, -u like the sound in up) and is used as a feminine form of Audrius.

Lovely, authentic name -- but any Kirsten will be condemned to a lifetime of hearing "Did you say Kristen?" They're both genuine Scandinavian names but too interchangeable.

Cecily is as dainty as a lace handkerchief. Cecily has a wide assortment of namesakes. One Cecily was the mother of King Richard III, whose beauty gained her the title "the Rose of Raby," Cecily Parsley is a Beatrix Potter bunny, Cecily Cardew is a character in The Importance of Being Earnest, and the author of the Gossip Girl books is Cecily von Ziegesar.

Brenna is a feminine form of the Irish surname Brennan, or perhaps a variation of Brenda or Brendan—all of which have different meanings. Whatever its derivation or authenticity, it's a modern sounding name which has steadily decreased in popularity since 1995 when it peaked at Number 235 in the United States.

Annika is a surprise hit of recent years, inspired by golfer Sorenstam; for Trekkies, it was also the name of a 'Star Trek:Voyager' character. Some people's first memory of it might be as Pippi Longstocking's friend. A nice namesake for an ancestral Ann.

Through all the years when Betty, Betsy, Beth, Liz, and Lizzie were the Elizabethan nicknames of choice, the bubblier Libby was set aside, but today it may be the most modern of all—it has already made a strong comeback in England and Wales, where it ranks Number 139.

Simone, the elegant French feminization of Simon, strikes that all-important balance between unusual and familiar, and it's oozing with Gallic sophistication. A dated choice in its native France, gymnast Simone Biles brings new bounce and spark to name.

Quirky and cute.

Jordane is a feminine name that represents a French variation of Jordan, ultimately derived from the Jordan River in the Middle East. The Hebrew origin 'yarden' means 'to flow down' or 'descend.' While the masculine Jordan became popular internationally, this feminine French form remains more distinctive. The addition of the final 'e' softens the name and gives it a more feminine quality in French naming traditions. Jordane combines the familiarity of Jordan with a touch of European elegance. The name carries biblical associations through the Jordan River's significance in Christian baptism traditions, symbolizing purification and new beginnings. While more common in French-speaking regions, Jordane remains relatively rare globally, offering parents a recognizable yet distinctive option with spiritual undertones and a subtle French sophistication.

Jessamine, a charming name occasionally heard in England, is just beginning to be appreciated in the U.S. as a possible successor to all the Jess names of the past. It's also spelled Jessamyn, as in Quaker novelist Jessamyn West, author of Friendly Persuasion--who started life with Jessamyn as her middle name.

An alternative spin on Jasmine and Jessica, Jessamyn is a spelling variation of floral Jessamine, with just a little less frill. Notable bearers include writer Jessamyn West, wrestler Jessamyn Duke, and content creator and yoga teacher Jessamyn Stanley.

Jessamy and big sister Jessamine are all but unknown in the U.S., but make distinctive alternatives to overexposed Jessica, Jessie, and Jasmine.

Priya originated in India as a name derived from the Sanskrit word for "beloved." In India, where names are often given based on one's birthday and horoscope, Priya is traditionally given to girls born in August. Priya is used in Hindu mythology as the name of a daughter of King Daksha—known for fathering 146 daughters.

An established place name, associated with a sunny island in the English Channel, the Garden State in the US, knitted pullovers, reality TV, and a Broadway musical. It peaked in the late 2000s and though it is now in decline, 130 girls and nearly 50 boys received the name in 2023.

-ey meaning "island". Alternative theories suggest it comes from jarl ,meaning "earl" or hjǫr meaning "sword".

The lilting name of a range of mythical mountains, with an extensive menu of spellings, and a more unusual way of fitting in with current favorites Lila and Lola.

Kahlila is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Khalila, which has Arabic roots meaning 'beloved' or 'dearly loved.' Alternatively, it could be connected to the Hebrew 'kelilah' meaning 'crown' or 'laurel.' The spelling with 'ah' gives it a flowing, melodic quality. This name carries a sense of exoticism and elegance, with its rhythmic three-syllable pronunciation. While not among commonly used names in Western countries, Kahlila has cross-cultural appeal and fits with contemporary trends toward names with meaningful origins and distinctive sounds. The name conveys warmth and affection while maintaining a sense of uniqueness and cultural richness.

Kalah is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hebrew, it means 'bride' or 'perfect one,' carrying connotations of beauty and completion. In Arabic traditions, it may be related to 'castle' or 'fortress,' suggesting strength and protection. The name also appears in various forms across different cultures, including variations like Kala, Kalah, and Kallah. Though not among the most common names in Western countries, Kalah has a distinctive sound and meaningful heritage that appeals to parents seeking something unique yet meaningful. Its brevity and melodic quality make it accessible while maintaining a sense of cultural richness.