Girl Names I Love That Hubby Wouldn't

In Tolkien's world, the derivation of this airy name is Elvish. Regular folks might consider it an artsier form of Erin, borne by cosmetics heiress and socialite Aerin Lauder.

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

Nickname sometimes heard on its own, sort of an updated Sally and playmate of Hallie.

Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.

Ezri is one of the cool new unisex names starting with E, except as a Biblical name, it's not so new. Used for both genders in Israel, in the US it's currently running five to one in favor of girls, surprisingly. Its deviation from the better known and more traditional Ezra makes it feel like one of the more truly gender neutral names.

Kieran is a boys' name that could cross over, as an update of outmoded Karen or a variation on trendy Kiera (or Keira or Kyra). Keren Ann is an Israeli-born singer. The proportion of babies named Kieran who are girls is less than ten percent, but is slowly growing. Kieran had an increase in use for girls in 2022.

Spelling variation of Danica with a modern update.

See NATASHA.

Soline is a delicate feminine name with French origins, derived from 'soleil' meaning 'sun.' This luminous name evokes warmth, brightness, and joy. While not among the most common French names, Soline has maintained a steady presence particularly in French-speaking regions. Its connection to the sun gives it positive associations with light, energy, and optimism. The name has a gentle, flowing quality when pronounced (typically so-LEEN), making it both sophisticated and approachable. Soline offers a distinctive yet recognizable option for parents drawn to French naming traditions or seeking a name with bright, positive connotations. Its relative rarity outside France gives it an exotic quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce.

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.

This is a soft and strong Arabic and Persian name commonly heard in the Middle East.

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.

Melodious and unusual form of a name with an uncountable number of variations. Many will understand it as the more down-to-earth Annalee.

Leona with a French accent that gives it a bit more flair. It's currently very popular there – in the Top 30 for French baby girls.

Not cutting edge, but still graceful and feminine.

A Slavic variation of Helen that might make an unusual update of that classic name.

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.

Energetic Connelly variation that works better for girls than for boys.

Zenia is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Greek name Xenia, meaning "hospitality" or "foreign," reflecting the ancient Greek concept of welcoming strangers. Alternatively, it could be connected to Zena, a Slavic diminutive of names like Zenobia, meaning "life of Zeus." In some cultures, it's associated with the zinnia flower. With its exotic Z beginning and flowing sound, Zenia projects an image of uncommon beauty and strength. The name has appeared across various cultures, from Eastern Europe to Latin America, giving it international appeal. Zenia's relative rarity combined with its accessible pronunciation makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet melodic with cross-cultural resonance.