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Unusual but Beautiful Names

Liv175068
By Liv175068
Updated Mon May 22 2023
A list of some names I have come across that are unlike most popular names today and that sound wonderful.
  1. Aaren

    • Description:

      Aaren is a masculine name representing a modern variant spelling of Aaron, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'high mountain' or 'exalted.' In biblical tradition, Aaron was the brother of Moses and the first High Priest of the Israelites. This alternative spelling maintains the traditional pronunciation while giving the name a contemporary edge. Aaren began gaining modest usage in the late 20th century as parents sought familiar names with unique spellings. The name carries the strength and dignity of its traditional counterpart while standing out visually. With its blend of ancient roots and modern styling, Aaren appeals to parents seeking a name that bridges traditional and contemporary naming practices.
  2. Alden

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "old, wise friend"

    • Description:

      Hot young actor Alden Ehrenreich, the new Han Solo, gives this formerly-stodgy surname name an attractive new image, making it a fresh successor to Aiden or Holden. Before it got this fresh shine, Alden was among the classic Thanksgiving baby names.
  3. Alder

    • Origin:

      English tree name or surname

    • Meaning:

      "old"

    • Description:

      The surname-style Alden has been on the rise in the US in recent years, while tree-inspired Rowan is a top choice. Combine this with the popularity of names ending in -er such as Carter and Parker and it makes sense why Alder is now 4 times as popular as it was a decade ago. Given to 125 boys in a recent year, it could be a modern way to honor an "Al".
  4. Ansel

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "with divine protection"

    • Description:

      Ansel, primarily associated with the great western photographer Ansel Adams, famed for his magnificent photographs of the Yosemite Valley, could make a creative artist-hero choice. For Adams it was a family name – he was named after his uncle, Ansel Easton. And, in turn, Adams was the namesake of young heartthrob Ansel Elgort, son of a photographer.
  5. Calysia
    • Essa

      • Description:

        Essa is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic, it's a variation of Isa (the Arabic form of Jesus) and means 'God is salvation.' In Irish contexts, Essa derives from the Gaelic 'os' meaning 'deer' or possibly as a diminutive of Esther. In some South Asian cultures, particularly in Pakistan and India, Essa appears as both a feminine and masculine name. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice. Its brevity and melodic quality with soft consonants give it an appealing, gentle sound while maintaining a unique character. Essa has seen modest usage in recent decades without becoming mainstream, appealing to parents seeking a simple yet uncommon name with multicultural resonance.

    • Forest

      • Origin:

        French occupational name

      • Meaning:

        "woodsman or woods"

      • Description:

        Omitting the extra R of Forrest transforms the name from a masculine one referencing woodsmen to a unisex nature name.
    • Gunnar

      • Origin:

        Scandinavian variation of Gunther

      • Meaning:

        "bold warrior"

      • Description:

        A key figure in Norse legend and a traditional Scandinavian favorite making inroads here.
    • Miri

      • Description:

        Miri is a charming feminine name with diverse cultural roots. In Hebrew, it means 'bitter' or 'rebellion,' though it's often associated with Miriam. In Swahili, Miri suggests 'mystery,' while in Japanese it can mean 'truth' or 'reason.' The name appears in various cultures, including as a Maori name meaning 'twine' or as a diminutive for Miriam or Miranda in Western contexts. Miri has gained appreciation for its brevity and melodic quality. In popular culture, the name received attention through characters in works like Star Trek. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across languages, appealing to parents seeking a short but meaningful international name with a gentle, feminine sound.

    • Saskia

      • Origin:

        Dutch

      • Meaning:

        "Saxon"

      • Description:

        From the first time we saw the name Saskia attached to a portrait of Rembrandt's wife (her full name was Saakje van Uylenburgh, but she was always called Saskia), we have found it utterly charming and wondered why it hasn't attracted more fans In this country--she's appreciated by the Brits, who have moved her to Number 392. Saskia is one of those names that's been used in Europe since the Middle Ages, but has never crossed the ocean.