User-created list
Rare Names from my Family Tree
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Henric
Henric is a masculine name representing a Germanic and Scandinavian variant of Henry, which derives from the elements 'heim' (home) and 'ric' (ruler), meaning 'ruler of the home' or 'lord of the…
Irving
Scottish
"green river, sea friend"
It might be surprising to know that this name originated as a Scottish place and surname name, as in Washington Irving. It became a popular choice for first-generation Jewish-American boys, such as…
Isom
Isom is a masculine name with historical usage dating back several centuries. It likely originated as a variant of Isham, which itself may be derived from a medieval English surname taken from place…
Jacobi
Variation of Jacob, Hebrew
"supplanter"
Jacobi is a masculine name derived from Jacob, which has Hebrew origins meaning "supplanter". This form represents a Latin genitive case of Jacobus, essentially meaning "of Jacob" or "son of Jacob."…
Johannem
Johis
Lafayette
French
"faith"
Foppish name with a distinguished forebear, French general Marquis de Lafayette, who fought in the American Revolution. It accounts for the L in L. Ron Hubbard. Old-time short form: Fayette or Fate.
Orin
Variation of Oren or Oran, Hebrew, Irish, Scottish
"laurel, light, song, little green one"
Orin is one of a variety of similarly-spelled names that have a soft and sensitive image. The Orrin spelling has been known nationally via Republican Senator Hatch. Orin is the name of a character in…
Onis
Osma
Presley
English
"priest's meadow"
More universal than Elvis...and more conventionally attractive, too. Cindy Crawford used it for her son, though it's on the rise mainly for girls. The last time Presley ranked in the Top 1000 for…
Robinson
English
"son of Robin"
This can be a cool and unusual way to honor your family Robert, conjuring up memories of Robinson Crusoe and Swiss Family Robinson , as well as narrative poet Robinson Jeffers, born John Robinson,…
Rayton
Turner
English
"works with a lathe"
Turner is a name that's both preppy and painterly, recalling the exquisite watercolor seascapes of British painter J.M.W. Turner. An occupational name in the Taylor-Carter mold, Turner is a more…
Wendelini
Wendelinus
Zenas
Zenas is a masculine name with ancient Greek origins, appearing in the New Testament as a Christian convert mentioned by Paul. The name derives from Zeus, the supreme deity in Greek mythology,…
Almeda
Almeda is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'almus' meaning 'nourishing' or 'kind.' It may also be connected to the Spanish term 'alameda,' referring to a tree-lined avenue or…
Alpha
Greek, first letter of the alphabet
The first letter of the Greek alphabet ande the brightest star in every constellation, this would make an interesting choice for a first daughter, though it does give off some spectral sci-fi…
Apollonia
Feminine variation of Apollo, Greek mythology name
"destroyer, strength; father's light"
This name of a third-century Christian martyr has an romantic, appealing feel in the modern world. It first came to American attention via Prince's love interest in the film Purple Rain . It could…
