A word name with a touch of mystery surrounding it, Shadow is a bold, edgy choice for a baby which some may find a bit ominous. While it is predominatly used for cats, dogs, and other furry friends, it can be considered a wild word name that parents are actually using, having debuted in the US stats for girls in 1974 and for boys in 1987.

This spelling seems to be taking off as a result of media appearances as characters in first "Gilmore Girls" and then as Sookie Stackhouse, the Anna Paquin character in "True Blood," based on "The Southern Vampire Mysteries" series of books by Charlaine Harris.

Syrin is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a modern variation of Siren, referencing the enchanting mythological creatures of Greek mythology known for their captivating songs. Alternatively, it could be related to the word "syrinx," which refers to a type of pan pipe instrument in Greek mythology. This connection gives the name musical associations and a lyrical quality.

Though Tate is used almost exclusively for boys, we can see Tate as a stronger surname alternative to Kate or a clipped form of Tatum.

Toula came to light as the name of the heroine of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," short for Fotoula, a variant of Fortini, a feminine version of Fotis or Fotios, meaning "light".

Tygr is an unconventional masculine name that serves as a creative spelling variation of 'Tiger.' While not traditional in English-speaking countries, it reflects the modern trend of alternative spellings and nature-inspired names. The removal of the 'e' gives the name a more compact, striking appearance. As a given name, Tygr is extremely rare, though animal names have gained some popularity in recent decades. The name evokes qualities associated with the tiger - strength, power, ferocity, and beauty. Parents choosing this name likely value uniqueness and may be drawn to its strong symbolic associations. The tiger has cultural significance across many societies, particularly in Asian cultures where it represents courage and might. Tygr projects a bold, distinctive image for a child.

If you love Puritan virtue names and want to move beyond Hope and Faith and Grace, this is a wonderful choice, both for its meaning and its sound. A rare find here, though occasionally heard in England. It was used in Winston Graham's Poldark novels, was Madonna's name as James Bond's fencing instructor in Die Another Day, and made a brief appearance in Harry Potter. Not to mention being a fixture on British and Australian soaps. Verity also appears in one of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple mysteries.

Westerleigh is an extremely rare feminine name derived from an English place name or surname. It combines 'west' with 'leigh,' an Old English element meaning 'woodland clearing' or 'meadow.' The name has a distinctly aristocratic, English countryside quality that evokes images of rolling hills and pastoral landscapes. As a first name, Westerleigh is virtually unheard of in regular use, making it an extraordinarily unique choice. It carries associations with nature, tranquility, and a connection to Western geography. Parents might choose this name for its elegant sound, distinctive character, and subtle nod to English heritage. The name projects sophistication while maintaining a connection to the natural world.

Xaviera is one of the most intriguing and rarest female forms of a male name. Only a handful of baby girls are named Xaviera in the US each year, compared with nearly 3500 baby boys named Xavier.