Beryn is a rare feminine name with possible Welsh or Old English origins. It may be related to the Welsh name Berwyn, meaning "fair" or "blessed hill," or could be a variant spelling of Berin or Berin, with roots meaning "strong bear." The name has an ancient, mystical quality that evokes medieval legends and Celtic traditions. Beryn has remained extremely uncommon throughout recorded naming history, making it a truly distinctive choice. Its short, crisp sound combines strength and elegance, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical resonance and a touch of mystery.

Elizar is the Spanish version of this attractive name, on the cusp of going from uncommon to big.

Lazarus is a name that looks as if it could possibly be raised from the dead, just like its biblical bearer. Look for it in the next wave of Old Testament revivals that transcend their long-bearded images, the way Noah, Moses, and Abraham have for this generation.

Mordecai, although it has a noble heritage, has never caught on in this country, because of its rather weighty image. Nevertheless, with parents searching for rarer Biblical names that work as alternatives to Malachi and Matthew, Mordecai has seen increased interest in recent years and was given to 74 boys in the US in 2024.

This evocative name of one of the Three Wise Men of the Orient, also spelled Balthasar, may finally be ready for prime time. Balthazar, Melchior and Caspar were the Magi who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus, though their names were not mentioned in the Bible.

Lysander is a distinctive Greek name that could be thought of as a more creative cousin of Alexander. In ancient history, Lysander was the name of an esteemed Spartan naval commander and his literary cred comes from one of the two star-struck young men in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, as well as one of the twin sons (the other being Lorcan) of Luna Lovegood, whom we learn about in the Harry Potter epilogue.

Elsavetta is an elaborated feminine name that appears to be a variant of Elizabeth or possibly a fusion of Elsa and the Russian diminutive suffix '-vetta.' The name Elizabeth ultimately derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath.' Elsavetta carries a distinctly Slavic or Eastern European flair, evoking images of imperial Russia and Old World elegance. Though extremely rare in English-speaking countries, it offers a unique alternative to the ubiquitous Elizabeth and its countless variants. The name has a melodic, flowing quality with its four syllables and soft consonants. Parents might choose Elsavetta for its exotic sound paired with its connection to the classic and royal Elizabeth.

This appealing Hebrew name is heard in Israel, and would fit in well with all the popular El-starting names for boys, such as Elliot and Ellery. It was given to just five American boys in 2015. Also worth considering is the pretty female version, Eliora.

Velada is a feminine name with possible Spanish or Portuguese origins. It may derive from the Latin word 'velatus' meaning 'veiled' or 'covered,' potentially relating to concepts of mystery or protection. In Spanish, 'velada' can also refer to an evening gathering or celebration, giving the name connotations of social warmth and festivity. While relatively uncommon as a personal name, Velada has an elegant, flowing quality with its soft consonants and open vowel sounds. The name carries a romantic, somewhat exotic feel for English speakers while remaining easy to pronounce. Its rarity makes it appealing for parents seeking a distinctive name with Latin roots and a feminine character.

The wife of legendary Irish hero Cu Chulainn, blessed with the gifts of beauty sweet speech, wisdom, needlework, and chastity -- a mixed bag.

Another name for the Hindu god-Vishnu.

Intriguing name that's a Top 100 choice in Spain and virtually unknown outside that country. But has definitely possibilities for the adventurous baby namer.

This is the most popular Welsh form of Agnes. Variants include Annest and Nest. There was an eleventh century Nest who was known as 'Helen of Wales' for her beauty and the problems it caused.

Viridis is a medieval Italian name which is also the Latin word for green. This name is a beautiful option for parents looking for an unusual name that conveys freshness, youth, springtime and nature.

Evocative African choice.

A Persian name with an evocative meaning, Jahan was notably borne by the 17th century Indian emperor, Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal for his wife Mumtaz. Associated with one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Jahan is predominantly used as a masculine name, though is sometimes given to girls too. The popular Turkish and Azerbaijani form is Ci̇han.

Miriain appears to be an unusual variant or possible alternate spelling of Miriam, a Hebrew name meaning 'sea of bitterness' or 'rebelliousness.' The traditional Miriam has biblical roots as the sister of Moses and Aaron in the Old Testament. This rare spelling variation Miriain might have emerged through transcription differences or as a deliberate modification to create distinction. With extremely limited historical usage, Miriain doesn't appear in most naming databases or popularity rankings. The name maintains the melodic quality of Miriam while offering a unique twist with its unusual ending. The pronunciation likely remains similar to Miriam (MEER-ee-um), though the uncommon spelling might cause some confusion. For parents seeking biblical connections with an uncommon presentation, Miriain offers biblical heritage while standing apart from more common variants like Miriam, Maryam, or Mariam.

Z names have been popular in recent years, and here's an obscure option for achieving the initial, though Zelina may be a little more successful in the US with its feminine -a ending.

Leonon is a masculine name with obscure origins, possibly derived from Leon, which means 'lion' in Greek and Latin languages. This uncommon variation adds a distinctive syllable to the traditional name, creating a unique identity while maintaining the powerful leonine association. Leonon carries the strength and nobility associated with lions, traditional qualities of leadership and courage. As a rare name, Leonon offers distinctiveness while still having recognizable roots, making it approachable yet unusual. Though not widely used in any particular culture, it might appeal to parents seeking a strong-sounding name with classical undertones that remains uncommon in most communities.

Desiderius is a masculine name with ancient Roman origins, derived from Latin 'desiderium' meaning 'longing' or 'desire.' This classical name was borne by several historical figures, including Saint Desiderius, a 7th-century bishop and martyr, and Desiderius Erasmus, the renowned Renaissance humanist scholar. Despite its distinguished history, the name remains quite rare in modern usage, particularly in English-speaking countries. Desiderius has a scholarly, distinguished quality with its Latin derivation and historical associations. The name offers formal elegance while also providing the friendly nickname options like Desi. Parents might choose it for its intellectual heritage, unique character, and connection to classical learning.