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GEMSTONE AND HERB NAMES

  1. Airi

    • Origin:

      Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "lover of jasmine; lover of pears"
  2. 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".
  3. Alexandrie

    • Description:

      Alexandrie is a feminine name that represents a French variation of Alexandra, which ultimately derives from the Greek name Alexandros meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This elegant variation adds a distinctly French flair to the classic name through its ending. While Alexandra and Alexandria are more common internationally, Alexandrie offers a sophisticated European alternative with its soft pronunciation and graceful ending. The name carries the strength and historical significance of its Greek origins while adding a touch of French refinement. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it may appeal to parents seeking a name with international appeal and classical roots but with a distinctive, feminine quality.

  4. Amber

    • Origin:

      Word name, English

    • Description:

      Though perhaps not as currently stylish as Ruby, Jade, or Pearl, Amber has a colorful history (remember the notorious Forever Amber heroine?). Unfortunately, it does come with the "Amber Alert" connotation for modern parents (and their children).
  5. Amethyst

    • Origin:

      Gem and Color name

    • Description:

      As flower names become more unique, so can gem names move beyond Ruby and Pearl to names like Topaz, Sapphire, and Peridot. Amethyst, the purple birthstone for February, has never been in the Top 1000, but could have some appeal, joining similarly-hued Violet and Lilac, all of which make great names for Aquarius babies or names for February babies.
  6. Ander

    • Origin:

      Basque form of Andrew and Andreas, Greek, "strong and manly"

    • Meaning:

      "strong and manly"

    • Description:

      This Basque form of the sturdy classic brings a fresh, cool edge to Andrew. It fits in with other -er ending names while also giving the name an international feel.
  7. Andra

    • Origin:

      Variation of Andrea

    • Description:

      Arty seventies name usually pronounced AHN-dra.
  8. Anise

    • Origin:

      Nature name

    • Description:

      Name of the licorice plant, this spice comes in the shape of a star, giving this name an extra level of sweetness.
  9. Abal
    • Ametrine
      • Andesine
        • Basil

          • Origin:

            Greek

          • Meaning:

            "royal"

          • Description:

            Although Greek in origin--in the fourth century, a bishop by that name established the principles of the Greek Orthodox Church--Basil for years took on the aura of aquiline-nosed upper-class Britishness of Sherlock Holmes portrayer Basil Rathbone, then spiced with the fragrant aroma of the herb that entered with the Pesto generation.
        • Bay

          • Origin:

            English word, Old English

          • Meaning:

            "an inlet of the sea where the land curves inward; berry"

          • Description:

            One of the most usable of the pleasant, newly adopted nature/water names (like Lake and Ocean), especially in middle position. It's gentle, slightly whimsical, but grounded by its similarity to May or Rae.
        • Beryl

          • Origin:

            Greek

          • Meaning:

            "sea-green jewel"

          • Description:

            Dated British favorite that never caught on in this country, where Jade remains the green gem of choice. Interesting namesakes: British writer Beryl Bainbridge and British aviatrix Beryl Markham.
        • Bowen

          • Origin:

            Welsh, Chinese

          • Meaning:

            "son of Owen; wave of writing, wave of literature"

          • Description:

            Bowen is a Celtic surname representing two separate Celtic strains, one Welsh and one Irish, and entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2011.
        • Brook

          • Origin:

            English nature name

          • Meaning:

            "small stream"

          • Description:

            Brooke variation – or is the other way around? – that makes it more a nature name, less an eighties-style androgynous name.
        • Bryony

          • Origin:

            Latin flower name

          • Meaning:

            "to sprout"

          • Description:

            Bryony is an unusually strong plant name --the bryony is a wild climbing vine with green flowers --that caught on in the U.K. before sprouting here. The name of the young character in the Ian McEwan novel Atonement is spelled Briony, which is the variation and Bryony the original.
        • Bellis
          • Camellia

            • Origin:

              Flower name, from Czech surname

            • Meaning:

              "Kamel's flower"

            • Description:

              Camellia is a rare flower name with distinct roots related to the Camille/Camila group and has varied associations to the moon, water, wealth, and perfection. It could be thought of as a floral replacement for Amelia.
          • Celestine

            • Origin:

              Latin

            • Meaning:

              "heavenly"

            • Description:

              Celestine is a pretty, crystalline extension (actually a diminutive) of Celeste that would make a choice that is both delicate and strong. It is also a popular name in France.
          • Cicely

            • Origin:

              English variation of Cecilia

            • Meaning:

              "blind"

            • Description:

              This frilly Victorian name is a variant of Cecilia and Cecily, with which it might well be confused. Cicely was a surprise choice for comedienne Sandra Bernhard.
          • Citrine

            • Origin:

              Gemstone name

            • Description:

              Citrine is a type of quartz named after its citrus-colored hues. if Amethyst, Jasper, and Onyx (all other types of quartz) can be used, why not Citrine, which has a lovely French-sounding suffix. Citrine is one of the many rare and attractive girl names starting with C.
          • Clove

            • Origin:

              Nature name

            • Description:

              Clove is a spice name that is a tad more piquant than Saffron or Cinnamon. It might get more attention now as a member of The Hunger Games family of names.
          • Clover

            • Origin:

              Flower name, from Old English

            • Meaning:

              "key"

            • Description:

              Clover is a charming, perky choice if you want to move beyond hothouse blooms like Rose and Lily, and it's recently become a new celeb favorite, chosen by both Neal McDonough and Natasha Gregson Wagner, who used it to honor her mother, Natalie Wood, one of whose most iconic films was Inside Daisy Clover.
          • Coral

            • Origin:

              Nature name

            • Meaning:

              "a rock like substance formed by sea creatures; pinkish-red; gemstone"

            • Description:

              A color name, a gemstone name, and an ocean-inspired choice, Coral has a lot going for it with its sharp C sounds yet sweet vintage feel. Unlike Scarlett or Violet, however, it is only quietly used in the US these days, perhaps because of its similarity to more 'dated' Carol.
          • Coralie

            • Origin:

              French from Latin

            • Meaning:

              "coral"

            • Description:

              Coralie is a French name not often heard here, though she's gaining some recognition via Neil Gaiman's similar sounding spooky and lovely children's book, Coraline. Other literary appearances: Coralie is the stage name of an actress in Balzac's Lost Illusions, and a French girl in an 1850 Thackeray novel.

              Coralie is currently very popular in French-speaking Quebec, and there is a contemporary French singer named Coralie Clement.

          • Coriander

            • Origin:

              Greek

            • Meaning:

              "bed bug"

            • Description:

              This herb is also known as cilantro. It's meaning, "bed bug" is on account of its smell, characterized by the ancient Greeks as bed bug-like.
          • Cornelia

            • Origin:

              Feminine variation of Cornelius, Latin

            • Meaning:

              "horn"

            • Description:

              In ancient Rome, Cornelia was considered the paragon of womanly virtue, making it a handsome name with an excellent pedigree. It's rare today, so if you want a name no one else is using, somewhat reminiscent of Amelia and the Shakespearean Cordelia, Cornelia should be on your list. Cornelia's short forms might include Cora, Nelia or Nell--anything but Corny.
          • Carnelia
            • Copal
              • Daisy

                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Margaret or flower name, English

                • Meaning:

                  "day's eye"

                • Description:

                  Daisy, fresh, wholesome, and energetic, is one of the flower names that burst back into bloom after a century's hibernation. Originally a nickname for Margaret (the French Marguerite is the word for the flower), Daisy comes from the phrase "day's eye," because it opens its petals at daybreak.
              • Daphne

                • Origin:

                  Greek

                • Meaning:

                  "laurel tree, bay tree"

                • Description:

                  In Greek mythology, Daphne was the nymph daughter of Peneus, a river god. Peneus saved Daphne from Apollo’s romantic obsessions by transforming her into a laurel tree. It is from this myth that the plant genus daphne, which contains the laurel species, gets its name.
              • Dot

                • Origin:

                  English, diminutive of Dorothy

                • Description:

                  Old-fangled nickname could make dot.com era short form or middle name.
              • Elba

                • Origin:

                  Place-name

                • Description:

                  The site of Napoleon's exile became the great-great-aunt in the purple hat.
              • Electra

                • Origin:

                  Greek

                • Meaning:

                  "shining, bright"

                • Description:

                  Though the tragedies of the Greeks and Eugene O'Neill that used this name are filled with incest and murder, Electra is still a brilliant choice. Isabella Rossellini chose the gentler Italian verson, Elettra, for her now grown daughter.
              • Emerald

                • Origin:

                  Gem name; Persian

                • Meaning:

                  "green"

                • Description:

                  Emerald is the intriguing color and jewel name of the deep green stone treasured as far back as ancient Egypt — it's supposed to open one's heart to wisdom and to love and be good for strengthening relationships — which could make for an interesting, unusual name, particularly with the popularity of so many Em-starting names.
              • Esmeralda

                • Origin:

                  Spanish and Portuguese

                • Meaning:

                  "emerald"

                • Description:

                  Esmeralda came into use as an applied use of the Spanish word for emerald, esmeralda. In the 1831 Victor Hugo novel Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, the heroine was born Agnes, but called La Esmeralda in reference to the jewel she wears around her neck. The name Esmeralda got increased visibility via the Disney version of the story.
              • Faya

                • Description:

                  Faya is a lyrical feminine name with diverse cultural connections. In Arabic origins, it relates to words meaning 'shadow' or 'shade,' suggesting protection and comfort. Some sources connect it to Persian origins where similar words evoke concepts of radiance or illumination. The name also appears as a variant of Faye, which derives from the Old French word for 'fairy' or 'enchantment,' carrying magical and whimsical associations. Faya's simple yet distinctive sound pattern, with its flowing vowels, gives it a graceful quality that works well across languages. Though relatively uncommon in Western countries, the name has seen modest increased usage in recent years as parents seek names that are both accessible and unique. Faya's international versatility and positive connotations make it appealing to diverse families, while its brevity and melodic nature ensure it remains elegant and memorable.
              • Garnet

                • Origin:

                  Jewel name, from the French

                • Meaning:

                  "pomegranate"

                • Description:

                  One of the jewel names in use a hundred years ago, due for revival along with sisters Ruby and Pearl.
              • Gemma

                • Origin:

                  Italian, Catalonian, Spanish

                • Meaning:

                  "precious stone"

                • Description:

                  Gemma is a jewel of a name, an Italian classic that was very popular in 1980s England, but has only recently been started to be used here; it entered the list in 2008.
              • Ginger

                • Origin:

                  English diminutive

                • Description:

                  Originally a unisex nickname for a redhead -- red hair is called "ginger" in Britain -- or for the name Virginia, Ginger perennially wears pink gingham and spike heels.
              • Gowan
                • Hawk

                  • Origin:

                    Nature name

                  • Meaning:

                    "hawk, a bird"

                  • Description:

                    Animal names are on the rise, especially more of the aggressive Hawk-Fox-Wolf variety than cute little Bunnys or Robins, and Hawk is a prime example.
                • Hawthorn

                  • Origin:

                    Spelling variation of Hawthorne

                  • Description:

                    The version with the e at the end relates to novelist Nathaniel, so that may be the one most parents attracted to this unusual name would choose. Hawthorn nudges it toward the nature category: Hawthorn is a type of hedge.
                • Hazel

                  • Origin:

                    English

                  • Meaning:

                    "the hazelnut tree"

                  • Description:

                    Hazel has a pleasantly hazy, brownish-green-eyed, old-fashioned image that more and more parents are choosing to share. Former Old Lady name Hazel reentered the popularity lists in 1998 and now is near the top of the charts.
                • Henna

                  • Origin:

                    Color name, Finnish feminization of Henry, English from German

                  • Meaning:

                    "estate ruler"

                  • Description:

                    Reddish dye that sounds as if it could be a real name — of the outdated, Old World, Yetta-Hedda variety.
                • Indi

                  • Origin:

                    Variation of Indie, English

                  • Meaning:

                    "independent"

                  • Description:

                    A true maverick of a girls' name — even more so with this spelling, the least common between Indie, Indy, and Indi.
                • Indio

                  • Origin:

                    Spanish

                  • Meaning:

                    "Indian"

                  • Description:

                    This name of a California desert town, used by Deborah Falconer and Robert Downey, Jr. for their son, makes a much livelier and more individual – not to mention more masculine – improvisation on the themes of India and Indiana.
                • Ivy

                  • Origin:

                    Botanical name

                  • Description:

                    The quirky, offbeat and energetic botanical name Ivy is enjoying a deserved revival, propelled even higher by its choice by high-profile parents Beyonce and Jay-Z for daughter Blue Ivy. Ivy is also traditionally used at Christmas, make this one of the perfect names for December babies.
                • Indico
                  • Jade

                    • Origin:

                      Spanish

                    • Meaning:

                      "stone of the side"

                    • Description:

                      As a precious stone, Jade is known for its cool green hues, its importance in Chinese art, and its ability to transmit wisdom, confidence, and clarity. As a name however, Jade is a 90’s throwback in the UK, a Number 1 choice in France, and a returning gem in the US right now.
                  • Jasmine

                    • Origin:

                      Flower name, from Persian

                    • Meaning:

                      "gift from God"

                    • Description:

                      Jasmine was derived from the Persian word yasmin, referring to the jasmine flower. Scented oil was made from the plant, and it was used as a perfume throughout the Persian Empire. Variants include Jazmin, Yasmin, Yasmine, and Jessamine.
                  • Jasper

                    • Origin:

                      Persian

                    • Meaning:

                      "bringer of treasure"

                    • Description:

                      Jasper originated as a variation of the Latin Gaspar, which ultimately derived from the Persian word ganzabara, meaning "bringer of treasure." As a given name, Jasper’s etymology is unrelated to that of the gemstone, which comes from a Semitic word meaning "speckled stone." Jasper is the usual English form for one of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Christ according to medieval tradition and appears in the Bible as a reference to the stone itself in Revelations 4:3.
                  • Juniper

                    • Origin:

                      Latin tree name

                    • Meaning:

                      "young"

                    • Description:

                      Juniper is a fresh-feeling nature name -- it's a small evergreen shrub -- with lots of energy. A new favorite of fashionable parents, Juniper joins such other tree and shrub names as Hazel, Acacia, and Willow.
                  • Kavi

                    • Origin:

                      Sanskrit

                    • Meaning:

                      "poet, sage"

                    • Description:

                      A subtle and attractive name for the child of a poet or poetry-enthusiast.
                  • Kya

                    • Origin:

                      Spelling variation of Kaia, Latin, Scandinavian, or Hawaiian

                    • Meaning:

                      "to rejoice or sea"

                    • Description:

                      Kya, a variation of the popular Kaia, the feminine form of the also-popular gender-neutral name Kai, was one of the fastest-rising girls' names of 2023.
                  • Kyan

                    • Origin:

                      Modern invented name

                    • Description:

                      Kyan is a quintessential twenty-first-century name, a twist on the twentieth-century standard Ryan. Kyan is used by the grooming guru on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Kyan Douglas (born Eddie), and increasing numbers of parents.
                  • Laura

                    • Origin:

                      English from Latin

                    • Meaning:

                      "from Laurentum or bay laurel"

                    • Description:

                      Laura is a hauntingly evocative perennial, never trendy, never dated, feminine without being fussy, with literary links stretching back to Dante. All this makes Laura a more solid choice than any of its more decorative counterparts and one of the most classic girl names starting with L.
                  • Laurel

                    • Origin:

                      Latin

                    • Meaning:

                      "laurel tree"

                    • Description:

                      Laurel takes Laura back to its meaning in nature, resulting in a gentle, botanical option. Even more directly than Laura, Laurel relates back to the laurel wreath signifying success and peace in ancient Greece and Rome.
                  • Lavender

                    • Origin:

                      English

                    • Meaning:

                      "purple flower"

                    • Description:

                      Lavender lags far behind sweet-smelling purple-hued sister names Violet and Lila, but is starting to get some enthusiastic attention from cutting-edge namers along with other adventurous nature names like Clementine and Marigold.
                  • Lawson

                    • Origin:

                      English

                    • Meaning:

                      "son of Lawrence"

                    • Description:

                      Appealing way, à la Dawson, to honor an ancestral Lawrence. Lawson is also an English pop rock band. Lawson has history or use that dates far back, but it fell off of the charts in 1950. The name resurfaced in 2001 and has been climbing since. Lawson has that surname feel and -son suffix that parents are loving in recent years.
                  • Linden

                    • Origin:

                      Variation of Lyndon

                    • Meaning:

                      "linden tree hill"

                    • Description:

                      The graceful, natural image of the verdant shade tree transcends any connection with President Johnson.
                  • Lulu

                    • Origin:

                      Diminutive of Louise or Lucy, or Arabic

                    • Meaning:

                      "pearl"

                    • Description:

                      Lula has a firecracker personality, a singing and dancing extrovert. Interesting that Lulu was a Top 100 name when the Social Security list was born in 1880, but it's been sliding ever since and has not been in the Top 1000 for decades. Modern parents in love with Lulu might well reverse that trend.
                  • Lin
                    • Madelief

                      • Origin:

                        Dutch, '"daisy"

                      • Meaning:

                        "daisy"

                      • Description:

                        Madelief is an uncommon name but not unheard of in the Netherlands, where 123 girls were called Madelief in one recent year. With its soft sounds and similarities to all those "Madeleine" type names as well as names ending in "eef/eev" sounds (Aoife, Eve, Genevieve), Madelief has potential in English-speaking countries to be a fresh and pleasant change from Daisy, Margaret and Madeleine.
                    • Malachi

                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew

                      • Meaning:

                        "my messenger"

                      • Description:

                        An Old Testament name with a Gaelic lilt, Malachi entered the list in 1987.
                    • Malaya

                      • Origin:

                        Filipino

                      • Meaning:

                        "free"

                      • Description:

                        Deriving from the same East Asian root as Malaysia and Malay, Malaya is a name that recalls the more popular Maya and the name of 2014 Nobel Peace Laureate Malala Yousafzai. It first appeared in the US Top 1000 in 2006.
                    • Margaret

                      • Origin:

                        Greek

                      • Meaning:

                        "pearl"

                      • Description:

                        Margaret is derived from the French Marguerite, which in turn came from Margarita, the Latin form of the Greek Margarites. Margarites was based on the Old Persian word margārīta, meaning "pearl."
                    • Maria

                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew or Egyptian

                      • Meaning:

                        "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

                      • Description:

                        As a highly popular girls’ name in all Spanish-speaking countries, this saintly Latin variation of Mary retains a timeless beauty. Through the centuries, Maria remains one of the most widely-used girl names starting with M.
                    • Marigold

                      • Origin:

                        Flower name, from English

                      • Meaning:

                        "golden flower"

                      • Description:

                        Marigold, once found almost exclusively in English novels and aristocratic nurseries, is beginning to be talked about and considered here. It has a sweet, sunny, quirky feel. The marigold was the symbol of the Virgin Mary.
                    • Mint

                      • Origin:

                        English word name or diminutive of Araminta, English from Greek and Latin

                      • Meaning:

                        "mint; defender; yielding to prayer"

                      • Description:

                        You may be tempted to scoff at Mint as another wacky celebrity baby name — it was used by Dutch model Romee Strijd for her daughter in 2020 — but it's a far more legitimate choice than many would guess. Minty baby names for girls are having a style moment in Nordic countries — Mynte is a Top 50 name in Denmark, and Minttu ranks in Finland's Top 50. It's ultimately not so surprising that a well-traveled international star would choose to use the English variation of these names for her daughter.
                    • Morgan

                      • Origin:

                        Welsh

                      • Meaning:

                        "sea-born, sea-song or sea-circle"

                      • Description:

                        Morgan has long been a traditional Welsh male name, a variant of the Old Welsh name Morcant, from the Welsh elements mor, meaning "sea" and cant, "circle." The female Morgan is unrelated to the male version—it is a name from Arthurian legend created for Morgan le Fay, King Arthur's half-sister and famed sorceress. Her name comes from Morgen, an Old Welsh name meaning "sea-born," and is related to the Irish name Muirgen.
                    • Moss

                      • Origin:

                        English

                      • Meaning:

                        "descendant of Moses"

                      • Description:

                        This evocative green nature name, heard much more frequently as a surname, is associated with playwright Moss Hart (born Robert), who co-wrote (with George S. Kaufman) such enduring Broadway comedies as The Man Who Came to Dinner and You Can't Take it With You.
                    • Malaia
                      • Nevena

                        • Origin:

                          Bulgarian; Macedonian; Croatian; Serbian

                        • Meaning:

                          "marigold"

                        • Description:

                          If you're looking for a creative way to get to Neve, Nevena is a lovely option with a sweet floral meaning.
                      • Olivia

                        • Origin:

                          Latin

                        • Meaning:

                          "olive tree"

                        • Description:

                          Olivia, a lovely Shakespearean name with an admirable balance of strength and femininity, is the Number 1 name for baby girls in the US and one of the top girls' names around the world.
                      • Olivine

                        • Origin:

                          Latin

                        • Meaning:

                          "olive"

                        • Description:

                          A gem named for its green hue.
                      • Onyx

                        • Origin:

                          Word name

                        • Meaning:

                          "gem stone; claw, nail"

                        • Description:

                          Unlike Pearl and Ruby and more like Jasper, this gem name works well as a boys name. With its strong final X, it feels similar to Alex, Phoenix, Jax, and Rex, while the shiny black quality of the stone feels reminiscent of Orion. Chosen by musician Iggy Azalea for her son in 2020, it has accelerated up the charts and now sits just outside the Top 300.
                      • Opal

                        • Origin:

                          Sanskrit

                        • Meaning:

                          "gem"

                        • Description:

                          Opal is on the verge of a repolishing, following other jewel names like Ruby and Pearl. A Top 100 name during the first two decades of the twentieth century, the opalescent Opal has a good chance of coming back as another O-initial option.
                      • Olen
                        • Pearl

                          • Origin:

                            Latin gem name

                          • Meaning:

                            "pearl"

                          • Description:

                            Pearl, like Ruby, has begun to be polished up for a new generation of fashionable children after a century of jewelry box storage. The birthstone for the month of June, Pearl could also make a fresher middle name alternative to the overused Rose. Cool couple Maya Rudolph and Paul Thomas Anderson named their daughter Pearl Minnie, followed by Jack Osbourne picking Pearl Clementine. Several celebs have put it in the middle spot, as in Busy Philipps's Cricket Pearl, Jake Owen's Olive Pearl and Caleb Followill's Dixie Pearl .
                        • Peri

                          • Origin:

                            Greek; Hebrew; Persian

                          • Meaning:

                            "mountain dweller; fruit; fairy"

                          • Description:

                            This name used for both sexes in several cultures is quite well used in Israel.
                        • Poppy

                          • Origin:

                            English from Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "red flower"

                          • Description:

                            Poppy, unlike most floral names which are sweet and feminine, has a lot of spunk. Long popular throughout the rest of the English-speaking world, Poppy is finally starting to rise toward the top in the US, where it entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2016.
                        • Primrose

                          • Origin:

                            English flower name

                          • Meaning:

                            "first rose"

                          • Description:

                            A quaint and quirky flower name, until recently considered a bit too prim for most American classrooms but brought back to life in recent years by the attractive character of Primrose "Prim" Everdeen in the Hunger Games series. In the Top 300 girl names in England and Wales and on Nameberry, Primrose remains rare in the US, but is made more accessible by a raft of sweet nickname options, including Rosie and Posy.
                        • Rhosyn

                          • Origin:

                            Welsh

                          • Meaning:

                            "rose"

                          • Description:

                            A modern Welsh name coming from the Welsh word for "rose".
                        • Rina

                          • Origin:

                            Diminutive of Caterina or other names ending in -rina

                          • Description:

                            A pan-European short form often used as a name in its own right, Rina is sister to names like Mina and Lena, popular at the end of the 19th century and showing their pretty if slight faces again. In the Netherlands, Rina itself is sometimes shortened to Rineke, as Tina may become Tineke.
                        • Rio

                          • Origin:

                            Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese

                          • Meaning:

                            "river or place of the cherry blossoms"

                          • Description:

                            Rio is a reductive ranchero place-name with an attractive Tex-Mex lilt. No Doubt's Tom Dumont has a son named Rio Atticus.
                        • Rio

                          • Origin:

                            Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese

                          • Meaning:

                            "river or place of the cherry blossoms"

                          • Description:

                            Rio is one of Japan's most popular girls' names, constantly sitting in that country's Top 10. Of course, Rio may also stem from the Portuguese and Spanish word for river, and the Brazilian city Rio de Janeiro. A truly international name for a cosmopolitan baby!
                        • Rishi

                          • Origin:

                            Sanskrit

                          • Meaning:

                            "sage"

                          • Description:

                            A number of stylish Indian names are making their way to the US mainstream, including wise Rishi. In Hindu mythology, the Rishis are sages and seers; in modern times, Rishi Rich is a popular British-born musician and record producer and Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister of the UK in 2022.
                        • Rosa

                          • Origin:

                            Latinate variation of Rose

                          • Meaning:

                            "rose, a flower"

                          • Description:

                            As sweet-smelling as Rose but with an international flavour, Rosa is one of the most classic Portuguese, Spanish and Italian names, which is also favored by upper-class Brits, having an ample measure of vintage charm. Rosa has been on the popularity charts for every year that's been counted, especially popular from the 1880s through the beginning of the twentieth century.
                        • Rosalia

                          • Origin:

                            Spanish, Latin ceremonial name

                          • Meaning:

                            "rose"

                          • Description:

                            Elegant and bright with plenty of flair, Rosalia this Sicilian Saint name is familiar in Spain and Italy. It refers back to the annual Roman ceremony of hanging garlands of roses on tombs, which could make it work as a commemorative name.
                        • Rosalind

                          • Origin:

                            Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "supple horse or pretty rose"

                          • Description:

                            Rosalind has a distinguished literary history – used and popularized by Edmund Spenser and Shakespeare via one of his most charming heroines, in As You Like It. Along with a bouquet of other Rose names, Rosalind might be ready for a comeback.
                        • Rosamund

                          • Origin:

                            German

                          • Meaning:

                            "horse protection"

                          • Description:

                            This lovely, quintessentially British appellation, also spelled Rosamond, is the name of a legendary twelfth-century beauty. Rare on these shores, it is more than worthy of importation.
                        • Rose

                          • Origin:

                            Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "rose, a flower"

                          • Description:

                            Rose is derived from the Latin rosa, which referred to the flower. There is also evidence to suggest it was a Norman variation of the Germanic name Hrodohaidis, meaning "famous type," and also Hros, "horse". In Old English it was translated as Roese and Rohese.
                        • Rosella

                          • Description:

                            Rosella can be seen as a nature name (a rosella is the name of a variety of beautiful Australian cockatoos and an Australian flower) or a diminutive version of Rose.
                        • Rosemary

                          • Origin:

                            Latin or English

                          • Meaning:

                            "dew of the sea, or rosemary (herb)"

                          • Description:

                            Despite appearances, Rosemary is not a "smoosh" name, not even a traditional one. The name derives from two Latin terms "Ros" meaning ‘dew’ and "Marinus" "meaning "of the sea". The plant was termed ‘dew of the sea’ due to its salty texture and its ability to thrive in coastal climes. Only after the Middle Ages did the English names of Rose and Mary become interchanged with the name Rosmarinus and give us the modern name we use today.
                        • Rosen

                          • Origin:

                            Cornish

                          • Meaning:

                            "rose"

                          • Description:

                            The masculine version of Rosen, pronounced ROH-zen, is a German and Bulgarian name, commonly seen as an element in Ashkenazi Jewish surnames. But Rosen, pronounced ROZ-en, is a modern Cornish word name used predominantly for girls.
                        • Ross

                          • Origin:

                            English and Scottish

                          • Meaning:

                            "upland, peninsula"

                          • Description:

                            Like Friends, Ross is off the air and into syndication as a baby name, having plummeted from its zenith in the late 80s to fall off the US Top 1000 in 2013. Today, Ross is more likely to be a dad name than a newborn name.
                        • Rubina

                          • Description:

                            Rubina is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. It derives from the Latin word 'rubinus,' meaning 'ruby,' referring to the precious red gemstone. The name has particular popularity in Italy, India, and Pakistan, where it carries slightly different cultural connotations while maintaining its connection to the gemstone. In Indian and Pakistani communities, it is sometimes considered a Muslim name meaning 'ruby-like' or 'precious stone.' Rubina has a romantic, jewel-like quality with its flowing syllables and connection to the vibrant red ruby. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, the name has maintained steady, modest usage over decades, appreciated for its elegant sound and meaningful connection to a treasured gemstone.

                        • Ruby

                          • Origin:

                            Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "deep red precious stone"

                          • Description:

                            Vibrant, sassy, and bubbly, Ruby is a vintage gem that hasn’t lost any of its sparkle. Currently popular in a number of English-speaking countries, Ruby is proof of the 100 Year Rule, trending again for the first time since its heyday in the 1910s.
                        • Rue

                          • Origin:

                            Botanical names or word name

                          • Meaning:

                            "herb; regret"

                          • Description:

                            Rue has gone from Golden Girls actress to Hunger Games heroine to a fresh alternative to beloved middle name Rose. This botanical name is also a coincidental double word name, meaning "regret" in English and "street" in French. Despite these unfortunate secondary meanings, Rue has real potential to be one of the most popular new middle names for girls.
                        • Rayhana
                          • Rosaura
                            • Saffron

                              • Origin:

                                Spice name

                              • Description:

                                Spice names are increasingly appealing to the senses of prospective parents; this one, belonging to a precious spice derived from the crocus has a vaguely orange-scented-incense sixties feel.
                            • Sage

                              • Origin:

                                Herb name, Latin

                              • Meaning:

                                "wise and knowing"

                              • Description:

                                Sage is an evocatively fragrant herbal name that also connotes wisdom, giving it a double advantage. It entered the Top 1000 at about the same time for both genders in the early 1990s, but it has pulled ahead for the girls. Toni Collette named her daughter Sage Florence.
                            • Sapphire

                              • Origin:

                                Hebrew, Greek, and Latin jewel name

                              • Meaning:

                                "blue"

                              • Description:

                                Sapphire goes waaaaay beyond Ruby and Pearl. This September birthstone, occasionally used a century ago, might be worth a reappraisal, perhaps as a Sophie/Sophia alternative. Sapphire is the pseudonym of Romona Lofton, who wrote the book Push, which was turned into the movie Precious. Sapphire entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2022, and is proving to be one of the freshest gem names for girls. Another intriguing variation is the lovely Sapphira.
                            • Selene

                              • Origin:

                                Greek

                              • Meaning:

                                "moon"

                              • Description:

                                Selene may be the mythological Greek original, but Latin variation Selena is used more often in the US these days. Selene is the Greek goddess of the moon, sister of Helios the sun god. Selene is also sometimes called Cynthia and Phoebe. The name may be related to the word selas, which means light, and is one of the loveliest of the Greek goddess names.
                            • Seraphine

                              • Origin:

                                French from Hebrew

                              • Meaning:

                                "burning ones"

                              • Description:

                                Seraphine is the Gallic version of the angelic name Seraphina. But while Seraphina has been rising rapidly since Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck chose it for their second daughter, Seraphine has been largely ignored, though we believe the French vowel-sound ending will soon be more stylish than the a-endings that have predominated in girls' names for years.
                            • Seren

                              • Origin:

                                Welsh, Turkish

                              • Meaning:

                                "star or sail mast"

                              • Description:

                                Seren is a top girls' name in Wales – and a lovely choice almost unknown elsewhere. Seren, in the Sirona form, was an ancient goddess of the hot springs.
                            • Stelle

                              • Description:

                                Stelle is a delicate feminine name with celestial origins, derived from the Latin 'stella' meaning 'star.' This elegant variation maintains the poetic imagery of its root while offering a more distinctive spelling and pronunciation (typically STELL). Less common than Stella, which has enjoyed popularity revivals, Stelle remains a rare celestial choice that carries associations with light, guidance, and cosmic beauty. The name has appeared across various European cultures, particularly with Italian connections. Stelle offers versatility—sophisticated enough for a professional adult while remaining sweet for a child. Its brevity eliminates the need for nicknames, though Star might serve as an endearing English equivalent. For parents seeking a name that balances familiarity with uniqueness, Stelle provides celestial symbolism in a refined package.
                            • Sylvie

                              • Origin:

                                French variation of Latin Sylvia

                              • Meaning:

                                "from the forest"

                              • Description:

                                Although Sylvia seems to be having somewhat of a revival among trendsetting baby namers, we'd still opt for the even gentler and more unusual Sylvie. Despite being dated in its native France (where it was popular during the 1950s and 60s), in English-speaking regions it still feels fresh and international without being unfamiliar and has a cosmopolitan, international air. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2016.
                            • Sylvine

                              • Description:

                                Sylvine is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' It's a variation of Sylvia and shares origins with names like Sylvester and Silvana. The name evokes images of lush greenery and natural beauty. While not among the most common names, Sylvine has a delicate, nature-inspired quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet melodious. In French-speaking regions, the name has maintained modest usage throughout the years. Sylvine carries connotations of growth, tranquility, and the serene qualities associated with forest environments.

                            • Seran
                              • Sitrina
                                • Tansy

                                  • Origin:

                                    Flower name, from Greek

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "immortality"

                                  • Description:

                                    Tansy is a flower name rarer than Rose, livelier than Lily and a lot less teasable than Pansy.
                                • Tiger

                                  • Origin:

                                    English

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "animal name"

                                  • Description:

                                    Other wild animals like Fox, Wolf and Bear are catching on as baby names, and Tiger is a rarer option with several famous namesakes, including golf champ Tiger Woods, who was born Eldrick. Other famous Tigers include Indian actor Tiger Shroff, born Jai, and British actor Tyger Drew-Honey, who spells his name with a Y.
                                • Topaz

                                  • Origin:

                                    Greek gem name

                                  • Description:

                                    As a name, Topaz is sophisticated and sultry; as a golden gem, it's said to have healing and energizing properties and also to bring good luck-- and being the birthstone for November it's one of the perfect names for November babies, with that final 'z' giving it some extra sizzle.
                                • Tulsi

                                  • Origin:

                                    Hindi

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "basil"

                                  • Description:

                                    Tulsi is more than a simple nature name: The holy basil plant is sacred in the Hindu religion, used to honor the god Vishnu and representative of his consort, the goddess Tulsi. The Tulsi plant is often planted in Hindu houses and is used for medicinal as well as ritualistic purposes.
                                • Valeria

                                  • Origin:

                                    Latin

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "strength, health"

                                  • Description:

                                    Valeria -- the original form of the name, used by early Christians --has been experiencing significant popularity in recent years. While Valeria was nearly always on the charts, the name peaked in 2009 at #72, surpassing the longtime Franco-American version Valerie. Today Valeria and Valerie are at about equal rankings, sitting in the 150s.
                                • Vera

                                  • Origin:

                                    Russian

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "faith"

                                  • Description:

                                    Vera was the height of fashion in 1910, then was for a long time difficult to picture embroidered on a baby blanket. Now, though, it has come back into style along with other old-fashioned simple names such as Ada and Iris.
                                • Viola

                                  • Origin:

                                    Latin

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "violet"

                                  • Description:

                                    Viola has plenty of positive elements going for it: the rhythm of the musical instrument, the association with the flower, the trending 'Vi' beginning and its leading role in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. With a touch of international flair, it also avoids the violent/Violet some parents have.
                                • Willem

                                  • Origin:

                                    Dutch variation of William

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "resolute protector"

                                  • Description:

                                    Common in Holland, the appealing Willem (as in de Kooning and Dafoe) makes William fresh and distinctive.
                                • Willow

                                  • Origin:

                                    English nature name

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "willow tree"

                                  • Description:

                                    An ancient tree that figures in literature from Shakespeare to Harry Potter and is believed to possess magical powers, Willow is a lovely name, as graceful as its inspiration.
                                • Yasmin

                                  • Origin:

                                    Persian

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "jasmine flower"

                                  • Description:

                                    This name, whose sweet and fragrant floral essence has always been widespread across the Near Eastern world, has now landed on US popularity lists in a variety of spellings. It's been dropping precipitously over the past few years, though, perhaps due to a combination of tensions in the Middle East and the fading fashion status of Jasmine itself.