The name of the Greek winged god of love (usually romantic and sexual love) may seem a lot to live up to, but like other deity names, it's on the rise. In a recent year, it was given to more than 130 boys in the US.

Verena is pleasant but old-fashioned. Whether that's the outdated kind of old-fashioned or the so-out-it's-in-again kind is your call.

She was queen of the Greek gods, both sister and wife to Zeus, but the name of her Roman counterpart Juno has become much more fashionable these days. That said, we think Hera has possibilities today too, as so many ancient goddess names rise to prominence.

The name of the Greek goddess of love has rarely descended to mortal use, though the Roman equivalent Venus, thanks to tennis star Williams, now seems completely possible. But with the new fashion for goddess names, we may see more little Aphrodites in the playground with Jupiter and Juno. Nineteen baby girls received the name in the US last year.

A frilly southern-accented flower name yet to be planted on many birth certificates. In the language of flowers, the wisteria is a symbol of devotion. It is named for American horticulturalist John Caspar Wister.

Alessio, simpler than the related Alessandro, would be a welcome settler here.

Asteria is an Anglicized spelling of the Greek Astraea or Astraia, the goddess of justice and innocence. She became the constellation Virgo, so all forms of this name would be especially appropriate for a child born in late August or early September.

Subtle but clear unisex way to signal peace, especially in middle place.

More commonly known as the Mongolian Gazelle, the Zeren is an antelope that lives on the steppes of central Asia.

Better than Capricorn or Cancer, not as usable as Leo, the name of the Roman god of war becomes more possible as a baby name every day, as mythological names take the place of biblical names.

The name of the young Greek sun god, brother to the moon goddess Selene, who rode across the sky each day in a chariot pulled by four horses.

The feminine form of German and French name Augustin, ultimately derived from Latin Augustus. Names with the -ine ending are considered chic in France at the moment; Augustine re-entered the French top 500 in 2009 and is climbing fast.

Mariposa is a rare, romantic choice with an intriguing meaning.

This Welsh river name has possibilities as a place name and nature name that is rare and uncommon.

With the new trend of boys' names rising on the heels of their popular sisters, the unusual-yet-familiar-feeling Emilian might become better known thanks to its relationship to Emily and Emilia/Amelia. Rather than being two branches of the same tree, Emilian and Emily are actually one tree while Emmett and Emma hang on a whole separate tree. But all have a lot of modern appeal, and Emilian may be a more attractive and intriguing male form than Emil. There was a St. Emilian.

All s-ending names are fashionable right now, and Azarius has a handsome sound. With Azariah confidently in the Top 1000, and variations Azaire and Azair having small moments of their own, Azarius might be next.

In Hindi, Hara is one of the 1,008 names for the god Siva and, to English speakers, a possible feminine spin on Harry. In Greek the name is pronounced with emphasis on the last syllable, where it has the uplifting meaning "joy" (also seen as Chara).

This name of a river in Wales makes a unique option for either gender.

Nailea is a feminine name with likely Hispanic origins, though it may also draw influence from Hawaiian naming traditions. The melodic quality of this four-syllable name (nai-le-a) creates a flowing, rhythmic sound that feels both modern and graceful. While not common in traditional naming resources, Nailea has gained some recognition in recent years, particularly in Latino communities. The name has received additional attention through social media influencers bearing the name. With its distinctive sound pattern and contemporary feel, Nailea appeals to parents seeking a name that sounds fresh and unique while still being relatively straightforward to pronounce. Its rarity ensures it remains a distinctive choice.

Ezran is a masculine name with Hebrew influences, possibly derived as a variation of the biblical name Ezra, which means 'help' or 'helper.' The addition of the '-n' suffix modernizes the traditional name while maintaining its cultural roots. Ezran may also be connected to the Hebrew word 'ezer' meaning 'aid' or 'assistance.' The name has gained some recognition through the character Prince Ezran in the animated series 'The Dragon Prince,' potentially contributing to its contemporary appeal. While uncommon in historical records, Ezran has a contemporary yet substantial feel that appeals to parents seeking names with both modern style and historical depth. The name combines the gravitas of ancient origins with a fresh sound, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand.