Kanako was most common in Japan during the late '70s and early '80s, but it sounds fresh to American ears.

One of the more unusual word names used by Plymouth pilgrims for their children. Fear Brewster is an example of the usage of this name. Definitely one of the historic pilgrim names best left in the past.

Ange is a feminine name of French origin meaning 'angel,' though it can occasionally be used for boys in France as well. Simple yet evocative, this name directly references celestial beings and carries strong spiritual associations across many cultures. The name's brevity gives it a distinctive quality compared to longer forms like Angela or Angelica. Ange has maintained consistent usage in French-speaking regions but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, where it offers a subtle, sophisticated alternative to more common angelic names. The name conveys qualities of purity, goodness, and spiritual beauty within its compact, elegant form.

Perfect for a springtime daughter.

Akari is a gender-neutral Japanese name used fairly evenly between the sexes in the US.

Americans might recognize Asuka as the stage name of WWE wrestler Kanako Urai.

Semiramis was the most important Queen of Assyria, who conquered much of Asia. Semiramis restored ancient Babylon and protected it with a high brick wall that completely surrounded the city. Then she built several palaces in Persia, reigned much of Asia Minor effectively and conquered Libya and Ethiopia.

Sweet and springy Japanese name.

Yoshiko is a traditional Japanese feminine name combining elements that typically mean 'good' (yoshi) and 'child' (ko), though the meaning can vary depending on the specific kanji characters used to write it. Popular throughout the 20th century in Japan, Yoshiko was particularly common among women born in the early to mid-1900s. The name reflects traditional Japanese naming patterns where 'ko' (child) was frequently used as a suffix for girls' names. While maintaining strong cultural connections to Japan, Yoshiko has gained some international recognition through Japanese diaspora communities. The name carries a gentle rhythm and authentic cultural significance, appealing to parents seeking a name with clear Japanese heritage and a graceful sound.

A moderately common surname in two of the world's most populous countries. Helen Pai is one of the main writer of the TV series Gilmore Girls.

Motoko Kusanagi, perhaps the best known association to the name, is a character from the sci-fi anime and manga series The Ghost in the Shell. She's a strong, wise, and independent cyborg who appears as a young woman.

One of the new color names that is catching on, invoking a calm, blue-green-sea feeling.