Unusual and On-Trend

  1. Jacint
    • Description:

      Jacint is a masculine name derived from the Greek name Hyacinthus (Ὑάκινθος), associated with Greek mythology where Hyacinthus was a beautiful youth beloved by Apollo. The name relates to the hyacinth flower and has variants across several European languages. In Catalan and Hungarian cultures, Jacint has maintained steady usage throughout history. The name carries artistic and classical connotations due to its mythological origins. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jacint offers an elegant, distinctive option for parents seeking a name with historical depth and international appeal. Its sophisticated sound combined with floral associations gives the name a unique blend of masculine strength and artistic sensitivity.

  2. Dulcia
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "sweet"
    • Description:

      Has a sweetness via its relation to such words as dulcet; other similar possibilities are DULCE, DULCINA, and the down-home DULCIE. Though this Latin names for girls is rarely heard in contemporary times in this form, Dulcie is found.
  3. Audrea
    • Description:

      Audrea is a feminine name that functions as a variant spelling of Audrey, which derives from the Anglo-Saxon name Æðelþryð, meaning 'noble strength.' This alternative spelling maintains the traditional pronunciation while giving the name a slightly more elaborate, distinctive appearance. Audrea gained modest popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States during the 1970s, though it has always been less common than the standard Audrey. The name carries the same sophisticated heritage as its more traditional counterpart, evoking connections to figures like Audrey Hepburn while offering a subtle uniqueness. Audrea balances classic elegance with individuality, appealing to parents who appreciate traditional names but desire a less common variation.

  4. Hallam
    • Origin:

      English surname
    • Meaning:

      "at the rocks"
    • Description:

      A relatively rare English place and surname, Hallam could make a distinctive but usable boy's name. Hallam was the surname of the beloved Cambridge friend whose death Alfred, Lord Tennyson, mourns in his famous poem In Memoriam. A.H.H. Tennyson's eldest son, whom he named Hallam, became a Governor-General of Australia.
  5. Shana
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Shoshana or Shannon, variation of Shaina
    • Description:

      Part of a group of similar midcentury names rarely given to babies today.
  6. Thilde
    • Description:

      Thilde is a feminine name of Germanic origin, functioning primarily as a diminutive of Mathilde or Matilda. The name carries the meaning 'strength in battle' from its Germanic roots 'maht' (might, strength) and 'hild' (battle). Popular in Scandinavian countries and parts of Germany, Thilde offers a softer, more intimate variation of the formal Mathilde. The name combines traditional heritage with a certain delicate quality in its pronunciation. In Denmark and Sweden, it sometimes appears as an independent given name rather than just a nickname. Thilde projects both sweetness and underlying strength, making it versatile across age groups. While relatively uncommon internationally, the name's straightforward pronunciation and spelling give it potential appeal beyond Germanic regions, especially for parents seeking a name with European character and historical depth.
  7. Keverne
    • Origin:

      Cornish saint and place name
    • Description:

      St. Keverne is a town on Cornwall's Lizard Peninsula and also the name of an ancient saint. While the name is virtually unused for children in the modern world, it could be a Kevin update and has contemporary possibilities.
  8. Jasia
    • Description:

      Jasia is a feminine name with Polish origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Joanna or Janina (Polish variants of Jane or Joan). The name ultimately derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God is gracious.' While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jasia has maintained modest usage within Polish communities both in Poland and among the diaspora. The name features a distinctive pronunciation (YAH-shah or YAH-see-ah) that maintains its Polish character. Its short length and melodic quality give it a modern feel despite its traditional roots. Jasia combines the appeal of an authentic cultural name with enough simplicity to work well internationally, making it approachable yet distinctive.
  9. Asante
    • Origin:

      Ashanti, Akan, Twi
    • Meaning:

      "African ethnic group; warlike"
    • Description:

      Although Ashanti is a much better known name via the female hip-hop singer, Asante is also an appealing way to honor Asante or Ashanti heritage. It's the name of a people and language based in Ghana.
  10. Abrianna
    • Description:

      Abrianna is a feminine name with modern origins, created as an elaboration of 'Abria' or as a blend of the names 'Abra' and 'Anna.' It may also be considered a variant of 'Adrianna' or 'Brianna' with a slight alteration. The name has a flowing, melodic quality with its four syllables and feminine ending. Abrianna emerged in popularity during the late 20th century alongside other names with the -anna suffix. It offers a balance between uniqueness and familiarity, as its components evoke traditional naming elements while its complete form remains distinctive. The name has a contemporary feel while maintaining an elegant, feminine quality that appeals to parents seeking something slightly uncommon yet accessible.
  11. Amadore
    • Description:

      Amadore is a rare feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'amare' meaning 'to love.' It can be interpreted as 'lover' or 'beloved one.' The name embodies affection and devotion, making it a deeply romantic choice. While uncommon in modern usage, Amadore carries a melodic quality with its flowing syllables. It shares roots with the more familiar masculine name Amadeus, which gained recognition through the composer Mozart. Amadore offers parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name an option that conveys warmth and tenderness while maintaining an elegant, classical sound.
  12. Valina
    • Description:

      Valina is a feminine name with a delicate, melodic quality. It may have developed as a diminutive form of names containing the 'Val' element, such as Valentina or Valerie, which derive from the Latin 'valens' meaning 'strong' or 'healthy.' In some contexts, it might be connected to the Greek word 'galene' meaning 'calm' or 'serene.' Valina has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, giving it a distinctive quality that appeals to parents seeking something recognizable yet unique. The name has a romantic, flowing sound with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. While not widely used in any particular region, Valina occasionally appears across various cultures, lending it an international appeal.

  13. Destry
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "warhorse"
    • Description:

      Destry rides again, this time as a Western flavored baby name. Derived from the French surname Destrier, from an Anglo-Norman word meaning "warhorse", this rugged name was popularized by the 1930 novel Destry Rides Again by Max Brand, subsequently adapted for the big screen.
  14. Aviela
    • Description:

      Aviela is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, created as a modern variation combining elements of names like Avi (meaning 'my father' or 'father of') and the popular '-ela' suffix that adds a melodic quality. This relatively rare name carries a contemporary feel while maintaining connections to traditional Hebrew naming practices. Though uncommon on global popularity charts, Aviela has gained modest appreciation among parents seeking distinctive names with spiritual or cultural significance. The name's flowing sound and relatively straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its uniqueness. Aviela offers a beautiful alternative to more common biblical names while maintaining cultural authenticity. The name may also appeal to parents drawn to other popular 'Avi-' prefix names while wanting something more distinctive for their daughter.
  15. Aubriana
    • Origin:

      Combination of Aubrey and Ana
    • Description:

      Aubriana, along with Aubrianna and Aubriella, is an elaboration of a perfectly-good if too-trendy name, Aubrey. The final anna or ana or ella does not improve on the original. But A names of all kinds continue to appeal.
  16. Cathay
    • Origin:

      Anglicized version of Italian Catai; place name
    • Description:

      A perfect example of what a difference a single letter can make. Add an 'a' to the ho-hum Cathy and you have the old name for China, often used by such poets as Edna St. Vincent Millay and Ezra Pound.
  17. Kaska
    • Description:

      Kaska is a feminine name with origins that may be linked to Eastern European or Slavic languages. It could be a variant of the Polish name Kasia, which is a diminutive of Katherine, meaning 'pure.' Alternatively, it might relate to the Kaska indigenous people of northern British Columbia and the Yukon in Canada. As a given name, Kaska remains quite rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a melodic sound with its two syllables and soft consonants, making it both approachable and unique. Parents might choose this name seeking something uncommon with cross-cultural appeal.
  18. Aloysia
    • Description:

      Aloysia is a feminine name with Latin roots, serving as the female form of Aloysius, which derived from the Old German name Chlodovech (modern Ludwig or Louis), meaning 'famous warrior' or 'renowned fighter.' With a rich European heritage, Aloysia has been used particularly in Catholic communities, owing to the veneration of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga. The name carries an elegant, classical quality with its flowing vowels and distinctive sound. While never among the most common names in English-speaking countries, it has maintained consistent usage, especially in families with German, Italian, or Spanish heritage. Aloysia offers the appealing nickname options of Loy, Loysi, or Isa.
  19. Graciana
    • Description:

      Graciana is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from 'gratia' meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' It can be seen as an elaborate form of Grace, or as the feminine version of Graciano. The name has roots in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, where it has been used for centuries. Graciana carries an elegant, flowing quality with its melodic four syllables and soft sounds. While not extremely common in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady usage, particularly in families with Latin American heritage. The name evokes qualities of elegance, refinement, and divine blessing. Graciana offers the meaningful simplicity of Grace but with a more elaborate, romantic flair that sets it apart while remaining pronounceable and recognizable.

  20. Shamira
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "he who defends"
    • Description:

      Hebrew name with a bright sheen.