Unusual and On-Trend

  1. Amal
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "laborer"
    • Description:

      Amal is the name of a male figure in the Bible, a member of the tribe of Asher. Not, in this case, Mrs. George Clooney.
  2. Evalena
    • Description:

      Evalena is a feminine name that combines elements of Eva and Lena, both classic names with their own rich histories. Eva derives from Hebrew, meaning 'life' or 'living one,' while Lena has multiple origins including Greek and Arabic roots meaning 'light' or 'shining one.' This combination creates a melodic, flowing name with cross-cultural appeal. Evalena remains relatively uncommon, providing uniqueness while still feeling familiar due to its connection to more popular names. The name experienced modest usage in America during the early 1900s but has remained rare in contemporary times, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with traditional underpinnings.
  3. 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.
  4. Jedaiah
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "invoker of the Lord"
    • Description:

      More manageable than the Jebediahs and Jedidiahs, this name of several biblical characters would make an interesting, undiscovered Old Testament choice.
  5. Joab
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "praise Jehovah"
    • Description:

      Joab is the biblical name of an advisor of David, who led many military victories, and is surely much more usable than the burdened Job. A similar option is Joah, a possible replacement for Jonah or Noah.
  6. Cortez
    • Origin:

      Spanish surname
    • Meaning:

      "courteous"
    • Description:

      The craze for surname names is now moving beyond the English and Irish to include worldly Spanish names for boys like this historic one currently in the Top 1000.
  7. Mirra
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Mira
    • Description:

      The Mira spelling was given to nearly 500 girls last year while this variation was used for only nine in the US.
  8. 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.
  9. Albia
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Description:

      A rarely heard ancient Latin names for girls that has a not-so-appealing brand name feel. Try Alba instead.
  10. Jarita
    • Origin:

      Hindi-Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "mother or legendary bird"
    • Description:

      Delicate and lacy, with less emphasis on the jar syllable.
  11. Abrial
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "open, secure, protected"
    • Description:

      This unique baby name is stronger, more distinctive than April or Avril.
  12. 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.
  13. Jessenia
    • Origin:

      Variation of Yesenia, Spanish nature name
    • Description:

      Jessenia and Yesenia are drawn from the Spanish name for a South American tree, making them new nature names.
  14. Mailer
    • Origin:

      Occupational name, English or French
    • Meaning:

      "enameler"
    • Description:

      Mailer is one of the more unusual of the on-trend occupational surnames. Recommended for fans of the macho writer Norman Mailer.
  15. Orazio
    • Description:

      Orazio is an Italian masculine name derived from the Latin 'Horatius,' which was a Roman family name of uncertain origin. It's the Italian equivalent of Horace, possibly connected to the Latin word 'hora' meaning 'hour' or 'time.' Historically associated with the renowned Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and cultural significance. While common in Italy, particularly in earlier generations, Orazio remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name conveys a sense of classical elegance and intellectual tradition, reflecting its ancient Roman heritage and enduring presence in Italian culture.
  16. 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.

  17. Clarry
    • Description:

      Clarry is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive of Clare, Clara, or Clarissa, all derived from the Latin 'clarus' meaning 'bright,' 'clear,' or 'famous.' This charming nickname-turned-given-name has an approachable, vintage quality that's seen occasional revivals in English-speaking countries. Particularly popular in Australia and the United Kingdom during the early to mid-20th century, Clarry carries a warm, friendly sound while maintaining feminine associations. The name has a nostalgic appeal that fits with the trend of reviving vintage diminutives as standalone names. Clarry feels simultaneously familiar and uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality without being difficult to pronounce or spell. It evokes qualities of cheerfulness, simplicity, and unpretentious warmth.

  18. 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.
  19. Jessop
    • Description:

      Jessop is a masculine name with English origins, primarily derived from a surname that emerged as a medieval patronymic form meaning "son of Jesse." Jesse itself has Hebrew roots meaning "gift" or "God exists." As a first name, Jessop represents the growing trend of adopting traditional surnames as given names, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options with historical connections. The name carries a sophisticated English sensibility with a slightly aristocratic feel. Though rare as a first name, its familiar sound elements make it accessible. Jessop offers versatile nickname options including Jess or JP and projects a dignified image while maintaining approachable qualities that bridge formal and casual contexts.
  20. Fiorentina
    • Description:

      Fiorentina is a feminine Italian name meaning 'from Florence' or 'flowering.' Derived from the Latin 'florens' meaning 'flourishing,' it represents someone from the beautiful Italian city of Florence (Firenze). The name carries artistic and cultural connotations due to Florence's rich Renaissance heritage. While more common in Italy than elsewhere, Fiorentina presents an elegant option for parents seeking a name with clear Mediterranean roots and sophisticated sound. The name may also appeal to those with connections to the city or Italian heritage. It offers several nickname possibilities, including Fiora, Fiona, or Tina. Soccer fans might recognize Fiorentina as a famous Italian football club, adding a sporty association to this otherwise classically feminine name.