O D D - S I G H T I N G S

The popular cosmetics brand Maybelline inspires at least a few baby girls' names each year. Company founder Thomas Lyle Williams created the name as a portmanteau of Mabel and Vaseline after watching his sister Mabel mix up a quasi-eyeshadow out of coal dust and Vaseline.

Michelyn is a feminine name that represents a modern elaboration of Michelle, which itself is the French feminine form of Michael (Hebrew: 'Who is like God?'). The distinctive spelling with the '-lyn' suffix emerged primarily in the late 20th century in English-speaking countries, reflecting the trend toward creating unique variants of traditional names. While Michelle peaked in popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, Michelyn offers a more uncommon alternative that maintains the familiar foundation. The name combines French sophistication with contemporary American naming patterns. Its melodic three-syllable pronunciation gives it a rhythmic flow that sounds both familiar and distinctive. Michelyn conveys femininity with a touch of individuality, appealing to parents seeking a name with recognizable roots but a more unique presentation.

Nachelle is a feminine name that appears to be a modern variation of names like Rachelle, Michelle, or possibly derived from Natalie. The name has a contemporary feel with French-inspired phonetics, particularly in the '-elle' suffix which adds a feminine touch. While not having extensive historical usage, Nachelle emerged in American naming patterns during the late 20th century. It carries a melodic quality when pronounced, with emphasis typically falling on the second syllable. The name remains relatively uncommon, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. Nachelle may also be used as a creative spelling variation of Nashelle, which itself is a modern invented name popular in some communities.

Nathaniel is a wonderful classic name and Nathanael, which may be an ancient Greek or Hebrew form, is appealing and has gravitas but may prove needlessly confusing in the modern world.

Nayvie is a feminine name that appears to be a modern variant spelling of Navy. The name evokes the deep blue color of the sea and references the naval military branch. This contemporary spelling with the 'y' replaced by 'ie' gives the name a softer, more feminine feel while maintaining the original pronunciation. As a given name, Nayvie represents part of the trend toward using words with positive associations or nature elements as names. While relatively uncommon, it has gained some modest usage in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name's brevity, distinctive spelling, and connection to the powerful imagery of the ocean make it appealing to parents seeking a modern, unique name with subtle nature connections.

Ancient Irish saint's name that's unlikely, because of its similarity to "ninny," to join cousin Finian in popularity.

Novella is a feminine name with Latin and Italian roots, derived from 'novus' meaning 'new' or 'young.' Beyond its literal meaning, Novella carries literary associations as it refers to a short prose narrative in Italian literature – longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. This connection gives the name intellectual and artistic connotations. While not among the most common names, Novella has maintained a steady presence in Italian communities and has seen occasional usage internationally. The name carries a romantic, melodic quality typical of Italian feminine names, with its soft consonants and vowel ending. Novella offers a beautiful option for parents seeking a name with literary flair and a touch of European elegance.

A word name with religious and secular significance.

A bold new word name that conjures up images of peg-legs and eyepatches. It was brought to national attention by pop musician Billie Eilish, whose full name is Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell.

British-born novelist Plum Sykes has taken this rich, fruity name out of the produce section and put it into the baby name basket. It's more appealing than Apple, more presentable than Peaches. The French equivalent, Prune, is very fashionable there but would not fly with English speakers.

Though many might find it too syrupy, hundreds of parents each year choose this name for their daughters to make them feel special. Precious Ramotswe is the engaging African sleuth in the popular No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series.