Unusual / Interesting names

Way before January Jones made this month a fashionable girls' name, there was Princess Januaria of Brazil, daughter of the King of Portugal and the Archduchess of Austria. One of the most pointed yet most original January baby names.

Used in France as a male name, this would make an appealing and unusual choice, as would two other Gallic month names, Avril and Mai.

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.

Javiera, pronounced ha-vee-AIR-a, is not as well used as twin brother JAVIER, but makes an attractive Latina choice.

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

A hauntingly lovely Indian name.

This Slavic variation would make a pleasant and slightly more unusual alternative to Johanna or Giovanna.

Kahlil, spelled in various ways, was first brought into the American consciousness by the poet Kahlil Gibran, author of The Prophet.

Contrary to popular belief, the name Kahlo has German origins, rather than Spanish. It derives from kahl, a German word meaning "bald." Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo was born to a German father, photographer Guillermo Kahlo.

Kaija is a feminine Finnish name with Scandinavian roots, derived from the name Katja, which itself is a variant of Katherine. Its ultimate origin traces back to the Greek name Aikaterine, possibly meaning 'pure.' In Finnish culture, Kaija has been used since the early 20th century and maintains a classic yet distinctive quality. The name is characterized by its melodic pronunciation (KAI-ya) and distinctive northern European heritage. While common in Finland, Kaija remains relatively rare internationally, giving it an exotic appeal outside Scandinavia. For parents seeking a name with Nordic roots that's both unusual and accessible, Kaija offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and ease of pronunciation. The name conveys a sense of clarity and natural beauty associated with Finnish culture.

Kalindi is a lovely, rhythmic name refers to one of the seven sacred rivers of India.

Actress Flockhart popularized the C version, but this works, too.

Kallisto is a feminine name derived from ancient Greek mythology. It originates from the Greek word "kallistos," meaning "most beautiful." In mythology, Kallisto was a nymph who was transformed into a bear by the goddess Hera and later placed among the stars as the constellation Ursa Major. This alternate spelling of the more common Callisto adds a distinctive visual element while maintaining the mythological connection. The name has seen very limited use, making it an unusual and exotic choice. It carries connotations of celestial beauty and cosmic significance, particularly with Jupiter's moon Callisto named after the same mythological figure. Parents attracted to names with classical origins and astronomical associations might find Kallisto especially appealing.

Keeva, the name chosen by "How I Met Your Mother" star Alyson Hannigan for her daughter, has recently been a Top 20 name in Ireland, using the authentic spelling Caoimhe. The male version is Caomhin--anglicized as Kevin.

Kenna is the Scottish version of Kendra, both of which are feminine versions of Kenneth. Used in the TV show Reign for one of the supporting characters.

This lively Old Testament nature name (belonging to one of the three beautiful daughters of Job) entered the US Top 1000 list in 2024, and ranks highly here on Nameberry — making it one to watch!

Khalida is an evocative Middle Eastern choice. Its male counterpart, Khalid, recently returned to the US Top 1000.

Kiaria is pretty but sure to prove confusing given all the more familiar Kiara and Keira variations out there.

Kimana, the name of a resort in the foothills of Mountain Kilimanjaro in Kenya, would make an unexpected path to the nickname Kim.