Riley's list of names
- Lukas
Origin:
German variation of LucasMeaning:
"man from Lucanus"Description:
Highly popular in Germany, Norway, Lithuania, and Austria, Lukas is a spelling variation of the also extremely popular Lucas. The "K" spelling gives it extra kick and a more international, globe-trotter feel.
- Pax
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"peaceful"Description:
Pax, one of the variations of names meaning peace that are newly popular in these less-than-peaceful times, got a lot of publicity when chosen by Brad & Angelina for their Vietnamese-born son. Parents attracted to Pax may also want to consider Paz, the unisex Spanish version, or Paxton, a growing-in-popularity surname choice that shares that magical X-factor.
- Matias
Origin:
Spanish variation of MatthiasDescription:
The single T version of Matias is, like Mateo, the Spanish variation of the Hebrew Biblical Matthias or Matthew, while the double T version as in Mattias and Matteo is usually Italian.
- Wolfe
Origin:
Anglo-Irish surname and variation of animal nameMeaning:
"wolf"Description:
The Wolfe spelling shifts this name from animal name to surname-name, aggressive to aristocratic. One source suggests that bearers of the Wolfe family name were all fierce and cunning and/or hunters of wolves. An intriguing choice.
- Zayne
Origin:
Spelling variation of Zayn or ZaneDescription:
Zayne, Zayn, Zane and Zain are all enjoying tremendous popularity. While all the names sound the same, Zane is actually a variation of John via Shane, while Zayn and the others are rooted in the Arabic culture and mean grace or beauty. Zane is highest on the US popularity list, though the fame of former One Direction member Zayn Malik has narrowed the gap.
- Skyler
Origin:
Spelling variation of SchuylerDescription:
While Skylar is currently the most popular spelling choice for girls - and the spelling seen most often - the Skyler option is more (statistically) unisex. Given to boy and girls in nearly equal numbers each year, it ranks around the middle of the US Top 1000 and is given to more than 400 boys every year.
- Shawn
Origin:
Spelling variation of SeanMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Shawn is a phonetic spelling of Sean that may be past its peak – it was a Top 30 name in the early 1970s – but is still quite popular for boys: over 500 baby boys were named Shawn in the US in the most recent year counted vs 800 given the original Sean spelling.
- Kaleb
Origin:
Spelling variation of CalebMeaning:
"devotion to God"Description:
Kaleb is one of several boys' names starting with k that started life as a classic C name, Caleb. Kevin Federline named his boy Kaleb Michael Jackson.
- Ezri
Origin:
Variation of Ezra, HebrewMeaning:
"help"Description:
Ezra is a Biblical name that is being rediscovered, which means its variation Ezri can't be far behind. Ezri is one of the up-and-coming unisex names starting with E, with the gender divide surprisingly running five to one in favor of girls.
- Mikah
Origin:
Variation of MicahMeaning:
"who is like the Lord"Description:
Micah is now in the Top 100, so naturally the spelling variation Mikah is getting some love too. Either spelling would be a fun and fresh way to honor a Mike or Michael.
- Dex
Origin:
Diminutive of DexterMeaning:
"dyer; right-handed"Description:
Dex, the nickname for Dexter that is sometimes used on its own, has lots of energy and dynamism. It was chosen by comedian Dana Carvey for his now grown son. With the growing popularity of Dexter, we may be seeing more of Dex.
- Charley
Origin:
Short form of Charles, FrenchMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Charley is, at this point, an old-fashioned spelling for the most popular short form of Charles, better known these days as Charlie. But Charley is a classic and relates more directly to Charles.
- Kody
Origin:
Spelling variation of CodyDescription:
Both Kody and Cody — shining stars of the 90s — are in decline, although more people are choosing Cody than Kody.
- Zachari
Description:
Zachari is a masculine name representing a variant spelling of Zachary, which derives from the Hebrew name 'Zechariah' meaning 'God has remembered.' This alternate spelling gives the traditional name a slightly different visual appearance while maintaining its essential sound and heritage. The name appears in the Bible, where Zechariah was a prophet and priest. Zachari offers a subtle twist on the more common Zachary, which has been consistently popular in English-speaking countries. The variant spelling may reflect Greek or Eastern European influences, where this form is more common. It carries the same friendly, approachable quality as Zachary but with a touch of distinction. For parents seeking a name with biblical roots that's recognizable yet slightly uncommon in its spelling, Zachari provides an interesting alternative.
- Devyn
Description:
Devyn is a masculine name that emerged as a modern variant of Devon or Devin, which originated as place names and surnames derived from the county of Devon in England. This contemporary spelling with a 'y' became popular in the late 20th century as part of the trend toward distinctive spellings of traditional names. Devyn has a sleek, modern feel while maintaining connections to its geographical origins. The name works well across gender lines, though this entry refers to its masculine usage. Devyn peaked in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s, appealing to parents seeking names with a contemporary edge. The name conveys a sense of quiet strength and individuality. Its Celtic connections give it subtle historical depth beneath its modern appearance.
- Eliaz
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah is God"Description:
The final letter makes the name more unusual and adds some zest. Downside: Sure to be confusion with Elias.
- Shayne
Origin:
Spelling variation of ShaneDescription:
Why add the y.