Interesting names

Merwyn is a distinguished masculine name with Welsh and Old English origins. It derives from elements meaning 'famous' and 'friend' or possibly 'sea friend.' This ancient name was carried by Welsh nobility and has retained an air of dignified heritage throughout the centuries. Merwyn peaked in popularity during the early 20th century but has since become quite rare, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name evokes images of medieval knights, scholars, and gentlemen. Its uncommon status makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth yet unlikely to be shared with classmates. The soft 'w' sound gives Merwyn a gentle quality while still maintaining masculine strength through its meaning and historical associations.

Combining the mild and the innocent, this sweet and feminine name is worthy of a comeback, in the mode of Madeline and Cecilia. Its original, also attractive form is Melisende, which came from Germany to France and was borne by a daughter of Charlemagne.

A pretty and unusual path to the nickname Mira. Mira is the main character in Nobel Prize-winner Federico Mistral's poem of the same name. Mireya Moscoso was Panama's first female president.

This evocative green nature name, heard much more frequently as a surname, is associated with playwright Moss Hart (born Robert), who co-wrote (with George S. Kaufman) such enduring Broadway comedies as The Man Who Came to Dinner and You Can't Take it With You.

Naquain is a distinctive masculine name with likely modern origins. While its exact etymology is uncertain, it appears to be a contemporary creation possibly influenced by Arabic or African American naming patterns. The name has a melodic quality with its combination of sounds, making it stand out in most cultural contexts. Naquain remains quite rare in usage statistics, appealing to parents seeking a highly distinctive name with a contemporary feel. The uniqueness of Naquain means that bearers of this name rarely encounter others sharing it, giving it a strong individual identity. Though uncommon, the name has gained limited recognition in diverse communities across the United States since the late 20th century.

Nazareth, used equally for boys and girls, is one of several place names with religious associations -- Galilee, Jericho --that have been rising in use in recent years. The name may relate to branch or to the verb watch or guard, but there are many possible derivations and meanings.

Variant spelling of Nyx, the name of the Greek goddess of the night. It also coincides with the English word "nix, a corruption of German nichts "nothing".

This can make an unusual yet simple middle name choice, especially for anyone with family ties to Wales.

Odessa, a Ukrainian port city, was given its name by Catherine the Great, who was inspired by Homer's Odyssey. It would make an original and intriguing choice.

Nigerian-born supermodel Oluchi Orlandi brought this little-known (to non-Nigerians), lovely choice into the lexicon.

Oriana's not-quite-as-pretty French cousin.

Oriana is a dashing medieval name, with a meaning similar to Aurora. At this point, though, Oriana is much more unusual than Aurora and makes a unique choice if you're searching for names that mean new beginnings or dawn.

Serene California town near San Francisco that could translate into a girl's name.

Orion is a rising star, with both mythical and celestial overtones.