Cool Kids

  1. Adair
    • Origin:

      English and Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "shallow place in a river near oaks"
    • Description:

      This undiscovered unisex name has lots of flair. It was first noticed as a girl's name, starting in the 1980's, on the long-running daytime drama Search for Tomorrow, with the character Adair McCleary, who had ahead-of-their-time brothers named brothers Hogan, Cagney and Quinn. But since Adair has yet to find many takers, it would make a fresh and appealing choice.
  2. Adela
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      A vibrant variation of Adele, with a bit of extra flair from that "-a" ending. It could join the army of popular A girls' names, especially with its tie to the success of singer Adele.
  3. Adonis
    • Origin:

      Greek, from Semitic Adonai
    • Meaning:

      "lord"
    • Description:

      The name of a figure from Greek mythology, Adonis is a high-pressure name often synonymous with masculine beauty. Nonetheless, many mythological names that would have previously been deemed off limits have made their way up the popularity charts—for instance, Penelope currently ranks highly for girls. And indeed, Adonis was one of the fastest-rising boys' names of 2016, moving up 307 spots on the U.S. popularity chart in just one year.
  4. Adora
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "adored"
    • Description:

      A name that would lavish your child with adoration, a princess name--as in Princess Adora of She-Ra: Princess of Power.
  5. Alessia
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Alexis
    • Meaning:

      "defending warrior"
    • Description:

      Young Canadian pop singer Alessia Cara has given this spicy-sounding name a new lease on life, propelling it into the Top 1000 in 2016. It was one of the fastest rising girl names of the year in 2016, then again in 2023. As a form of Alexander, Alessia could make a wonderful honor for any of Alexander's variants—Alexandra, Alexis—or as an alternative to Alexa, now best known as Amazon's AI voice.
  6. Alessio
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Alexis
    • Meaning:

      "defender"
    • Description:

      Alessio, simpler than the related Alessandro, would be a welcome settler here.
  7. Alina
    • Origin:

      Slavic, Germanic, Arabic, Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "bright, beautiful; noble; delicate, soft; defending men"
    • Description:

      Alina has been drifting up the US popularity charts since the early 1980s, and now sits in in the Top 200. But Alina's real strength is in its international flexibility: The name ranks highly in a wide range of European, English speaking, and Latin American countries.
  8. Alta
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "elevated"
    • Description:

      Alta, one of the newer names bookended by the letter A, has a meaning that might raise a child's self-esteem. It was the middle name of First Lady Lady Bird Johnson.
  9. Amara
    • Origin:

      Igbo, Sanskrit, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "grace, immortal, tribe"
    • Description:

      Strong, attractive, and stylish, Amara is a true multicultural choice enjoying some popularity in both the US and the UK. In the US Top 1000 since the turn of this century, Amara has been holding steady in the rankings between overly popular and obscure.
  10. Ambrose
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "immortal"
    • Description:

      Gentle but grandiose and beloved by British novelists including Evelyn Waugh and P. G. Wodehouse, Ambrose was a fast rising name in 2022. Entering the UK Top 1000 for the first time and proving popular among Nameberry users, its elegance, softness, and vintage style means it fits in with popular Theodore, Sebastian, and Jeremiah.
  11. Amila
    • Origin:

      Sinhalese, Bosnian
    • Meaning:

      "valuable; hard work, labor"
    • Description:

      Lilting and pretty, but with plenty of substance, Amila is a name that works easily in different cultures. Similar in sound to international favorites, Amelia and Mila, it feels familiar but with a twist.
  12. Amira
    • Origin:

      Hebrew, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "princess"
    • Description:

      This shimmery name, often given to girls born on the harvest feast of Shavuot, and also used in the Muslim community, is increasing in popularity. Amira is of Hebrew and Arabic origin, meaning "princess", and fits in well with a variety of trending names like Amara, Amaya, and Mira. Amira is in the Top 100 in several countries, including Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, and Hungary. In the US, Amira entered the Top 1000 in 1998 and has been rising since, now in the Top 250. Overall Amira is a gorgeous multicultural choice.
  13. Apollo
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Meaning:

      "destroyer"
    • Description:

      With mythological names rising, the handsome son of Zeus and god of medicine, music, and poetry among many other things might offer an interesting, if high-pressure, option.
  14. Aviva
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "springlike, fresh, dewy"
    • Description:

      Aviva is vivacious and memorable, a fresh spin on the Vivian and Vivienne names that have been getting more popular since Angelina and Brad chose one for their twin daughter. Another A-beginning palindrome name: Aziza.
  15. Aya
    • Origin:

      Japanese, Hebrew, Danish, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "colorful, design; honey buzzard, bird; rock, lull, happiness; sign, verse"
    • Description:

      Aya, barely more than a breath, is an international favorite, with origins in several languages and cultures. Popular throughout Europe, It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2012.
  16. Ashland
    • Ashland
      • Berkeley
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "where birches grow"
        • Description:

          Despite the strong association with the University of California, Berkeley, the more common version of this name omits the second E, Berkley.
      • Bexley
        • Origin:

          English place-name
        • Description:

          The name of an affluent suburb of Columbus, Ohio and a section of Greater London, Bexley is increasingly being coopted by parents looking for a novel name in the Kinsley/AInsley/Paisley family. Bexley debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2016 and is definitely one of the trendiest girl names starting with B. Think of it as a 21st century Becky.
      • Branson
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "son of the raven"
        • Description:

          Branson is a fairly recent addition to the Top 1000, first breaking in at Number 988 in 1995. While it may not be a common sighting yet, it fits the trend of more popular cousins Mason, Grayson, Hudson, and Carson.
      • Braxton
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "Brock's settlement"
        • Description:

          Braxton entered the popularity ranks in 1985 and has been climbing steadily ever since. It has gained from the all-powerful X-factor, and perhaps also from the reality TV show, Braxton Family Values, featuring singer Toni and her sisters Traci, Towanda, Trina and Tamar. Though it might sound new, there was a prominent Confederate Civil War general named Braxton Bragg.
      • Braxton
        • Origin:

          English surname
        • Meaning:

          "Brock's settlement"
        • Description:

          Braxton has been a major hit of the 21st century for boys, and now parents are looking at it with fresh eyes for their daughters.
      • Briar
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "a thorny patch"
        • Description:

          Fairy-tale memories of Sleeping Beauty inspire some parents—such as Rachel Bilson and Hayden Christensen—to call their daughters Briar Rose. But Briar plus a different middle name might work even better. It's one of the newly popular nature-word names, charting in the US for the first time in 2015 for both genders.
      • Briony
        • Origin:

          Spelling variation of Bryony
        • Meaning:

          "to sprout"
        • Description:

          Briony may be the variation and Bryony the original, but many parents will see this as the more authentic-feeling version of this attractive botanical name. Still unusual in the U.S., Briony is in the British Top 100 and may appeal to parents as a fresh spin on Briana or Brittany or an honorific for a Brian, though it bears no relationship to the male name.
      • Bronson
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "son of brown-haired one"
        • Description:

          This surname has a modern yet old New England feel, perhaps because of the association with the transcendental teacher and reformer Bronson (born Amos Bronson) Alcott, father of Louisa May. (One-time sitcom star Bronson Pinchot's full name is Bronson Alcott Pinchot.) A more muscular image comes via tough guy Charles Bronson.
      • Bryn
        • Origin:

          Welsh
        • Meaning:

          "hill"
        • Description:

          Bryn is an up-and-coming gentle, yet substantial, Welsh name that would also be effective in the middle spot. In Wales it's a traditional boys' name, but it's far more popular for girls now in the US.
      • Cade
        • Origin:

          English
        • Meaning:

          "round, barrel; battle"
        • Description:

          Strong and modern, Cade shot up the popularity lists around the millennium—it was as high as Number 201 in 2001. Now, it has declined in popularity slightly, but nevertheless remains in the US Top 300, given to around 1200 babies each year. Combined with all the baby Kades, Cadens, Kaidens and Kaydens however, it might feel even more popular that it actually is.
      • Camden
        • Origin:

          Scottish
        • Meaning:

          "winding valley"
        • Description:

          Newly popular boys' name could cross over in much the way the related Cameron has.
      • Carlo
        • Origin:

          Italian variation of Charles
        • Description:

          Energetic Italian classic that would blend with a surname of any ethnicity.
      • Ciela
        • Origin:

          Spanish
        • Meaning:

          "sky, heavenly"
        • Description:

          The Spanish word for sky, Cielo, was one of the fastest-rising girl names of 2022, cracking the Top 1000 after Luisana Lopilato and Michael Bublé used the name for their daughter. The variation Ciela was used in much smaller numbers, but has plenty of potential to continue to rise.
      • Dahlia
        • Origin:

          Flower name, from Swedish surname
        • Meaning:

          "Dahl's flower"
        • Description:

          One of the flower names, used occasionally in Britain (where it's pronounced DAY-lee-a). It seems to have recovered from what was perceived as a slightly affected la-di-dah air. The flower was named in honor of the pioneering Swedish botanist Andreas Dahl, which means dale.
      • Davis
        • Origin:

          Surname derived from David, Hebrew
        • Meaning:

          "beloved"
        • Description:

          Davis is a fresh way to say David. Some sources define it as "son of David," but we see it as a surname spin on the original. While David is an everyman name, Davis has some creative edge -- and still gets you to the classic guy nickname Dave.
      • Declan
        • Origin:

          Irish, meaning unknown, possible "man of prayer"
        • Meaning:

          "man of prayer"
        • Description:

          Declan is the Anglicized form of the Irish name Deaglán. St. Declan was one of the first missionaries to bring Christianity to Ireland, preceding St. Patrick. Originally from Wales, he founded the monastery of Ardmore in Ireland.
      • Devi
        • Origin:

          Sanskrit
        • Meaning:

          "divine"
        • Description:

          This Hindu goddess name has a powerful heritage plus lively sound with a devilish edge. If you're enchanted by goddess names but want to set your little girl apart from all the Lunas and Athenas in the playground, consider Devi.
      • Dominic
        • Origin:

          Latin
        • Meaning:

          "belonging to the lord"
        • Description:

          Dominic comes from the Latin name Dominicus and is common in the Roman-Catholic community. In the past it has been given to boys born on Sunday—the word "Sunday" in languages including Spanish and French shares Dominic’s roots. In use in the English-speaking world since medieval times, its most famous bearer was St. Dominic, founder of the Dominican order of monks in the thirteenth century.
      • Dominik
        • Origin:

          Variation of Dominic
        • Description:

          The K makes this slightly more modern than its more traditional original
      • Dominico
        • Edda
          • Origin:

            Norse
          • Meaning:

            "poetry"
          • Description:

            This Old Norse girl name has a lovely meaning and a familiar yet distinctive sound.
        • Elara
          • Origin:

            Greek mythology name
          • Meaning:

            "hazelnut, spear"
          • Description:

            In Greek mythology, Elara was a lover of Zeus who gave birth to a giant son (ouch); it's also the name of one of the moons of Jupiter, giving it a celestial feel. Possibly derived from the Greek alara meaning "hazelnut" or "spear", it combines that favorite El- beginning with the popular -ara ending of Clara, Lara, and Amara, making it an all round appealing choice. Currently in the UK Top 1000, and on the rise in the US, it could be a fresher or less popular alternative to Ella, Lyra, or Laura.
        • Elin
          • Origin:

            Swedish variation of Ellen
          • Description:

            The Elin variation makes an old favorite sleeker and more modern. Elin came to prominence via the ex-Mrs.Tiger Woods and is now perhaps best known via novelist Elin Hildebrand.. It entered the US Top 1000 in 2010, though it's now dropped off again.
        • Elina
          • Origin:

            Spanish, Italian, German, Greek, and English variation of Helen
          • Meaning:

            "bright, shining light"
          • Description:

            Elina is one of the many variations of mother name Helen to make the US Top 1000 list, and is given to around 300 girls each year. While it might blend in among the Helenas, Elenas, and Alinas, it might be a good way to go if you want the eh-lee-nuh pronunciation or the potential for nicknames Elle, Ellie, or Ella.
        • Emil
          • Origin:

            Latin
          • Meaning:

            "rival"
          • Description:

            Derived from the Latin word aemulus, Emil is a name with international appeal. Concise and sturdy but with the gentle Em sound, Emil is popular across Europe, from Azerbaijan to Finland, from Germany to Norway, and Denmark. Alternative spelling Emile also ranks highly in Belgium and Canada.
        • Estie
          • Description:

            Estie is a charming feminine name that typically functions as a diminutive of Esther, which comes from the Persian word for 'star.' It can also be a nickname for Estelle, meaning 'star' in Latin, or other names beginning with 'Est-'. Estie combines antiquity with a playful, modern feel through its diminutive ending. The name carries a warm, friendly quality while maintaining connections to its more formal roots. Though never widely popular as a given name in its own right, Estie has seen occasional use in Jewish communities where Esther holds particular significance due to its biblical connections. The name's brevity and sweet sound give it an endearing quality, while its relative rarity makes it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell.

        • Edgewood
          • Gemma
            • Origin:

              Italian, Catalonian, Spanish
            • Meaning:

              "precious stone"
            • Description:

              Gemma is a jewel of a name, an Italian classic that was very popular in 1980s England, but has only recently been started to be used here; it entered the list in 2008.
          • Halima
            • Origin:

              African
            • Meaning:

              "gentle, humane"
            • Description:

              This Swahili and Muslim female name referring to the Prophet Muhammed's nurse. It is a popular name in Egypt and Somalia.
          • Halina
            • Origin:

              Polish; Belarusian, from Greek
            • Meaning:

              "calm, healer"
            • Description:

              This sweet Polish & Belarusian form of Galina has a serene meaning and comes with the cute nickname Hallie. Very usable internationally even outside of the Slavic countries.
          • Halston
            • Origin:

              English
            • Meaning:

              "hallowed stone"
            • Description:

              This choice feels more familiar than other hall-related English surnames, thanks to designer Halston, the single-named disco-era society playmate of Liza and Elton.
          • Halston
            • Origin:

              English
            • Meaning:

              "hallowed stone"
            • Description:

              Though long associated with the iconic male fashion designer -- who went by his middle name alone -- rising young actress Halston Sage has made Halston feel plausible as a girls' name too.
          • Harlan
            • Origin:

              German and English
            • Meaning:

              "rocky land"
            • Description:

              Pleasant but uninspired surname name somewhat connected to writers Ellison and Coben. After three decades off the US Top 1000, it reentered in 2013, maybe because it's an unusual example of the trendy class of two-syllable n-ending boys’ names. Kevin Harlan is an NFL, NBA, and college basketball announcer for TV and radio.
          • Harlan
            • Description:

              Harlan as a feminine name represents an interesting gender crossover, as it traditionally began as a masculine name of English origin meaning 'rocky land' or 'army land.' Derived from Old English elements, the name has historic connections to places in England. While predominantly used for boys throughout its history, Harlan has recently joined the trend of surnames and traditionally male names being adopted for girls. This usage remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name carries connotations of strength and resilience, perhaps influenced by its rugged meaning. For girls, Harlan offers a modern, unique option with a strong sound and the trendy -an ending found in popular feminine names like Morgan and Jordan.

          • Hayes
            • Origin:

              English surname and nature name
            • Meaning:

              "hedged area"
            • Description:

              One of those simple, straightforward English surnames -- and with a presidential pedigree -- that's easy to translate into a first. It was recently chosen by both Kevin Costner and Jessica Alba for their sons, which can likely be credited for its spike in popularity in the past few years. Surname names and nature names like Hayes, which qualifies on both counts, along with occupational names all make up the new generation of stylish English names for boys that go far beyond Harry and Edward.
          • Hays
            • Description:

              Hays is a masculine name that originated as a surname derived from geographical locations, particularly places with hedges or enclosures (from the Old English 'hæg'). As a first name, Hays carries a distinctive Southern or Western American flavor, evoking images of rolling fields and open landscapes. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and crisp ending. While relatively uncommon as a first name, Hays has occasionally appeared in usage, particularly in regions where surname-as-first-name traditions are strong. The name projects a straightforward, unpretentious quality while maintaining a certain refinement. Its rarity ensures individuality while its familiar surname status keeps it recognizable and easily pronounced.
          • Jasmina
            • Description:

              Jasmina is a feminine name derived from the Persian word 'yasmin,' referring to the jasmine flower known for its sweet fragrance and delicate white blooms. This name variation is particularly popular in the Balkans, especially in Bosnia, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, where it's considered a beautiful, traditional choice. Jasmina offers a slightly more elaborate alternative to the more common Jasmine while maintaining the floral association and pleasant sound. The name carries connotations of purity, beauty, and grace, reflecting the qualities of its namesake flower. With its international appeal and recognizable roots, Jasmina works well across cultural boundaries while still offering something slightly distinctive. The three-syllable rhythm creates a melodic flow that feels both elegant and approachable.

          • Jemma
            • Origin:

              Spelling variation of Gemma
            • Description:

              Jenna is overheated, but Jemma is still cool. Jemma and Gemma are most heard in Australia but are increasingly used in other countries.
          • Jovana
            • Origin:

              Serbian and Macedonian feminine form of John, Hebrew
            • Meaning:

              "God is gracious"
            • Description:

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

              Latin
            • Meaning:

              "youthful, downy-bearded"
            • Description:

              Immortal through its association with the ancient Caesar (it was his clan name), Julius may still lag behind Julian, but is definitely starting to make a comeback, and in fact feels more cutting edge, in line with the current trend for Latin -us endings.
          • Kali
            • Origin:

              Sanskrit, English
            • Meaning:

              "black one; free man"
            • Description:

              Kali is a number of different things: a playful, contemporary twist on the name Callie; the Hindu goddess of destruction; an alternative spelling for Kaylee; a short form of the Arablic Kalila, the Greek Kalista, or the African American Kaliyah; a masculine name in India; and a trendy form of Kali(fornia).
          • Kalila
            • Origin:

              Arabic
            • Meaning:

              "beloved"
            • Description:

              The lilting name of a range of mythical mountains, with an extensive menu of spellings, and a more unusual way of fitting in with current favorites Lila and Lola.
          • Kalina
            • Origin:

              Polish
            • Meaning:

              "viburnum"
            • Description:

              Kalina, known as a girls' name throughout Eastern Europe, translates literally to viburnum in Polish, making it a botanical name. Viburnum is a flowering shrub. Some sources translate this name as simply "flower." Variations may include Kaline, Kalena, and Kalene.
          • Kasia
            • Origin:

              Polish, diminutive of Katarzyna, form of Katherine
            • Meaning:

              "pure"
            • Description:

              Attractive and equally intriguing alternative to Katya.
          • Keir
            • Origin:

              Irish
            • Meaning:

              "dark, black"
            • Description:

              Keir is a single-syllable name that packs a lot of punch, might suggest -- thanks to its similarity to the word care -- a caring person. Sir Keir Rodney Starmer is a British politician and head of the Labour Party since 2020. Keir Dullea is an American actor who starred in 2001: A Space Odyssey.
          • Kenna
            • Origin:

              Scottish, feminine form of Kenneth
            • Description:

              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.
          • Kian
            • Origin:

              Irish; Persian
            • Meaning:

              "ancient; king"
            • Description:

              A friendly Irish and Persian name chosen by Geena Davis for one of her twin boys, whose father is Iranian.
          • Kier
            • Origin:

              Diminutive of Kieran, alternate spelling of Keir
            • Description:

              See KEIR.
          • Kincaid
            • Origin:

              Scottish surname
            • Meaning:

              "steep place; of the head of the rock; of the head of the battle"
            • Description:

              Kincaid originated as a Scottish Clan name — the Kincaids descended from the Earl of Lennox in the 13th century and were supposedly named after the territory they resided on. The name Kincaid may derive from the Scottish-Gaelic ceann-cadha, meaning "steep pass" or "head of the rock." Another theory conjectures that Kincaid came from ceann-catha, meaning "at the head of the battle."
          • Kier
            • Kincaid
              • Lachlan
                • Origin:

                  Scottish
                • Meaning:

                  "from the fjord-land"
                • Description:

                  Lachlan is as Scottish as haggis and tartan plaid kilts—a favorite used throughout England, Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand—and just beginning to be noticed in the US: it reached the Top 1000 for the first time in 2013. An ancient name, Lachlan was originally used to describe the Viking invaders of Scotland, those from the land of the lochs.
              • Lana
                • Origin:

                  English diminutive of Alana
                • Meaning:

                  "rock or handsome"
                • Description:

                  Popularized in the 1940s by Lana (born Judy) Turner, today Lana is synonymous with American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey. Although it has been rising steadily since the early 2000s, Lana still sits in the popularity "sweet spot" – familiar, but not overused. Simple, sleek and seamlessly international, it makes a great choice.
              • Lane
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "a small roadway or path"
                • Description:

                  Lane is a recent hit name, that could be used for either gender, but is much more popular for boys. It's a surname that projects the pleasant picture of narrow, tree-lined country roads.
              • Langston
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "tall man's town; long stone"
                • Description:

                  The great African-American Harlem Renaissance writer Langston Hughes put this one on the map, while actor Laurence Fishburne adopted it for his now grown son, born in 1987. Despite these popular associations, the name didn't make it into the US Top 1000 until 2013, and while it has remained in the charts, it has stayed towards the latter end.
              • Leandro
                • Origin:

                  Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian variation of Leander
                • Meaning:

                  "lion-man"
                • Description:

                  Leandro is a variation of the Ancient Greek name Leander, created by combining the Latin words leo and Andro together, to get a meaning that suggests strength, power, and bravery. The Hero and Leander myth lends the name a romantic, poetical feel, while it's association to Bishop Leander of Seville gives it a more saintly quality.
              • Lenn
                • Origin:

                  Dutch diminutive of Lennart, Swedish
                • Meaning:

                  "brave lion"
                • Description:

                  Old-school nicknames for boys are back, and Lenn is a great candidate for revival. Single-N Len may not be as cool as this Dutch version, originally a nickname for Lennart.
              • Lexia
                • Origin:

                  Greek, diminutive of Alexia
                • Description:

                  See ALEXIA.
              • Lochlan
                • Origin:

                  Spelling variation of Lachlan
                • Description:

                  Lochlan and Lachlan are running neck and neck and both rising into the Top 1000. Which spelling you use is purely a matter of taste.
              • Lockwood
                • Description:

                  Lockwood is an English surname turned first name with Old English roots, derived from 'loc' meaning enclosure and 'wudu' meaning wood, essentially describing someone who lived near an enclosed forest. As a given name, Lockwood has a distinguished, aristocratic feel that evokes images of grand estates and English heritage. While not common as a first name, it fits within the trend of using traditional surnames as given names, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet classic-sounding option for their sons. Lockwood projects strength and stability, with literary connections enhancing its intellectual appeal. Its rarity makes it a standout choice that carries traditional gravitas while remaining unique in modern classrooms.
              • Lollie
                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Charlotte, French
                • Meaning:

                  "free man"
                • Description:

                  A sweet (literally) and rare nickname for Charlotte. Lollie would also work as a short form of other names with a strong L sound, such as Elizabeth, Lauren, Lola, Lorelei, and Louisa.
              • Lolly
                • Description:

                  Lolly is a playful, cheerful feminine name that can function as both a nickname and a standalone name. It likely originated as a diminutive for names like Dolores, Charlotte, or Laura, but has gained independent usage. The name evokes sweetness and joy, partly due to its association with lollipops and candy. Lolly has a light-hearted, youthful quality that exudes friendliness and approachability. While not commonly found on popular name lists, it experienced modest usage in the mid-20th century and has seen occasional revival among parents seeking vintage-inspired names with a whimsical quality. The name's brevity and repeating 'l' sound give it a rhythmic, memorable quality that works well across all ages despite its initial childlike associations.

              • Lottie
                • Origin:

                  English, diminutive of Charlotte
                • Meaning:

                  "free man"
                • Description:

                  Lottie is a nostalgic great-grandma name that conjures up lockets and lace, and — like Nellie, Josie, Hattie, Tillie, and Milly — has considerable vintage charm.
              • Luciana
                • Origin:

                  Feminine variation of Lucianus
                • Meaning:

                  "light"
                • Description:

                  Lushly elaborate name that makes Lucy more grownup and sensual. Carnie Wilson chose it for her daughter. Lucianus is an ancient Roman family name and Lucianus of Samosata was an early satirist. Heard most often in the Italian and Spanish cultures, Luciana is usually pronounced loo-chee-anna.
              • Lucio
                • Origin:

                  Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese variation of Lucius
                • Meaning:

                  "light"
                • Description:

                  About 100 baby boys were named Lucio in the US last year, a number we expect to increase with the growing popularity of all names in the Lu family. It's a family united by sound, with three main branches.
              • Lumi
                • Origin:

                  Finnish
                • Meaning:

                  "snow"
                • Description:

                  Lumi may be a rare girls' name in the USA and England, but it comes in the Top 50 in Finland, where it means snow. Given the popularity of Winter, Holly, Ivy and many other wintery-christmassy names, we think that short and spunky Lumi definitely has potential for greater usage outside its home country as one of the more unusual names for Christmas babies.
              • Luther
                • Origin:

                  German
                • Meaning:

                  "army people"
                • Description:

                  Once restricted to evangelical Protestants honoring the ecclesiastical reformer and theologian Martin Luther, leader of the Protestant revolution. In more recent times it has been favored by parents wishing to honor civil rights hero Martin Luther King Jr. Luther was a Top 100 name at the turn of the last century, but fell off the list in the early 1990s.
                  Luther Burbank was an eminent botanist and Luther Vandross was a popular R&B artist. It's the name of a main character on the Disney series Zeke and Luther. The name was given a shot of contemporary energy via Idris Elba's dynamic performance in the eponymous BBC crime drama.
              • Lockland
                • Lockwood
                  • Maeva
                    • Origin:

                      Tahitian
                    • Meaning:

                      "welcome"
                    • Description:

                      Though it sounds like a variation of the Irish Maeve, Maeva actually hails from Tahiti, and is currently enjoying a wave of popularity in France, where it ranks in the Top 100, possibly via popular French folk singer and actress Maeva Meline.
                  • Marcel
                    • Origin:

                      French variation of Marcellus
                    • Meaning:

                      "little warrior"
                    • Description:

                      Marcel, despite distinguished namesakes including Proust and Duchamp, suffers from a terminal headwaiter image in this country. But along with its sister name Marcella and French variation (and Jolie-Pitt pick) Marcheline, Marcel may be on the brink of a style renaissance.
                  • Marco
                    • Origin:

                      Italian and Spanish form of Mark
                    • Meaning:

                      "warlike"
                    • Description:

                      Simple and universal, Marco is a Latin classic that would make a much livelier namesake for an Uncle Mark. It was used for her son by actress Jill Hennessy and goes well with surnames of any nationality.
                  • Margot
                    • Origin:

                      French, diminutive of Margaret
                    • Meaning:

                      "pearl"
                    • Description:

                      Margot is suddenly a star again. After a nearly-half century absence, it hopped back on the Top 1000 list in 2013 and is on the rise. The Margot spelling is now given to three times as many baby girls as the Margo one.
                  • Marius
                    • Origin:

                      Latin, from a Roman family name related to Mars, the god of war
                    • Description:

                      Marius, frequently heard in Germany and France, is a slightly fusty yet accessible name that has (Les Mis) to Anne Rice. With the rise in interest in such Latin names as Maximus and Atticus, Marius might start attracting more attention. Mario, the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese version of Marius, is much more widely used.
                  • Melia
                    • Origin:

                      Greek mythology name, diminutive of Amelia, or Hawaiian
                    • Meaning:

                      "ash tree; honey; work; plumeria"
                    • Description:

                      This is a rich, melodic shortening of the popular girls' name Amelia that can stand on its own. There are several figures in Greek myth named Melia, most notably a daughter of Oceanus. The Meliae are nymphs associated with trees.
                  • Mira
                    • Origin:

                      Latin, Slavic, Arabic, Sanskrit
                    • Meaning:

                      "admirable; peace; female ruler; ocean"
                    • Description:

                      This name owes its present life to actress Sorvino. Mira and Mirra have an arty aura.
                  • Marsa
                    • Nia
                      • Origin:

                        Swahili; Welsh form of the Irish Niamh
                      • Meaning:

                        "resolve; brilliance"
                      • Description:

                        Short but energetic and substantial, Nia has special meaning for African-American parents, as it's one of the days of Kwanza. Nia also benefits by its similarity to (yet differentness from) the megapopular Mia.
                    • Nira
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "light, or furrow, plowed field"
                      • Description:

                        Symbolic name given to girls born on TuB'Shevat, the New Year of the Trees.
                    • Nixie
                      • Origin:

                        German
                      • Meaning:

                        "water nymph"
                      • Description:

                        If you love Dixie, Trixie and Pixie, this name of a mermaid-like sprite in German folklore may be for you. It might also make an update for Nicki.
                    • Opal
                      • Origin:

                        Sanskrit
                      • Meaning:

                        "gem"
                      • Description:

                        Opal is on the verge of a repolishing, following other jewel names like Ruby and Pearl. A Top 100 name during the first two decades of the twentieth century, the opalescent Opal has a good chance of coming back as another O-initial option.
                    • Orla
                      • Origin:

                        Irish
                      • Meaning:

                        "golden princess"
                      • Description:

                        Orla is an Irish name closely associated with the high king Brian Boru, as it was the name of his sister, daughter and niece. It was very popular in the Middle Ages – the fourth most popular name in twelfth century Ireland – and has become popular again in Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales today. In Irish, the name is commonly spelled Orlaith or Orlagh.
                    • Orson
                      • Origin:

                        Latin and English
                      • Meaning:

                        "bear cub"
                      • Description:

                        In the past, Orson has felt like a one-person moniker, tied to film director Orson Welles, who dropped his given name of George in favor of his more distinctive middle. While the Citizen Kane creator seemed to own the name during his lifetime, it's now an interesting possibility for any parent seeking an unusual yet solid name. It's started to appear to the celeb set too -- both Paz Vega and Lauren Ambrose have little Orsons.
                    • Pascal
                      • Origin:

                        French; English
                      • Meaning:

                        "of the Passover; Easter"
                      • Description:

                        The French-accented Pascal was historically used for sons born at Easter, and can make an interesting choice for a boy with Gallic roots arriving around that holiday.
                    • Pax
                      • Origin:

                        Latin
                      • Meaning:

                        "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.
                    • Pax
                      • Origin:

                        Latin
                      • Meaning:

                        "peace"
                      • Description:

                        A cool name, representing the Roman goddess of peace and offering a positive message to bestow upon a child. Pax is one of the most stylish new names that mean peace.
                    • Quinlan
                      • Origin:

                        Irish
                      • Meaning:

                        "descendant of Caoinlean, slender "
                      • Description:

                        An Irish last-name-first-name that could make a child feel distinctive, while still having the regular guy nickname of Quinn. Christine Taylor and Ben Stiller spelled their son's name Quinlin.
                    • Quinlan
                      • Origin:

                        Irish
                      • Meaning:

                        "descendant of Caoinlean, slender "
                      • Description:

                        Quinlan is an Irish surname name given to a few dozen baby girls in the US each year. With the success of Quinn as a girls' name, Quinlan and its variant spellings Quinlin and Quinlyn might follow behind.
                    • Raina
                      • Origin:

                        Slavic and German variation of Regina
                      • Meaning:

                        "queen"
                      • Description:

                        Strong and solid, with a touch of foreign intrigue, it's the most popular of the rain-related names, with a variety of pronunciations—RAY-na, rah-EE-na, or RY-na. Alternate spellings Reyna and Rayna currently rank higher in the US.
                    • Ria
                      • Origin:

                        Spanish
                      • Meaning:

                        "small river"
                      • Description:

                        Short and feminine, Ria has a rhythmic flow.
                    • Rivers
                      • Origin:

                        Nature name and surname, English
                      • Meaning:

                        "rivers"
                      • Description:

                        Rivers is an indisputably unisex surname with is strong nature connotation and its connection to the character Diana Rivers from Charlotte Bronte's novel Jane Eyre. Rivers is also the first name of one of the girl Sweet Home sextuplets.
                    • Romy
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Rosemary, Roma, Romana, Romilly etc.
                      • Description:

                        Austrian actress Romy Schneider seemed to be the singular bearer of this international nickname name until it found new style currency in the past decade.
                    • Rynn
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Katherine, English from Greek
                      • Meaning:

                        "pure"
                      • Description:

                        Uncommon nickname for Katherine.
                    • Saffron
                      • Origin:

                        Spice name
                      • Description:

                        Spice names are increasingly appealing to the senses of prospective parents; this one, belonging to a precious spice derived from the crocus has a vaguely orange-scented-incense sixties feel.
                    • Sahar
                      • Origin:

                        Arabic, Persian
                      • Meaning:

                        "dawn, morning, awakening"
                      • Description:

                        This is a soft and strong Arabic and Persian name commonly heard in the Middle East.
                    • Sloane
                      • Origin:

                        Irish
                      • Meaning:

                        "raider"
                      • Description:

                        Sloane is a sleek, sophisticated surname name that has gradually morphed over to the girls' side. With its distinctive and intriguing sound, Sloane has been in the US Top 1000 since 2009, and in 2022, it made its first appearance in the UK charts, jumping more than 400 places in a single year.
                    • Sullivan
                      • Origin:

                        Irish surname
                      • Meaning:

                        "black-eyed one"
                      • Description:

                        Sullivan is a jaunty Celtic three-syllable name, with a real twinkle in its eye. It was immortalized in the 1930s classic film Sullivan's Travels and was chosen for one of Patrick Dempsey's twin boys. Nickname Sully is equally jaunty.
                    • Sullivan
                      • Origin:

                        Irish
                      • Meaning:

                        "dark eyes"
                      • Description:

                        Stylish and boyish but could work for a girl -- especially one with brown eyes -- and Sully is a quirky and jaunty nickname.
                    • Sylvie
                      • Origin:

                        French variation of Latin Sylvia
                      • Meaning:

                        "from the forest"
                      • Description:

                        Although Sylvia seems to be having somewhat of a revival among trendsetting baby namers, we'd still opt for the even gentler and more unusual Sylvie. Despite being dated in its native France (where it was popular during the 1950s and 60s), in English-speaking regions it still feels fresh and international without being unfamiliar and has a cosmopolitan, international air. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2016.
                    • Tibby
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Elizabeth
                      • Meaning:

                        "pledged to God"
                      • Description:

                        Cute and unusual as a nickname, but lacking the legs to stand on its own.
                    • Tilda
                      • Origin:

                        Estonian, diminutive of Matilda
                      • Description:

                        Actress Tilda Swinton injected this dated nickname name with some modern charm.
                    • Tilden
                      • Origin:

                        English place name
                      • Meaning:

                        "fertile valley"
                      • Description:

                        Tilden is mostly seen as a male name, but we love it just as much for a girl. It's an androgynous answer to Tilda, and still gets you the super-sweet nickname Tilly (or Tildy).
                    • Valencia
                      • Origin:

                        Spanish
                      • Meaning:

                        "brave, strong"
                      • Description:

                        This lovely orange-scented Spanish place-name would make an inventive namesake for an Aunt Valerie.
                    • Valley
                      • Origin:

                        English word name
                      • Meaning:

                        "valley"
                      • Description:

                        A natural phenomenon that makes a stylish baby name. Teen Mom's Kailyn Lowry used it for her daughter, twin to Verse.
                    • Vaughn
                      • Origin:

                        Welsh
                      • Meaning:

                        "small"
                      • Description:

                        Vaughn, also commonly spelled Vaughan, has been used quietly over the years, reaching a peak of Number 349 in 1949. It is now in the process of rediscovery, being seen as a good Sean alternative or an updated way to honor an ancestral Paul (which also means small).
                    • Vega
                      • Origin:

                        Arabic, Spanish
                      • Meaning:

                        "swooping eagle; meadow"
                      • Description:

                        Another astral name, this one relating to one of the largest and brightest stars in the heavens, is popular in Scandinavia and Spain, where it ranks among the Top 50 girls' names. Although still very rare in the US, we think it has serious potential to follow the likes of Luna and Lyra up the charts.
                    • Vienna
                      • Origin:

                        Place-name: the capital of Austria
                      • Meaning:

                        "forest stream; white foundation"
                      • Description:

                        Vienna is one of the more popular of the European place-names, with a particularly pleasant sound, evoking elegant images of the Blue Danube, of castles and cafes, sweets and sausages and Strauss waltzes—and Sigmund Freud. It could be a possible substitute for the popular Sienna, although Vienna has been climbing the charts herself. Vienna was one of the fastest rising girl names in 2023.
                    • Warren
                      • Origin:

                        English from French
                      • Meaning:

                        "park-keeper"
                      • Description:

                        Long lingering in limbo, Warren suddenly seems to be on the cusp of revival. One of the oldest recorded English surnames, Warren's popularity in the U.S. dates back to the nineteenth century, and by 1921, reached its peak at Number 24.
                    • Yara
                      • Origin:

                        Arabic, Persian, Brazilian, Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "friend, helper; strength; water nymph; honeycomb"
                      • Description:

                        The multicultural Yara is a sweet but substantial choice that could make a more unusual take on Sara and also work in multiple languages Popular in Portugal, The Netherlands, and Switzerland, familiar in the UK and France, it entered the US Top 1000 in 2017 and has been climbing the charts ever since.
                    • Yola
                      • Description:

                        Yola is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Polish, it's a diminutive of Jolanta, meaning 'violet flower.' The name also exists independently in African cultures, particularly in Nigeria among the Yoruba people. Additionally, Yola has Hungarian roots as a nickname for Jolán. This multicultural background gives the name a global appeal while remaining concise and melodic. Yola has never been extremely common in English-speaking countries, maintaining its distinctive quality. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds make it accessible across language barriers. Its rhythmic quality and gentle sound contribute to its feminine appeal. Parents might be drawn to Yola for its simplicity, international character, and the subtle natural connection to violets in its Polish origin.
                    • Zadie
                      • Origin:

                        English variation of Sadie
                      • Meaning:

                        "princess"
                      • Description:

                        When aspiring British writer Sadie Smith decided to change her name to the more distinctive and zippy Zadie at the age of fourteen, this attention-magnet name was born. But though it might sound like a modern initial-switch, Zadie was actually Number 539 in 1881, remaining in the Top 1000 for almost thirty years.
                    • Zevi
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "gazelle, roebuck"
                      • Description:

                        Zevi is an alternative transcription of the Hebrew name Zvi or Tzvi, the latter of which is a Top 100 pick in Israel. It's a cool, sharp-sounding name which would make for a great distinctive alternative to Levi.
                    • Zinnia
                      • Origin:

                        Flower name, from German surname
                      • Meaning:

                        "Zinn's flower"
                      • Description:

                        Zinnia is an unusual floral choice with a bit more edge and energy than most and beginning to find its way onto namers' wish lists of botanical possibilities. Named after an eighteenth German botanist called Johann Gottfried Zinn, it appears in Roald Dahl's Matilda as the young protagonist's mother.
                    • Zofia
                      • Origin:

                        Czech, Polish, and Ukrainian variation of Sophia
                      • Meaning:

                        "wisdom"
                      • Description:

                        An international variation of Sophia that ranks in the Top 10 in Poland and the Top 1000 in England and Wales. Zosia is a charming diminutive.