A writer's collection

  1. Kenya
    • Origin:

      Place name, Kikuyu
    • Meaning:

      "mountain of white"
    • Description:

      Kenya, a name borrowed from the East African nation and theoretically unisex, is now used mostly for girls. While it's had its ups and downs since entering the US Top 1000 in 1968, it currently ranks lower than spelling variant Kenia.
  2. Arizona
    • Origin:

      Place-name from Papago Indian
    • Meaning:

      "little springs"
    • Description:

      We usually think of place-names as a modern invention, but in fact Arizona ranked on the US Top 1000 from its inception in 1880 until 1911, when it vanished below the surface. It peaked at Number 510 in 1882, before Arizona became a state. One notorious vintage bearer: criminal "Ma" Barker, born Arizona Clark.
  3. Meissa
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "the shining one"
    • Description:

      Star in Orion that might make a fine name, except people will always assume it's Melissa, with a typo.
  4. Reta
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "shaken"
    • Description:

      With a soft e, sounds like an affected pronunciation of Rita.
  5. Oceane
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "ocean"
    • Description:

      Oceane (oh-see-EN) has been one of the chicest names in France for several years, ranking in the French Top 50. This is a sophisticated name that could easily cross the ocean, and is much more stylish than the English Ocean or Oceana.
  6. Rynn
    • Description:

      Rynn is a concise, gender-neutral name that has been more commonly used for boys. With its crisp sound and simple spelling, it carries a modern, streamlined quality. Rynn may have evolved as a variant of names like Ryan, Rinn, or Lynn, or possibly derived from Irish or Welsh origins. In Welsh contexts, it might relate to elements meaning 'ruler' or 'kingdom.' The name's brevity gives it versatility and memorability in contemporary naming trends. While not widely used, Rynn appeals to parents seeking a name that is short, distinctive, and somewhat enigmatic. Its single-syllable structure and uncommon status make it stand out while remaining easy to pronounce and spell.
  7. Azha
    • Origin:

      Persian
    • Meaning:

      "the breeding place"
    • Description:

      Star name that could also be another spelling of Asia or Aja.
  8. Rinoa
    • Description:

      Rinoa is a feminine name that gained recognition primarily through the character Rinoa Heartilly in the popular 1999 video game Final Fantasy VIII. The name appears to be a creative invention by the game's developers, likely inspired by Japanese naming aesthetics but without specific traditional meaning. Since the game's release, Rinoa has attracted a small but dedicated following among gaming enthusiasts and parents drawn to its melodious sound and unique quality. The name features a pleasing combination of soft consonants and vowel sounds, creating a feminine impression without being overly frilly. While still uncommon, Rinoa represents the growing influence of digital media on naming practices.
  9. Ascella
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "armpit"
    • Description:

      A star system in Sagittarius, so one of the most appropriate names for December babies.
  10. Ellerie
    • Description:

      Ellerie is a feminine name with a modern, lyrical quality. It likely evolved as a variation of names like Ellery or as a feminine form of Ellery, which originated as an English surname derived from either the Old French name 'Hilaire' (meaning cheerful) or from 'elder tree wood.' The name has gained modest attention in recent years as parents seek fresh alternatives to popular 'Ella' and 'Ellie' names. Ellerie combines elegance with playfulness through its melodic three-syllable structure. While not traditionally common, it fits within contemporary naming trends that favor vintage sounds with modern twists. The '-erie' ending gives it a delicate, feminine quality that appeals to parents looking for something distinctive yet accessible.
  11. Lexus
    • Origin:

      Greek variation of a diminutive of Alexis
    • Description:

      Do you really want to name your baby after a car when there are so many other lex possibilities?
  12. Adalius
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas brought his Latinate name into the spotlight, and he has an equally unusual middle name--DONQUAIL.
  13. Atria
    • Origin:

      Star name, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "entry hall"
    • Description:

      A star in the constellation Triangulum Australe, also the name of a publishing imprint and an assisted living corporation, probably because it has that streamlined corporate I-could-be-a-car-name feel. Atria is the plural of the more familiar term for an entry hall or foyer, atrium.
  14. Kenzi
    • Description:

      Kenzi is a feminine name with multiple origin possibilities. It can function as a diminutive of Mackenzie or Kennedy, both Scottish surnames that became popular given names. Alternatively, it may derive from the Japanese name Kenzō, meaning 'healthy' or 'strong,' though with modified spelling. The name's short, spunky quality appeals to contemporary naming preferences for brevity and informality. Kenzi gained notice in the 2010s through characters in television shows, giving it modern pop culture associations. The name conveys a playful, friendly personality while maintaining versatility. Its mix of possible origins makes it appealing to parents seeking a name that feels modern yet approachable, with an energetic quality that works well from childhood through adulthood.
  15. Alala
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Meaning:

      "war cry"
    • Description:

      This name of the mythological sister of Mars might be used for a girl born under one of the signs ruled by the planet Mars--Aries or Scorpio. She is the personification of the war cry.

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