If I was brave enough...

Names I love but am not brave enough to pull off
  1. Alessandra
    • Origin:

      Italian and Portuguese variation of Alexandra
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      This Italian and Portuguese variant of the classic Alexandra softens the classic name, while still maintaining its strength and dignity. Currently in the US Top 500, it also ranks in Brazil and Italy. Instead of Lexi, this form could get you to nicknames Essie or Alessa.
  2. 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.
  3. Javier
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Xavier, Basque
    • Meaning:

      "new house"
    • Description:

      One of the most popular Spanish names for boys in the US, Javier is embodied for many Americans in the magnetic persona of Spanish-born Oscar-nominated actor Javier Bardem.
  4. Jett
    • Origin:

      Mineral or word name
    • Description:

      Short, sharp, and cool, Jett is a contemporary choice that connotes both gemstones and jet engines. Rarely used before the 90s, John Travolta, and then George Lucas, helped to put the name on the map by choosing it for their sons.
  5. Mateo
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"
    • Description:

      Mateo vaulted into the boys' Top 10 in 2023, ranking all the way up at Number 6. It is a Latinate names that, like Mia and Luca, is becoming popular far beyond its native Spanish community.
  6. Orianne
    • Description:

      Orianne is an elegant feminine name with roots in Latin and French traditions. It's believed to be a variation of Oriane, which itself derives from Latin 'oriens' meaning 'rising' or 'eastern,' suggesting connections to dawn or the rising sun. In medieval literature, Oriane was a princess in the Amadis de Gaula romance tales. The name gained some recognition through Orianne Cevey, the former wife of musician Phil Collins. With its sophisticated sound and uncommon status, Orianne balances uniqueness and accessibility. The name carries an artistic, somewhat exotic flair while remaining pronounceable in many languages. Though never reaching mainstream popularity, Orianne maintains steady appreciation among parents seeking a name with literary resonance and elegant feminine qualities.
  7. Pacific
    • Origin:

      Ocean name; from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "tranquil"
    • Description:

      Pacific is an adventurous kind of place-name, with the added bonus of the association with peace.
  8. Waverly
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "meadow of quivering aspens"
    • Description:

      Waverly, with its literary resonance and lilting three-syllable sound, could well become the next generation's successor to Kimberly. Its upper-crusty surname feel places it among the new stylish English names for girls, successors to Ashley and Whitney.