Weird Ones

Jezebelle is a feminine name that serves as an elaborate variation of Jezebel, a name with biblical origins. In the Bible, Jezebel was a Phoenician princess who became queen of Israel, though she gained a controversial reputation. The original Hebrew name may have meant 'where is the prince?' or potentially 'unexalted.' The French-influenced suffix '-belle' means 'beautiful,' softening the name's historical associations. Jezebelle emerged in the late 20th century as part of a trend toward reclaiming controversial historical names with glamorous spellings. The name conveys a sense of dramatic elegance and exotic beauty. Despite its striking sound and appearance, Jezebelle remains relatively uncommon, likely due to lingering biblical associations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its bold, distinctive quality and mysterious allure, while embracing its transformation from historical controversy to modern sophistication.

Mendel is an Old World Jewish name that is also the surname of the founder of genetics.

Monty, a name with a World War II feel, is rarely used on its own. But we're hearing rumblings of a comeback and think that Monty, whatever it's short for, is an adorable vintage nickname name of the future.

Writer Anne Tyler gave this apt name to the hippie child in her novel Amateur Marriage, but she wasn't the first -- it was also used by the Puritans. Today it would be quite a loaded choice.

Pele is a female name in Hawaiian culture that could make a provocative choice for a modern girls. Others might think you named your daughter after the all-time great soccer player, but the simple, rare, and lovely name Pele has mythological roots.

This spirited Gaelic classic, which became popular in Ireland via the illustrious twelfth century king Rory O'Connor, makes a highly energetic choice, now used for either sex. Rory's gender split is still trending boyward; it's one of the coolest boys' names starting with R.

Botanical choice that can work for either gender. Simple and straightforward. Caveats: rue means "regret" in English, and "street" in French. Now in the Top 1000 in England and Wales for girls and trending upwards in the US, it is nevertheless still given to a handful of boys each year. It could equally work as a nickname for a Ruben, Rudy, or a Rupert.

The fact that this is pronounced sah-FEE-yah would cause Western ears to hear it as Sophia.

A diminutive of the (male) name Dafydd, the Welsh form of David. In the US, it's strongly associated with the candy.