Non-Obvious Color Names

One of several similar feminine names often found in the Muslim world but also a Native American name. And in Greenlandic, Naja means "a boy's younger sister", which could be a sweet connection to a big brother. It's a relatively popular name in Denmark.

A modern, unisex Welsh name with a shiny feel, Eirian can mean "silver" (from Welsh arian) or "snow, brilliant, bright" (from eira). It may appeal to those who like rising star Eira, but want something longer, or more gender neutral.

In Japan, color names are used to symbolize human qualities, and the green hues of Midori name are said to represent fame. While it is a unisex choice in its native Japan, Midori is predominantly used on girls.

An unusual old school name which is made more modern by that fashionable El- beginning.

If girls have adopted Ray, why not Roy.

The color red plays a prominent role in Hindu mythology, referring to the rising sun or the reddish horses of the "son of fire." Pronounced ahr-OO-shah, it has a stylish Russian flair. Hindi version is ARUSHI.

Place-name waiting to be discovered.

A Czech surname derived from the word for "green", which has a certain spark.

Omaira is an intriguing Middle Eastern possibility.

Roux, a color name meaning russet or reddish brown, is a possible middle name for your little auburn-haired babe, though a post-Hunger Games child would more likely be called Rue. Roux is also a culinary term for a mixture of fat and flour used in French cooking to make sauces.

Rare and rhythmic.

Commonly heard in Israel, but here it could be an unusual way to honor Grandma Rose.

A Middle Eastern name rarely heard here, but with a certain swashbuckling charm.

More modern and alluring than Silver, Argenta is one of the few mineral/metal-related names.

A more distinctive alternative to Angelo.

Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.

The color red was considered to have magical properties in early Japanese culture, with the power to cure blood and other illnesses. Pronounced ah-kah-ko.

The more dignified and attractive Hebrew equivalent of Golda or Goldie.