Not Your Mother's Name List

As flower names become more unique, so can gem names move beyond Ruby and Pearl to names like Topaz, Sapphire, and Peridot. Amethyst, the purple birthstone for February, has never been in the Top 1000, but could have some appeal, joining similarly-hued Violet and Lilac, all of which make great names for Aquarius babies or names for February babies.

One of the most usable of the pleasant, newly adopted nature/water names (like Lake and Ocean), especially in middle position. It's gentle, slightly whimsical, but grounded by its similarity to May or Rae.

This Irish name of a saint from the Isle of Aran also appears in myth and fantasy fiction, giving it an intriguing, mystical air.

Castiel, which vaulted into the Top 1000 on the wings of the angel hero of the television show Supernatural, is the name of the Angel of the day Thursday. It may also derive some appeal from the newly-fashionable "Cas" syllable, as in Cassian and Cassius.

Darci is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of Darcy, which originated as an English and French surname derived from a place name in Normandy (d'Arcy, meaning 'from Arcy'). This spelling with an 'i' ending gives the name a distinctly feminine appearance compared to the unisex quality of Darcy. Darci gained popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, appealing to parents seeking names with a contemporary feel. The name has a playful, energetic quality while maintaining sophistication. Its short, crisp sound makes it practical and memorable, contributing to its modest but consistent usage.

Devereaux is familiar to many English speakers as a surname but not as a first. It's a habitational name related to the town of Evreux in France, with the prefix de- denoting it likely referred to a noble of that area.

One of those ultimate cool-girl names, played by Keira Knightley in a movie about a supermodel-turned-bounty hunter, but kids might associate it with the game. High profile British designer India Hicks used it for her daughter. As a girls' nameit's still very rare, used in 2015 in the US for only seven baby girls.

Unlike Amber, which is in decline, this name still has a bit of a glow left -- though confusions between the two will inevitably arise.

Eris was the goddess of strife and discord, turned fairy tale and then popular culture figure Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty. Ironic, as her name sounds so much like that of Eros, the god of love.

Fable, like Story, is a word name with real potential, combining enchanted tale-telling with a moral edge. And soundwise, it would fit right in with the likes of Abel and Mabel.

Like Harbor, one of the new generation of word names with appealing meanings, though (female) memoirist Haven Kimmel has tipped it decidedly toward the girls' side.

Jacinth is a gemstone of the Zircon variety. The name is related to the floral Hyacinth.

Jubilee has a joyous and jubilant aura, but it wouldn't be an easy name to carry, what with all that pressure to be a living, breathing, 24-7 party. Jubilee was the name selected by television's Duggars for their miscarried child.

Killian – aka Cillian – is a spirited yet resonant Gaelic name that was borne by several Irish saints and could make a distinctive replacement for the dated Kelly. Kylian is another spelling that's gaining traction, thanks to French soccer star Kylian Mbappé. Possible downsides: an unsavory first syllable and a connection to the trendy brew.

The next Destiny? Kismet seems like it might be fated for increased use.

The name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.

Leonides is a masculine name with ancient Greek origins, a variant of Leonidas, famously borne by the Spartan king who led the defense against the Persians at the Battle of Thermopylae. The name derives from 'leon' meaning 'lion,' symbolizing courage and strength. This spelling variation maintains the heroic associations while offering a slightly different rendering of the classical name. Leonides is most commonly found in Greek and Spanish-speaking communities. The name carries powerful historical connotations of bravery, leadership, and self-sacrifice. While less common than Leonidas in international usage, it shares the same impressive heritage and commanding presence. The name's classical roots appeal to parents drawn to names with historical depth and heroic symbolism.

This name of a character played by Kirsten Dunst in the movie Virgin Suicides, originally a novel by Jeffrey Eugenides, is gaining attention, also thanks to the heroine Lux, Lady of Luminosity in the League of Legends games. Luz is the Spanish version.

The bright, playful Micah feels like the middle ground between the safe, solid qualities of Michael and the flair and energy of Luca. Both Biblical and stylish, Micah is proving popular among parents today.