Girls' Names

For a girl, we'd say Val-en-teen, though many would insist on pronouncing it like the holiday.

One of the most popular names in Scandinavia, Freja--or Freyja--was a major deity of Norse paganism. Beautiful, blonde and blue-eyed, she was the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. In the US, the name is most likely spelled Freya.

The quality of mercy makes this lovely Puritan virtue name a quiet favorite today. Although it was most popular in the late nineteenth century, Mercy is on its way to a comeback -- it rose 143 spots between 2012 and 2013, making it one of the year's fastest-rising names. Right now, it's still stylish and distinctive, a rare and wonderful combination.

Evanna is the name of a Harry Potter actress who pronounces it ee-vah-na. This might be considered another international feminine form of the many variations of John; Ivana, Giovanna, and even Joan are cousins of Evanna. It could also be a compound name, combining Eva and Anna.

Cerelia is a melodic and unusual choice, perfect for a child born in April or May. Another version is Cerella.

Acantha is one of the unique baby names in the stylish mythological category that also might count as a flower name. In Greek mythology, Acantha was a nymph beloved by Apollo. An unusual and attractive choice that could make a creative way to honor a grandma Rose.

Ellington's popularity may be inspired by jazz great Duke, but the name is used slightly more often for girls today, perhaps because of its trendy El- beginning. Like a host of other El- names, from the familiar Ella to Eleanor to the more niche Elodie and Elula, Ellington carries the popular Ellie nickname.

Callia is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from 'kallos' meaning 'beauty.' It can be considered a variation of Calliope (one of the Muses in Greek mythology) or related to Calla (as in the elegant calla lily flower). The name has a delicate, flowing quality with its soft sounds and lyrical rhythm. While not among the most common names, Callia has seen increased interest in recent decades as parents seek names that are both classical and distinctive. The name conveys elegance and grace while remaining accessible and easy to pronounce. Its botanical associations also appeal to those drawn to nature-inspired names, giving Callia a fresh, timeless quality.

The Indre is a river in France. Spelled Indra, it's the name of a powerful deity worshipped by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains — roughly the South Asian equivalent of the Greek Zeus or Norse Odin. But either Indra or Indre might make a simple, captivating, attractive name for a modern little girl.

A rare girls' name with cross-cultural appeal to burn, Avira might be a good option for parents interested in Ava but put off by its huge popularity.

Usually seen in the Appalachian Mountain region.

Sultry name given added interest by that double 'a'.