Names To Use...

Arcadia, a name for an unspoiled paradise, makes an attractive secular alternative to Nevaeh or Eden. For parents who want an unusual name with a friendlier nickname, Arcadia has the advantage of cute Cady.

Magical and distinctive but grounded and familiar too, it's no surprise that Athena has become one of the most widely used ancient goddess names in the contemporary Western world. Derived from the city name Athens, it is current a Top 100 choice in the US.

Athene is a feminine name derived from Greek mythology, where Athena was the goddess of wisdom, courage, strategic warfare, and crafts. This variant spelling offers a slightly softer pronunciation than the more common Athena. The name carries strong associations with intelligence, strength, and creativity—attributes of the goddess herself. Though less popular than Athena, Athene has appealed to parents drawn to classical mythology and seeking names with powerful feminine connotations. The name has an elegant, timeless quality that works well across various cultures. Athene offers the distinctive heritage and meaning of its mythological origin while providing a slightly more unique option than the standard spelling, making it appealing for parents who appreciate classical references with a subtle difference.

Avais is a feminine name with uncertain etymology, possibly related to Avice, an Old French name derived from Germanic elements meaning 'battle wisdom.' Alternatively, it could be a modern variant of names like Avis or Avery. This uncommon name has a contemporary feel despite potential historical connections. The distinctive combination of sounds creates a name that feels both familiar and unique. Avais remains rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it an exclusive quality. The name's short, two-syllable structure makes it practical and memorable, while its uncommon nature allows individuals to define its significance personally rather than through widespread cultural associations.

Avallon is a feminine name with French and Celtic influences. It is derived from the legendary island of Avalon in Arthurian legend, said to be the place where King Arthur was taken after being wounded in battle. The name evokes images of mystical beauty, healing, and otherworldly enchantment. Avallon carries connotations of magic and mystery, with its connections to ancient Celtic mythology and sacred apple trees (the name may have roots in the Welsh word for apple, 'afal'). Though relatively uncommon as a given name, Avallon appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and mythological significance. Its unique spelling with two 'l's sets it apart from the more traditional Avalon.

Aviana is a name that's like the megapopular Ava and Ariana, but not quite as popular as either. It entered into the mainstream back in 2010 however, after actress Amy Adams chose it for her daughter, fulfilling her desire to choose a "normal" name after all, even if it didn't seem like that a decade ago.

Though the plays by Sophocles and Eugene O'Neill and via the "Electra Complex" proposed by psychoanalyst Carl Jung, this name has, unfortunately, become associated with incest and murder.

Fay, also spelled Faye, who had been napping quietly since the 1930's, has, like cousins May/Mae and Ray/Rae, sat up and started rubbing her eyes, ready for a mini-comeback, especially as a middle name. In 2014, Faye hopped back onto the US Top 1000, though Fay is used much more quietly as a first name.

A merry surname cousin of Kerrigan, could make a lively choice for a happy little girl.

A multicultural option that's equally intriguing but more unusual than Maia. Connected to water and the ocean, it is a Top 100 choice in Spain and Puerto Rico and has been rising up the charts in France and the UK in recent years. Alternative (and equally multicultural) spelling alternative Nya has also proved popular.

Naiad originates from Greek mythology, where Naiads were a type of water nymph who presided over fountains, wells, springs, and other freshwater bodies. The name derives from the Greek word 'náein,' meaning 'to flow.' This uncommon name carries strong associations with water, nature, and ancient mythology, giving it an ethereal, mystical quality. Extremely rare as a personal name, Naiad appeals to parents drawn to mythological names with strong natural symbolism. The name suggests qualities of fluidity, grace, and natural beauty. Those named Naiad might appreciate their name's unique quality and its rich mythological heritage. While unfamiliar to many, the name's connection to water nymphs gives it an intriguing background story and a distinctive character among nature-inspired names.

A simple but unusual name with roots in disparate cultures, Neri appears in the Bible as a male name and is still sometimes used for boys as well as girls. The appeal of Neri are its deep roots combined with its simple, upbeat, modern feel, ala Peri and Rory.

In Greek mythology, Nyx was a powerful goddess and the embodiment of the night, but when spoken, its negative meaning can't be ignored.

Seraphina is one of the most-searched name on Nameberry, destined for even greater popularity. The highest-ranking angels, the six-winged seraphim, inspired the lovely name Seraphina.