Faeries and Fae

Instead of the more obvious Aqua, Turquoise, or Blue, consider this offbeat Arabic name, brought into the American name pool by actress Fairuza Balk (named by her father for the color of her eyes). Since turquoise is the birthstone for December, Fairuza is one of the perfect names for December babies.

Faith is one of the most straightforward of the virtue names popularized by the Puritans in the seventeenth century, many parents still choosing it as an indicator of their religious conviction. Faith peaked in 2002 at Number 48.

Also appearing as Fayza, Faizah, Fayiza, and Feyza (in Turkish), Faiza is a strong-willed and ambitious name of Arabic origin. It comes from the word Fa'iz meaning "successful". Notable bearers include journalist Faiza Ambah and economist Faiza Shaheen.

Farah is a soft and lovely Arabic name, best known here in this original spelling via the last Empress of Iran, Farah Palavi. It's currently a Top 250 name in both France and the Netherlands, which both have a large Arabic-speaking population, and appears in at least two video games.

Soft and simple, but no less magical, Faye is enjoying a quiet spell of popularity in the US. It broke the Top 1000 in 2014, and by 2023, was one of the fastest rising names on the charts. Faye is a perfect example of a name that fits in and stands out, recognizable and yet unexpected. It also makes a beautiful middle name option, if Mae and Rae are feeling too overdone.

Fayette is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'fay' meaning 'fairy' or 'faith.' It gained recognition in America through the influence of the Marquis de Lafayette, a French military officer who fought in the American Revolutionary War. As a place name, various counties and towns across the United States bear this name in his honor. As a personal name, Fayette carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with historical significance. Though never extremely common, it experienced modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Fayette remains a distinctive choice that balances uniqueness with historical resonance and a touch of French refinement.

Ferelith is an unusual yet deeply-rooted Scottish girl's name, also found in ancient Ireland and drawn from the Gaelic Forbhlaith or Forbflaith. While it went through a period of dormancy after the Middle Ages, there are some modern women named Ferelith, including actress Ferelith Young and Princess of Denmark Anne Ferelith Fenella Bowes-Lyon.

This name of a tragic figure in Greek mythology, the daughter of King Minos, sister of Ariadne and wife of Theseus, has a mysterious and intriguing appeal, and would make a dramatic choice.

A euphonious and lovely name with a dark-eyed, long-flowing-haired image, Raphaela is, like Gabriella and Isabella, beginning to be drawn into the American mainstream.

Tifara is a rare feminine name with exotic flair. While its precise origins are uncertain, it may have roots in African languages or could be a modern invented name. The melodic quality of Tifara, with its soft consonants and open vowel sounds, gives it a gentle yet distinctive character. The name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an unusual choice that stands out. Parents might choose Tifara seeking a unique name with a beautiful sound pattern. Though lacking widespread historical usage, Tifara's appeal lies in its uniqueness and contemporary feel, perfect for parents seeking a name that's both uncommon and pleasing to the ear.