Girl Names

While theoretically unisex, this surname name has been edging up the girls’ names list, perhaps originally as an Ashley substitute. One quality in Ainsley's favor: It's remained steadily popular -- but not TOO popular -- for more than 20 years now, ranking consistently around Number 400. That makes it stylish and familiar without showing up everywhere.

Though it sounds modern, Brielle is, among other things, a traditional Cajun contraction of Gabrielle, and the name of a historic seaport in the Western Netherlands, also known as Brill. Today, it is used more widely as a nickname for Gabrielle and as a stand-alone name that fits in easily with Isabelle, Briana, and Brinley. In a recent year, it appeared in the US Top 200, ranking above the longer form and used nearly four times as often.

A more feminine version of Devin.

Gentle but solid, Camden is currently in the US Top 200, and subsequently, alternative spellings have made an appearance. Kamdyn shares the popular K initial of Kaden, Kannon, and Kairo, the trendy Y of Landyn, Zayne, and Chosyn, and the surname-feel of Kennedy, Radclyffe, and Lyons,

Kayne is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. Most commonly, it's considered a modern variation of Kane or Cain, derived from Celtic languages meaning 'warrior' or from Hebrew meaning 'acquired' or 'possession.' The spelling with a 'y' gives the traditional name a contemporary edge. Kayne gained some visibility in the early 2000s, possibly influenced by celebrities and pop culture. It shares phonetic similarity with the word 'cane' and may also be associated with the Welsh name Cayne. The name projects strength and individuality while maintaining a sleek, modern sound. Though not among the most common boys' names, Kayne appeals to parents seeking a strong-sounding name with traditional roots but a modern spelling.

A Scottish surname name, more popular as the Presidential McKinley, meaning "son of the fair hero".

Light and glittery, but with plenty of spirit, Kinsley has risen quickly into the US Top 100. Balanced between preppy and cutesy, it feels like a fresh alternative to Kelly, Kaitlyn, or Kimberly.

This Americanized spelling of the Dutch name is now used nearly exclusively for girls in the US.