The Names on This Site I Like

More colorful than Blanche, but blanker than Bianca.

Strong name from the Esan language of Nigeria, with a satisfyingly specific meaning for a child's place in the family.

This common Scandinavian name, also spelled Osmund, is only occasionally heard in this country.

Ancient Irish saint's name that's unlikely, because of its similarity to "ninny," to join cousin Finian in popularity.

With its distinctive '-inka' suffix, common in Slavic and Eastern European diminutives, Katinka carries a playful yet sophisticated quality. The name enjoyed some popularity in the Netherlands and Hungary throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.

This yellow harbinger spring bloom was named for Scottish botanist William Forsyth, and is even more unusual than such species as Acacia and Azalea.

Nuray is one of the most popular girls' names in the Middle East though it's largely unknown and unused in the Western World. The meaning, related to the more familiar Noor, adds appeal.

An appealing Asian name with a nickname feel.

Anastasiya is a feminine name of Greek origin meaning 'resurrection' or 'she who will rise again.' This Slavic variation of Anastasia is particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other Eastern European countries. The name carries profound Christian significance, associated with the concept of resurrection and renewal. Historically, it was given to girls born around Easter or Christmas in Orthodox Christian families. Anastasiya projects elegance with its flowing syllables while maintaining a sense of strength and resilience through its meaning. While the Western spelling Anastasia has broader international usage, Anastasiya maintains cultural authenticity in Slavic communities. The name offers versatile nickname options including Nastya, Stasya, or Tasia, adding to its practical appeal alongside its beautiful formal presentation.

This down-to-earth Bible name is surprisingly little-used, considering the popularity of other Old Testament names. Shem was Noah's eldest son, and is the origin of the term Semitic (as in the language family).

Godfrey was very popular in the Middle Ages, but today you're more likely to hear it as a surname than a first name. It has a solid, old-man charm, but a couple of possible deal-breakers: the first syllable being God, and no obvious nickname. Goff, maybe? For a different feel, we also like the Italian artist's version Giotto.

This name of the Roman goddess of fruit trees is also associated with a suburban town in Southern California.

Attractive and equally intriguing alternative to Katya.

A medieval German saint's name which remained popular in Germany until the middle of the 20th century. It is still in relatively wide use in other European countries, including Poland and Hungary. With other Bert names – like Robert and Albert and even Gilbert – appealing to lovers of strong, traditional boy names with a slightly clunky charm, Norbert could be one of those so-out-it's-in choices that everyone knows, but almost no one is using.

Sohvi is the Finnish translation of Sophia, although Sofia ranks as the most popular variation in Finland.

It feels like a slenderized modern version, but Jennet actually has deep roots. Could this plucky name rescue Janet and Jenny from their datedness?

Yes, though it seems so extreme, girls were actually sometimes given this name a century ago; now it is so uncommon it would make a strong springtime statement. Biggest obstacle: the nickname Daffy.

A name bestowed in honor of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora de la Nieves, referring to a miracle she performed with unmelted snow in the August heat of Rome.

Oceane (oh-see-EN) has been one of the chicest names in France for several years, ranking in the French Top 50. This is a sophisticated name that could easily cross the ocean, and is much more stylish than the English Ocean or Oceana.

Historic and popular Indian name, borne by the son of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. On classic Hindu epics, it was the name of the charioteer of King Dhritarashtra; in the UK is was a character on the TV series Eastenders.