Avra is a feminine name with multiple cultural roots. In Hebrew, it relates to Abraham, meaning "father of many," while in Greek it can mean "breeze" or connect to the word "avrio" meaning "tomorrow." This cross-cultural name carries a sense of freshness and possibility with its airy sound and positive associations. Relatively uncommon in most Western countries, Avra offers a distinctive alternative to more popular names like Ava or Eva while maintaining a similar melodic quality. The name's brevity and open vowel sounds give it a contemporary feel despite its ancient origins. Avra projects gentle strength and optimism, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that is both unique and accessible.

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.

Kyrie elieson is one of the oldest religious refrains, meaning Lord, have mercy. As a first name, though, Kyrie is less a name of God and more a nickname-name that might be short for Kyra or a diminutive that stands on its own, a la Kylie. The best-known Kyrie is the male basketball player Kyrie Irving, who pronounces the first syllable to rhyme with my rather than fear. He has inspired more than 1000 baby boys to be given this name one recent year in the US, while it was given to 178 baby girls. Impressive numbers.

Much more manageable than the full form of the name. Possible international alternative to Ella.

Appearing on a minor character in the Old Testament, Atarah is the wife of Jerahmeel and a descendant of Judah. Also spelled Atara, it has confidence and succinctness and may appeal to those who like Atlas, Amara and Elara. The name was chosen for 60 girls in the US in a recent year, while Atara was given to almost 50.

Rarely heard, and when it is, usually attached to a witch. Historically, though, Wanda was a legendary eighth century queen of Poland, and in literature it is the central character of Ouida's eponymous novel Wanda. A musical namesake is the great Polish harpsichordist Wanda Landowska.

Cinderella stepsister type Victorian-valentine name.

Also appearing as Sidra, this botanical name has roots in Persian, and holds multiple levels of spiritual significance. It refers to the Ziziphus spina-christi, a spikey, evergreen plant, also known as the Christ's thorn jujube, the sidr or the lote tree.

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.

More often spelled VERENA, this name is attached to a third century Swiss saint. But the "virtue" name VERITY, is more appealing and comes more directly to the point.

A sunny sounding name, Mayella is a smoosh name with various meanings, depending on which etymological root you follow for May. The name is perhaps most associated with Mayella Ewell in Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, a character whose loneliness and desperation spark the main plot of the book. This may well put parents off using the name and it is only ever given to a handful of girls every year.

Tied to country singer/sitcom star Reba McEntire.

When Deborah seemed too formal in the laid-back sixties, Debra stepped in as a pared-down alternative, but the pendulum is about to swing back.

St. Kateri Teckakwitha is the first Native American saint, canonized in 2012. St. Kateri was the daughter of a Mohawk warrior, born in 1656 in upstate New York. She converted to Christianity at age 20 and died at 24, and was known as "Lily of the Mohawk." Kateri was the name the saint took on, a native variation of Katherine, upon her baptism.

The meaning of intelligent elevates this A-starting name for girls above other similar possibilities.

One of the rarest of virtue names, Clemency could come back along with the more familiar Puritan virtue names such as Hope and Faith. It has a rhythmic three-syllable sound, and offers a more virtuous alternative to the more popular Clementine.

The lilting name of a range of mythical mountains, with an extensive menu of spellings, and a more unusual way of fitting in with current favorites Lila and Lola.

Leland is traditionally a masculine name that has crossed over to occasional feminine usage. With Old English origins, it means 'meadow land' or 'fallow ground.' The name combines 'lea' (meadow) with 'land,' creating a nature-inspired moniker with a gentle, pastoral feeling. As a female name, Leland emerged as part of the trend toward gender-neutral naming in the late 20th century. It offers a distinctive alternative to popular 'L' names like Leah or Lily. Though still predominantly used for boys, Leland for girls provides a strong yet feminine option with a connection to the natural world. The name carries a sophisticated, preppy quality with subtle outdoor associations.

Both a biblical and an Israeli place-name, this can be used as an offbeat substitute for Deborah.