Very popular in Wales, this perfectly nice name's only problem is its similarity to the dated Beth Ann. But if you're looking to honor an ancestral Elizabeth with a distinctive rare choice, Bethan might be on your short list.

Pronounced like Owen, this was the name of several early Irish kings and saints, as well as a celebrated Ulster hero. Often spelled with two 'n's in Scotland, it has been Anglicized as Ewan, Ewen, Euan, Owen, Hugh, or Eugene.

Fleur is a generic, delicate flower name that emigrated into the English-speaking world when John Galsworthy bestowed it on one of the Forsytes in his celebrated saga. More recently, there was Fleur Delacour, a French witch and the Beauxbatons champion for the Triwizard Tournament in Harry Potter.

A striking and feminine possibility associated with a modern hero — long-time Indian prime minister, Indira Gandhi. It is also a significant choice within Hinduism, as it is used as an alternative name for Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu and the goddess of luck and prosperity.

Ave is a concise feminine name with multiple origins and meanings. In Latin, it means 'hail' or 'farewell' and is recognizable from the prayer 'Ave Maria' (Hail Mary). It can also derive from the Latin 'avis,' meaning 'bird,' symbolizing freedom and grace. As a modern name, Ave appeals to parents seeking minimalist elegance - short, simple, yet distinctive. Despite its brevity, it carries significant cultural resonance through its religious connections and natural symbolism. While not widely used as a given name, Ave's simplicity makes it versatile across cultures and languages. The name's compact nature also makes it unlikely to be shortened to nicknames, preserving its clean, pure quality.

You'll probably be hearing more of this name thanks to the newest Pixar film, featuring Princess Merida, the first Pixar princess--a feisty, athletic, independent medieval Scottish girl with wild red hair. Her name, however, is not Scottish, but a Spanish place name found in both Spain and Mexico's Yucatan peninsula.

A more unusual, if slightly snooty, masculine Bailey alternative.

Appealingly gentle and romantic French classic--with a lot more charm than Steve.

Vivia, the fresh Italian version of newly popular name, streamlines and even vivifies the original.

This is the original Gaelic spelling of the Anglicized Colin -- more authentic, yes, but could make your American child's life unnecessarily complicated.