Francophile Naming Guide -- Basque Names for Boys and Girls

Popular among the Muslim community and currently in the UK Top 300, Aiza is a name with bright, zippy sounds and a short but substantial feel, making it an appealing choice.

Ajax was the strong and courageous Greek hero featured in Homer's "Iliad," known as Ajax the Great. But it's also the name of a foaming cleanser, and if you find that reference too strong, you might try the shortened Jax instead.

Alain gives the midcentury Alan a bit of gallic dash.

Fashion designer surname that could make a dynamic first.

Alba is quietly making a behind-the-scenes comeback, perhaps thanks to actress turned baby-product mogul Jessica Alba. Last on the Top 1000 a century ago, the name was given to nearly 200 baby girls in the US last year. Alba might be tomorrow's successor to Ava and Ella. In Spain, Alba ranks among the Top 20 girls' names. Alba is the name of a character in The Time Traveler's Wife.

Albane is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from 'albus' meaning 'white' or 'bright.' It's the female form of Alban, which has roots in ancient Rome where it referred to someone from Alba Longa, a city near Rome. Popular primarily in France and other French-speaking regions, Albane carries connotations of purity, clarity, and brightness. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady popularity in France. The name has a delicate, elegant sound with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. Bearers of this name are often associated with qualities like brightness, intelligence, and a pure spirit.

Alberto is the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese variation of Albert and lends a more unusual and fashionable edge to this name which is still a grandpa name to many.

A rarely heard ancient Latin names for girls that has a not-so-appealing brand name feel. Try Alba instead.

Albin is a modern form of the ancient Roman Albinus or Albus, meaning white or bright. There was a Saint Albinus who was also known as Aubin. In the contemporary world, Albin is popular in Sweden and ripe for export as a simple, unusual name with deep history.

Albira is a rare feminine name with Spanish and Arabic influences. It likely derives from the Germanic name Alberic, meaning 'elf ruler' or 'elf power,' or may be related to the Arabic name Almira, meaning 'princess' or 'elevated one.' This uncommon name carries an air of mystery and exotic charm. Albira has never achieved widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, remaining a distinctive choice that stands out for its melodious sound and unusual character. The name combines softness with strength, featuring a pleasing rhythm and flow. Those named Albira might appreciate its rarity and the unique identity it confers, making it an intriguing option for parents seeking something truly distinctive.

Alda's brother name Aldo has been a mainstay of the U.S. popularity chart for decades now, and the related Alden is soaring up as well. This version has never really caught on. (Maybe it's the association with Alan Alda: great actor, unlikely namesake for a little girl.) However, there is possible hope now that Alba and Alma are on the rise. Aida and Arden are more familiar alternatives.

Alegria is a feminine name derived from the Spanish word meaning "joy" or "happiness." With Latin roots in "alacer" meaning "lively" or "animated," the name directly embodies its positive meaning. Alegria also refers to a traditional form of Spanish folk music and dance that celebrates life and happiness. While never among the most common names in Spanish-speaking countries, it maintains steady usage for its beautiful meaning and musical quality. The name flows melodically with its four syllables and soft sounds. Parents choosing Alegria often appreciate its transparent meaning, cultural connections to celebration, and the positive life outlook it represents. In multicultural communities, the name stands out while remaining relatively easy to pronounce.

The independent Alex has become a classic in its own right. One of the truest unisex names, Alex is used almost equally for both sexes. Alex is used both on its own and as a short form of formal names of both genders, such as Alexander, Alexandra, and Alexis.

Alexander has been in a Top 25 boys' name in the US for 30 years now. But namers are still attracted to its imposing historic pedigree.

Alexandere is an unusual feminine variation of Alexander, which comes from Greek elements meaning "defender of the people" or "protector of mankind." This particular spelling appears to add a French-inspired flair to the more common Alexandra, potentially influenced by the French masculine form Alexandre with an added final 'e' to feminize it. Though extremely rare as a given name, this elaborate variation creates a sophisticated, cosmopolitan impression. The additional syllable gives it a flowing, melodic quality beyond the standard feminine form. Alexandere might appeal to parents seeking a name with strong historical roots but a distinctive presentation. Despite its rarity, it maintains connection to the well-established Alexander family of names, which have been popular across various cultures for centuries.

Alexandrina is the most elaborate and unusual of the Alex- girls's names.The real first name of Queen Victoria, who was given it in honor of her godfather, Alexander I of Russia (her childhood nickname was Drina), it would make a distinctive pick, even though some might find five syllables a bit much. It was particularly popular in Scotland in the 1930s.

Alexandro is a masculine name of Greek origin, a variant of Alexander, meaning 'defender of the people' or 'protector of mankind.' This form is particularly common in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian-speaking countries, representing a Latin adaptation of the classical Greek name. The name carries historical weight through its association with Alexander the Great, the Macedonian conqueror whose empire stretched across much of the ancient world. Alexandro offers a romantic, international flair compared to the more common Alexander or Alex. The name remains popular throughout Latin America and in Hispanic communities worldwide. Its multicultural appeal, strong meaning, and historical significance make it an enduring choice that combines traditional roots with a distinctive sound.

Aliza might seem like yet another variation of the eternal Alyssa/Alicia/Eliza loop, but it's a distinct name all its own. The z adds zip.

Alize feels like a blend of Alice and Eliza but it's not related to either of those names, rather to the more unusual (in the US, at least) Aleeza, a Hebrew name meaning joy, or Alizee, a French name meaning wind, or the related Alizeh, a Persian name that also means wind. The final e can take an accent, which might elucidate pronunciation, but English speakers are sure to be confused.