101 Unique Baby Names You’ve Never Heard Before

The moment you find out you’re expecting, the search for the perfect name begins. It’s one of the first and most significant gifts you will give your child—a word that will shape their identity and be carried with them for a lifetime. If you’re tired of scrolling through the same popular baby names lists and are yearning for something truly distinctive, you’ve come to the right place.

This isn’t just another list of baby names. This is a curated journey through history, mythology, and global cultures to find hidden gems. These are names with beautiful meanings, fascinating stories, and a rare quality that will set your little one apart. Forget the top 10 lists; let’s explore a world of unique baby names that are as special as your child will be.

A Guide to This Treasury of Baby Names

Before we dive in, let’s set the stage. This baby names list is organized to help you explore. We’ll start with timeless gender-neutral options, then venture into enchanting names for girls, and finally, strong and rare names for boys. Each entry includes its meaning and a “curiosity” to give you a deeper connection to its origin and history. Let this be your ultimate source for baby names ideas that are anything but ordinary.

Part 1: Enchanting Gender-Neutral Baby Names

1. Adair

• Meaning: “A ford by the oak tree” (Gaelic)
• Curiosity: A sophisticated and surname-style name that feels both strong and graceful. It’s common as a last name but rare and charming as a first name, offering a perfect balance of familiarity and uniqueness.

2. Bellamy

• Meaning: “Good friend” or “fine friend” (French)
• Curiosity: With its lovely meaning and melodic sound, Bellamy is rising in popularity but remains well outside the mainstream. It evokes a sense of warmth and camaraderie.

3. Cove

• Meaning: A small, sheltered bay.
• Curiosity: A nature-inspired name that conjures images of peace, safety, and serene beauty. It’s a modern, tranquil choice that is simple yet powerful.

4. Dacre

• Meaning: “Trickling stream” (British)
• Curiosity: This name has a literary feel, borne by the actor Dacre Montgomery. It’s sharp, uncommon, and has a cool, flowing water vibe.

5. Eiren

• Meaning: “Peace” (Greek variation of Irene)
• Curiosity: A fresh and modern spelling of a classic concept. Eiren feels both ancient and new, carrying a beautiful, hopeful wish for your child’s life.

6. Finch

• Meaning: A small, songbird.
• Curiosity: Literary fans will associate this with Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird, giving it a noble and intelligent air. It’s a sweet yet grounded nature name.

7. Hollis

• Meaning: “Near the holly bushes” (English)
• Curiosity: A botanical name that is softer than Holly but just as evocative. It has a gentle, old-fashioned charm that is making a quiet comeback.

8. Jorah

• Meaning: “Autumn rain” or “to flow” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: Popularized by the loyal knight Ser Jorah Mormont in Game of Thrones, this name has a gentle, lyrical quality and a beautiful, natural meaning.

9. Kael

• Meaning: “Slender” or “mighty warrior” (Gaelic)
• Curiosity: A simple, strong name that sounds modern but has deep roots. It’s a great alternative to more common names like Kyle or Caleb.

10. Lior

• Meaning: “I have a light” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A truly beautiful name that implies the child is themselves a source of light and joy. It’s short, easy to pronounce, and carries a powerful, positive meaning.

11. Nuri

• Meaning: “My fire” (Hebrew, Arabic)
• Curiosity: A name full of passion and spirit. In Arabic, it can also mean “my light,” making it a vibrant and warm choice for any child.

12. Onyx

• Meaning: A black gemstone.
• Curiosity: A bold and striking name, Onyx is associated with strength and protection in crystal lore. It’s a powerful, modern choice that stands out.

13. Peregrine

• Meaning: “Traveler” or “pilgrim” (Latin)
• Curiosity: For literary and history buffs, this name is a grand slam. It was the name of a hobbit in The Lord of the Rings and also refers to the majestic peregrine falcon.

14. Rumi

• Meaning: “Beauty” and “lapis lazuli” (Persian, Japanese)
• Curiosity: While known as the name of the 13th-century Persian poet, Rumi is also a common Japanese girl’s name meaning “lapis lazuli,” a deep blue stone. Its cross-cultural appeal is stunning.

15. Sasha

• Meaning: “Defender of mankind” (Russian diminutive of Alexander/Alexandra)
• Curiosity: While familiar in many countries, it remains unique in English-speaking ones as a formal first name. It’s friendly, international, and strong.

16. Tarian

• Meaning: “Shield” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A wonderfully strong and rare Welsh name, suggesting protection and resilience. It’s a name with a powerful, yet uncommon, presence.

17. Wren

• Meaning: A small, songbird.
• Curiosity: Simple, elegant, and connected to nature, Wren is a quiet storm in the world of baby names. It’s delicate yet has a strong, clear sound.

18. Zephyr

• Meaning: “West wind” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek mythology, Zephyrus was the god of the gentle west wind, bringing spring. The name is poetic, airy, and free-spirited.

Part 2: Rare and Beautiful Female Baby Names

19. Aeliana

• Meaning: “Sun” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A radiant and elegant variation of Eliana, this name feels both ancient and brand new. It’s a beautiful way to give your daughter a sunny disposition from the start.

20. Alba

• Meaning: “Dawn” or “sunrise” (Latin), “white” (Gaelic), “Scotland” (poetic)
• Curiosity: Simple, luminous, and full of hope, Alba is a popular name in Spain but rare elsewhere. It’s also the scientific name for Scotland, adding a layer of poetic strength.

21. Bexley

• Meaning: “Clearing of the box trees” (English)
• Curiosity: A modern place-name that sounds fresh and stylish. It’s a great alternative to more common “-ley” ending names like Paisley or Presley.

22. Calliope

• Meaning: “Beautiful voice” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek mythology, Calliope was the muse of epic poetry and eloquence. It’s a grand, melodic name with a great meaning for a future storyteller.

23. Damaris

• Meaning: “Calf” or “gentle girl” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A biblical name that is soft, ancient, and incredibly rare today. It has a delicate, literary quality that feels both wise and sweet.

24. Elowen

• Meaning: “Elm tree” (Cornish)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, nature-inspired name from Cornwall, England. It’s melodic and has a magical, almost fairy-tale-like quality.

25. Ffion

• Meaning: “Foxglove” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A gorgeous Welsh name that is simple to pronounce (it sounds like “Fee-on”) but looks beautifully distinctive. The connection to the elegant foxglove flower is a bonus.

26. Halcyon

• Meaning: “Kingfisher bird”; also denotes a period of idyllic peace and tranquility.
• Curiosity: From the Greek myth of Alcyone, who was turned into a kingfisher. The “halcyon days” are a calm period in winter. A truly poetic and peaceful name.

27. Imara

• Meaning: “Strong, firm, resolute” (Swahili)
• Curiosity: A powerful and beautiful name with African roots. It’s a strong, positive affirmation and a beautiful alternative to Tamara.

28. Jessamine

• Meaning: “Jasmine flower” (Persian, via English)
• Curiosity: A more elaborate and vintage-sounding version of Jasmine. It feels botanical, elegant, and straight out of a classic novel.

29. Keilani

• Meaning: “Glorious chief” or “sky heaven” (Hawaiian)
• Curiosity: A heavenly and powerful Hawaiian name that is as beautiful as its meaning. It’s lyrical and evokes images of tropical beauty and strength.

30. Lilibet

• Meaning: A diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning “God is my oath.”
• Curiosity: This was the childhood nickname of the late Queen Elizabeth II, a sweet and familial name that has recently gained fresh attention.

31. Mireille

• Meaning: “To admire” or “miracle” (Provençal French)
• Curiosity: Pronounced “mee-RAY,” this name is common in France but a rare gem in English-speaking countries. It’s effortlessly chic and beautiful.

32. Niamh

• Meaning: “Bright” or “radiant” (Irish)
• Curiosity: In Irish mythology, Niamh was a goddess who carried lovers away to the land of eternal youth. Pronounced “Neev,” it’s a magical and classic Irish choice.

33. Ophira

• Meaning: “Gold” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A feminine form of Ophir, a port known for its fine gold in the Bible. It’s a luxurious and beautiful name with a golden glow.

34. Persephone

• Meaning: Uncertain, possibly “to bring death” (Greek)
• Curiosity: The Greek goddess of spring and queen of the underworld. This name is both dark and luminous, representing cycles of life, death, and rebirth. It’s majestic and unforgettable.

35. Quintana

• Meaning: “Fifth” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A unique and rhythmic name that could be perfect for a fifth-born child, or a child born in May (the fifth month). It has a stylish, geographical feel.

36. Romilly

• Meaning: From a French place name, possibly meaning “land of Romilius.”
• Curiosity: A unisex-leaning name that is exceptionally chic and rare. It has an old-money, European elegance that is hard to match.

37. Sable

• Meaning: A black-furred animal; also the color black.
• Curiosity: A sleek, sophisticated, and luxurious name. It’s short, strong, and evocative of both the natural world and high fashion.

38. Thalia

• Meaning: “To blossom” or “flourish” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek myth, Thalia was the muse of comedy and idyllic poetry. A name that is both joyful and beautiful, promising a life of growth and happiness.

39. Ursula

• Meaning: “Little bear” (Latin)
• Curiosity: While associated with the Disney villain, Saint Ursula is a powerful figure, and the name itself is strong, vintage, and ripe for a comeback. It’s fierce and lovely.

40. Vespera

• Meaning: “Evening star” (Latin)
• Curiosity: An ethereal and poetic name for a girl born in the evening. It’s romantic, rare, and has a mysterious, beautiful sound.

41. Wynn

• Meaning: “Fair, blessed, white” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A short, sweet, and positive name that feels both modern and ancient. It’s a wonderful, simple choice with a lovely meaning.

42. Xanthe

• Meaning: “Golden” or “yellow” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A vibrant and zesty name from the ancient world. It’s bold, bright, and a fantastic, unusual alternative to more common names like Zoe.

43. Yara

• Meaning: “Small butterfly” (Indigenous Australian), “Water lady” (Brazilian Tupi mythology)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, cross-cultural name that is simple and melodic. In Brazilian folklore, Iara (Yara) is a beautiful water spirit.

44. Zipporah

• Meaning: “Bird” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: The name of the wife of Moses in the Old Testament. It’s a biblical name that is both strong and unusual, with a lovely, natural meaning.

45. Anouk

• Meaning: A Dutch and French diminutive of Anna, meaning “grace.”
• Curiosity: Popular in Europe, this name has a cool, chic, and slightly edgy feel in English-speaking countries. It’s short, punchy, and memorable.

46. Cerys

• Meaning: “Love” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: Pronounced “KEH-riss,” this Welsh name is soft, sweet, and carries the most beautiful meaning imaginable. It’s a well-known name in Wales but a hidden treasure elsewhere.

47. Eira

• Meaning: “Snow” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: Pronounced “AY-ra,” this is a beautiful, pure, and wintery name. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for a winter baby.

48. Inara

• Meaning: “Ray of light” or “heaven-sent” (Arabic)
• Curiosity: A luminous and lyrical name with a gorgeous meaning. It also has a sci-fi connection as a companion in the series Firefly.

49. Juno

• Meaning: Queen of the gods in Roman mythology.
• Curiosity: A name brimming with strength, power, and protection. The Roman goddess Juno was a formidable matron figure, making this a fierce and beautiful choice.

50. Katriel

• Meaning: “God is my crown” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A heavenly and elegant name that is uncommon and beautiful. It has a melodic sound and a powerful, spiritual meaning.

51. Lucinda

• Meaning: “Light” (Latin)
• Curiosity: An elaborated, more poetic form of Lucia. It has a lovely, literary cadence, feeling both classic and whimsical.

52. Maëlys

• Meaning: A combination of Marie and Aalis (a form of Alice), meaning “bitter” and “noble.”
• Curiosity: A popular and beautiful name in France, with a lovely dieresis (the two dots) that gives it a unique look. Pronounced “mah-eh-LEES.”

53. Nuala

• Meaning: “White shoulder” (Irish, a diminutive of Fionnuala)
• Curiosity: A charming and gentle Irish name, pronounced “NOO-la.” It’s part of ancient Irish mythology and feels both friendly and elegant.

54. Olette

• Meaning: A diminutive of Olea, possibly related to Olivia or the olive tree.
• Curiosity: A delicate, vintage name that feels both sweet and sophisticated. It’s a fresh alternative to Juliette or Colette.

55. Priya

• Meaning: “Beloved” (Sanskrit)
• Curiosity: A widely used and beautiful name in India that is simple and carries a universally beautiful meaning. It’s a wonderful choice that honors Sanskrit heritage.

56. Seren

• Meaning: “Star” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A simple, modern, and absolutely stunning Welsh name. It’s easy to spell and pronounce, yet it remains unique and carries a celestial meaning.

57. Téa

• Meaning: A short form of Dorotea, meaning “gift of God.”
• Curiosity: Pronounced “TAY-ah,” this name is chic, international, and incredibly simple. It’s a sophisticated and breezy choice.

58. Vega

• Meaning: “Falling star” or “swooping eagle” (Arabic)
• Curiosity: The name of the brightest star in the Lyra constellation. It’s a sleek, modern, and astronomical name with a cool, strong sound.

59. Yvaine

• Meaning: “Evening star” (French)
• Curiosity: From the novel and film Stardust, this name is the epitome of starry-eyed romance. It’s lyrical, rare, and dreamily beautiful.

Part 3: Strong and Distinctive Male Baby Names

60. Alistair

• Meaning: “Defender of mankind” (Scottish form of Alexander)
• Curiosity: A sophisticated and strong Scottish name that is much more distinctive than Alexander. It has a noble, intelligent air.

61. Balthazar

• Meaning: “Baal protects the king” (Assyrian)
• Curiosity: Traditionally the name of one of the three Magi who visited the infant Jesus. It’s a grand, dramatic, and ancient name with a great nickname: Baz or Bal.

62. Cassian

• Meaning: “Hollow” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A handsome ancient name that sounds both classic and modern. Saint Cassian was a 4th-century martyr, and it has a cool, slightly sci-fi feel today.

63. Dax

• Meaning: From a French town name; also means “badger” in French.
• Curiosity: A short, sharp, and cool name that feels modern and strong. It’s a great single-syllable option that is memorable and easy to wear.

64. Emeric

• Meaning: “Work power” or “home power” (Germanic)
• Curiosity: A royal name in Hungarian history (St. Emeric) that is virtually unknown in the English-speaking world. It’s a sophisticated and powerful alternative to Eric.

65. Florian

• Meaning: “Flowering” or “flourishing” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A romantic, botanical name for a boy that is common in Europe but rare elsewhere. It’s gentle yet strong, and has a lovely, positive meaning.

66. Gideon

• Meaning: “Feller” or “hewer” (i.e., a great warrior) (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical judge known for his strength and faith, Gideon is a name that is both gentle and powerfully resilient. It’s classic but not overused.

67. Hawthorne

• Meaning: “Where hawthorn hedges grow” (English)
• Curiosity: A distinguished surname and nature name, evoking the author Nathaniel Hawthorne. It’s intellectual, natural, and has a strong, grounded feel.

68. Ivo

• Meaning: “Yew” (Germanic)
• Curiosity: A sleek, sophisticated name that is popular across Europe. The yew tree is a symbol of strength and longevity, making this a name with a powerful, natural backbone.

69. Jago

• Meaning: “Supplanter” (Cornish form of James)
• Curiosity: A cool, Celtic twist on James that is full of energy and charm. It’s well-used in Cornwall but a fantastic discovery for anyone else.

70. Kaelen

• Meaning: “Slender” or “fair” (Gaelic)
• Curiosity: A modern, melodic name that feels fresh and friendly. It’s a great blend of a strong sound with a gentle meaning.

71. Leif

• Meaning: “Heir” or “descendant” (Scandinavian)
• Curiosity: The name of the famous Viking explorer Leif Erikson, who is credited with reaching North America before Columbus. It’s a simple, strong, and adventurous name.

72. Magnus

• Meaning: “Greatest” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A powerfully royal name throughout Scandinavian history. It’s a strong, classic name that is both intellectual and mighty.

73. Nero

• Meaning: “Strong” or “stern” (Latin)
• Curiosity: While the Roman emperor Nero gives this name a dark history, the name itself is sharp, strong, and undeniably cool. It’s a bold choice for the brave.

74. Orson

• Meaning: “Bear cub” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A name with a lovely, gentle-animal meaning and a Hollywood pedigree via director Orson Welles. It’s warm, friendly, and sturdy.

75. Peregrine

• Meaning: “Traveler” or “pilgrim” (Latin)
• Curiosity: Appearing twice on this list for good reason! For a boy, it carries a particularly noble and adventurous spirit, perfect for a little explorer.

76. Quentin

• Meaning: “Fifth” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A classic name that has never been overly common. It feels intelligent and artistic, and the nickname “Quentin” is both friendly and strong.

77. Rafferty

• Meaning: “Prosperity” and “flood tide” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A rollicking, cheerful Irish surname that is full of lively energy. It has great nickname potential (Rafe) and a wonderfully positive meaning.

78. Soren

• Meaning: “Stern” (Danish)
• Curiosity: A sleek and philosophical Scandinavian name, borne by the existentialist philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. It’s intelligent, cool, and effortlessly stylish.

79. Thaddeus

• Meaning: “Heart” or “courageous” (Aramaic)
• Curiosity: A biblical name that is clunky-cool and distinctive. With the great nickname “Thad,” it’s a name that is both vintage and full of character.

80. Ulysses

• Meaning: “Wounded in the thigh” (Latin form of Odysseus)
• Curiosity: The legendary hero of Homer’s Odyssey. This name is the epitome of adventure, endurance, and intelligence. A grand, literary choice.

81. Valerian

• Meaning: “To be strong, healthy” (Latin)
• Curiosity: The name of a Roman emperor and a healing herb. It’s an ancient name that sounds futuristic, full of strength and botanical charm.

82. Wolf

• Meaning: The animal.
• Curiosity: A simple, primal, and powerful name. It’s bold, cool, and evocative of loyalty, intelligence, and wild spirit.

83. Xander

• Meaning: “Defender of mankind” (Short form of Alexander)
• Curiosity: While Alexander is common, Xander stands on its own as a modern, cool, and friendly name. It’s strong but approachable.

84. Yael

• Meaning: “Mountain goat” or “to ascend” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical name (a female heroine, but used for boys in modern Israel) that is sharp, strong, and unique. Pronounced “Yah-EL.”

85. Zev

• Meaning: “Wolf” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A short, fierce, and cool name that is easy to say and spell. It’s a strong, simple choice with a powerful animal meaning.

86. Ansel

• Meaning: “With divine protection” or “follower of a nobleman” (Germanic)
• Curiosity: Evokes the famous American photographer Ansel Adams, connecting the name to nature and art. It’s a soft yet strong name with a great vibe.

87. Bram

• Meaning: “Father of multitudes” or “raven” (Dutch/Irish short form of Abraham)
• Curiosity: A cool, literary name thanks to Bram Stoker, author of Dracula. It’s short, strong, and has a lovely, gentle sound despite its dark connection.

88. Casper

• Meaning: “Treasurer” (Persian)
• Curiosity: The friendly ghost association is fading, making way for this charming, vintage name that is hugely popular in Europe. It’s friendly, warm, and stylish.

89. Evander

• Meaning: “Good man” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek mythology, Evander was a cultural hero who founded a city in Italy. It’s a noble and handsome name that sounds both classic and modern.

90. Finnian

• Meaning: “Fair” or “white” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A more formal and elaborate version of the popular Finn. It has a lyrical, ancient Irish feel and the wonderful nickname Finn.

91. Idris

• Meaning: “Ardent lord” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A powerful Welsh name borne by the actor Idris Elba, giving it a cool, strong, and sophisticated edge. In Arabic, it’s the name of a prophet, meaning “interpreter.”

92. Jarvis

• Meaning: “Spear servant” (Germanic)
• Curiosity: A cool, edgy surname that feels both modern and retro. It’s strong, distinctive, and has a great, slightly rock-and-roll vibe.

93. Koa

• Meaning: “Warrior” (Hawaiian)
• Curiosity: A short, powerful, and beautiful Hawaiian name. It’s simple, strong, and evokes images of strength, bravery, and natural beauty.

94. Lysander

• Meaning: “Liberator of a man” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A handsome and romantic Shakespearean name from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It’s lyrical, ancient, and full of character.

95. Oberon

• Meaning: “Noble bear” or “bear-like” (Germanic)
• Curiosity: The name of the king of the fairies in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It’s a majestic, magical, and powerful literary choice.

96. Phineas

• Meaning: “Nubian” or “oracle” (Egyptian)
• Curiosity: A quirky, intelligent, and charming name with great nickname potential (Finn, Phin). It feels both vintage and whimsically modern.

97. Rafferty

• Meaning: “Prosperity” and “flood tide” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A rollicking, cheerful Irish surname that is full of lively energy. It has great nickname potential (Rafe) and a wonderfully positive meaning.

98. Stellan

• Meaning: “Calm” or “peaceful” (Swedish)
• Curiosity: A cool, modern Scandinavian name popularized by actor Stellan Skarsgård. It’s strong, smooth, and has a great, peaceful meaning.

99. Torin

• Meaning: “Chief” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A strong, compact Irish name that is easy to pronounce and carries a leadership quality. It’s a great, accessible choice with Celtic roots.

100. Zane

• Meaning: “God is gracious” (Hebrew, a variant of John)
• Curiosity: A sleek, cool, and modern feeling name that has been around for longer than you think. It’s a fantastic, zippy alternative to more common names.

101. Apollo

• Meaning: Destroyer; the Greek god of the sun, light, music, and prophecy.
• Curiosity: A name of epic proportions, belonging to one of the most important and complex gods in Greek mythology. It’s artistic, powerful, and radiant.

Your Journey to the Perfect Name

Exploring this baby names world is the first step in a wonderful journey. The perfect name is out there, waiting to be discovered. Say them out loud, test them with your last name, and see which ones feel like they could belong to your child. This baby names unique list is just the beginning. Let it inspire you to find a name that is not just a label, but a story, a wish, and a beautiful beginning for your new baby.