100 unique baby names for girls and boys with meaning

Zofishan Umair

Zofishan Umair

Zofishan is a journalist, humour columnist, and a mum who has survived nappy explosions mid-air. She has over a decade of experience writing for print and online publications and is currently working on her first book.
Updated on Mar 20, 2025 · 17 mins read
100 unique baby names for girls and boys with meaning

Nothing stings quite like realising your child’s name is basically the "Pumpkin Spice Latte" of kindergarten - beloved, yes, but also wildly overdone. You never want to hear a teacher ask, “Which one?” when calling on your kid or call them by their last name instead!


Your kid doesn’t want to be just another Ava, Liam, or Olivia in a sea of carbon copies either. (Let’s face it – toddlers aren’t exactly known for their generosity unless they’re sharing germs or oversharing their parent’s secrets with their teacher. )

Plus, having a name as basic as a Monday morning meeting could chip away at their sense of individuality.

When James is just too basic


The last thing the world needs is another James. (It’s the most popular name for men in the last century, so I think we can ease off for a while.)

But hey, if Michael, Robert, and David are off the list for your little boy, how do you find a unique baby boy name that you love?

Well, before you ask Alexa, we’ve come up with this list of super unique names that are not in the top 1000 most popular names right now. Plus, we promise they’re cute unusual names – and won’t get your kid bullied in middle school. But the best part with these unique baby names is that you’ll never have to worry about a hundred other kids with the same name.

And while not all of them are up everyone’s alley, (we get it, you do you!) that’s kind of the point!

We’ve got 40 traditionally feminine names, 40 traditionally masculine names, and 20 gender-neutral options – with something for everyone. Whether you seek an unusual name that has German roots or lean towards a biblical name, we know you’ll be able to find a super special unique baby name that you love.


40 unique names for a baby girl


Tired of hearing the same five baby names at every playground?

If another Sophia, Olivia, or Emma pops up, we might just start numbering them like sports jerseys.

Whether you’re aiming for whimsical, vintage, or “so rare it sounds made up” (but isn’t), here are 40 dazzling, one-of-a-kind names for your little girl 0 because she deserves a name as unforgettable as the chaos she’s about to bring into your life. (The good kind, of course!)

1. Adelia

  • Origin: German
  • Meaning: Noble and kind
  • Why you should use it: Adelia is elegant, easy to say, and perfect for a baby destined for grace and kindness.

2. Amalie

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Industrious
  • Why you should use it: Amalie inspires determination and has a worldly charm for parents who love international names.

3. Ambrosia

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Immortal
  • Why you should use it: Ambrosia is unique and celestial, ideal for a child meant to shine brightly.

4. Andromeda

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Leader of humankind
  • Why you should use it: Andromeda ties your baby’s name to the stars, inspiring strength and resilience.

5. Arizona

  • Origin: Basque
  • Meaning: Good oak
  • Why you should use it: Arizona symbolises endurance, perfect for a grounded and resilient baby. 

6. Asha

  • Origin: Arabic, Swahili, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Life; hope
  • Why you should use it: Asha is culturally rich and radiates positivity, a simple yet profound name.

7. Asia

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: To go out, rise
  • Why you should use it: Asia is adventurous and bold, perfect for a baby destined to rise and shine.

8. Beverley

  • Origin: Old English
  • Meaning: From the beaver stream
  • Why you should use it: Beverley is classic and serene, ideal for a baby with a peaceful soul.

 9. Blossom

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Flower-like
  • Why you should use it: Blossom celebrates growth and renewal, a fresh name for a blooming baby.

10. Blythe

  • Origin: Old English
  • Meaning: Happy, cheerful
  • Why you should use it: Blythe is joyful and light, perfect for a baby who brightens every room.

11. Cecily

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Heaven
  • Why you should use it: Cecily is elegant and vintage, a name for a baby who inspires and uplifts.

12. Cherie

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Dear, darling
  • Why you should use it: Cherie is sweet and sophisticated, perfect for a cherished little one. 

13. Courtney

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Short nose
  • Why you should use it: Courtney is timeless and versatile, fitting for a variety of personalities.

14. Dacia

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: From the south
  • Why you should use it: Dacia is unique and adventurous, easy to pronounce yet distinctive.

15. Deirdre

  • Origin: Irish and Gaelic
  • Meaning: Broken-hearted, sorrowful
  • Why you should use it: Deirdre is poetic and meaningful, perfect for a resilient and inspiring soul.

16. Dominique

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Of the Lord
  • Why you should use it: Dominique is graceful and versatile, ideal for a Sunday-born baby. 

17.  Désirée

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Much desired
  • Why you should use it: Désirée exudes charm, perfect for a cherished and special baby. 

18. Ebony

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Deep black wood
  • Why you should use it: Ebony is bold and beautiful, a timeless name with natural elegance.

19. Heather

  • Origin: British
  • Meaning: Evergreen flowering plant
  • Why you should use it: Heather evokes calm and nature, ideal for a baby with a blossoming spirit.

20. Imani

  • Origin: Arabic and Swahili
  • Meaning: Faith, belief
  • Why you should use it: Imani is simple and meaningful, inspiring trust and strength.

21. Jessa

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: To behold; foresight
  • Why you should use it: Jessa is modern and fresh, perfect for parents who value vision and tradition. 

22. Jiya

  • Origin: Indian and Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Sweetheart; living
  • Why you should use it: Jiya is rare and joyful, perfect for a baby who radiates love and warmth.

23. Jun

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Youthful; queen of the gods
  • Why you should use it: Juno is mythical and strong, with a connection to summer and royalty.

24. Kala

  • Origin: Pacific Islander and Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Princess; art form
  • Why you should use it: Kala is versatile and inspiring, ideal for a creative and ambitious child. 

25. Karissa

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Very dear; grace
  • Why you should use it: Karissa is sweet and loving, perfect for a baby who embodies tenderness. 

26. Lilia

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Lilies
  • Why you should use it: Lilia is delicate and floral, a name full of beauty and purity.

27.  Lois

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Superior; most beautiful
  • Why you should use it: Lois is iconic and simple, a name that shines with timeless charm. 

28. Maribel

  • Origin: Spanish
  • Meaning: Sea of bitterness; beautiful
  • Why you should use it: Maribel blends cultures and beauty, perfect for a baby who embraces resilience.

29.  May

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Month of May; water; little gazelle
  • Why you should use it: May is fresh and versatile, ideal for a baby who embodies vitality and grace.

30.  Mischa

  • Origin: Hebrew and Russian
  • Meaning: Who is like God?
  • Why you should use it: Mischa is soft and modern, a gender-neutral choice for a child who will stand out.

31.  Naoise (Nee-sha)

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Handsome warrior
  • Why you should use it: Naoise is steeped in Irish legend, offering a timeless and heroic name perfect for a baby with a bold and adventurous spirit.  

32.  Odessa

  • Origin: Greek and Ukrainian
  • Meaning: Wrathful; one who receives pain
  • Why you should use it: Odessa carries an air of Greek mythology and mystery, making it a sophisticated and elegant choice for a baby destined for resilience and grace.

33.  Orla

  • Origin: Irish name
  • Meaning: Golden princess
  • Why you should use it: Orla combines simplicity with royal elegance, a name rich in heritage and perfect for a baby who will shine brightly.

34.  Seraphina

  • Origin: Hebrew name
  • Meaning: Burning ones
  • Why you should use it: Seraphina is heavenly and passionate, a perfect choice for a baby who will radiate love and warmth. 

35.  Siobhan

  • Origin: Irish name
  • Meaning: God is gracious
  • Why you should use it: Siobhan is timeless and meaningful, a name with deep roots and a modern appeal for a child filled with grace. 

36.  Tallulah

  • Origin: Native American
  • Meaning: Leaping water
  • Why you should use it: Tallulah is vibrant and full of life, ideal for a baby connected to nature and movement.

37.  Tasia

  • Origin: Greek and American
  • Meaning: Resurrection
  • Why you should use it: Tasia is simple yet profound, a name rooted in faith and hope for a baby destined to inspire renewal.

38.  Tawny

  • Origin: English and French
  • Meaning: Light brown; yellowish-brown
  • Why you should use it: Tawny is earthy and natural, perfect for a baby with a warm and grounded personality.  

39.  Viola

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Violet
  • Why you should use it: Viola is floral and elegant, a name that blossoms with charm and timeless beauty.

40.  Zamira

  • Origin: Arabic and Albanian
  • Meaning: Lean; fit; good voice
  • Why you should use it: Zamira is unique and melodic, a name that reflects strength, beauty, and grace in every sense.


40 unique baby boy names


1. Achilles

  • Origin: Greek Mythology
  • Meaning: Pain or grief of the people
  • Why you should use it: Achilles is heroic and bold, a perfect unique baby boy name for a child ready to make an impact.

2. Amari

  • Origin: Arabic and Swahili
  • Meaning: Strength; courage; moon; gracious
  • Why you should use it: Amari is a powerful, versatile name that carries cultural richness and universal appeal.

3. Ambrose

  • Origin: Greek Mythology
  • Meaning: Immortal
  • Why you should use it: Ambrose is timeless and sophisticated, perfect for a baby who will embody wisdom and grace.

4. Eris

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Goddess of strife and discord
  • Why you should use it: Edgy and mysterious, Eris carries a bold energy. Whether you love mythology or just want a name with a rebellious spirit, Eris is a striking choice for a child who will shake things up.

5. Armin

  • Origin: Persian and Old German
  • Meaning: Whole; universal; warrior
  • Why you should use it: Armin inspires resilience and ambition, ideal for a baby destined to protect and care.

6. Aurelio

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Golden; gilded
  • Why you should use it: Love Italian names? sì? Then Aurelio is a unique choice that is radiant and elegant and brings warmth and positivity.

7. Bastian

  • Origin: Latin and Greek
  • Meaning: Venerable; revered
  • Why you should use it: Bastian is unique and classic, perfect for a baby who will grow up respected and admired.

8. Brennan

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Drop; sorrow
  • Why you should use it: Brennan celebrates life’s highs and lows, symbolizing strength through resilience.

9. Bronson

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Son of the brown-haired one
  • Why you should use it: Bronson is rugged and modern, great for an adventurous and bold-spirited child.

10. Bruin

  • Origin: Old German and Dutch
  • Meaning: Brown; bear
  • Why you should use it: Bruin is playful and nature-inspired, perfect for a baby with a loving and adventurous soul.

11. Cale

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Dog; wholehearted
  • Why you should use it: Cale is simple and meaningful, reflecting loyalty and devotion in life.

12. Caspian

  • Origin: Latin and Greek
  • Meaning: From the Caspian Sea
  • Why you should use it: Caspian is adventurous and mystical, a name for a dreamer and explorer.

13. Darian

  • Origin: Mixed origins
  • Meaning: Oak tree; gift
  • Why you should use it: Darian is worldly and elegant, a name that embodies strength and generosity.

14. Dayton

  • Origin: British
  • Meaning: Ditch town
  • Why you should use it: Dayton is modern and resourceful, perfect for a child with grounded roots.

15. Everest

  • Origin: British
  • Meaning: Dweller on the Eure River
  • Why you should use it: Everest is inspiring and strong, perfect for a baby destined for greatness.

16. Finnean

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Little fair one; little blessed one
  • Why you should use it: Finnean is lyrical and charming, a name that celebrates purity and joy.

17. Garnett

  • Origin: French and Middle-English
  • Meaning: Red like a pomegranate
  • Why you should use it: Garnett is vibrant and unique, ideal for a child who will shine brightly.

18. Hartley

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Deerfield
  • Why you should use it: Hartley is calming and nature-inspired, perfect for a gentle and peaceful spirit.

19. Idris

  • Origin: Arabic and Welsh
  • Meaning: Studious; fiery leader
  • Why you should use it: Idris is intelligent and strong, a name for a natural leader and thinker.

20. Imran

  • Origin: Arabic
  • Meaning: Prosperous; happiness
  • Why you should use it: Imran is uplifting and dignified, a name filled with hope and success.

21. Jacques

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: Form of Jacob; supplanter
  • Why you should use it: Jacques is timeless and sophisticated, perfect for a baby with a strong sense of tradition and elegance.

22. Kellen

  • Origin: Irish and German
  • Meaning: Little slender one; swampy area
  • Why you should use it: Kellen is modern and versatile, great for parents looking for a unique yet approachable name.

23. Kenan

  • Origin: Hebrew, Albanian, and Turkish
  • Meaning: Possession; humble; composer
  • Why you should use it: Kenan is rich in cultural roots and ideal for a baby destined to connect and create.

24. Lamar

  • Origin: French
  • Meaning: The pool
  • Why you should use it: Lamar is lyrical and refreshing, a name that feels elegant and grounded.

25. Leander

  • Origin: Greek
    Meaning: Lion man
    Why you should use it: Leander is strong and heroic, perfect for a baby with a bold and courageous spirit.

26. Leone

  • Origin: Italian
  • Meaning: Lion
  • Why you should use it: Leone is fierce and empowering, a name that inspires strength and resilience.

27. Lucius

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Light
  • Why you should use it: Lucius is classic and radiant, a name that symbolises hope and guidance.

28. Maxton

  • Origin: Scottish
  • Meaning: Settlement of Maccus
  • Why you should use it: Maxton is bold and modern, perfect for a child with strong roots and a sense of adventure.

29. Ochre

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Pale yellow
  • Why you should use it: Ochre is artistic and earthy, ideal for a creative and nature-loving baby.

30. Orson

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Bear cub
  • Why you should use it: Orson is endearing and strong, perfect for a baby with a playful yet powerful personality.

31. Osiris

  • Origin: Egyptian and Greek
  • Meaning: Mighty; powerful
  • Why you should use it: Osiris is regal and mythological, ideal for a baby destined to stand out with grace.

32. Remi

  • Origin: French, Latin, and Yoruba
  • Meaning: Oarsman; God comforts me
  • Why you should use it: Remi is versatile and meaningful, a name that inspires strength and faith.

33. Rian

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: King
  • Why you should use it: Rian is noble and classic, a name that exudes leadership and charm.

34. Roscoe

  • Origin: Norse
  • Meaning: Deer wood
  • Why you should use it: Roscoe is rustic and timeless, perfect for a baby connected to nature.

35. Storm

  • Origin: English and Norse
  • Meaning: Tempest
  • Why you should use it: Storm is bold and dynamic, a name that embodies strength and resilience.

36. Sylvan

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Of the forest
  • Why you should use it: Sylvan is earthy and serene, a name that connects to the beauty of nature.

37. Teo

  • Origin: Spanish and Greek
  • Meaning: Gift of God
  • Why you should use it: Teo is short and sweet, a meaningful choice for a baby cherished as a divine gift.

38. Tobin

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: God is good
  • Why you should use it: Tobin is warm and classic, perfect for a baby who will bring goodness to the world.

39. Vaughn

  • Origin: Welsh
  • Meaning: Little
  • Why you should use it: Vaughn is charming and affectionate, a name that reflects love and endearment.

40. West

  • Origin: Old English
  • Meaning: From the west; evening
  • Why you should use it: West is modern and directional, perfect for a baby destined to lead with style.

20 rare baby names that are gender neutral


1. Arden

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Valley of the eagle
  • Why you should use it: Arden’s natural, strong vibe makes it perfect for a baby who will soar to great heights – like the eagle it’s named after. It’s one of our top choices for unique baby names that are also gender-neutral.

2. Campbell

  • Origin: Scottish
  • Meaning: Crooked mouth
  • Why you should use it: For a name that’s as quirky as it is cool, Campbell’s unexpected meaning, “crooked mouth,” adds a fun twist to your baby’s personality.

3. Dion

  • Origin: Greek
  • Meaning: Child of heaven and earth
  • Why you should use it: Dion is a short and sweet name, fit for a child with heavenly charm and earthly groundedness.

4. Ellery

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Island with elder trees
  • Why you should use it: With a picturesque meaning tied to elder trees and islands, Ellery feels like a peaceful escape – a perfect name for a nature-loving little one.

5. Elwyn

  • Origin: Welsh
  • Meaning: Elf friend
  • Why you should use it: If you want to name your little one after an elf friend, Elwyn is the magical, whimsical choice that brings a touch of fantasy and friendship.

6. Gail

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: Father’s joy
  • Why you should use it: A classic name that means “Father’s joy,” Gail is simple yet filled with warmth and meaning.

7. Hollis

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Near the holly trees
  • Why you should use it: With a connection to holly trees, Hollis brings the feel of cozy winters and nature’s beauty—a perfect blend of charm and strength.

8. Jules

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Youthful; downy
  • Why you should use it: If you’re looking for something youthful and timeless, Jules is a baby name that’s both lively and sophisticated at once.

9. Linden

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: From the linden tree hill
  • Why you should use it: For nature lovers, Linden connects to the peaceful linden tree hill, offering a grounded and serene name with a beautiful, natural touch.

10. Marin

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Of the sea
  • Why you should use it: With its connection to the sea, Marin brings a sense of adventure, freedom, and the endless possibilities of the ocean.

11. Maven

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Meaning: One who understands
  • Why you should use it: Meaning “one who understands,” Maven is perfect for a little one who will grow up wise beyond their years—always knowing just what to say.

12. Regan

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Little king
  • Why you should use it: With the meaning “little king,” Regan gives your baby a crown of leadership while still feeling fresh and unique.

13. Sailor

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Boatman; traveller on water
  • Why you should use it: If your baby’s destined for adventure, Sailor is the name for a child who will travel the world and explore all the wonders the sea has to offer.

14. Shea

  • Origin: Irish
  • Meaning: Hawk; admirable
  • Why you should use it: Meaning “hawk” and “admirable,” Shea is a strong, sleek name for a little one who’s poised to soar with grace and confidence.

15. Silver

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Precious metal; shimmering
  • Why you should use it: Precious, shimmering, and rare, Silver is a unique name that sparkles with beauty, rarity, and strength.

16. Solaris

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Of the sun 
  • Why you should use it: With its connection to the sun, Solaris is one of the most illuminating but unique baby names that simply radiates warmth.

17. Tai

  • Origin: Chinese
  • Meaning: Great; extreme
  • Why you should use it: Simple yet powerful, Tai means “great” and “extreme” – perfect for a baby destined to achieve greatness and go above and beyond.

18. Valentine

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Strong; healthy
  • Why you should use it: Strong, healthy, and full of love, Valentine is a timeless name that conveys affection and strength in equal measure.

19. Wiley

  • Origin: English
  • Meaning: Resolute protector
  • Why you should use it: With its meaning of “resolute protector” and “crafty,” Wiley is perfect for a little one who will grow up smart, quick-witted, and always ready to protect their own.

20. Sage

  • Origin: Latin
  • Meaning: Wise, knowing
  • Why you should use it: Sage is a beautiful, succinct name that denotes wisdom and clarity. It’s perfect for a child who you envision will embody a deep understanding and a thoughtful perspective on the world around them.

Be creative - just not elon-musk creative


A little originality never hurts, so go ahead and take a creative leap – but do your kid a favour and don’t overdo it. Your kiddo’s name shouldn’t read like a CAPTCHA Code and word of advice, ‘X Æ A-12’ only works if daddy’s a tech billionaire. 

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