Naming a baby may be one of the most important decisions that new parents face. Why? The name that you choose for your child will be with them for the rest of their lives and it can play a significant role in shaping their identity.
Many parents decide on popular names that are easy to pronounce and have a familiar ring to them. However, others choose a rare and unique baby name for their child. Doing so means the name will stand out and they’re less likely to share it with others. Oftentimes, the name carries a special meaning or connection to the family’s heritage or has a special significance in their culture or religion.
If you’re searching for rare baby names and want to get it right, get inspired with 28 of our favorites for both boys and girls.
14 Rare Baby Names for Boys
- Anders – A modern twist on the classic Scandinavian name, Andreas, Anders means ‘Son of Andrew’. It’s popular in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, with Army generals, musicians, and sports pros sharing the name.
- Arlo – An Old English name that means ‘fortified hill’, Arlo has been featured in both film and television. It’s also the name of famous singers, poets, and songwriters.
- Callum – This Scottish name means ‘dove’. It’s a great choice for those looking for a unique and peaceful name, as it’s rooted in Biblical qualities and symbolism.
- Dario – Of Latin origin, Dario is most often found in Spanish-speaking countries. Meaning ‘possessor of good’, it’s considered a royal name that is given to kings.
- Evander – What could be better than a name that means ‘Good Man’? Evander is of Greek origin and is the name of a mythological hero who founded the city that would later become Rome.
- Farley – This is the perfect name for parents who are nature lovers. Meaning ‘fern clearing’, it’s from the Old English and is more often used as a surname.
- Finnegan – Of Irish origin, it means ‘fair-haired warrior’. A name found in literature and television, Finnegan can be shortened to the nickname Finn.
- Kendrick – This British name means ‘champion’ or ‘royal ruler’. It can be spelled with or without a ‘K’ at the end, and is a name shared by musicians and athletes.
- Keoni – The Hawaiian equivalent of John, Keoni is anything but typical. It means ‘God is Gracious’, and has been a popular name in Hawaii for decades.
- Lake – This name quite literally means ‘Lake’ or ‘body of water’. It’s of British origin and has a serene sound that inspires tranquility and a love of the outdoors.
- Orson – Nothing can be sweeter than this name that means ‘bear cub’ or ‘little bear’. Of Latin origin, Orson is most well known as the name of famous actors and TV characters.
- Quinlan – This Irish name means ‘Descendent of the Handsome Man’. Mostly used as a surname, it would make a unique first name, and is found in television and movies.
- Riggs – If you are a lover of the land, this British name is meant for you. Meaning ‘one from the ridge’, Riggs is inspired by the landscape and is a celebration of nature.
- Soren – Of Danish origin, Soren means ‘Thunder’ or ‘Stern’. A strong name, it comes from the Latin ‘Severus’, and can be found as a character in both books and television.
14 Rare Baby Names for Girls
- Avalon – If you or your partner/spouse is a fan of myths and legends, this is the name for you. Meaning ‘Island of Apples’, Avalon is of Celtic origin and is rooted in the tale of King Arthur.
- Aviva – A Hebrew name, Aviva means ‘springtime’, ‘dewy’, and ‘fresh’. It’s the perfect name for a baby girl born in the Springtime and has a zest and energy that will allow her to stand out.
- Calista – A name that means ‘most beautiful’ in Greek, Calista is a name of Greek and Roman origins. It’s a popular name in the Christian community, and evokes a life lived with passion and faith.
- Danica – This ethereal name means ‘morning star’ or ‘Venus’. Of Slavic origin, Danica was part of ancient mythology and was said to be the name of the sun’s younger sister that would allow light to fill the sky at dawn.
- Fay – Fay is an Old English and French name that means ‘fairy’. An enchanting baby name, it comes from the Latin word ‘fata’ which stands for ‘fate’ or ‘destiny’.
- Greta – This elegant name means ‘pearl’ in German and Greek and ‘creature of light’ in Persian and Iranian. The name has positive energy which is perfect for your little pearl.
- Marisol – Of Spanish origin, Marisol means ‘Sea and Sun’. It’s a name that stands for faith and gives you feelings of the sand and hot summer sun.
- Maryse – Of Latin origin, the name Maryse means ‘star of the sea’ or ‘of the sea’. Related to the name Mary, it has a more stylish spin that feels truly magical.
- Odette – Of French and German origin, Odette means ‘wealthy’. Most well known as a character in the ballet Swan Lake, it’s a name that promises sweet fortune for your little one.
- Sarai – Sarai is a Hebrew name that means ‘princess’. Part of the Old Testament, it stands for aspiration, adoration, laughter, and faithfulness.
- Thalia – Meaning ‘to blossom’, this is a name for parents who want their little girl to grow and flourish. Of Greek origin, Thalia embodies both charm and beauty.
- Valencia – This name is of Latin origin, and it means ‘strong’ or ‘healthy’. From the Latin word ‘Valentia’, it stands for valor and beauty and is sure to help your little one stand victorious over any of life’s challenges.
- Wren – This sweet baby girl’s name means ‘small bird’. Your little one will hit all the right notes with a name associated with songwriters, poets, and musicians.
- Zaria – From Slavic origins, Zaria means ‘sunrise’ and ‘light’ and is inspired by the Goddess of the Dawn who would illuminate the world. It’s the perfect name for your little early riser.
Choosing the perfect name doesn’t have to be difficult with our list of rare baby names.
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