Multi-Culti Monikers - Names that translate well

Hello, readers!

As my boyfriend and I begin to plan our upcoming travels, I've been looking into names popular in our destination countries. In Japan, Tatsuki, Aoi, and Hinata are among the best-loved, but they could have a hard time translating elsewhere. The same could be said, of course, for Elizabeth, Alexander, and Genesis, if they arrived in Japan!

While it would be impossible to compile a complete list of names that work well across various languages and cultures, here's a list of some ideas. Notice that most names are vowel-heavy, with the consonants S, R, M, and N showing up regularly. Also, the most popular gender for each name will depend on the culture/country!

Ava, Eva - Persian, Hebrew, German
These pretty, classic choices already rank at #4 and #75 in the US; there's no need for me to sell their simplicity and femininity! Still, they're popular for a reason, and would make lovely choices that will stand the test of time (and passport pronunciation).

Mia - Spanish, Scandinavian, Japanese, etc
Ranking on popularity charts in over 25 countries, Mia is fabulous as either a nickname for something longer or all on its own. It's uncomplicated and chic, the type of name with a friendly sound and a beautiful form.

Rui - Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese
A variant of Rodrigo and a popular Chinese surname? Rui has got you covered. Pronounced "ROO-ee," it's a pleasant, lively name that will fit in among the Ray's and Leo's on the playground.

Sara - Hebrew, Japanese
It means "princess" in Hebrew, and has multiple meanings in Japan (depending on the kanji used to spell it). In either case, Sara is a traditionally feminine choice with a long history and dozens of unique namesakes.

Ari - Hebrew, Scandinavian, Armenian
Historically Ari has been a name for boys, with illustrious meanings like "eagle," "lion," or "brave." These days, you're just as likely to hear it for a little girl, often as a nickname for Arielle, Arianna, or Aria. No matter the gender, this name is bright and warm.

Rio, Ryo, Reo - Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese
While Ryo is an immensely popular name in Japan, Rio has only just begun to rise for boys and girls in the US. The recent animated film, as well as the 2016 Summer Olympics, have reminded us of the energetic appeal of "Rio by the sea-oh."

Mei, May, Mai, Mae - Chinese, Japanese, English, Latin
Darling and delicate, this single-syllable pick is bound to work with just about every last name. Whether you're intrigued by the various meanings or honoring a namesake, Mei is a terrific and timeless choice.

Aya - Japanese, Hebrew, Arabic, Yoruba, etc.
This gorgeous name has roots in dozens of languages and cultures, making it a multiculti favorite! However, Aya has only recently started to gain notice in the US, with more fans in Europe and Asia.

Noa - Hebrew, Japanese
Though it's bound to be mistaken for mega-popular Noah in the US, Noa actually comes from a different Hebrew root, meaning "motion." In Japanese, it means "love" or "affection." Perhaps once Noah begins to decline, Noa will rise for girls all over the world.

Hana - Hebrew, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, Persian, etc.
While most variations of Hannah peaked in the late 1990's/early 2000's, this pretty short form could take off on its own. It fits in with trendy four-letter names like Emma, Nora, and Anna, but stands out as a less-common choice.

Sia - Scandinavian, Coptic, Hindi
Most Americans will link this name with contemporary musician Sia, but the name was used even by ancient Egyptians. It's an alluring choice that's sophisticated and unique, yet accessible.

Any great options I missed? Tell me in the comments!

Top Baby Names in Belgium

Hallo, lezers!

After a rather long and unintended hiatus, I'm back to posting articles on global names. Today, we'll be looking at the top baby names in Belgium (specifically Flanders). This is the Dutch region of the country, home to Brussels and Antwerp. They're also known for their chocolate!

I'll be looking at seven names from each gender that are popular in Belgium (in the top 50) but uncommon in the United States. I'm taking my data from Baby Name Wizard's lists - for Belgian boys and Belgian girls. This data is from 2014. 

Laten we gaan!

Female Names

Noor 

Meaning "light" in Arabic, Noor has begun to find favor among American parents - it reached the top 1000 for the first time last year. It's been most common in Muslim families, but its similarity to Nora and Eleanor make it even more desirable for all types. 

Manon 

While it's long been a popular choice among French speakers, Americans haven't followed suit - the most Manon's born in the US at one time were twenty-six girls each year during 1999 and 2000. Still, this diminutive of Marie is soft and friendly, a pretty alternative to Madison or Madeline. 

Lotte 

Though Charlie has taken off for girls in the states, Lotte hasn't - the foreign pronunciations of LAH-tah, LAH-teh, or LAH-tee can be difficult for native English speakers. Parents worried about Charlotte's popularity may take the plunge, while Lottie is another adorable option. 

Aya 

This name can be found in languages all over the globe, from Japanese to Arabic to Hebrew to Dutch. It takes the current vowel trend to a new level, but its subdued sound makes it more sophisticated than faddish. Aya currently ranks at #36 in Belgium and #886 in the US. 

Fien

Originally a nickname for Jozefien, this short form has now surpassed the longer classic. Though it may raise some eyebrows, it could work well as a feminine alternative to Finn. In the US, Josephine and Josie are the more common variations. 

Anaïs 

Another French choice, Anaïs has ranked on the top 1000 a few times over the past few decades. It comes from the name Anne, meaning "grace," and there are a few notable namesakes with the moniker - author Anaïs Nin and musician Anaïs Mitchell among them. 

Ines 

Ranking in eight different European countries, this variation of Agnes is especially popular due to its association with a Spanish love story. Pronounced "AYE-ness" or "EE-ness," it's short, elegant, and traditional without being overused. 

Male Names

Mathis 
Alternatives to Biblical favorite Matthew are on the rise everywhere - from Mateo to Mathias to Matt. This French version is pronounced like the artist Matisse, though many Americans may sooner connect the name to mid-century singer Johnny Mathis.

Maxime 
Looking for an unusual longer name with the nickname Max? Maxime is one uncommon choice, though it may be confused with the feminine Maxine. Still, it's been slowly increasing in popularity: thirty-eight baby Maxime's were born last year.

Seppe
Though it's never been recorded in the United States, it's already at #25 in Belgium. Seppe is originally a short form of Giuseppe or Joseph, and is pronounced "SEP-pah." I'm interested to see how it will take off in the US - there's a great discussion about it on this Nameberry forum!

Stan 
While Stanley has been on the decline for a few decades, bright and friendly Stan may still find an audience. With short boys' names like Sam and Jack on trend, Stan could definitely fit in on the playground while maintaining its retro air.

Wout
Pronounced "Vowt" or "Wowt," this Dutch nicknamed for Wouter (Walter) may have a hard time in the United States. On the other hand, it's close enough to Wyatt to merit a mention! Walter itself has been on the rise in the US as well - thanks, Breaking Bad?

Timeo
Are you a fan of Mateo, but looking for something less common? Timeo may be right up your alley! It comes from a Greek name meaning "honor," and could honor a familial Timothy. It's also related to the Disney favorite Timon and can be found in Shakespeare.

Yanis 
Another Greek choice, Yanis is actually a relative of John, meaning "gift of God." It's got a unique sound and form, setting it apart from most trends. Yanis was given to twenty-nine boys in the United States last year - and six girls.

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Island Names - Caribbean

Hello, readers!

At long last, day 5 of island week! Despite the relative lateness of this post, I'm happy to have produced 5 new posts this week!

Onto the Caribbean!

Salamanca (Colombia)
This island is named after a province of Spain, but many Americans will recognize it as the main character's name from Walk Two Moons, or as the last name of a drug kingpin on Breaking Bad. Either way, this name makes an impression! Salamanca is lovely and feminine, if a bit of a mouthful. But she'll always be the only one in her class!

Cuba (Cuba)
A nation rich with culture and history, Cuba's recent change in relationship with the US has made this name more enticing for American namers. The island's name comes from the Taíno for "where the land is fertile" - a meaning full of opportunity. While actor Cuba Gooding Jr. brought this name to light, it's definitely an option that works for both boys and girls.

Beata (Dominican Republic)
With Beatrice rising up the ranks, other names with similar positive vibes are bound to follow. Beata means "blessed", and can be pronounced Bee-ah-tah or Bay-ah-tah. There are a few saints with the name, but it's rarely used outside of Slavic countries.

Pedro (Jamaica)
80 kilometers south of Jamaica, the Pedro Bank sits, daring ships to pass through its dangerous rocks and reefs (historically, the area is prone to shipwrecks). But Pedro is hardly a frightening name - it's one of the most popular male names in the Spanish-speaking world, and ranks at #367 in the US. It's the Spanish variation of Peter, meaning - coincidentally - "stone".

Pearl (Nicaragua)
A vintage name with all sorts of desirable traits: the connection to nature, the dazzling jewelry reference, the rare use today, and the feminine sound. The Pearl Cays in Nicaragua are home to endangered turtles, just to make it even more adorable. Pearl is also a great alternative to Ruby, today!

Craig (Trinidad and Tobago)
Another rocky name, Craig has fallen rather far from its popularity height in the mid-twentieth century. While it's still in the top 1000, it will probably fall off over the next few years - which is a great thing if you want something recognizable but uncommon! Craig also has plenty of namesakes in Hollywood and in athletics.

Eustatia (British Virgin Islands)
Though it means "good place to stay", Eustatia doesn't have many guests in its background (or am I pushing the metaphor a little too hard?) Next to Eugenia or Euphemia, however, it fits in well. The similar male name Eustace ranks briefly in the 1880's, but overall, eu- names are pretty much out.

Ginger (British Virgin Islands)
Check this out, readers - Ginger Island is currently for sale! Its breathtaking views and amazing location aside, it's got a fabulous name. Ginger has historically been a nickname for Virginia, but it could easily work on its own today (perhaps as an honorific?) It's sweet, spunky, and sympathetic - a very friendly name!

Montserrat (United Kingdom)
Another popular name for Spanish speakers, Montserrat translates to "serrated mountain", referring to a mountain range near Barcelona. In the United States, it's already reached #650, having been on the list since 2005. The island itself became a getaway for Western musicians, and is also known for its active volcano.

Eleuthera (Bahamas)
Looking for a totally original pathway to the nickname Ellie? Eleuthera is your answer! It means "freedom", and it feels elusive, ethereal, everlasting (too much?) Eleuterio is the masculine form, used occasionally in Spain and Italy, but Eleuthera is gorgeous and ought to rank on the top 1000 sometime - it's just too pretty!

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Island Names - Europe

Hello, readers!

Part 4 today! Let's get to the names, shall we?

Ireland (Ireland and the United Kingdom)
The Emerald Isle, known for its unique culture and breathtaking scenery, still has an effect on many US families today - more than 10% of Americans identify themselves as being part Irish. So why not honor your ancestral home by choosing the name Ireland? It's at the bottom of the top 1000, so it's relatively unpopular, but it's still quirky and friendly.

Skye (United Kingdom)
While the etymology of the island name is unclear, Skye has the feeling of exploration and possibility. It's been used for both boys and girls, but is currently trending feminine at #385 on the girls' list. This largest island in Scotland has long been celebrated in film and literature - only time will tell whether its brisk sound and attractive aura will climb the charts even higher.

Elba (Italy)
"Able was I ere I saw Elba" goes the famous palindrome often (mistakenly) attributed to Napoleon. The island itself was ruled by numerous empires over its history, and now belongs to Italy. Elba jumped on the top 1000 three unique times between 1881 and 1909, but has few fans now - nine girls were named Elba in 2015. It could be an uncommon route to the nickname Ellie!

Arran (United Kingdom)
Popular in Scotland, Arran is an energetic boys' name with individuality and history. It may be confused with Aaron (okay, it will definitely be confused with Aaron), but its murky etymology points to a different kind of origin - either "kidney" or "altitudinous", depending on your preference. Still, Arran is a great choice for fans of creative spellings and Scottish accents.

Sicily (Italy)
Names like Cecilia and Cicely have been around for decades - why not add in a place name with a similar sound and spicy vibe? Sicily is one of the most famous (and infamous) regions of Italy - trying to sum up its culture in four lines would be folle! Sicily was given to fifty-seven girls in 2015, and Sicilia to twelve.

Rhodes (Greece)
Nameberry lists the meaning of Rhodes as "where roses grow", though I've yet to find that definition elsewhere. Aside from its meaning, the name is strong, masculine, and polished - it sounds like the name a successful Ivy League graduate would have. The island of Rhodes is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as a World Heritage site.

Cyprus (Cyprus)
Looking for an unusual alternative to Cyrus or Silas? Check out Cyprus, a handsome Greek name given to eleven boys last year. It's another name with sketchy origins, but most possibilities relate to plants or minerals, and its sound is like the cypress tree - perhaps an addition to nature name lists? It offers the retro nickname Cy, too.

Margaret (Hungary)
When we visited South America earlier this week, we looked at the Spanish variation, Margarita. However, the classic English name Margaret has an equally rich history and tons of admirable namesakes (too many to list here). The Hungarian island was named after thirteenth-century Saint Margaret, who lived on the island for a period of time.

Milos (Greece)
Though it's traditionally pronounced MEE-lowsh, the name may be mistaken for either Miles or Milo in the United States. Still, it's a lovely option for those thinking outside the top 300! Milos' etymology links it to "gracious" or "good", and it has been popular in many Slavic nations. The island is famous for the statue of the Venus de Milo, as well as its many archaeological sites.

Jersey (United Kingdom)
It's not just a state anymore - the island of Jersey has a fascinating history dating back to the Neolithic era, with thousands of years of intrigue and excitement following. The name itself fits in with Kelsey and Journey, which is probably why over 100 girls were named Jersey in 2015. Still, there are a few drawbacks - New Jersey jokes, Jersey cows, and football jerseys.

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Island Names - North America

Hello, readers!

Today, part three of Island Names! This time, we'll be looking at the continent I call home, North America. I've been to a few of its islands, but I still have many to explore. Share any island experiences of your own in the comments - or even better, name-related island experiences.

Also - because there are so many, I'll be covering Caribbean island names in a separate post!

Catalina, by Justin "jmarty" on Flickr.com

Let's begin!

Catalina - United States of America

This island has a special significance for me - it's where my parents lived for the first few years of their marriage, shortly before I graced their lives with my birth ;) After already having a few distinct names, Catalina was named in honor of Saint Catherine by Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno, a name that stuck. Today, Catalina is growing in popularity as an alternative to Caitlin or Catherine, with the bonus nickname Lina. Another option - the only city of the island is Avalon, a gorgeous choice. 

Madeline - United States of America

Named for Madeleine Cadotte, the daughter of a Native American chief and the wife of a French fur trader, Madeline Island can be found in Lake Superior. The English spelling of the name - as opposed to French Madeleine or modern Madelyn - tops out at #90 on the US top 1000, a beloved pick! It's feminine, literary, and historical, with dozens of fabulous namesakes. 

Elizabeth - United States of America

Off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the Elizabeth Islands were named for QEI in the early seventeenth century. Elizabeth needs no introduction - it's a classic girls' name that has maintained usage without ever feeling trendy or dated. Its multitude of nicknames - old Bess, mature Liz, and young Ellie, for example - offer more opportunities for individualizing it. Elizabeth won't surprise anyone, but it will absolutely stand the test of time and place. 

Alexander - United States of America

Another classic, but this time on the boys' side, Alexander currently ranks at #8. Nicknames Alex and Xander are in the top 300 as well, with a bevy of variations on the girls' list too. The Alexander archipelago is in southern Alaska, named for Tsar Alexander II of Russia. This name will also work for any age or background, with real timelessness. 

Teresa - United States of America

While looking up its name origins, I found out that Teresa Island has the highest elevation of any freshwater island - but I couldn't find out who the original Teresa was. Tessa is the most popular name in this family as of 2015, but Teresa ranks on the list at #665. It peaked in 1962 and has been on a gradual decline, but it's a beautiful, mature option that will stand on its own. 

Shannon - Greenland (Denmark)

Named for a ship that explored the island in 1823, Shannon Island is the home of all kinds of Arctic wildlife. The name Shannon has gotten the cold shoulder in recent years - despite relative popularity in the 1970's and 1980's, it's now totally gone from the top 1000. But with Welsh and Irish names popping up the charts, it may make a comeback!

Victoria - Canada

A third island named for a monarch, Victoria Island also has the distinction of being the eighth largest island in the world (and actually contains another island within its borders). While I shy away from using the word "classic" too much, Victoria really has very few peers - except those listed earlier. It might be time to generate new nicknames, though - Nameberry recommends Plum, and I think Via or Ria are viable options. 

Devon - Canada

The largest uninhabited island worldwide, Devon Island was named for the region of Devon in England. The name Devon reached its height in the mid-1990's, riding the coattails of similar-sounding Dylan, Logan, and Kevin. However, Devon is more than a trend - it's now an established, friendly name for boys and girls alike. 

Guadalupe - Mexico

Found off the coast of Baja California, Guadalupe Island hosts a few fishing camps and military outposts today. It's a religious name with a lot of history, originally translating to "river of the wolf" in Spanish but now mostly referring to the Virgin Mary, "Our Lady of Guadalupe". Nicknames Lupe and Lupita add a bit of feminine frill to this serene choice. 

Carmen - Mexico

A city with an exciting history - it was named in celebration of the eviction of pirates from its borders! (After the Virgin Mary of Carmen, of course). It loosely translates to "garden", and has maintained consistent usage since name recordings began. It's a great name to cross English and Spanish-speaking cultures, and will continue as a lovely choice for awhile

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Island Names - South America

Hello, readers!

For the second part of my Island Names series, we'll be heading to South America! While there are literally hundreds of islands off the coast of this continent, I've chosen ten names to focus on today. If you'd like to see more names, please comment!

Isla de la Luna, by Christopher Walker from Krakow, Poland - Tree on the shore of Lake Titicaca, CC BY 2.0, 

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3187334

¡Empecemos!

Isla
Alright, so this isn't the name of an island; it's "island" in Spanish. Isla is notable for its meteoric rise to the top 200, beginning its journey at #623 in 2008, and ranking at #141 today. Isla's popularity may have something to do with its similarity to Isabella, as well as its prevalence in the UK and Australia. Overall, Isla is a sweet, feminine name with a pretty sound and romantic meaning.

Luna - Bolivia
Arguably the most prominent name to come out of Harry Potter, Luna has long been a classic in Spanish-speaking countries (like Bolivia). The island itself is named for a story in Incan mythology - the god Viracocha commanded the rising of the moon from Isla de la Luna. It's ethereal but accessible, girlish but strong - Luna is bound to soar over the next few years.

Vitória - Brazil
Named in honor of a "victorious" battle of the Portuguese over the Goytacaz Amerindians, this island is now the capital of a state of Brazil. Vitoria has been recorded in the US intermittently since the 1970's, and has probably stayed unpopular because of its closeness to Victoria (correcting the name constantly will get old). However, if you live in a Portuguese-speaking community, confusion is bound to be less prevalent, and more people will appreciate the delicateness of this name.

Magdalena - Chile
A religious name with thousands of years of history, Magdalena has yet to again reach its peak rank of #311 in 1882. It's rarely been heard outside of the Spanish-speaking community, but as more and more Spanish speakers immigrate to the US, more and more Spanish names will follow! Magdalena is an excellent alternative to Margaret or Madelyn, with the cute nickname Maggie.

Rosario - Colombia
Another classic Spanish name, but this one is even more special because it ends in O - only more modern girls' names like Willow and Harlow seem to have this trait (correct me in the comments!) It translates to "rosary", and could work as an honorific for a familial Rose. Actress Rosario Dawson has also brought this name into the spotlight, but Rosario still has its own individuality.

Alicia - Colombia
Alicia peaked at #40 in 1984, and it's been on the decline since. Alice is the current favorite in this family of names! However, switching the pronunciation from English "Ah-lee-sha" to Spanish "Ah-lee-see-ah" adds a bit more elegance and poise. Alicia's meaning is "noble".

Palma - Colombia
A lovely island name, Palma calls to mind swaying palm trees and Easter Sunday - summer and spring all in one. It ranked in the US until 1942, but has been very uncommon since. With Alma and Paloma in play, perhaps pleasant Palma will rise again! It also offers the vintage nickname Polly.

Margarita - Colombia
Though it's feminine and melodic, most English speakers are likely to associate Margarita with the eponymous drink. It means "pearl" or "daisy", and other variations - Margaret, Marguerite, Margot - are more likely to pass the playground test. Still, if you must choose Margarita, try a pet name with style: Rita, Margie, or Meg are unique options today.

Blanca - Peru
For years Southern Blanche reigned supreme, then graceful Bianca took the lead. Could Blanca have a better chance with recent trends favoring Latin names? Blanca has long been a popular choice in Spain - where it currently ranks at #43 - and there have been more than a few fictional Blanca's on television, in movies, and in literature. Time will tell whether Blanca has a shot!

Kwana - Suriname
The only island in Suriname, Kwana's name is derived from a local fish species, which I have been unsuccessful in researching. Kwana has been used as a name sporadically in the United States, probably due to the popularity of ends-in-ANA names and masculine names like Kwame and Kwan. It's absolutely quirky, but friendly and gorgeous.

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Island Names - Africa

Hello, readers!

Due to circumstances outside of my control, I haven't been able to write as much as I'd like to. To remedy this, I'm starting a series of posts to jump-start my blog again! I'll be looking at names based on islands around the world, separated by continent. This isn't meant to be a complete list of options; more of an inspirational start!

As summer comes to an end, vacations we enjoyed (or wished we had) are on many of our minds. The classic dream is the island vacation - but, since islands around the world exist in all sorts of climates, there's not really one kind of getaway attached to the concept. A trip to the Isle of Skye is a bit different than a trip to Oahu. Today's post will look at islands around the coast of Africa, with other continents to follow.

Félicité, by Jmhullot - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37948043

Let's begin!

Félicité - Republic of Seychelles
This lovely French name meaning "happiness" has an English version in the US top 1000 - Felicity. This foreign variation is très mignonne, and if you can get past the pronunciation confusion, it's a very pretty choice. Felicia and Flicka are other variants heard in the English-speaking world.

Marianne - Republic of Seychelles
Another classic French name, but this one works far better cross-culturally. Marianne is also the personification of France (where the island got its name), and adorns a main character in Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. It fits in with similarly-styled Vivienne and Adrienne.

Thérèse - Republic of Seychelles
Thérèse got a bit of Oscar press recently, as it was featured as the name of a main character in Carol. But Thérèse has yet to make a comeback in the United States. It ranked on the top 100 from 1880 to 1984, surpassed by Theresa and Tessa today. Still, Thérèse is an elegant, mature option for a name that will grow with your baby through her lifetime.

Picard - Republic of Seychelles
A pop culture pick - Picard is well-known as the captain's last name on Star Trek: The Next Generation (played by Patrick Stewart). While I haven't been able to find information on the reason for this island bearing the name, some light research indicates that Picard translates originally to "pike-bearer" in French. This is definitely a nerdy choice, but a sweet one at that.

Florentin - Republic of Seychelles
An alternative to medieval Florian and a unique way to access nicknames Finn or Flynn, Florentin is a fabulous uncommon pick. It provides a more masculine way to honor a Flora or Florence, but keeps the flowery origins at bay. It can be pronounced Flo-ren-TIN or Flo-ren-TAHN.

Rémire - Republic of Seychelles
Another name with a short historical record, I'm including Rémire for its ability to fit in stylistically with other boy's names: Amir, Remy, and Ramiro, for example. It translates to "to look again" in Spanish - an intriguing meaning, in my view. The island itself was named after an English ship that passed it by in 1771.

Etoile - Republic of Seychelles
An island in the same group as Rémire, Etoile was named after a French ship that was part of Bougainville's circumnavigation of the globe in the eighteenth century. Etoile also translates to "star" in French, and could be an ornate alternative to Estrella or Stella. It is pronounced Ay-TWAH.

Providence - Republic of Seychelles
A Puritan name among French and Spanish classics - depending on the pronunciation, of course! It refers to the idea of "divine direction", or God's foresight on individual lives. With Constance, Patience, and Prudence in intermittent use, Providence might fit in well as an unexpected first or middle.

Brava - Republic of Cape Verde
Meaning "brave" in Esperanto, Brava could be worn well by a confident little girl. It's upbeat, adventurous, and encouraging - not bad associations to have! Brava may get a bit of "brava, bravissima" teasing, but a perpetual adoring audience is not necessarily a drawback.

Santiago - Republic of Cape Verde
The most popular name on this list, Santiago currently ranks at #127 on the US top 1000 for boys. It's a literary favorite, from Hemingway to Rice, and works well in many languages. The literal translation is "Saint James", which could offer honorific options. International variations include rare names like Yago, Tiago, and Xanti.

Tell me your favorites in the comments!

Basque Names

Good morning, readers!

While scrolling through the 2015 names list (because what else would one do in their spare time?) a lovely name caught my eye - Arantxa. Also spelled Aranza or Arantzazu, it's a Basque name meaning "thornbush". I've never seen this name before, and a cursory glance around name sites showed it indeed to be a rarity.

As a matter of fact, Basque names are few and far between. Here are some choice picks (other than Arantxa) for your consideration!

Most X's are pronounced as "sh" in Basque. English (or well-known) equivalents are included in italics!

Girls' Names

Alazne

Pronounced "al-az-neh", it means "miracle". While the pronunciation might be a bit difficult for English speaking audiences, the name feels like an updated version of Alana. It's also a roundabout way to get to the nickname Ally! Other feminine names meaning "miracle" include Harika or Nasia. 

Elixane - Elizabeth

Pronounced "El-i-sha-neh", it looks a lot like "elixir", and may be mistaken as such. Still, it could be a pretty way to honor a familial Elizabeth or Elaine. It also sounds like the female equivalent of Elisha. Elixane means "pledged to God", and has one celebrity endorsement - a French tennis player, Elixane Lechemia. 

Joska - Josepha

Mariska Hartigay introduced us to the adorable "sk" sound, and Saskia has been trending overseas. This cute variation of Josepha offers the same unexpected sound, as well as the nickname Jo or JoJo. And it's never been recorded in US data, for all you fans of the uncommon!

Leire

The form may fool you, but Leire actually sounds like Lay-ree and fits in with popular "ay-ee" names: Kaylee, Daisy, Abree. It's the name of a mountain in Navarre, where a monastery has sat since the eighth century. Leire and its alternate spelling Leyre were given to 14 girls each in the US last year. 

Xuxa - Shoshana

Want to accentuate the x-factor but keep a soft sound? Xuxa is for you! Pronounced Shoo-shah, Xuxa means "lily" and was only used for about 30 children total in the 1990's. An eponymous Brazilian entertainer brought the name to US attention, but I haven't been able to find out whether the name ranks highly in Brazil. 

Boys' Names

Argider

With both Archer and Arthur in the top 300, Argider may not be as absurd as one might think. It means "beautiful light" in Basque, and it could use Darry or Argie as nicknames. It would definitely raise some eyebrows, but its meaning and heritage are fantastic. 

Eneko - Inigo

A sweet name with a sweet meaning: "my little one". It fits in with the current ends-in-O trend - think Nico, Diego, Emilio - and has an easy spelling-pronunciation connection. Not super relevant, but I like that the Japanese word for cat, "neko", is included too. 

Ilari

Both Ilario and Ilaria are recorded names, but Ilari is elusive - the Basque name means "cheerful", and definitely has an upbeat vibe. It may be confused with Hilary, so I'd recommend waiting until after the election to use it (#feelthebern). 

Unai

While Unai ranks in the top 50 in certain parts of Spain, it's all but unheard of in the US. It's an attractive, vowel-heavy name meaning "cowherd", and fits in with other new classics like Noah and Kai. Feminine Una has been slowly increasing on the charts, so why not Unai?

Zorion
Like Ilari, Zorion means "happiness". It may sound like a modern invented name, but it has a history overseas and has been used occasionally in the US since 2001. I personally think Zor and Zori are cool nicknames, too! If you like Orion, try adding a Z!

Tell me what you think in the comments? Any cool Basque names I missed?

Name of Thrones: Liechtenstein

Hello, readers!

Welcome to the fourth installment of my Name of Thrones series! I've been looking at modern monarchies from around the world and focusing on the names that don't have much use in the US. Princess and Queen have only recently left the top 1000, and I think that there are definitely more imaginative choices!

To Liechtenstein!

Notice that many of the male family members have Maria in their names! Many Christian monarchies include the name as a tribute to the Virgin Mary. 

Marie Aglaë - Princess of Liechtenstein

I've only come across this middle name once or twice, but I already love its classic French sound and the tréma over the last "e". Aglaë comes from the Greek for "splendor", and fits in nicely with vintage Agnes and Agatha. It has only been recorded in the US once in history: seven baby Aglae's were born in the US in 1992. 

Alois - Hereditary Prince of Liechtenstein

A distant form of Louis, Alois is a handsome alternative. It means "famous in war", and it's a great sibling to the feminine Eloise. It's also distant from the fusty Aloysius. Alois has been incredibly rare in the US since the 1930's, but has the positive attribute of having a long history while maintaining its individuality. 

Joseph Wenzel Maximilian Maria - Prince of Liechtenstein, Count Rietberg

This young prince was named for ancestor Prince Joseph Wenzel Lorenz of Liechtenstein, who reigned during the eighteenth century. Wenzel is the German form of Wenceslaus (as in the Good King of song), meaning "great glory". I can see the similarities to Wendell, but I can't decide if either name is ripe for the picking. 

Marie-Caroline Elisabeth Immaculata - Princess of Liechtenstein, Countess Rietberg

Another name honoring the Virgin Mary, Immaculata means "pure" and has rarely been used in the US. It's very strongly Catholic, and could be an alternative to Chastity or Purity. Still, it's a difficult name to live up to, and would take a lot of explaining. 

Alfons Constantin Maria - Prince of Liechtenstein

I reviewed Alonso last week in my Top Names in Chile post, and now we'll look at another variant! Alfons means "noble and ready", and has been used more often in Romance-language communities. With Alfie getting popular in the UK, I think names like Alfred and Alfons might offer more formal long-form options. 

Moritz Emanuel Maria - Prince of Liechtenstein

A variation of the English Maurice, Moritz often conjures up images of the resort town in Switzerland. I think the name could work with today's geographical trends, as well as for its unusual -itz ending. The name means "dark-skinned", from the Moors. 

Georgina Maximiliana Tatiana Maria - Princess of Liechtenstein

Every name here has a feminine ending! Firstly, Georgina is a great alternative to Georgia, Regina, or Virginia. It could also honor a familial Gina. Maximiliana is a sweet, if slightly long way to get the nickname Max for your little girl - of course, Maxine and Maxima are other established options. Tatiana is a personal crush due its namesake, Tatiana Romanova (Anastasia's sister). 

Benedikt Ferdinand Hubertus Maria - Prince of Liechtenstein

None of these names are in the US Top 1000 (for boys, at least). Benedikt was named five years before Pope Benedict XVI ended his papacy, so that could be a religious honorific. Benedict has become better known in the US recently because of actor Cumberbatch. Hubertus is the Latin form of Hubert, meaning "bright-hearted". 

There are some really excellent choices here! Which are your favorites?

Top Baby Names in Chile

Hola, lectores!

Let's take a trip to the Southern Hemisphere (if you're not there already) for this week's chapter in Global Names! The top names of 2015 for Chile were released last month, and there's quite a few gorgeous options we rarely hear in the US!

I'll be looking at the top 25 names for boys and girls in Chile, choosing five each of my personal favorites that I think could work in the US. I'll also include their English equivalents (if relevant). Vamonos!

Female Names

Florencia - Florence

Currently at #4 in Chile, Florencia is a beautiful, feminine name that isn't ranking on any English-language lists. I think it's a pretty aural mix between retro, adorable Florence and trendy, melodic names like Victoria or Sophia. Florencia means "flourishing", and of course has a lovely floral connotation. It also lends itself to some great nickname options: Flo, Lori, or Sia, for example!

Maite 

A short-form combination of Maria and Teresa, Maite (pronounced "my-TAY" or "MY-teh") is a fabulous, unexpected choice for English speakers. It seems familiar enough with Maddie or Maya, but unique in feeling. I like that Maite is not too frilly or mature, and that it works as an honorific for it's long-form inspirations. According to some sites, it also means "beloved" in Basque. 

Antonella - Antonia

This Italian version of Antonia ranks high in Chile but hardly anywhere else. I think Antonella is a great alternative to Annabella, Isabella, or really any other trendy name that ends in -ella. It could also be a nod to a beloved Anthony! The name has unknown origins, but its mystery doesn't stop it from being an excellent cross-cultural choice. 

Agustina - Augustine

Along with Agatha and Agnes, Agustina is another beautiful long option to get to the cute nickname Aggie. There were 15 little Agustina's born in the US in 2014, so choosing this name would be an uncommon pick! The name comes from Augustus, meaning "esteemed", so there's another plus. Agustina is currently at #9 in Chile. 

Trinidad - Trinity

This name didn't show up on my International Names post, but it definitely should have! Christian favorite and Matrix pick Trinity is currently at #110, so finding alternatives is ideal. The island of Trinidad is just off the coast from Venezuela, giving the name a lovely, geographic connotation. It's also auditorily close to a personal name crush of mine - Soledad. 

Male Names

Agustín - August
Number 1 in Chile, and number 879 in the US, Agustín is a handsome alternative to English-language favorite August. It's also one letter off from fashionable Austin (they both come from the same origin, too). Like the feminine version reviewed above, Agustín has fantastic nickname potential and an elegant meaning.

Alonso - Alphonse
While zippy Alonzo is firmly in the US top 1000, softer Spanish Alonso is a bit further down at #708. But its cool o-ending and extensive series of historical namesakes make it a great find. Meaning "noble and ready", both the Spanish and English variations of the name are exciting picks for any strong little one!

Gaspar - Casper
One of the three Wise Men in the New Testament, Gaspar (and English Casper) is far more wearable than Melchior or Balthasar. Fun fact: it means "treasurer", so it could be a cute pick for any parents with money-related jobs. The initial syllable might turn away some, but it's pronounced "Gahs-PAR". Another popular variant is Jasper!

Renato
Having only heard the feminine version Renata, I was excited to see the masculine equivalent - Renato! It means "reborn", very strong and intriguing - it's definitely a perfect choice for an Easter baby! In addition to Chile, Renato is well-used in Italy and Brazil, so it would be a lovely cross-cultural option.

Ignacio - Ignatius 
Having only recently left the US Top 1000, I think Ignacio could jump right back on the list. St. Ignacio of Loyola is the patron saint of soldiers, and the name could honor any military family members. Ignacio also has a bunch of adorable nicknames: Iggy, Nacho, and Nasi among those I'm familiar with.

Which are your favorites? Tell me in the comments!

Top Baby Names in Estonia

Tere lugejad!

Today we have another installment in my Global Names series! In the past, I've looked at Brazil, Germany, Sweden, Israel, and Russia - but now we'll be looking at names from a slightly smaller nation.

I've chosen a few names from each gender's top 25 list from 2014 - not too many nations have released official 2015 lists yet, so hang tight! I'll also be including any relative English equivalents, for clarity's sake. 

I've also already reviewed some of the other names (Artem, Kirill, Arina) in the top 25 - check out the Swedish and Russian lists if you're interested in similar names!

Source: Top 25 Estonian Names

Female Names

Lisandra - Millicent, Melisande, or Lysander

Currently at #5 in Estonia, this long and feminine name was only given to 15 baby girls in the US in 2014. But there are plenty of reasons Lisandra should be more popular: the aural cadence like Samantha and Amanda, the honorific possibilities for Lisa or Andrea, and the substantial meaning- "strong in work".

Mirtel - Myrtle

A botanical name that isn't Lily, Rose, or Violet? Sign me up! While the English version is still a little dated, the Estonian spelling seems softer and more amicable to nicknames - Mira or Tilly, for instance. And given that it's never been recorded in US name data, the odds of running across another little Mirtel on this side of the Atlantic are highly unlikely. 

Milana

Meaning "from Milan", this name is already rising in the US - at #762 in 2014. Milana's melodic sound and M-beginning help it fit in with other popular names, but somehow this name seems more classic. It's also a great alternative to trendy Mila, Amelia, and Melanie. Sister name Milan is even higher on the charts, for fans of London and Paris. 

Lenna - Lena or Leona

Pronounced like Jenna, this name can also be considered a more feminine alternative to Lennon. It definitely has more of a Scandinavian aura, but works cross-culturally for a variety of languages. Personally, I'm more of a Lena fan, but Lenna is too interesting to pass up!

Marleen - Marlene

While the English equivalent can be pronounced Mar-LEEN or Mar-LEE-Na, the Estonian name is the former. I'm a huge fan of Marlene, especially because it's a combination of Mary and Magdalene, two infinitely intriguing women in the Christian faith. And while Marleen was more popular in the 1940's and 1950's, the similarities to cute Marley can't be ignored. 

Male Names

Rasmus - Erasmus 

This name means "beloved", and it's topping the charts in northern European countries - why hasn't the US gotten ahold of Rasmus yet?! There are dozens of incredibly cool namesakes, the sound is close to Russell, Amos, and Roman, and it's virtually unknown in the states. With or without the E-beginning, this name is a fantastic choice. 

Romet 

While I can't find a definitive meaning/origin for the name, it seems to be close to the Estonian word for "joy". I think this name could definitely fit in with current trends - the -et ending like Everett or Bennett, the Rom-beginning like Rome or Roman, and the easy pronunciation. You might raise a few eyebrows, but I much prefer Romet to Rocket!

Maksim - Maxim

I included Maksim not because it's an unusual name, but because the Estonian spelling is unusual. For those who like creative spellings, this one has a linguistic base! Maxim means "greatest" and is currently on the top 1000 in the United States. 

Marten - Martin

This is another less-heard spelling for a popular name, but with a twist: for fans of Fox and Bear, a marten is a ferret-like animal native to the northern hemisphere.  If you're looking for a nature name that doesn't belong in a zoo, why not Marten? It also means "warlike", and could honor a familial Martin. 

Sander - Alexander

A cute diminutive that sounds like an occupational name, Sander fits well next to Sawyer or Sailor. It means "defending men", and has a friendly, down-to-earth quality about it. A personal plus is that it could be an homage to my favorite presidential candidate, Bernie Sanders!

Tell me your picks in the comments!