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!