Figuring out what to name your daughter can be daunting, but it can also be fun. It may seem endless when it comes to all the possibilities out there. If you’ve already looked through just about every baby name list you could find and just haven’t found the one — maybe it’s time to look to forgotten names from the old world. Naming a child after a grandparent is already a thing for many people, but going back a little farther can mean finding great names that fell off the popularity charts. We’ve dug through culture, history, and every other avenue to find you something different and special. These underused classics now sound distinctive again, and many hit the sweet spot of hipster and unusual! As we know from baby name trends in the past, names can be saved from extinction, and many of these names are actually due for a comeback. Could one of these unique choices be the one you pick for your baby? Take a look and see.
Acadia
Idyllic Place
Acadia is a graceful name that renews the likes of Aurora and Aria. Though it’s rarely recorded in the US, it’s both pretty and unusual, and we can see it becoming more popular in the future.
Acantha
Thorny
Surprisingly, this lovely, vintage nature name hasn’t caught on among more parents in America. So if you want to try something new as an alternative to more tried and true nature names like Willow, Meadow, Clementine, or Dawn, give Acantha a try as a first or middle name.
Aeronwen
Fair, holy
This name has both soothing and virtuous meanings and its mythological roots keep it feeling fresh and unusual.
Alethea
Truth
Alethea’s strength comes partially from its meaning: “truth.” The Friendly nickname Thea helps with day-to-day use, but Alethea’s inherent confidence and rarity are sure to impress.
Alpha
First Letter of the Greek Alphabet
The word is a favorite choice among college sororities, and the name Alpha is a fun mix of old school and modernity all in one.
Amadea
God’s beloved
For parents who want to give this classical name a go, you can use the cute nicknames Ama or even Dea.
Badriyah
Resembling the full moon
This bold, unusually romantic choice could work as an uncommon route to the nicknames Aria or Ria, but its full form is better on the birth certificate.
Ceridwen
Poetry, blessed
Historically popular in Wales, this name has a gorgeous melody dating back to its creation in medieval Welsh legends.
Delyth
Pretty, neat
This rare choice may raise some eyebrows, but Delyths meaning and unique sound give it a firm foundation.
Elfleda
Noble beauty
Elfleda is a memorable choice with a sound meaning attached to it. You may want to add this name to your list of considerations if you like Regal Old English names.
Eluned
Idol, image
With such a formal appearance and a bit of a clunky sound, it may not have wide appeal, but if you are aspiring for something different that sounds straight out of Game of Thrones for your little one, then this name may do the trick.
Gudrun
God’s Secret Lore
A name used in ancient Scandinavian mythology carries strength and history that a young girl can grow into.
Hagar
Flight
A feminine name with a masculine sound that is a nice choice for parents who like names such as Harvey, Henley, or Logan.
Mathilde
Mighty battle
A totally quirky name that’s bound to be one-of-a-kind in grade school, Variations of this fearless name can be Hilda or Hilde, but we think it’s great as is. Perfect for a strong and brave little girl!
Mavra
Swarthy
While the name has a complicated etymology, Mavra feels substantial and ageless in a contemporary context.
Muireall
Sea Bright
A name widely used throughout Celtic history, in modern days, it’s rarer but makes an interesting alternative to names like Mary or Madeline; this could be a unique option with a strong meaning.
Persis
Persian woman
Persis fits in well with the recent trend towards heroine names, such as Athena and Khaleesi.
Samsara
World
Who wouldn’t want to give their daughter a head start on the world with a powerful name like this?
Solveig
House strength
It could be a consideration for some parents if they want something Scandinavian that will stand out from more popular names like Sophia, Scarlett.
Tordis
Goddess
If you’re looking for a funky-yet-feminine name inspired by a goddess, Tordis might be for you.
Ute
Heritage
An unusual name possessing both beauty and simplicity.
Zillah
Shadow
This ethereal name has potential staying power, and despite its meaning, it’s still a charmer.
