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Have you ever come across a name that you absolutely love, but it just sounds too generic or has been overdone? Well we’ve got good news for you, there are several popular names that have a long list of alternatives you can choose from. Isn’t that exciting! We know narrowing down on a baby name that seems perfect for your baby and your family is quite the task. So it can be disheartening when you land on one that seems like a good fit if it weren’t so plain. Or maybe your best friend stole your baby’s name and now you have to re-evaluate your options. Whatever the case may be, don’t give up on your dream name just yet. These unique spellings and spins on your favorite traditional names might just be the one for your unique little one! Read on to know them all.
1. Aria
This name has been around for quite some time now and has grown in popularity over the years. That may largely be owed to the character Arya from the TV series Game Of Thrones which is a good alternative to the popular name Aria which has Greek, Latin, Persian and Hebrew roots. It has various meanings depending on the culture. For example in Italian, Aria means “air” but it can also mean melody or song. This name is perfect for musically inclined parents as an Aria is an elaborate vocal solo in an Opera. Who knew?!
Aria has a wide range of meanings. In Persian it means “noble”. In Hebrew it is derived from the name Ariel meaning “Lion of God.” And in Greek mythology Aria is a nymph who lives on the Island Crete with her son whom she had with Apollo, the god of the sun and music. Here are some alternatives for the name. Alia, Alana, Ariella, Arleigh, Auria, Dariana, Ilaria and Ariande are some great options to choose from. This unique name takes on many forms that are mysterious, alluring and beautiful. So which one would you choose for your little girl?
2. Noah
Now we all know at least one Noah. The name is very common but what can we say? It never seems to go out of style either. It is worth mentioning that Noah is one of the oldest baby names out there. The name Noah comes from the first book of the Bible, Genesis in the Old Testament. And as the story goes, Noah was highly favored by God and was entrusted to build an arch to hold two of every animal species to exist on earth plus his family to keep them safe during a devastating flood that destroyed the world. A less widely known story is that Noah was the first man to plant a vineyard and discovered the effects of fermentation. The name Noah or No-ah as it is split in Hebrew means “rest” or “calm”. If you want a little unusual and unique alternative for this name your options are Noel, Koah, Jonah, Nico, Noi, Micah and Neo.
3. Caden
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This is another sweet sounding name that has become popular over the years. But did you know it has Arabic and Celtic origins? How cool is that! The name means “compassion” or “friend” in Arabic “warrior” or “battle” in English and “spirit of war or battle” in Welsh. This name has a rich history and it has a lot of alternatives too. They are Calvin, Camden, Casden, Cason, Cade, Kellen, Cullen and Callum. What a variety to choose from!
4. Emma
With so many famous Emmas like Emma Watson and Emma Chamberlain, we’re not surprised that Emma might just be the most popular girl name in today’s day and age. And although this name is beloved, it can be a little benign to name your child Emma as well. Unless of course, there’s an alternative that is the perfect match. Well thankfully, we’ve got options for you. Etta, Gemma, Emmeline, Emmalyn, Ember, Emerson, Esme, and Amma are all unique alternatives to the common name Emma.
5. Riley
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Riley is the perfect unisex name which is particularly unique due to it’s divergent meaning. However, it has blown up in popularity over the last couple of years, making it easier to come by. The name Riley can be translated into “woods clearing” or “courageous and valiant”. This may seem odd at first but it’s because the name has originated from two stories.
In the English tradition, the name Riley stems from the Old English term Ryge and Leah, which mean “woods” and “clearing” respectively. It is an interpretation of the relationship between nature and humanity. Clearings symbolize realizations and insight. So the name Riley can also symbolize rebirth and growth. In the Irish tradition however, Railey is derived from the last name Reilly and the first name Raghailleach which mean “courageous” and “valiant”. They were used to imbibe strength and bravery into children. Here are some alternatives for the name: Miley, Rosalie, Reese, Daphne, Rowan, Bryony, Finley and Ailey.
Finding a unique and special name for your child can seem like an endless task but don’t worry. There are a lot of alternatives to well-known names that you can opt for. Take a look at our list and let us know in the comments section which alternative name surprised you the most!
