Cat Names That Mean Miracle

Neo, indeed--though it was a male character in "The Matrix."

Izya is a unisex Russian nickname. For boys, it's a short form for Isaak and Isidor, the variations of Isaac and Isidore used in Russia. The A ending will make Izya read as a feminine name to English speakers.

Its resonant rhythm and positive connotations have led to some popularity with African-American parents, though it tends to have a masculine feel, particularly considering the rise of a certain Barack.

A nice meaning -- congruent with the recent vogue for names like Blessing -- helps offset this Hawaiian name's proximity to overused Makayla and McKenzie.

This rare name crosses cultures. With the popularity of Ella and Bella, perhaps we'll hear more of Pella one day soon?

Maori form of Matthew

This Arabic name, which can be used for either boys or girls, can also mean "wide-eyed" in the sense of someone who is studious and perceptive. Ayaan is most familiar to people in the West from its connection to Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a Somali women's right activist.

Feodora is an interesting choice for the intrepid name-giver, especially with the dynamic nickname Feo.

A pretty name with that fashionable V intitial, little known outside of Latvia.

Diminutive of Matthijs, the Dutch form of Matthew.

Although it's a traditional male name in the Middle East, Ata has a more feminine read in the US.

Armenian variation of Theodore.

Addai is derived from Thaddai, the original Aramaic form of Thaddeus. We prefer this derivative to Thad, which is twice as common.

One of the most unusual of the "iah" names, it comes with the appealing and usable nickname Zev.

Somali and East African form of Hiba.

The most popular variation of this Biblical name is Mateo, which has now surpassed the classic Matthew. Matteo is not far behind, and other variations are rising fast as well. Mateos is a variation used throughout Ethiopia that has yet to make it to the Western world, despite its super cool sound and wide appeal.

Derived from the Hebrew words shai, meaning "gift," and li, "mine." The Shaily variation is more common in Israel and the US.