Nameberry's Favorite Unique Names

A surname-style spin on the classic Matthew, notably born by Victorian journalist and reform advocate Henry Mayhew, writer of London Labour and the London Poor.

Richenza is a medieval European name borne by a number of Polish and Swedish royals throughout history. The variation Richeza was used with similar frequency. Rixa was a common short form. Richenza is derived from the same Germanic root as Richard and could be used to honor one in your life.

With other Cornish names like Elowen and Jago catching people's attention, the mythical sounding Mithian might prove an unexpected and magical feeling choice. Traditionally called Mydhyan, Mithian is a village in Cornwall that sits between St Agnes and Perranporth.

Swedish and Norwegian form of the Old Norse name Asketill.

With Clover rising up the charts, and Everly, Emberly, Waverly and Oakley on trend, it is possibly that this English surname may catch on, especially with its whimsical meaning.

In Greek mythology, Zakynthos was a legendary figure who founded a colony on an island in the Ionian sea. The island, still known as Zakynthos today, is now a popular tourist destination thanks to its warm weather, white cliffs, and stunning beaches. To the Venetians who ruled the island between the 15th and 18th century, it was known as the "Flower of Levant". Zakynthos may also be written as Zacynthus, and the island is also called Zante.

The name of a Levite prophet, Jahaziel is a quietly used Biblical name, that has been gathering a little more attention, likely thanks to the popularity of Azrael and Jaziel. Given to nearly 100 boys in 2023, it has doubled in popularity in the last decade. One notable bearer is Mexican footballer, Jahaziel Marchand.

A strong and regal sounding name that appears in the Old Testament, Melech is also spelled as Meilech and Melek. The name is related to Melchior - one of the three kings said to have visited Jesus - and to the Arabic Malik, as both ultimately derive from Maloka, a royal title used in ancient Assyria and Babylonia.