Traveling Lite Baby Names

Hilma is heard in Germany and the Scandinavian countries, and sometimes used as a shortening of Wilhelmina--though there are more appealing German names for girls. to be found. Hilma Wolitzer is an American novelist and the mother of author Meg Wolitzer.

The Latin word for "goddess" makes for a rarer, but equally stylish, spin on Thea. It may also be a short form of names such as Medea, Amadea, Dorotea or Andrea.

This unisex Hebrew name has held rather steady for boys while falling for girls in Israel.

The Polish form of Ruth has mostly been lost outside of Poland, but though rare, it can still be heard in Polish and Eastern European communities. Ruta has only ever appeared on Illinois' state data, due to Chicago's large Polish population. With Ruth now on the ascent, Ruta may be worth rediscovering.

One of the coolest undiscovered international names, we love Roko for its simplicity, modern style, and freshness. It ranks among the top boy names in its native Croatia.

O-ending short forms are almost invariably appealing, though this might seem slight as the child grows up.

Ubah is a floral Muslim name that travels light — easily transitioning between languages and cultures. The Real Housewives of New York's Ubah Hassan is a current notable bearer.

Currently a popular name for baby boys in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

A dynamic Arabic name with a strong meaning.

The Spanish form of popular Ruby is another addition to the list of attractive gem names for girls.

A Top 100 name in Israel, where it is overwhelmingly feminine. Zohar is currently used equally between girls and boys in the US but is rising far more quickly for boys.

Indu is truly unusual, but shares sounds with more popular choices like Indie and Indigo. Other moon names to consider: Luna, Serena, Io.