Names of Real People I Know

Extremely amiable, open-sounding surname that's gradually being taken over by the girls.

Beau, when used as a feminine name, represents an interesting gender crossover from its traditional masculine usage. Derived from the French word meaning 'handsome' or 'beautiful,' Beau originated as a masculine name but has gained some popularity as a female name in recent decades. This trend reflects the broader movement toward gender-neutral naming. As a feminine name, Beau maintains its elegant French associations while offering a concise, modern feel. The simplicity of its spelling and pronunciation (BOH) appeals to parents seeking minimalist names. While still predominantly used for boys overall, feminine Beau usage has increased particularly in English-speaking countries as parents embrace its stylish brevity and sophisticated sound.

Birdie was until recently a middle-aged Ladies' Club member wearing a bird-decorated hat --but now it's just the kind of vintage nickname (think Hattie, Josie, Mamie, Millie) that's coming back into style in a big way. Actress Busy Philipps named her baby Birdie (inspired by First Lady Lady Bird Johnson), as did soap star Maura West.

Brianda is a feminine name with Spanish and Portuguese origins, derived from a feminine form of Brian. The original name Brian comes from Celtic roots meaning 'high' or 'noble.' Brianda carries a romantic, flowing quality typical of Iberian naming traditions, with its graceful ending and melodic sound. While not among the most common Spanish names, it has consistent usage throughout Spanish-speaking countries and communities with Portuguese heritage. The name blends traditional roots with a distinctive character that isn't overly common. Brianda offers families a connection to Hispanic or Lusophone cultural traditions while providing a name that stands out without being difficult to pronounce or spell in international contexts.

Casey is a name with a big wide grin, Irish, friendly, and open, and associated with several American folk heroes--Casey Jones, the engine driver of the Cannonball Express who gave his life to save his passengers, and the legendary Casey at the Bat.

Celeste is a softly pretty and somewhat quaint name with heavenly overtones, which kids might associate with Queen Celeste of Babar's elephant kingdom. She's a light and lovely choice that's finally getting noticed.

Infinitely preferable to the tease-inspiring English version of the word.

The great sax player John Coltrane could be a cool naming inspiration for a jazz fan.

Anyone who's seen "The Book of Mormon" or visited Utah knows this as the title taken by male Mormon missionaries during their term of service. We'd advise anyone who lives somewhere with any significant Mormon population to avoid it for that reason.

Emerald is the intriguing color and jewel name of the deep green stone treasured as far back as ancient Egypt — it's supposed to open one's heart to wisdom and to love and be good for strengthening relationships — which could make for an interesting, unusual name, particularly with the popularity of so many Em-starting names.

Evander is a name that could build on the popularity of shorter form Evan, and could work and play well with schoolmates like Zander and Xander.

In Roman mythology. Felicitas was the deity of good luck.

German might seem like an unlikely occupant of the Top 1000 list, unless you realize that it's a Spanish name, with the accent on the second syllable. It's been on the U.S. list since 1973.

Heywood is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a surname referring to 'the enclosed forest' or 'fenced wood' in Old English. As a given name, Heywood emerged from the English tradition of using family surnames as first names, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While never extremely common, it gained some recognition through notable bearers like American filmmaker Heywood Gould and jazz musician Heywood Henry. The name conveys qualities of stability, tradition, and natural strength. It has an aristocratic English feel with its connection to land ownership and geography. Though Heywood has declined in usage in recent decades, it retains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive name with Anglo-Saxon roots and woodland associations.