Names That Are Variations

See SELENA.

This name was consistently in the boys' Top 200 until WW2. It's a name with so many dimensions to it: the hyper-masculine meaning, the surname-as-firstname trendiness, and the softer sound and connotation since homophone Carol was favoured in the 1940s and '50s for daughters. We think it's time for a resurgence of Carrolls amongst the boys.

This spelling just barely made it into the Top 1000 for 2013, but nonetheless was an on-the-rise name for the year.

Arleth has made the US Top 1000 twice — in 2005 and 2021 — thanks to telenovela star Arleth Terán.

The Germanic tribe known as the Varni took their name from the verb werren, meaning "to defend." The given name Varin derived from the tribe name, meaning "one of the Varni."

This botanical name is one of the few Dutch names that could work outside the Netherlands, especially in Germany or Scandinavia.

So simple, yet so unique: a prime candidate for export. Pronunciation is like the English pair or pear.

Yulisa is a spelling variation of the Latin American Julissa or Julisa. Yulisa clarifies the pronunciation of the name for English speakers.

Everlynn combines two of the hottest baby names of the moment — Evelyn and Everly — but can't claim either of their histories. Although if you can't decide between the two, Everlynn is the logical compromise.

Santa has an appealing sound, or maybe that's sleigh bells we hear? It's difficult to separate the Italian girls' name Santa from the association to Mr. Claus, king of Christmas. The German diminutive Senta -- or Snow or even Christmas -- might be an easier name to handle.

A modern twist on Michelle spotlighted by Star Trek actress Nichelle Nichols.

Tilen is the Slovene form of Giles — one of those names that feel ultra-British but is actually Greek in origin.

Common in its native Lithuania, but likely to read feminine in Anglophone countries. Stick with Emil.

Why has it taken so long for us to discover Italy? The name, that is.

More dramatic, worldly, and energetic spin on Gregory.

Josepha is less heard in this country than in other parts of the world, seen as a slightly awkward feminization a la Ricarda and Benjamina. In the U.S., Josephine or Joanna is the more usual feminine form of Joseph, though you might consider Josepha if you want to break rank.

With the trendiness of both X and Z, this spelling has it all. However, there's no real need for the added letter, unless you're looking for extra Scrabble points.

Rolando, along with brother name Orlando, are among the most attractive and appealing of Latinate names. It has been in the US Top 1000 every year since 1946.

Manuela is one feminine form that's more energetic than the male original, and is worth considering if you're seeking an easily assimilated Spanish name.