Dog Names That Mean Miracle

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

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.

Feodora is an interesting choice for the intrepid name giver, especially with its dynamic nickname, Feo (pronounced FAY-oh).

Diminutive of Matthijs, the Dutch 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.

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

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

Armenian variation of Theodore.

Thoroughly masculine in Central Europe, although it may be misconstrued as a feminine name in English-speaking countries.

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

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.

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

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

Somali and East African form of Hiba.

Some people may prefer this spelling to clarify the name's connection to John, but it could be one h too many, exemplified by its steady decline over the past two decades.

Simple and pretty Arabic option that was a fast-riser in 2022, possibly thanks in part to telenovela actress Hiba Abouk from the hit show El Principe.