Names That Mean New and New Beginnings

Named after Isaac. Or Wayne.

Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.

Part of a group of lovely A-starting names popular in Spain, along with Ainhoa and Aitana. Spanish actress Aroa Gimeno introduced this one.

This Basque name is quite popular in Spain, where it has long been in the Top 100 names. This is likely due to its pleasant meaning; the sound, dignified in Spanish and Basque, may not fare so well in English-speaking countries.

This is an outside possibility for opera-lovers, with the additional eco/color factor.

Ulan is a gentle, intriguing nature name used in the Philippines, though it might also be a Kazakh name meaning "young man", a Ghanaian name referring to a first born twin, or a Russian name, from uhlan meaning "cavalry, lancer".

Commonly used in Japan, and so much more distinguished than Jen.

An offbeat word name referring to the speed of a piece of music.

An offbeat word name referring to the speed of a piece of music.

Javiera, pronounced ha-vee-AIR-a, is not as well used as twin brother JAVIER, but makes an attractive Latina choice.

Strong name from the Esan language of Nigeria, with a satisfyingly specific meaning for a child's place in the family.

Male name that seems feminine enough to switch genders, if you're looking for a new lyn spin.

This French version of Viridiana and Viridis lacks the charm of similar and more familiar French names like Vivienne and Adrienne.

This strong name and its variations are well used in Israel.

In Norway, Svale is also used as a short form of the rare name Svalaug/Svanlaug, meaning "swan oath". Svale is also a more modern form of Svali, meaning "cool, fresh".

Idony is the Norse goddess of springtime and eternal youth, and this variation is both rare and straightforward, a winning combination.

Primula is related to Primrose, the name and the flower, and would make a quirky yet charming (or is it charming yet quirky?) botanical name for a first daughter.

This popular Muslim name would more easily translate to English-speaking cultures in its Bahar form.

Traditional Arabic choice, used for both boys and girls.