20 Rare Alternatives to the Most Popular Baby Names

When you look at the most popular baby names for boys and girls, it’s clear why there are so many Liams and Olivias. The monikers that have soared to the top of the charts are timeless, meaningful, and roll off the tongue. And while there’s nothing wrong with going with a total banger, it’s also understandable if you don’t want your tot to be one of four Noahs or Emmas in their preschool class someday.

So, if you love the vibe of the country’s top names, but want something off the beaten path, try one of these lesser-heard picks. We looked at the list of top 10 boy and girl names, and then scoured the bottom of the list for some unique alternatives. They bring all the style and significance of the frontrunners…with some singularity, too! Here are 20 underused gems inspired by today’s most-loved names.

Popular Boy Name Alternatives

If you love Liam… try LevA short, sweet L-name like Liam, Lev is a minimalist pick with big heart. It means “heart” in Hebrew and “lion” in Russian—two powerful associations packed into just three letters.

If you love Noah… try NicoApproachable, and upbeat, Nico shares Noah’s gentle rhythm with a touch more edge. (We wouldn’t be surprised to see this one race to the top in a few years!)

If you love Oliver… try OswinThis vintage charmer is rare but totally wearable. With Old English roots meaning “God’s friend,” Oswin feels both cozy and dignified.

If you love James… try JarethCool and unexpected, Jareth puts a modern-fantasy spin on classic James (plus, it’s a nod to David Bowie in Labyrinth—bonus!).

If you love Elijah… try EamonPronounced AY-mon, this Irish classic means “wealthy protector” and has the same strength and spiritual edge as Elijah.

If you love Mateo… try MarcelChic and continental, Marcel is a French name with the same sophistication as Mateo.

If you love Theodore… try TheronRegal and powerful, Theron (meaning “hunter”) shares Theodore’s “Th” start and commanding presence.

If you love Henry… try HamishA Scottish name with bookish vibes. It also works as an alternative to another fave: Hamish (pronounced HAY-mish) is essentially James with flair.

If you love Lucas… try LucanThis under-the-radar name feels like Lucas’s cool cousin—familiar but still fresh. Plus, it has Arthurian legend appeal.

If you love William… try WellsA dapper surname-style name with simple sophistication, Wells offers the classic charm of William in a short, modern package.

Popular Girl Name Alternatives

If you love Olivia… try OlivineJust as melodic as Olivia, Olivine shares the name’s nature roots as well. Olivine is the name of a green gemstone (so, yes, it has built-in sparkle!). It’s an especially apt pick for an August baby, as peridot olivine is one of the month’s birthstones.

If you love Emma… try EsmeSimple, sweet, and chic, Esme is a French name meaning “beloved.” It offers the same softness as Emma—but with a sibilant twist.

If you love Charlotte… try CelestineElegant and ethereal, Celestine evokes the heavens—literally! It shares Charlotte’s vintage charm but feels a bit more whimsical.

If you love Amelia… try AmarisAmaris has a familiar sound, yet you’ll be pressed to find another one in your little one’s class! The name means “promised by God.”

If you love Sophia… try SunnivaThe ultra-rare Sunniva is a Scandinavian name meaning “sun gift.” It radiates the same quiet strength as Sophia…as well as that -a ending that parents love.

If you love Mia… try MiraePronounced mee-ray, this Korean name means “future,” and it echoes Mia’s simplicity with a fresh global feel.

If you love Isabella… try IsoldeRomantic and bold, Isolde has medieval roots and serious storybook energy—like Isabella with extra intrigue.

If you love Ava… try AvianaAviana stretches Ava into a lyrical, elegant name that still feels sleek and contemporary. This is another name that feels poised for a climb up the charts!

If you love Evelyn… try ElowenThis Cornish name means “elm tree” and has the same graceful, vintage sound as Evelyn—with a dash of woodland whimsy.

If you love Luna… try LyraA celestial pick like Luna, Lyra is both a constellation and a musical term, making it a dreamy, multi-layered choice.

More Baby Name Inspiration:

• These Are the Top Baby Names in Every State
• Baby Names to Rescue From Extinction!
• Rare Baby Names to Set Your Little One Apart
• Old-Fashioned Baby Names That Feel Fresh

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.