Harley, Rose, Archie - you've likely heard the names topping the charts for 2023. This year has seen classic baby names remain popular, buoyed by celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and Prince Harry.
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But what happens when baby name conventions take an unusual turn?
We have compiled a list of the most unusual baby names used so far this year, with possible inspiration for your future bundle of joy:
- Addax: A strong and gender-neutral name
- Argo: A play on the popular 'Arlo', with Greek mythology heritage
- Baldwin: A German name meaning 'brave friend'
- Breeze: If you're after a nature name
- Caledonia: Fancy remembering your favourite holiday? This could work for you
- Clea: An derivation from the traditional 'Cleo'
- Cotton: Once a last name, now being used for first names
- Dune: If you loved the book or move by the same name, this could be for you
- Falcon: An ode to your dad's old car, perhaps
- Fauna: Another nature-inspired name
- Imara: A Swahili name
- Leander: A name with Greek origins, meaning 'little lion man'
- Marble: An expensive stone
- Rhodes: A field where roses grow
- Riella: A royal-sounding name meaning, 'God is my strength'
- Winsome: An English name meaning agreeable or performing well
This unusual list leaves an important question - how are people finding names for their children?
As conventional baby name books are now rarely printed, many soon-to-be parents are turning to social media platforms like TikTok for inspiration. In fact, there are entire accounts dedicated to finding unusual names for babies.
Some creators employ techniques like 'vibe matching', where they suggest a traditional name, paired with a more unique alternative that has similar sounds or connotations.
Others turn to foreign languages or even household items.
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Why unusual names are on the rise
If you feel like more unusual names are emerging, you are correct. According to the BBC, unique naming conventions are surging as people depart tradition and collectivism.
Founder of namerology.com and author of The Baby Name Wizard, Laura Wattenburg, told the BBC new parents no longer followed generational patterns, such as naming a son after the father. Globalism and internet conversations have seen names shared between cultures more easily than before.
There is also increased rejection of religious ties, with parents using names to express personal beliefs or values.
As a new generation is born, unique first names are being used as an identifier and a symbol of the parent's personality or style.
This trend is becoming increasingly popular, but Pamela Redmond, author of 1988 book Beyond Jennifer & Jason, said it started as early as the Baby Boomer generation.
Ava...what?
Of course, there are more questionable choices making news, too. Names including Adolf and Ebolah, with negative connotations, have made global headlines.
Unconventional spellings of traditional names, like Aliviyah or Elizerbeth, have also made their way into mainstream reckoning.
A recent trend has been to name kids after favourite foods, including Avacuddo, a play on the popular fruit.
The comments about these names on social media have been predictably harsh, with Facebook users often concerned about children being teased when they start school.
"Unfortunately, people don't think ahead," one comment on a 7News post read.
"It should be like racehorses. Names have to be submitted to authorities to be accepted," another read.