Traditional Baby Names Are Becoming Unusual As Parents Want Kids To Feel Like 'Individuals'

Atlas

Not only does the word “atlas” have ties to the earth, but it was also the name of a Greek god who carried the world on his shoulders. Atlas was the titan of astronomy and navigation.

Jupiter

While it might sound odd to name your baby boy after a planet, Jupiter was originally the name of the supreme Roman god who was equal to Zeus in Greek mythology. Thus, the name is associated with strength and power as well as the cosmos. Plus, who can deny that it’s short form Jupe is actually pretty cute.

Flint

Flint means “born near outcrop of flint.” This name was quite popular in 1960, and is slowly becoming popular once again.

Vale

Vale, of course, is a geographical name that can be used for either a boy or girl. Nameberry.com describes the name as “a poetic term for a type of valley.”

Leo

Leo, as you might have guessed, means “lion.” It is a strong, but friendly lame that is associated with the animal, the zodiac, and the elements.

Orion

Orion is the name of a Greek mythological figure who was a legendary hunter. After he was slain, Zeus placed Orion in the sky as one of the brightest constellations. Thanks to his ties to the earth and cosmos, the name Orion has become well associated with nature.

Phoenix

Pheonix means “dark red” and is also associated with the place in Arizona as well asthe mythical bird that can rise from its ashes.

Heath

The name Heath conjures images of the shurbland habitat. The most famous person with this name was late actor Heath Ledger.

Slate

Slate is a strong name for a boy and evokes images of modern stepping stones. Slate is part of a group of names that are on the rise, including Stone and Steel.

Crane

While Crane was originally a surname, it has quickly become a unique and intriguing first name thanks to the bird.

Reed

Reed comes from the plant making it both a nature name and musical name. The plant can be used to make musical instruments.

Lynx

A lynx is a wildcat, but the name has become a fierce, modern baby name for parents looking for something more unique.

Hawthorne

The name Hawthorne means “lives where hawthorn hedges grow.”

Bay

Bay means “berry” and is a refreshing take on water names we’ve heard before, such as River or Lake.

Indigo

Indigo is a new name inspired by colours. It is the colour of the deep blue-purple dye that comes from plants naturally grown in India. Indigo can either be a boys’ name or a girls’ name.

Briar

The name Briar means “a thorny patch” and while that might not sound as beautiful as it seems, Disney enthusiasts will recognize it as the name of Sleeping Beauty – Briar Rose.

Ilana

Ilana certainly doesn’t sound like a nature name, but it actually means “oak tree.”

Calla

This is a name you rarely hear, but it’s oh so pretty. The name literally means “beautiful” and is the name of a gorgeous white flower. If you love flower names, then this is a great alternative to commonly heard names such as Lily or Rose.

Clementine

Though Clementine means “mild or merciful,” the name conjures up sunny images of the bright, orange fruit. For those looking for a unique nature-inspired name that’s not too out there, Clementine is a sweet and charming option.

Olive

The name Olive draws its inspiration from the olive tree. While its similar name Olivia is incredibly trendy, Olive has its own quaint appeal. Stars like Drew Berrymore and Isla Fisher both have daughters named Olive.

Gemma

You might be able to guess that Gemma means “precious stone.” After all, it’s nickname Gem is a nod to it and is pretty darn cute!

Venus

This name is made famous by tennis champion Venus Williams. The moniker is associated with both the Roman goddess of beauty and love, as well as the solar planet.

Wren

Wren is a bird name that is a nice alternative to the more commonly heard monikers such as Robin. Last year Wren was one of 2013’s fastest-rising names.

Poppy

Poppy is a little less feminine than other flower names, but we love it’s spunk. Actress Anna Paquin and famous chef Jamie Oliver both have daughters named Poppy.

Isla

Isla is a pretty name meaning “island” and is also the name of a Scottish river. The moniker famously belongs to red-headed actress Isla Fisher and is currently one of the top ten baby girl names in England and Scotland.

Eden

Eden is a place name in the Bible that is closely associated with paradise. The name means “place of pleasure and delight.” We love it because of its an offbeat choice with a serene sound.

Rue

This name may sound familiar because it’s the moniker of a minor character in the popular film The Hunger Games. Rue comes from the herbal plant and also means “street” in French.

Gaia

Pronounced GUY-ah, this moniker means “earth mother” and is one of our favourites because of its unique sound and meaning. Gaia is the name of the earth goddess and universal mother in Greek mythology.

Juniper

We like the name Juniper for a girl because of its boyish charm. The name Juniper comes from the tree name. Trendy parents might prefer this moniker to other tree names such as Willow or Hazel because of its fresh feel.

Aria

Aria has quickly jumped its way into the top 50 most popular names for girls. This is due to the hit show Game of Thrones, which features a young heroine with the same name, but different spelling. Her name is Arya. This moniker means “air” or “lioness.”