10 Arabic Names You Never Thought of Using: Girls

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Depending on where you live in the United States, Arabic names are seldom heard. You're much more likely to hear them in Europe, Africa, and of course, the Middle East. I'm lucky to live in a place where almost all cultures are represented, so I'm no stranger to Arabic names. However, this list contains some names that even I had never heard of, and I'm excited to share it with you.

Anisa- Anisa is a simpler variation of Aanisah, and means "good natured." Even though the two are unrelated, her similarity to the spice anise makes me think she'd be a good name for the daughter of a chef.

Aziza- Looking for a zesty alternative to Aviva? Aziza is your best option. She's spunky and fresh--I kind of love her.

Farida- So many Arabic names have simply beautiful meanings, and Farida is no exception. She means "unique and precious pearl," how lovely is that? She'd be wonderful for a June baby, who's birthstone is the pearl.

Hadiya- I've told you before about my love for Hadiya. Nothing has changed! I would love to see her used more often in the U.S.--Hadiya is extremely import friendly.

Nazia- Nazia is one of those names I had never heard of before (she doesn't even have an entry on Nameberry!), but I'm so glad I finally did, because she's remarkably beautiful. Nazia means "woman who we are proud of," and her likeness to Nadia makes her a perfect unsual yet familar pick for an American baby.

Noor- You've most likely heard of Noor. But unless you live in the Netherlands (where she is so popular) you probably never really thought of using her. Her sweet simplicity makes her attractive to parents from all cultures. Noor can fit into many a sibset.

Omaira- Omaira means "red," so put her on the list for any ginger-haired, Autumn-born babies that you'll have. There's not much information on her, but it seems as if she derived from Omar, and therefore makes a lovely honor name for him.

Peridot- Oh, Peridot. I have talked about her so much (one, two, three, four, five, six). She's definitely one of my guilty pleasure names. And the nickname Dot! I die.

Zaina- Zaina (and similarly, Zayna) are variations of Zaynab--"beautiful" in Arabic, and also a tree name. -ain names might be the next big thing in the U.S., so Zaina would be right on trend.

Zuelia- I'm a big fan of a Julia substituion (see here: Tulia), so you can imagine how excited I was to find Zuelia. I love her soothing zue sound, though I understand the similarity to "zoo" might bother some people.

10 H Names You Never Thought of Using: Girls

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This list was a fun one to put together. There are so many great, undiscovered H girls names. What's your favorite on this list? (I can't decide between Hero and Harbor). Which names would you add? Tell me in the comments!

Hadiya- Hadiya is a GORGEOUS name. I've loved it ever since I used it in a school assignment freshman year.

Halona- Super pretty and feminine, yet not over the top. She would be a great way to honor a Hal.

Hanita- I get it, Anita sounds super dated. Have no fear! Hanita is a unique choice that updates Great Aunt Anita's name.

Harbor- I can't believe no one has thought of this yet. Harbor just sounds like a name. Plus, there are so many parents looking for a name that is similar to Harper, yet barely used. Harbor is the obvious answer. Put me in the books for predicting the popularity of Harbor. I can feel it. Next big celebrity baby name?

Helaine- She sounds like a mix of Helen and Elaine, which is perfect if you need to honor both of those ladies.

Helia- A pretty Greek name with the best meaning (sunshine!). I would choose Helia over Delia in a heartbeat.

Heloise- Eloise too mainstream? Try Heloise, which is essentially the same...but less popular. (I don't suggest this one for use if you want to avoid Eloise confusion).

Helsa- Frozen ruined Elsa. Maybe, but we can't say for sure. You could always go with Helsa, but unfortunately her first syllable is not as pretty.

Henrietta- Are there people besides myself who like this name? Henrietta is super cool, embrace her charm and wealth of nickname possibilities.

Hero- A Shakespearian modern word name? That sounds like a oxymoron, but it's not. Hero meets both those requirements while managing to be super spunky, and yes, useable.

Holloway- Holloway seemed a little crazy at first, until I met an adorable little girl with the name. She's a lovely name that is more modern than Holly and less Christmas than Holiday.