One of the first things that parents plan after seeing those two bright lines on their pregnancy test is to think of a unique name for their baby. It’s a big deal because whatever they choose for their kid is the name they will be carrying their entire lives.
That’s why many parents go through different processes in coming up with a name for their baby. They think about the origin or the deep meaning of the name, how unique it is, how it matches with their family names, if it’s a name that has a rich cultural background, if it’s a name that everyone they know will be able to pronounce, and so many more.
So, if you’re a pregnant mum beginning your search for the perfect name, this article series is for you. We’re going to give you a rundown of baby names – unique, meaningful, and just plain poetry to the ears.
According to studies, children with names starting with the letter A do better in school, and even live longer. Here are some unique baby names starting with the first letter of the alphabet.
Let’s start with unique baby names that start with A for girls.
Unique Baby Girl Names that Start with A
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Araminta
This is an English name that just rolls off your tongue when you say it. If this is your name, it sounds like you are a character out of a beautiful story. And, fortunately, the origin of this name is a beautiful tale as it is.
It was said to be the first name of the famous abolitionist Harriet Tubman, who was known for helping hundreds of slaves acquire their freedom. Araminta? Oh, that’s definitely the name of a hero.
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Alya
Here is one of the many unique baby girl names that start with A. Forget the Anyas and the Annas. Go for something different. Go with Alya. This is an Arabic name that translates to “sky, heaven, loftiness,” which are definitely words you would want to associate with your little angel.
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Avalon
From something sweet, we now come to a name that seems to be made for a strong woman. Avalon is said to be the name of a mythological island paradise where the famous King Arthur was last seen. They said he was brought there to be healed. And, legend has it that he will spring out of this island paradise once Britain needs a strong leader once more.
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Amihan
In Filipino, this name means “north wind” or “winter storm.” Those meanings in themselves sound strong enough for you to consider the name. But, if you need more convincing, the story behind the name might help. In Philippine folklore, Amihan is one of the first inhabitants of the universe, together with Aman Sinaya who is the god of the sea, and Bathala who is the god of the sky.
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Andromeda
Leave it to the Greeks to give us unique names with powerful meanings. This is a name our feminist mums out there will be proud to use on their mini-me because it translates to “to be mindful of a man ” or “ruler of men.” If that name does not ring women empowerment enough, we don’t know what will.
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Aisha
If you want a name that resonates with the concept of prosperity, you ought to go with Aisha. This Arabic name literally translates to “prosperous.”
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Akiko
Rooted from a Japanese word that means “sparkle,” “bright,” or “autumn,” Akiko is a unique yet sophisticated name you can consider for your little girl.
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Alodie
Naming your child Alodie just might predict the kind of future that your little girl might have because this French name means “wealthy.” How is that for a unique baby name?
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Aurelie
It sounds like the name of one of the sisters in Little Women. Unfortunately, it’s not. That does not mean it’s not a great name though. In French, this name means “golden,” which if we think about it is what your daughter is.
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Aleah
A seemingly common name yet one that definitely sets your daughter apart. The English translation of this name is “sublime.”
Unique Baby Boy Names that Start with A
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Aris
Yes, it sounds like the name Ares because this name is precisely just a modernized version of that well-known Greek God name. If you haven’t heard yet, Ares is the Greek God of War. Many parents used to consider the name thinking it will mean their sons are going to be built strong. Nowadays, however, anyone who is pro-war might be taken as someone who is violent in nature. So, if you like the name Aris but not its history, fret not, because Aris is also taken from the name Aristotle, a well-known and respected philosopher. Now that is a name origin your kid will be proud of.
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Alista
Derived from the very common name, Alexander. It takes its origin from the Latin name Alexandros which translates to “defend men.” That’s definitely not a bad name to give your kid who you see is someday going to be some kind of protector.
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Asher
This is a Hebrew name that translates to “happy” or “blessed.” Whether you are religious or not, we can all agree naming a baby “happy” or “blessed” is not at all a bad idea.
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Aj
It’s unique, short, and easy to remember. This one takes the cake out of the most unique baby names that start with A. It takes its origin from Sanskrit which means “unconquerable.” How is that for a strong name for a boy?
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Arwan
Don’t just take this name for its ethnic sounding quality but its beautiful meaning as well. This is an elegant Persian name that means “courageous.”
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Argus
This is another name we are recommending from our list of unique Greek names. This one means “bright.” We guess you can say you can never go wrong with a Greek name. Another plus is if you’re a Harry Potter fan and are secretly amused with the character of Argus Filch, this name will be totally cute for your baby boy. In many ways, we are all him at his age – in love with our cats and obsessed with cleaning.
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Ansel
If you’ve watched The Fault in Our Stars, Divergent, and/or Baby Driver, this name is going to ring a bell. It’s the same name as the leading man in all of these movies. But that’s not the only thing you want to know about this name. Its meaning is quite impressive as well. It means “God” and “protector.”
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Ace
This is another unique baby name that starts with A. the meaning of this name is “expert.” So, if you have plans of turning your baby into a genius someday, this name might fit them well.
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Aziel
Apart from the fact that this name is unique, it has a beautiful meaning as well. In Hebrew, this name translates to “God is my strength.” And, what better way to bring that sentiment to life than to give your child a name that precisely translates to it.
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Alonzo
It sounds regal, European (Spanish to be exact), and of course unique. Who wouldn’t want to name their child something as sophisticated? Of course, the sound is not the only fact that will impress you about this name. Its meaning too, which is “noble” and “ready for battle.”
Chinese Names That Start with A
1. Ai (爱)
The name “Ai” is a popular Chinese name that carries a beautiful and profound meaning. It is derived from the Chinese character 爱 (ài), which means “love” and “affection.” This name is often chosen to express the parents’ deep affection and love for their child.
Additionally, the character 蔼 (ǎi) can also be associated with the name, which means “friendly” and “lush.” Therefore, the name “Ai” can encompass meanings of warmth, kindness, and flourishing relationships.
2. An Na (安納)
The name “An Na” is a harmonious combination of two Chinese characters. The first character, 安 (ān), translates to “peace” and “quiet,” symbolising a serene and calm nature. The second character, 納 (nà), brings connotations of “elegance” and “gracefulness.” Together, “An Na” represents a person who embodies tranquility, grace, and a sense of peace.
3. An Ni (安旎)
The name “An Ni” is formed from the characters 安 (ān), meaning “peace” and “quiet,” similar to the previous name, and 旎 (nǐ), which signifies “elegant” and “graceful.” “An Ni” encapsulates the essence of serenity and elegance, making it a name that reflects a calm and poised personality.
More Baby Names Starting with A
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Haven’t found something that speaks to you yet? We’ve got more options for you!
Baby Boy Names
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Aaron (Hebrew): Meaning “high mountain” or “exalted.”
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Alexander (Greek): Derived from “Alexandros,” meaning “defender of the people.”
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Adrian (Latin): Meaning “from Adria,” referring to the Adriatic Sea.
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Aiden (Irish): Meaning “little fire” or “fiery.”
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Adam (Hebrew): Meaning “man” or “earth.”
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Anthony (Latin): Derived from “Antonius,” of unknown meaning.
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Arthur (Celtic): Meaning “bear” or “courageous.”
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Andrew (Greek): Meaning “manly” or “strong.”
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Austin (Latin): Derived from “Augustinus,” meaning “majestic” or “venerable.”
Baby Girl Names
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Abigail (Hebrew): Meaning “my father’s joy” or “source of joy.”
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Amelia (Latin): Derived from “Aemilia,” meaning “work” or “industrious.”
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Ava (Latin): Meaning “bird” or “life.”
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Alice (Germanic): Meaning “noble” or “exalted.”
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Audrey (English): Derived from “Æðelþryð,” meaning “noble strength.”
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Alexis (Greek): Meaning “defender” or “helper.”
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Anna (Hebrew): Meaning “grace” or “favor.”
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Addison (English): Meaning “son of Adam” or “child of Adam.”
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Ariana (Greek): Meaning “most holy” or “pure.”
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Amelia (Latin): Derived from “Aemilia,” meaning “work” or “industrious.”
Unisex Baby Names
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Alex (Greek): Short for Alexander or Alexandra, meaning “defender of the people.”
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Avery (English): Meaning “ruler of the elves” or “wise.”
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Ashton (English): Meaning “ash tree town” or “from the ash tree farm.”
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Ariel (Hebrew): Meaning “lion of God” or “altar.”
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Angel (Greek): Meaning “messenger” or “angelic.”
Hopefully, running down this list of names, you have found the perfect one for your baby. Regardless, we want to share a little tip. Do not be pressured by the advice of the people close to you when it comes to their baby name suggestions.
If your baby is the first grandchild in the family, don’t feel pressured to name it after your dad. What you name your baby is entirely up to you. Give them a name that has meaning to you. Alright, mums. Happy name-hunting!
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