Unique Names Approved By Mother Nature
Even if you're a nature lover or wilderness explorer, you still don't want to name your kid "Pinecone". There's still hope if you're a parent-to-be seeking a baby name inspired by nature. Approved by Mother Earth, the following girls' and boys' names are as cool as the breeze.
1. River
If you want to encourage your child to go with the flow, the name River might be a good fit. In English, a river is a flowing body of water, but the name is also drenched with symbolism. River means life, tranquility, and growth. The name was once more popular for boys but it's growing in popularity for girls now, too.
2. Willow
Willow is rooted in old English heritage and is the name of a gorgeous tree with flowing branches. Although more frequently for girls, the name is gender-neutral. For nicknames, Will is popular for boys, and Willa is common for girls.
3. Rowan
The gender-neutral name Rowan derives from the authentic Irish language, meaning "little redhead". As a common surname, Rowan is also a beloved first name stemming from the mythological wilderness. The Rowan tree is a deciduous tree with red berries, thought to shield us against witchcraft and spells.
4. Aubrey
Germans may know Aubrey from folklore about an elf ruler whose name inspired Shakespeare's fairy king Oberon. With German and French origins, Aubrey is considered a gender-neutral name. Bree is a popular nickname for Aubrey.
5. Hazel
Hazel is an old-fashioned girl's name making a contemporary comeback. It's an elegant name that stems from the Hazel tree and the soft green-brown color. Shortened to Haze or Hayes for a cute nickname.
6. Jade
Your baby is a gem, so why not name them after one? Jade is a precious green stone and a beautiful name for a boy or a girl. Some believe the stone brings luck, wisdom, and virtue and was once thought to heal illness.
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7. Mara
Mara has Hebrew origin and in the Bible, Naomi, used the name Mara as a way to express her grief after the deaths of her husband and sons. It's a unique name for a reminder that death and mourning are a natural part of life and you can prepare your child for the highs and the lows.
8. Autumn
Autumn is many people's favorite season and it's a lovely name for a baby. Originating from Latin, the name of the harvest season signifies the embracement of change and transitions. Auttie is an adorable short-form for the festive name.
9. Arlo
Arlo is considered masculine with Spanish and English origins. The name refers to the Spanish barberry tree, a vibrant and colorful plant that comes in many shapes and sizes. Arlo also stems from an Irish phrase meaning "between two hills".
10. Skye
The name Skye is rooted in Scottish Celtic heritage and Norse mythology. To the Scotts, Skye is link to "winged". In Norse legends, Skye refers to the "island of clouds". Both meanings signify feather-light and majestic characteristics.
11. Huxley
To the British, Huxley refers to "Hugh's Meadow" and is an ancient surname. The name Huxley appears to be unique in North America and is usually given to boys. Like a wild meadow, Huxley suits a child born to explore our natural world.
12. Lennox
Lennox is a gender-neutral name with Scottish and Irish origins, meaning "with many elm trees". The elm tree is rooted in German and Celtic folklore with connections to fairies, elves, and the underworld. The elm is also considered a symbol for grounding, strength, and dignity, making it a good name for a little tree-climber.
13. Lilith
Lilith stems from several origins, but its connection to nature is in its Babylonian heritage. Lilith means "belonging to the night" and it's also a feminine form of a word for "spirit". Lily is a sweet nickname with the same name as a beautiful flower.
14. Thea
The name Thea is for a goddess. In Greek mythology, Theia is the goddess of sight and light, and the mother of the sun, moon, and dawn. It's a powerful name that holds great meaning to nature, life, and the universe.
15. Kai
The gender-neutral name Kai has several connections to nature in various cultures. To the Welsh, kai means "the keeper of the keys", referring to Earth. In Hawaii, Kai means "the sea" and to the Maori people of New Zealand, kai means food.
16. Aloe
Aloe is widely recognized as the wonderful green plant used for medicinal purposes. It's a Greek name for a natural healer that connects to the power of the planet. In North America, the feminine name Aloe is still rare.
17. Aspen
Aspen might be well-known as an amazing ski resort in Colorado, but it's also the name of a shaking tree with delicate, heart-shaped leaves. The name stems from English roots and suits nature enthusiasts who love to explore the outdoors.
18. Keanu
Keanu is often a boy's name rooted in Hawaiian culture. It translates to "cool breeze" or "cool breeze over the mountains". If you want to raise an easy breezy little dude, Keanu may be a perfect name choice.
19. Tozi
Tozi is a unique girl's name with Aztec origin. Tozi refers to the Aztec goddess of healing and sweet water and it also translates to grandmother. Whether you raise an old soul or a confident female, both meanings are strong, feminine, and inspired by the Earth.
20. Sierra
If the mountains are calling you, Sierra may be the perfect name for your baby girl. Meaning "mountain range" in Spanish and "jagged" in Latin, the name is well-suited to a wild child. Friends and family may refer to her as "Cici", a cute nickname for your little explorer.
