30 Unique Baby Names and Meanings For 2023

Baby names are fascinating reflections of parents' hopes and dreams for their little ones. They are the first gift that parents bestow upon their children and remain with them for a lifetime. For any new parents searching for a distinctive moniker for their little bundle of joy arriving in 2023, here are 30 unique baby names and their meanings that might help you to tap into your inspiration.

1. Acacia

This beautiful gender-neutral name has roots in Greek and means 'thorny tree.' It's the name of a beautiful flowering plant and signifies resilience and beauty, making it the perfect name for your perfect child.

2. Bardot

Inspired by French cinema, this unique and chic girl's name evokes a sense of elegance and sophistication. Perfect for any film fans who want to get the baby into cinema as soon as possible.

3. Caelan

This gender-neutral name of Gaelic origin means 'people's victory,' powerful and positive message for your little one.

4. Dax

A short and snappy name for boys, Dax has an Old French origin and means 'leader.' A name with aspirations.

5. Elara

A lovely name for girls with a celestial connection, Elara is one of Jupiter's moons and carries an air of mystery and beauty.

6. Freyja

Drawn from Norse mythology, Freyja was the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, a beautiful choice for a baby girl.

7. Gray

Traditionally used as a boy's name, Gray is becoming increasingly popular for girls too. It’s an English name meaning 'grey-haired.' So, it’s truly a name that your beautiful baby will be able to grow into.

8. Harlyn

Harlyn is an unusual and appealing gender-neutral name with Cornish origins, meaning 'rocky land.'

9. Inara

This beautiful name for girls has Arabic roots and means 'ray of light,' perfect for your shining little one who is certain to light up your life when she arrives.

10. Jago

Jago is a unique boy's name with Cornish roots, meaning 'supplanter.' It's a distinctive alternative to the more common Jacob or James.

11. Kenzie

A sweet and trendy name of Scottish origin, Kenzie is a unisex name meaning 'the fair one.'

12. Loxley

Loxley, a unique gender-neutral name of Old English origin, means 'glade by the lake.' An ideal name for a beautiful summer baby!

13. Morwen

A distinctive Cornish name for girls, Morwen means 'waves of the sea,' a beautiful and serene choice for a child who will grow up to be wild, independent and lovely.

14. Naveen

Of Indian origin, Naveen is a name used for boys and means 'new.' It's an optimistic choice that signifies the beginning of a new chapter for you and a new life for your little one.

15. Oriana

This melodious Italian name for girls means 'dawn,' embodying the joy and promise of a new day.

16. Priam

An unusual choice for boys, Priam is of Greek origin and was the name of the legendary king of Troy. Perfect for strong, healthy babies.

17. Quilla

Quilla is a lovely and unique girl's name with Inca roots, referring to the Inca goddess of the moon. So, if you’re looking for a name that’s exotic and a bit boho, it could be the one.

18. Rafferty

Rafferty is an appealing Irish boy's name meaning 'prosperous.' It's an uncommon name with a lot of character. And if nominative determining has anything to do with things, it could be quite rewarding in future years!

19. Solace

This unisex name, of Latin origin, holds a beautiful meaning: 'comfort or consolation n a time of distress or sadness.'

20. Thalia

Derived from Greek mythology, Thalia was one of the nine muses and the goddess of comedy and idyllic poetry, making it a distinctive choice for a baby girl with a promising future.

21. Upton

A unique English surname turned first name, Upton could be used for both boys and girls and means 'upper town.' Maybe one for a Billy Joel fan?

22. Vega

For parents looking for an astronomical name, Vega, which means 'swooping eagle' in Arabic, is also the name of the fifth brightest star in the night sky. Pretty!

23. Westley

Westley is an Old English boy's name meaning 'western meadow.' It's an interesting alternative to the more common 'Wesley,' with free-spirited hippy connotations.

24. Xanthe

This unique Greek girl's name means 'golden' or 'fair-haired' and has a classical, poetic feel. Perfect for your little cherub.

25. Yara

An enchanting name for girls, Yara has Brazilian roots and means 'water lady.'

26. Zephyr

Zephyr is a unique boy's name of Greek origin, meaning 'west wind.' It's a breezy and distinctive choice for your little one. Ideal if you’re looking for a fun name that’s still sophisticated.

27. Florin

This unique unisex name is of Latin origin and means 'flowering' or 'blossoming,' perfect for your little one as they grow and bloom into an amazing toddler, teen and adult too.

28. Idony

A Norse name for girls, Idony refers to the Norse goddess of spring and eternal youth. It’s a name full of ancient charm and a hint of promise for your blessed child.

29. Jory

An English boy's name, Jory, is a variant of the name George and means 'farmer.' It’s the perfect name for country folk who want to raise their son close to the land.

30. Quinlan

This unique Irish name is perfect for boys or girls. It means 'fit and strong,' a lovely wish for your newborn, I’m sure you will agree.

In the end, choosing a name for your newborn is a deeply personal decision. Let these unique and unusual baby names inspire you as you prepare to welcome your little one in 2023. The perfect name for your baby is the one that feels right to you, holds a special meaning, and resonates with your hopes for their future.

As you delve deeper into the world of unique baby names, remember that it's your love and care that will truly shape your child's life. Happy name hunting!

Take a look at our full range of Baby Names blog posts with The Baby Hamper Company!