The great thing about exotic names is you can go by feel. In truth whatever feels foreign and mysterious depends on your starting point. Often names with letters we don’t see as often, such as Z or X, can sound exotic, or even a common word that is not usually a name, like Jett. Names from your own culture probably won’t feel exotic as a rule, but to someone from another background, they might. If a name captures your attention and stands out as romantic to you, you can call it exotic. More: 50 Rare Baby Names You Probably Haven’t Thought Of Yet Speaking of culture, learn a little about cultural appropriation before you grab just any foreign-sounding name out there. Cultural appropriation happens when we borrow pieces of another culture that don’t belong to us, particularly when the group we borrow has been disenfranchised. When in doubt, reach out to members of a group to ask them how they feel before signing the birth certificate!
Exotic Names for Boys
Exotic Names for Girls
For a full list of exotic girl names, check out: 75 Exotic Girl Names for Your Little One.
Gender-Neutral Exotic Names
Looking for more baby names and inspiration? Check out our Baby Name Center. Considering one of these names? Pin it to save it for later:
