So while they don't get as much attention as first names when it comes to the baby naming process, selecting the right one can be just as exciting and meaningful - and, sometimes, stressful, especially when considering the vast sea of middle name options available. Others want to reserve the middle name for something meaningful - an ancestor's surname, for instance, or a combination of loved ones' names. Some people even choose to go by their middle name, or both their first and middle name together. Middle names can be just as significant as the first names we give to our little ones, after all. See the rest on our complete list.Sometimes, choosing your baby's middle name can prove to be just as hard, if not harder, than coming up with the perfect first name.

Unique middle names for girls are some of our favorites. You could go the natural route with Bay or Lark, or tap into literary ties with the adorable Poe. She’s not only associated with something beautiful, but she sounds great alongside many monikers. The sky is truly the limit here, but one we adore is Gem. These are ideal for pairing with longer first or last names. Maybe a one-syllable star is more your speed. Other two-syllable unique picks include Nessa, Hera, and Paola. Match the petite Mia‘s styling with Tia or Zia, or opt for something unlike anything popular with Zelda. There are vintage sweethearts like Judith and Etta, and those who feel modern such as Sora and Keva. Keaton is a unisex sweetheart who isn’t too common today, much like Arden. One of our favorites is Carmella, a melodic pick with Hebrew roots meaning “the song of joy.” Beatrix is a zesty option meaning “she who makes others happy,” while Phillippa has a formal air to her. See Gisela, Amorette, and Sapphira for more long unique middle names for girls. Long names are great for breaking up the choppy flow between a short first and last moniker.

Unique girl middle names come in all shapes and sizes. Millie, Marine, and Nari fit the bill nicely. We can’t forget rare twists on the ultra-common Marie, either. For Grace, there are Gray, Greer, and Gwen. Rhodes is another clever pick, as she means “where roses grow.” In place of Ann, try Brynn or Ash. For example, in place of Elizabeth, you might try out Elodie, Elspeth, or Annabeth.

If you like today’s most common middle names but not their popularity, you can play off of them to nab the same style or feel with a unique twist. Run through some highlights of these names with us. They’re also a fun talking point for your daughter later on, as she has a rare hidden moniker when others have mostly common picks. Unique middle names for girls provide a sprinkle of surprise to your name combo, making it that much more special and sweet.