Kara
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #442
Meaning: Beloved
Sci-fi and drama fans alike worship"Battlestar Galactica" and its ragtag group of post-apocalyptic survivors, chief among them the feminist action hero Kara "Starbuck"Thrace. To this show's devoted band of fans, her name's meaning—"beloved" in Latin—is more than fitting.
Willow
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #138
The lead character from "Buffy the VampireSlayer" is a worthy namesake, but a name like Buffy can be hard to carry. Instead, fans of this show can look to Buffy's best friend, the sweet and loyal Willow, for inspiration. This name is as ethereal as the trees from which it's derived.
Jeff
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #978
"Community"s Jeff Winger isn't aspirational, per se; he can be lazy and cutting, but he's also hilarious and an unlikely leader. This name, which is derived from the name Geoffrey and doesn't have a clear meaning, is perfect for laid-back parents.
Fox
Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked
The truth is out there: Fox Mulder just won'tgo away. "The X-Files" is one critical darling that keeps coming back in the form of movies and reboots, due in large part to the charms of the faithful and curious Mulder. Fox is an uncommon baby name, perfect for parents who don't follow the crowd.
Lucille
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #343
Every member of the Bluth family is equally hilarious—and equally twisted—but you're unlikely to want to name a baby Buster or Gob. Instead, look to family matriarch Lucille. The name, which is derived from the Roman name Lucius, has old-fashioned charm and a trendy nickname option in Lucy.
Ned
Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked
As the lovelorn baker with a romantic soul, Ned was the heart of the short-lived but much-loved "Pushing Daisies." This name is traditionally derived from Edmund or Edward, but on its own it's as boyish and friendly as the eternally hopeful pie maker himself.
Valerie
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #176
Meaning: To be strong
"The Comeback" proved to be a fitting title for the HBO sitcom that was canceled after one season, only to come back 10 years later for a second act. Aging actress Valerie Cherish can be clueless, but she's also an optimistic go-getter. Her name, which is derived from the Latinname Valerius, has a friendly, girl-next-door vibe.
Dale
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #829
Meaning: Broad valley
If you love a fine cup of coffee, cherry pie and surreal crime drama, consider naming your baby boy after Dale Cooper, the unflappable FBI agent and "Twin Peaks" protagonist. This early-'90s show struggled to find an audience during its two seasons but is still critically adored today.
Sarah Jane
Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked (Sarah:#50; Jane: #322)
Meaning: Princess, one who laughs (Sarah); God is gracious (Jane)
"Doctor Who" must be at the top ofany list of cult TV shows. This British adventure series has entranced the imaginations of generations of viewers. If you're a Whovian looking for a girl's name, look no further than Sarah Jane—this mix of Hebrew and English names was used by one of the show's most beloved characters.
Veronica
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #375
Meaning: True image
"Veronica Mars" was written off by many as a teen show, but the fiercely loyal fans who watched this noir spy thriller know that its brilliant and determined lead character—whose name comes from Latin—is a more than worthy namesake.
Jordan
Popularity rank in the U.S.: #247
Meaning: To flow downward
Despite the fact that "My So-CalledLife" lasted for a mere season, throngs of teen girls worshiped this show and its rebellious heartthrob Jordan Catalano. This Hebrew name is common now but will always hold a special place in the hearts of '90s teens.
