Pepper
Word name
Peppy and stylish with plenty of kick, Pepper is spicy-herby choice (like Sage and Saffron) and a food related option that might feel a bit more usable than Apple and Peaches. Reminiscent of more popular choices like Pippa, Piper, and Juniper, it feels unexpected but not too far out.
I enjoy Pepper for its warm, energetic sounds, for its connection to the vibrant vegetable, and maybe just a little because it reminds me of my favorite fizzy drinks, Dr. Pepper and Pepsi Max, which is weird, I know — and may well be the reason others don’t like it!
Briefly popular in the US back in the 70s, it has received increased attention in recent years, perhaps because of its similarity to the likes of Harper and aforementioned Piper, but also because of the character Pepper Potts (from the Marvel franchise) who may have made it feel more usable. Given to around 130 girls in the latest count, it has been used sparingly on boys over the years too.
If you do like Pepper but find it a bit much (or a bit too Peppa Pig), you could always consider it as a nickname for Penelope, Persephone, Phillipa, or Josephine too.
