One Syllable Names for Girls
- Abi
Description:
Abi is a charming diminutive of Abigail, with Hebrew origins meaning "father's joy" or "source of joy." It can also stand independently in some cultures, particularly in Nigerian traditions where it means "first daughter" in Yoruba. Though simple and short, Abi carries a friendly, approachable quality that makes it both playful and mature. While less common than the full form Abigail, Abi has seen modest usage in English-speaking countries as parents increasingly favor shorter, less formal names. Its simplicity allows for easy pronunciation across cultures while maintaining its connection to the biblical heritage of Abigail.
- Rex
Description:
Rex is an unusual choice for a female name, as it is traditionally masculine in origin. Derived from Latin, Rex means "king" and carries a sense of authority and regality. While predominantly used for boys, some parents may choose Rex for a girl seeking a strong, commanding name with gender-neutral appeal. The name has ancient royal associations, being the Latin title for a king or monarch. As a female name, Rex remains extremely rare, offering a bold, distinctive option that breaks conventional naming patterns. It could be considered part of the trend toward traditionally masculine names being adopted for girls, similar to names like James and Ryan that have crossed gender lines in recent years.
- Bett
Description:
Bett is primarily a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Elizabeth, which has Hebrew origins meaning "God is my oath" or "pledged to God." This short, sweet variation emerged in medieval England as an affectionate nickname before occasionally being used as a given name in its own right. Bett has a simple, vintage charm that feels both classic and uncommon in modern times. While not frequently found on popular name charts, Bett appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible alternative to Elizabeth or Betty. Its brevity gives it a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots.
- Jere
Description:
Jere as a feminine name typically functions as a shortened form of Jeremiah, Jeri, or other Jer- names, though it can also stand independently. When used for girls, it represents the trend of adapting traditionally masculine or unisex nicknames as standalone feminine names. The name has Hebrew origins through its connection to Jeremiah, meaning 'appointed by God.' Jere has a contemporary, streamlined quality with its brevity and straightforward pronunciation. As a feminine name, it remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking something androgynous yet accessible. The name carries a friendly, unpretentious character while still feeling distinctive. Its simplicity allows it to pair well with a variety of middle names and surnames.
- Roanne
Description:
Roanne is a delicate feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Celtic 'ron' meaning 'seal,' suggesting a connection to these graceful marine creatures. Alternatively, it could be related to the French city of Roanne or serve as a variation of names like Rowan, Roseanne, or Roxanne. The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft sounds and simple structure. While never reaching widespread popularity, Roanne has maintained a quiet presence throughout the decades, particularly in France and French-influenced regions. Its understated elegance and ease of pronunciation make it accessible despite its relative rarity. For parents seeking something distinctive yet melodic with potential nature connections, Roanne offers a refined option with subtle European flair.
- Zain
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"beauty, grace"Description:
Zain is a name usually given to boys -- nearly 500 with this spelling alone in the US in one recent year, vs. only 20 girls. But CNN newswoman Zain Asher, sister of actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, is a noted female bearer and may inspire more baby girl Zains.
- Bright
Origin:
English word nameMeaning:
"bright"Description:
Bright is a rare yet intriguing word name used for a female character in Ann Patchett's novel The Dutch House.
- Cho
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"butterfly"
- Miche
Description:
Miche is a gender-neutral name with French origins, functioning as a diminutive of Michel (the French form of Michael) or Michelle. The name has Hebrew roots, with the original meaning 'who is like God?' Miche has a simple, elegant quality with its soft pronunciation (typically 'meesh' in French or 'mish' in English). While uncommon as a formal given name, it has seen occasional use in French-speaking regions and among families with French cultural connections. The name's brevity gives it a modern, accessible quality while still connecting to traditional naming patterns. Miche can serve as a distinctive alternative to more common Michael derivatives while maintaining the same meaningful heritage.
- Maze
Description:
Maze is a modern unisex name that has been more frequently used for girls in recent years. Derived from the English word 'maze,' it evokes images of intriguing pathways and problem-solving. The name may also have origins as a variant of Maisie or as a short form of names like Amaziah. As a nature-inspired name, it connects to the concept of labyrinths in gardens and mythology. Maze has gained some popularity as parents seek short, distinctive names with interesting meanings. Its single-syllable structure and trendy 'z' sound align with contemporary naming patterns. The name's uniqueness makes it stand out while remaining straightforward to spell and pronounce.
- Styx
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"the hateful"Description:
In Greek mythology, the river Styx separates the Earth and the Underworld, named for the goddess who gave it its power. Today Styx is also associated with the 1970s rock band of the same name.
- Lind
Description:
Lind is a concise feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Old Norse elements meaning "lime tree" or "flexible," or function as a shortened form of Linda or names ending in "-lind" like Rosalind. In Germanic languages, "lind" relates to softness or gentleness, embodying graceful qualities. As a standalone name, Lind is quite uncommon, giving it a distinctive minimalist appeal. Its brevity makes it practical across cultural boundaries, being easy to pronounce in multiple languages. While rarely appearing in popularity rankings, Lind might appeal to parents drawn to short, nature-inspired names with Nordic or Germanic roots. The name carries subtle elegance despite its simplicity, with historical connections to both nature symbolism and traditional naming patterns.
- Lynx
Origin:
Animal nameDescription:
This big cat name is especially striking with its X ending.
- Cae
Description:
Cae is an ultra-short feminine name that could have several origins. It might be a shortened form of Celtic names like Caelin or Caerwyn, or possibly derived from the Welsh 'cae' meaning 'field.' The name could also function as a creative spelling of Kay. With just one syllable and three letters, Cae is minimalist yet distinctive, following the trend toward brief, impactful names. It remains extremely rare in usage, appealing to parents who prefer names that are both succinct and uncommon. The simplicity of Cae offers versatility—it pairs easily with longer middle names and works well in professional contexts. Its brevity gives it a modern, streamlined quality despite potential ancient roots.
- Shante
Description:
Shante (also spelled Shanté or Shantae) likely developed in the United States during the 1970s, when it saw its first significant usage. The name may have several possible origins. It could be a variant of the French name Chantal, which derives from a place name meaning "stony." Alternatively, it may be related to the French word "chanter" meaning "to sing," or the English word "chant." Some linguistics suggest possible connections to West African naming patterns, though specific etymological links are not well documented. Shante peaked in popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s. The name gained additional recognition through several notable bearers, including American rapper Roxanne Shanté. Today, Shante continues to be used, though less frequently than during its peak decades.
- Luise
Origin:
German variation of LouiseDescription:
See LOUISE.
- Jinthe
Origin:
FrisianMeaning:
"meaning unknown"Description:
Jinthe is a Frisian name common in the Netherlands, but rarely seen beyond its borders.
- Cam
Origin:
Diminutive of Cameron or CamillaDescription:
A Pam for the modern age, improved by a harder edge and a tad less prissiness.
- Brook
Origin:
English nature nameMeaning:
"small stream"Description:
Brooke variation – or is the other way around? – that makes it more a nature name, less an eighties-style androgynous name.
- Sid
Origin:
Short form of Sidney, FrenchMeaning:
"Saint-Denis"Description:
There are almost the exact same number of female and male Sidneys born in the US these days, which makes Sid a perfect gender-neutral nickname. And cute for boys or girls.
